Under the Same Stars

by Alexandra Heminsley

Clara Seymour is trying to find her feet in London, living away from home for the first time. Brought up by her domineering mother, treasuring time any time with her adoring father, Clara's world is brought to a standstill when her dad abruptly dies.

Then, a mystery comes to light in a letter from him.

I am sure you are aware that before I met your mother I had a previous marriage. But what we never discussed is that we had a daughter.

So begins a journey of discovery that takes Clara to remote Norway and a landscape as brutal as it is bewitching, a voyage fraught with personal and emotional danger to reveal who her father really was - and find the sister she's never met.

Genres: Fiction

320 pages, Paperback

Published January 30, 2024

Reviews

[Mansi V · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had the potential to be a great story about sisterhood, grief and self discovery, however there were two main aspects of the book that made it fall short of this for me.

Firstly, I found the pacing was a bit strange. The first half of the book was quite slow and some parts were a bit irrelevant. Whilst the second part which focused more on the sisterhood story felt quite rushed at times. The main resolution which came in the form of an epilogue especially felt rushed.

Secondly, I guess partly to do with the pacing issues, I found the characters, in particularly Clara, were not as developed as they could have been. Just when it seemed the characters were starting to grow, something would happen that reversed any development.

It was however a relatively easy read, and I liked the setting of Norway which I think worked well with the overall story and themes

[Diana Trenka · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a lovely hallmark style story about two sisters on a beautiful island.
It’s a perfect read if you looking for something that you can leave and come back to later.

[Eims · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Under the Same Stars” by Alexandra Heminsley, published by little,brownbookgroup.

This will be the caption on my Instagram post for “Under the Same Stars”. The primary image for this post will be of the book itself, taken from the littlebrownbookgroup_uk Instagram. It will be published no sooner than 08/07/2022, in line with the agreement from the publishing house.

When Clara’s father passes away suddenly she has more than just his death to reckon with. The discovery of a well kept family secret leads her to the edge of the world, and in many ways home to herself.

This is a book that starts with an ending and ends with a new beginning. Clever and artfully done; I enjoyed Clara’s journey of self discovery as she struggled with the aftermath of her father’s death and the secret it uncovered. We journey from her restrained life in London to a remote and wild island off the Norwegian coast. This is a book that in many ways examines what it is to mourn, to love and to be lost. It strikes the perfect balance of being an engaging and absorbing read whilst never becoming overly heavy. It has a satisfyingly slow build before an emotional ending that is both cathartic and rewarding. I loved the environments explored and how the characters moved through and interacted with the landscapes; how at times the very sea mirrored them.

5/5 and for me is solidly a keeper. I know I will return to this story again
.
My thanks to @netgalley , @littlebrownbookgroup_uk, @hemmograms for the E-arc. It was an absolute pleasure.

Relevant hashtags for irishbookstgram and bookstagram will be used, alongside #UndertheSameStars #AlexandraHeminsley #netgalley #littlebrownbookgroupuk. I will also tag the publisher and author in the post.

The section below will appear as a slide on my Instagram post. (First image will be of the book, taken from @littlebrownbookgroupuk Instagram, 2nd slide/ image will be what is contained below.)

“Under the Same Stars” By Alexandra Heminsley
Read it if:
- You appreciate just how complicated families can be and how we all know different versions of one another.
- You know what a beast grief can be and how mourning is a sea with its own tides and swells.
- You like vividly depicted characters that contrast and blend with each other beautifully; all set in an environment that cleverly mirrors the same.
- Books that place an unflinching gaze on the expectations of womanhood, the compromises
women make to fulfil them and how often they have to be untangled later.

This review will be posted on: https://instagram.com/swearbythebooks...

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Under the Same Stars is a book about sisterhood, self-discovery and grief and a very moving tale of two women living in the wilderness. Clara is a young woman in an unfulfilling job and in a toxic relationship. She finds out one morning her father whom she is very close to has died suddenly. In the letter he left her in the event of his death it transpires Clara has a half sister, Maggie. This is a huge shock to Clara and she quite literally drops everything and heads off to Norway in search of the sister she has always dreamed of.

Shockingly I nearly gave up on this book in the beginning. I found the writing style and some of the dialogue too simplistic and some of Clara’s reactions to certain situations very unrealistic. The pacing was also quite slow and it was difficult to engage. However, upon Clara’s arrival in Norway, the story definitely took a turn for the better. The setting descriptions as well as the intrigue of whether Clara will find her long lost sister suddenly piqued my interest. As the story developed and became much more layered, I really began to enjoy myself. I was extremely moved by the sisters’ relationship and the wonderful atmosphere the author created in terms of the remoteness of the island. I began to envisage myself in the same situation and what my reactions would be. The descriptions of the island, the flora and fauna is fascinating as are the scenes foraging for certain plants, creating meals and living off the land.

