In this intriguing dual-time story, two very different love stories prevail –
2015: Verity and Jeremy are idyllically happy in their new home, a country cottage at the foot of an old Greek temple on a green hill. He has promised her there will be no more surprises – until his chaotic music producer nephew turns up to stay and causes havoc.
1946: Amelia and Ed – Torn apart in distressing circumstances, is the romance between the daughter of the Lord of the Manor and the son of a pitman over before it ever really began?
When Verity’s Grandad Ed asks her to find his first love after sixty-seven years, to reveal a life changing secret, she embarks upon a journey which takes her to different shores. When worlds which are generations apart collide, will the mystery of the monument be revealed? Also, will Verity finally be able to shake off the turbulence of her own past and find a deeper love and understanding wins the day?
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Author Bio
Arlene Pearson lives with her family and a crazy cockatiel in in a small North East village and is a writer of blogs and fiction. She began writing seriously after graduating from Northumbria University with a Master of Arts degree in Creative Writing, initially writing articles for local publications. She was a Readers Champion Columnist for a Sunday newspaper for many years, also writing an on-line blog entitled Two Point Four Children/Teenagers. Arlene has also written a novella which can be found on the Cutalongstory Writers Community Website and has self-published four books on Amazon including a full-length novel entitled Where the Four Streams Meet.
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Twitter: @pearson_arlene – Arlene Pearson (@pearson_arlene) / Twitter
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Why Should You Read This?
“Secrets of the Monument” by Arlene Pearson is a captivating dual-time narrative that weaves together two unique love stories, set in different eras, to create an intriguing and heartfelt tale. This enchanting novel introduces readers to two couples whose lives intertwine amidst the backdrop of a country cottage and an ancient Greek temple.
In 2015, Verity and Jeremy enjoy a blissful life in their idyllic country cottage, nestled at the foot of a historic Greek temple. Their peaceful existence is disrupted when Jeremy’s chaotic music producer nephew unexpectedly arrives, bringing chaos and unpredictability to their home. Meanwhile, in 1946, Amelia and Ed, separated under distressing circumstances, find themselves questioning whether their burgeoning romance is doomed before it can truly begin.
When Verity’s grandfather, Ed, asks her to locate his first love after sixty-seven years and uncover a life-changing secret, Verity embarks on a journey that takes her to different shores and generations. As the worlds of past and present collide, readers are left wondering whether the mysteries surrounding the monument will be revealed. Additionally, Verity’s own quest for deeper love and understanding compels her to confront the turbulence of her own past.
Arlene Pearson expertly crafts two parallel narratives that effortlessly transport readers between different time periods. The author’s attention to historical detail and vivid descriptions of both the Greek temple and the picturesque countryside create a vivid sense of place, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the story.
The characters in “Secrets of the Monument” are well-drawn and relatable, each grappling with their own desires, challenges, and secrets. Verity and Jeremy’s contemporary relationship is portrayed with authenticity, as they navigate the complexities of love and family dynamics. Similarly, the poignant tale of Amelia and Ed in the post-World War II era is filled with emotion, as they face societal constraints and the weight of their own pasts.
The novel skillfully intertwines these two love stories, exploring themes of loss, resilience, and the power of secrets. Pearson deftly maintains a sense of intrigue and suspense, gradually revealing the hidden connections between the characters and their shared histories. The dual-time structure adds depth and complexity to the narrative, allowing readers to draw parallels between past and present, and ponder the impact of love and secrets across generations.
While the overall pacing of the story is well-maintained, there are moments when the plot feels slightly predictable. However, the endearing characters and the exploration of timeless themes more than compensate for any minor shortcomings.
“Secrets of the Monument” is a heartwarming and evocative tale that celebrates the enduring power of love and the significance of personal history. Arlene Pearson’s enchanting storytelling, combined with the tender portrayal of relationships and the allure of hidden secrets, will keep readers engrossed until the final page.
Overall, “Secrets of the Monument” is a captivating novel that seamlessly intertwines the past and present, showcasing the triumphs and tribulations of love across time. It is a tale that will leave readers pondering the mysteries of the human heart and the enduring power of connection.