Synopsis
Maria
na has all you need in a historical love story: passion, past lives, and a riveting plot. The book is about a woman named Julia Beckett who is drawn to a house in the English countryside. She can’t explain it, but she feels like she must own it. Julia buys the house and discovers the past life of the woman who lived there before, Mariana. Mariana was in love with Richard, a rich local Lord, and struggled to find her own happiness. Between past life flashbacks and her own love triangle, Julia must reconcile the past and future in order to reach her own happiness.
Mariana Review
I’m a sucker for romances that involve past lives. I always want to know if the couple can make it work in this life. Kearsley keeps readers on their toes with that question in this book. I loved how I didn’t know how things were going to turn out until the end. The book is full of plot twists and sweet romance. There is never a dull moment. The book flashes between Julia and Mariana. Julia goes into trances where she remembers her past life as Mariana. In a way, it’s like reading two books in one. Mariana and Julia are closely entwined. At the same time this is happening, Julia is torn between George, Richard’s descendant and Iain, a local farmer.
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The romance of this book isn’t a bodice ripper. It reminds me more of Jane Eyre in its tone. There are moments of darkness and light that make the novel complete. The reader wonders if Julia has a thing for George because he is Richard’s descendant or she likes him for who he is. Also, what are those feelings she has for Iain? All the romances in the book will have you smiling and need a tissue at the same time. The book will take you on an emotional journey worth reading. Kearsley provides wonderful descriptions of the English countryside and beautiful homes in the area. The story really draws you into its pages.
The ending was sudden but amazing. I didn’t expect it. It brought a few tears to my eyes. It was sweet, tender, and just a little shocking. I loved it. Mariana is an older book by Kearsley but it’s still just as heart-wrenching now.
Adaptation Recommendation
I’m surprised this books hasn’t been made into a movie. It would be an amazing film to watch. Someone needs to get on this and write a script.
Overall Rating
“You had me at hello.”
Romance Rating
“You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope.
I have loved none but you.”
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