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A review by joana_22
Once Upon a River by Diane Setterfield
3.75
I started this book believing that the story would progress easily and with the expected ending in mind but I could not be more wrong.
At first, I found the characters not interesting and the plotline typical and outdated. I could not stand the way the author wrote and how descriptive she was by extending the paragraphs. That felt really unnecessary to me.
But then, towards the middle of the book something altered for me. When you learn about the backstories of the characters and you convey their emotions in a new way because you feel for them. Their troubles, joys and sorrows and that is what Diane portrayed so beautifully. You care for the Armstrong's ( and their complicated first-born Robin), the Vaughn's (and how they reconnect together after the loss of a child) and Lilly White (with her tragic backstory). Even the nurse and the photographer add a nice touch to the various array of individuals that cross path in the novel.
I do not think I would end up crying by the end of the book but I did and, if I am being honest, I believe it is a worth read for everyone who enjoys folklore and storytelling. Although I do advise to not give up by the beginning as you slowly get into it.
At first, I found the characters not interesting and the plotline typical and outdated. I could not stand the way the author wrote and how descriptive she was by extending the paragraphs. That felt really unnecessary to me.
But then, towards the middle of the book something altered for me. When you learn about the backstories of the characters and you convey their emotions in a new way because you feel for them. Their troubles, joys and sorrows and that is what Diane portrayed so beautifully. You care for the Armstrong's ( and their complicated first-born Robin), the Vaughn's (and how they reconnect together after the loss of a child) and Lilly White (with her tragic backstory). Even the nurse and the photographer add a nice touch to the various array of individuals that cross path in the novel.
I do not think I would end up crying by the end of the book but I did and, if I am being honest, I believe it is a worth read for everyone who enjoys folklore and storytelling. Although I do advise to not give up by the beginning as you slowly get into it.