A review by emmiemerereads
Clear by Carys Davies

challenging emotional hopeful slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Mid 1800s and Scottish minister John is sent to evict the last person living on one of the Scottish islands. Leaving his wife Mary behind, John has a terrible accident on the island and is found by Ivar, the man he was sent to evict. Without a common language, while John heals, the two learn to communicate. Over time, John learns from Ivar and they build a connection. Just as John is figuring himself out, Mary arrives on the island, searching from her missing husband.

This book took me by surprise. I had never heard of the Scottish clearances before and didn't totally get John and Mary's life in Scotland. Even so, the writing was so easy and beatiful that I was able to just keep going, I think without missing too much. The unexpected love story was beautiful. The intimacy between John and Ivar was so special I hated Mary for intruding. I was proud of her character for being understanding but found the ending too far-fetched.

All in all, a great read.