The Rose Garden by Susanna Kearsley

I had forgotten that "The Winter Sea" had a time-travel theme when I started this book.  Apparently, this theme is Susanna Kearsley's trademark!  Anyway, it took me a bit to get into the book because I'm not a huge fan of endless descriptions of things, especially places.  Yes, I know that authors need to "set the scene", but for me, a little description goes a long way.  Reminds me of reading Hemingway, who can go on and on about things. ;)  Once I got past all of that, I really enjoyed it.

One thing I found interesting is the two different thoughts on time-travel.  (Just stick with me here!)  In most time-travel books and movies, people are so worried about doing or saying something that will change the future.  In this book, the author is basically saying that it doesn't matter what you say and do because "history has already been written" and therefore can't change.  For example, Eva tried to save Jack, but he died anyway, simply a few minutes later than she expected him to die.  In fact, maybe she caused his death by trying to save him.  Maybe if she had never gone back in time and been "the gray lady", Jack wouldn't have died at all.  Food for thought.

I always like when a little history is thrown into a story, especially about a time and place I don't know much about.  I loved the life that Mark and Susan had made for themselves - especially with the addition of the tea room. ;)  I did not pick up on the Claire thing until the author led me to it!  I guess she would be considered a success story in relation to time-travel.  I suppose that makes us feel better about Eva's decision.  At first I wanted Eva and Mark to get together, but then I switched to Daniel & Eva pretty quickly and started wondering how on earth the story would end.  I actually thought the ending was appropriate - and satisfying.  All the loose (relationship) ends were tied up in nice, neat bows! Sometimes I find that annoying, but it didn't bother me in this book.  Ironically, most of the couples at the end got together because of Eva's arrival - so I guess she served her purpose before she moved on. :)

Wendy's Rating: ****