An Exquisite and Deftly Woven Dual Timeline Romance
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Source: Review Copy from Publisher
Similar in style to The Elizabeth Papers – Jenetta James’s incredibly brilliant story about a modern investigator and a descendant of the Darcys trying to uncover the truth about the Darcy lineage – The Memory House is a dual timeline tale that simultaneously follows two sets of characters. But instead of centralizing on Jane Austen’s characters and the Regency era, this story features all new characters and is partially set during the Victorian Era.
In the year 1859 we meet the affable and courageous Kitty Cathcart, who is under pressure from her hateful and determined father to marry a man of wealth and lineage. While Kitty would love to escape her domineering father’s control and unhappy home, she wants only to marry for affection and happiness. Can she find that with her father’s newest titled suitor, or with the extremely reserved solicitor, Alex Faraday? And even if Kitty is able to find her happiness, how long can she hold onto it?
In the year 2018, we encounter the bright, gentle, and straightforward Josie Minton, who is in search of a new nanny position. And while she has some reservations about the new family that hires her, fortunately for Josie, her situation of tending to sweet twin girls for their extremely preoccupied father in their grand Victorian townhome progresses without a hitch. But after awhile some unexpected emotions and discoveries begin to surface. And intentions and history are closely inspected. Is there something more in store for Josie?
What incredible writing! I cannot tell you how thrilled I am to once again being reading a full-length story from the pen of Jenetta James! With its dual storylines/timelines, air of mystery, unraveling secrets, and portrayal of women who are resilient and persevere in finding their own way, there were so many elements that I loved and ardently admired about this story. But one aspect I especially loved most was Jenetta James’s character creations. Kitty, Alex, Josie, and James are all skillfully drawn and I genuinely loved spending time with them, feeling a part of their world, and becoming engrossed in all their concerns. Jenetta James’s portrays her characters in such a way that the reader cannot fail to feel an instant kinship with them – and that is quite special.
Another distinctive aspect about this story that I greatly enjoyed was the beautifully intertwining of both romance and mystery. With two timelines that each had their own romantic relationships and ensuing drama, there were moments where I couldn’t decide what I wanted more of and what time period I wanted the story to jump to next! Ms. James is a master at weaving her story with purposeful intentions, leisurely reveals, and succinct pacing. And my only complaint is that she did occasionally leave us wanting more – perhaps just a little more said or shown in one or two places.
The Memory House is a thoughtfully-composed, nuanced, and poignant tale about finding your own way and not allowing the constraints of society, your past, or your current situation define you. A beautifully illustrative and inspiring tale that deftly intertwines lives, time periods, and the undiscovered mystery of a great house. I highly recommend!
I also read and enjoyed this story. Great review, Meredith.
Thank you, Sheila! ❤️
It’s my favorite non-JAFF book of the year so I am thrilled you loved it too. Jenetta is a talented storyteller!
I remember you mentioning this one to me when you were editing it and I agree with you, it definitely is a treasure!
Thank you for this wonderful review, Meredith, it sounds like a great read! Congratulations, Jenetta!
Thank you for reading my review! I hope you get to check it out soon!
I can’t wait for this! Jenetta James is one of my favorite JAFF authors – I’m so looking forward to reading this!
Jenetta, keep ’em coming! <3
Same here!! This one is a gem – you will love it!
I adore this book, and you have summarized the storylines so well. Jenetta is an amazing writer. Thank you for the wonderful review, Meredith!
Thank you, Jan! I am so happy that Q&Q published this beautiful book!!
What a lovely review! I will definitely keep this in mind although I’m still obsessed with Darcy and Elizabeth stories at the moment.
I do have three books by this author which I really love so I’m sure I will enjoy this one eventually.
Thank you, Glynis. 😉 If you decide to take a one-book break from that lovely couple, I think Jenetta James’s beautiful writing and characters are worth it!
wonderful review.
denise
Thank you! ❤️
Wow! Meredith, that was an amazing review [hello to your Mr. Bingley]. I have this on my wish list and now… maybe I should shift it to my TBR pile instead. You thoroughly described all the things I love in a book and your review made me want to read it. Thanks for all your hard work bringing us reviews and hosting this fabulous blog. Blessings to you and your Mr. Bingley… y’all stay safe and healthy.
Thank you, Jeanne! I hope you love it as much as I do! It is definitely one I’d recommend reading soon – it will be hard to put down – maybe you will read it in in 2 days or less. 😉
Thanks for the recommendation, Meredith, it looks so good and captivating!. And when there’s a dual timeline tale well designed it’s a pleasure immerse yourself in the plots. As you say, sometimes happens one doesn’t know which story enjoys more because both are fine and interesting 😉
I’ll put it in my wish list 🙂
Have a nice weekend!
Yes! It is a good problem to have because you are never disappointed! LOL! I hope you get the chance to read this one, my friend!
I’m so glad that Jenetta James is writing again!! I love her beautiful prose and her gripping style! Hope she has more gems in store for us. Huge congrats, Jenetta, and thanks, Meredith, for sharing your love for The Memory House.
Same here!! It is beautiful writing, indeed!
Another great review Girl! Jenetta’s stories are sometimes too far between, but then I always tell myself it was worth the wait. I’m so looking forward to this. I just want to be able to read more quickly. And I already read too much. Just one of the reasons I can’t get to your reviews (that I love and rely on so much) in a timely manner. I wish the author much much much deserved success with this new book.