This is a heartwarming and fulfilling story in a beautiful isolated location. Clara went on one heck of a journey throughout this book and came out of it a completely different person. The story definitely took a turn for the better around the halfway point so do stick with it and push through the slow pacing as you are in for a treat.

Thank you so much to the publisher for the finished copy for review.

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[Stacey Woods · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m torn with this one, as I loved the idea, the setting and I thought the descriptions of the natural world around the two sisters were excellent. My issue was that Clara, as a character, was incredibly dull and I had no investment in her at all.

It is a real shame as Alexandra Heminsley’s non-fiction books are excellent and have been quite inspirational for me, but this just did not hit the mark at all.

[Sue Lipscombe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely story of family, grief and love.

[Sarah (blissbubbley) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Alexandra Heminsley’s “Under the Same Stars” offers a poignant and introspective narrative that explores the complexities of family, identity, and self-discovery. While the slow-paced nature of the book may pose a challenge for some readers, its introspective themes and relatable characters contribute to an ultimately satisfying reading experience that deserves its three-star rating.

The story follows the protagonist, Clem, as she navigates a series of challenges that lead her to question her life choices and the direction she’s headed. Heminsley’s writing style is reflective and evocative, capturing the emotional nuances of the characters and their relationships.

The strength of “Under the Same Stars” lies in its exploration of family dynamics and the impact of personal history on one’s identity. The complex relationships Clem has with her family members add depth and authenticity to the narrative. The book delves into the intricacies of sibling relationships, the weight of past decisions, and the search for meaning amidst life’s uncertainties.

The slow pace of the story may be both a strength and a limitation. While it allows readers to immerse themselves in the character’s emotional journey and the contemplative nature of the narrative, it may also lead to moments of less engagement, especially for those seeking a more fast-paced plot.

Clem’s character development is a highlight of the book. Her struggles, doubts, and moments of self-discovery are relatable, making her a character readers can empathize with. Heminsley’s ability to depict Clem’s inner thoughts and emotional turmoil adds depth to her character arc.

While the book’s contemplative nature may appeal to those who appreciate introspective storytelling, readers looking for more action or faster plot progression may find it challenging to stay engaged throughout.

In conclusion, “Under the Same Stars” is a reflective and introspective journey that delves into themes of family, identity, and personal growth. Alexandra Heminsley’s evocative writing and relatable characters create a narrative that resonates with readers on an emotional level. While the slow-paced nature of the book may require patience, those who enjoy reflective storytelling will find a satisfying exploration of life’s complexities. If you’re seeking a book that invites you to contemplate the intricacies of family relationships and personal identity, “Under the Same Stars” is a thought-provoking choice that deserves its three-star rating.

[Jemma · Rating 3 out of 5]

There's lots to love here. But what was the point of introducing us to the estate agent boss? There was only one interaction with Nikita, and that didn't go well, so I can't say I cared about her or that the friendship seemed solid. And the boyfriend - it seemed like the writer kept forgetting how bad he was and making him worse, though there's a possibility I misread it and actually it was a skilful way of showing Clara's increasingly clearer view of him the longer she was away. But they never interacted. And she clearly was leaving, but then sends him a message to say she's away only for a bit? And Maggie just changed personality simply because of a wound? And what was the thing with Erik - I was expecting him to turn up on the island or something. I don't know. The landscape was stunning, I loved so much about this, but overall it felt like pieces of a story crammed together rather than a cohesive whole.

[Sarah Kingsnorth · Rating 4 out of 5]

UNDER THE SAME STARS
BY
ALEXANDRA HEMINSLEY.

Following the death of her father, Clara is struggling to cope. The discovery that she has a half sister who she knew nothing about, sends Clara off on a journey that will change her life.
Clara sets off to meet her sister, on a remote Norwegian island. Once there things aren’t plain sailing, but will the two women find a way to become sisters?

This story is beautifully written, full of heart and has some very raw emotion.
There are some breathtaking descriptions of the book’s setting, which were a delight to read.
The story was a little slow to get going, but overall, Under The Same Stars, is a captivating and truly enjoyable read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Out now - HB, Ebook and Audio.
Paperback- 12/1/23

With thanks to Netgalley and Little Brown Book Group Uk for a digital arc of this title.

