Review: The Book of Lost Hours by Hayley
There’s always that one book that creeps into your soul, enveloping you in emotional chaos—The Book of Lost Hours by Hayley is undeniably that book for me. I stumbled upon this debut novel through Netgalley, and boy, did it deliver a rollercoaster of feelings that I’m still trying to process. I mean, how could Hayley do this to all of us? The tears, the heartache—it feels like an experience I never want to forget but also one I wish I could erase from my heart!
Themes and Characters
At its core, this book engages with heavy themes: love, grief, and the existential nature of time itself. The plot intricately weaves together the past and present, allowing us to peek behind the curtains of character memories and struggles. Lisavet and Ernest stand out as the central couple, navigating a labyrinth of time and trauma. Their relationship blossoms against the backdrop of a world littered with gun violence, secret wars, and the shadows of the Holocaust. Yet, amidst all the turmoil, their love feels pure and refreshingly grounded.
Ernest is pure book boyfriend material! With his kindness and nerdy charm, he steals your heart as effortlessly as he does Lisavet’s. That awkward first kiss moment where he’s embarrassed about his physical reactions? Let me tell you, it’s cute in a way that made my heart flutter (and, perhaps, my stomach flip). Lisavet, while fierce and loving, also grapples with her imperfections and growth throughout the narrative, making her a relatable, imperfect queen.
Writing Style and Pacing
Hayley’s writing is one of those rare blends of lyrical and accessible, inviting you to dive into a beautifully descriptive world while still making it easy to turn those pages in a frenzied state. The pacing had its hiccups, with some parts feeling unputdownable while others required a little nudge to get through, but the writing itself is striking enough to keep you hooked. Quotable lines resonate deeply—like, “Living was not the most dangerous thing after all. Loving was.” Isn’t that just a profound reflection on the human experience?
Plot Elements
The story’s dual-plot structure and multiple POVs can feel overwhelming at times, but they contribute to building layers of mystery surrounding the Timespace. However, I found the significance of some plot devices, particularly the Timekeepers and the historical elements, a little muddled. I was left pondering more than a few questions about the inner workings of the Timespace. While it might be confusing at times, the emotional landscape it creates is still rich and rewarding.
As for the romantic elements? The enemies-to-lovers dynamic—well, it’s a budding relationship that thrives on witty banter and unexpected connections, but the added tension from life-threatening events makes it all the more tantalizing (and heartbreaking).
Conclusion
So, who should pick up The Book of Lost Hours? If you enjoy intricate love stories threaded with historical nuances and thought-provoking themes, look no further. It’ll bathe you in both sweet joy and devastating grief, all within the pages of one debut novel. To say this book slaughtered me would be an understatement, and yet, even as I’m left breathless, I find myself wanting more.
In short, grab your tissues and prepare for an emotional journey. I cannot wait to see what else Hayley has in store for us after this incredible debut. If you fancy your heart broken in the most beautiful way, then this book is for you.
Happy reading! 🌊✨