[Effie Bean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved the way the author describes clara's thoughts and feelings, and the use of vocabulary really helps create the picture of a young woman trying to find herself after something traumatic and scary affects the way you live your life.

I love the way she develops the realisation that clara has about simon and how toxic the whole relationship was and that it's normal to not notice until after you've "escaped"

The story of sisters is very well explored and is something i feel can be related to in some ways. Will definitely be recommending this book to others and rereading it

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Exactly the sort of book I would normally love, but this one wasn't well executed in my opinion: the timeline/timescale was all over the place and somewhat inconsistent; I found Clara's near total lack of personality testing (and when she did do anything interesting it felt out of place for her); the theme of domestic abuse was very strongly present but not actually worked through, as if the author wanted to include it but hadn't worked out how it could fit in. Some nice writing especially descriptions of the scenery but overall quite disappointing.

[Alice Ashton · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was such a quick and easy read. Not at all what I was expecting and was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed the story, the island setting in Norway was gorgeous and the sisters navigating life together was lovely. But I do feel like the ending was rushed, and I HATED that the man (and perpetuator of the DV) faced no consequences to his actions. That all felt brushed under the carpet. But it was a story about womanhood, and resilience and I enjoyed it!

[Pauline · Rating 3 out of 5]

A slow moving story about Clara who is struggling with every day problems and is looking for a new start.
With the suddenly death of her father she comes into information that she has a sister and sets off the find her.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little, Brown Book Group UK for my e-copy in exchange for a honest review.

[Jan Lathem · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely beautiful. The descriptions were so eloquently drawn that I wanted to crawl inside the book and be in the Norwegian landscape.
A story of grief, finding oneself, and ultimately unconditional love. The characters were complex and believable and I adored the sisters.
Loved it from start to finish.

[Jaqui Somers · Rating 5 out of 5]

JUST BEAUTIFUL

Dear Alexandra - I want more 😊. What a story! I loved every minute, every word, the descriptions of the island, I loved the girls - EVERYTHING (except Sam!!!) Fully recommend it - you won't regret it.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars
I picked this one up in an independent bookshop in Brighton, without realising she is a local author. So glad I did! I enjoyed the slow-paced, developing relationship between the sisters and the descriptions of the scenery made me want to plan a trip to Norway.

[Rachel Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely book to start the year. I loved the story, a real page turner. Only downside was that I felt the ending was ever so slightly rushed & a little too neat. Very good

[Hannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

At first, I didn’t like the main character at all. She did grow on me eventually but I found her a little bit whiny at first. I did enjoy the overall plot in the end.

[Clair Atkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clara is an estate agent who is shattered to learn her father has died unexpectedly. Having a frosty relationship with her mother and living with her bullying boyfriend Simon, Clara’s loss hits her hard. She is given a letter from her aunt, written by her dad some years before to be given to her when he died. In it he explains about another daughter that Clara knew nothing about from a previous marriage. For reasons he doesn’t make clear, his other daughter, Maggie wants nothing to do with him and he hasn’t had contact for several years.
He tasks Clara with going to see Maggie to give her a small collection of photos he wanted her to have. Clara is hurt not to have been told about her sister and lashes out at her mum for not telling her. With the help of her dad’s solicitor, she manages to track down Maggie to a remote Norwegian island, Måsholmen.
She decides to go an meet Maggie for herself. She is happy to get away from Simon, so not telling him where she is going she embarks on a journey across Europe involving planes, overnight trains and boats to eventually arrive at Maggie’s island.
I absolutely loved Under the Same Stars. Poor Clara is not in a good place before her dad dies. She is stuck in a bad relationship but doesn’t know how to get out and her visits to her dad are a lifeline. She has fond memories of many trips with her dad whom seemed warmer and more loving than her mum.
The trip to Norway is described beautifully – the train speeding across Norway enables the author to describe the remarkable landscapes. Getting to the island is not easy – a rough boat ride is the final leg of the journey and the island is so remote, the only occupants are Signe who runs and lives in the lighthouse and Maggie who lives on the other side of the island alone. The terrain, although beautiful is not easily navigated.
Under the Same Stars is a wonderful story of self discovery and sisterhood, of learning to live without the technology of everyday life, to live off the land and to appreciate the beauty around you. As always when I read a book about another location, it makes me want to visit but I’m not sure I’m cut out for the trek of getting there!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book.
I loved the description of the landscape, the sister story and the development of understanding of the protagonist’s life

[KathVBtn · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Recommendation
I have been a huge admirer of everything that Alexandra Heminsley has written- from her inspirational running and swimming adventures to her deeply personal Some Body to Love, and have followed her on social media for some time, so when the chance came to read her first fictional novel written under her own name, I jumped at it!

Under The Same Stars is a beautifully told tale of families, parents, siblings and friends, finding out what makes you happy, and having the courage to go for it rather than burying your head in the sand. Clara is 22 and in an unfulfilling job and an abusive relationship (though she can't admit either of these things to herself.) She has always been really close to her father and more estranged from her mother. One Monday morning, her mother rings to tell her that her father has died suddenly -and in the letter he leaves her, he tells Clara that he was married before and had a daughter - Clara has a sister Maggie. This is huge news to Clara who had no idea about any of it.

In his letter, he asks Clara to deliver some photos and letters to Maggie - who lives on an island in north Norway; and so begins Clara's life changing and soul baring trip, as she drops everything and heads to find the sister she always dreamt of.

I remember seeing Alexandra's pictures from her Norwegian travels and marvelling at them - and the book brings back that sense of complete awe at nature and the world around us. I was completely transported to Norway and the island, the remote setting and the ice cold waters.

Its an easy read which makes you question where you are heading and whats important to you. Simply beautiful.

Thanks to Netgalley and Sphere for the chance to read an ARC., I can;t wait to see what she writes next

[Rhiannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book I got very emotional reading this book. The book is slow paced but it's not boring slow paced. The book follows 22 year old Clara who discovering after her father died a long lost sister Maggie. Clara is entrusted by her father who in a letter wants her to find Maggie. Clara leaves everything she knows behind to find her sister Maggiw who lives in a remote part of Norway. Maggie is not thrilled with Clara's arrival she is very hard to read she has built complex walls and I found them frustrating along with Clara. Clara spends a year building a relationship with her sister you root for Clara. I love Clara's chracture journey and her struggles with not only her relationship with Maggie but with her mum friends and boyfriend as well as her self. Maggie is reserved I liked her journey and I warmed up to her towards the end. I loved the ending it felt perfect. The book deals with grief sucidie and mental health really well. I would like a follow up book. I loved that it was set in Norway and i loved the description of the setting felt like i was there.
Thankyou to netgally the publisher and the author for giving me a advanced copy I recommend this book
5 stars

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

After meeting Alexandra Heminsley in Brighton and hearing her speak about this book recently I was very much looking forward to an adventure and was not disappointed.
I absolutely love tales of travelling north and being on northerly islands so this was catnip for me !

Clara's father dies and leaves her a letter telling her she has a half sister. Clara leaves her controlling boyfriend and heads to northernmost Norway to meet her. I loved the train, boat , plane, hike adventure, great to have a female lead having all the adventures.
The relationship that develops between the two sisters is far from easy, but I enjoyed seeing it develop and loved the background of foraging their food on the island and living that simple life which I find so seductive. It remind me of the sort of joy I had reading Famous Five novels when they would camp on Kirrin Island!

I will be looking out for more novels by AH.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice enough story about finding yourself and family. Clara is 22, and not living the life that she really wants. Scarred by her parents' divorce, she struggles with an overbearing, status conscious mother and only seeing her beloved father at weekends. She has gone straight from her mother's home to her boyfriends place, who is also overbearing and controlling. After her father dies, Clara discovers he had another daughter who has never been mentioned and sets off to Norway to meet her.

I found myself skim reading large swathes of the book, not totally believing the characters, the secrets and the ending. It passed an afternoon and has nice descriptions of living simply in Norway.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who knew a book could give you a hug. This book embodies Hygge, the scandanavian cosiness that originates from where this book is largely set. It’s a real skill to get this beautiful sense of comfort alongside a dynamic and totally engaging and enveloping story. You’ll want to keep turning the page, while being wrapped up in an imaginary duvet. Compelling characters and heartwarming relationships, I was totally hooked. A wonderful rest bite from the difficulties the world is facing, I can’t recommend this book highly enough.

[Sarah the reading addict · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the concept of this book. Clara has a lot to think about and deal with not just the Loss of get beloved father but the secret that she has the sister she's always dreamed of.

It's an emotional topic to do with family and I could relate to a lot of the situations.

The scenes and descriptions of the characters are great and you can really picture when the person is like.

[Emma · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not my favourite - I found some of it a bit unbelievable and found myself skipping a few paragraphs where it felt repetitive. But I loved the Norwegian island setting

[Jo · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautiful description of Norway. Felt like it dragged in parts. Good story.

[Lynn · Rating 2 out of 5]

Really boring and unbelievable. Skim read the last few chapters.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really interesting story