Review of 'The Daughter of the Fens' by Elena Collins

Review of 'The Daughter of the Fens' by Elena Collins

Release date: October 2, 2023

Publisher: Boldwood Books

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REVIEW

What a magical tale! This inspiring and mystical historical dual timeline is unique with its characters crossing time through dreams. I enjoyed previous novels by Ms Collins and this one is as mesmerising as her others. So yes, The Daughter of the Fens is certainly added to my top books list in this category!

The novel is set in modern day Norfolk as well as in the distant past of AD 61 when the Romans were in control of Britannia. The history that comes alive on these page offers the reader a wonderful experience – better than just dry facts as we are able to step into the characters’ shoes, feel their emotions and be part of their experiences up close and personal.

Brea is an intriguing Iceni slave who remembers little of life before the Romans. As with any takeover, its victims must learn to adjust to the culture. And in this case, Brea must deal with the indulgent customs of another people, while still trying to carry on some normalcy and remain true to herself. Tending to the duties of homesick Aurelia, Marcellus’s wife-to-be, is a challenge but it does not stop Brea from dreaming of freedom and finding her lost father.

Then there is Hanna in the modern timeline. She has been working overseas but returns to England after being away for years. Her mother is getting married to Paddy so she is there to help. But to her surprise, this home-coming to Little Rymer triggers some strange dreams that were present in her teen years. Yet now they are more intense: ones of figures from long ago that include gladiators, soldiers, temples and Iceni warrior women. These unusual reveries become more prevalent the longer she is home and begin to infringe on her present life. Mist covered visions so real she feels as though she is in the skin of another person. These ghosts from the past leave her sleepless and shaken. What happened in this place and why is it affecting her so deeply? Earlier conversations with her mother tell us that she even felt something eerie surrounding the Fens. Hanna remembers a project she did as a ten year old. She had to write about the Roman invasion and of a local named Boudicca. She was the only one in her class who made Boudicca a heroine. (Some thought she was a terrorist.) This dive into history resulted in a nightmare afterwards. Why? These subtle suggestions in the story create mounting mystery of things to come.

Thankfully she has Ollie, to talk to. He is the son of her mother’s husband-to-be. Besides new family ties, they share some common ground. He is a naturalist like her and has had his own eerie experiences. He also knows the history and myths of the fens. Cynthia, a psychic archaeologist is also there for her and helps in understanding what’s happening. Along with Roly, Ralf and Toby. And, of course, Lucas! And dear friend, Serenity. But you can read all about them and the parts they play.

In time, the separate worlds of Hannah and Brea collide and the connection they have becomes known. This is one powerful story of secrets plus bonds created and represented in lover’s jewellery. This magnificent tale shook and moved my heart in a way that is hard to describe. So, hats off to Ms Collins for such an imaginative and wonderful novel. The language is beautiful, the writing flawless and the stories of these two women are unforgettable. A love story that is both timeless and tragic. A must-read for those who appreciate ancient world mysteries steeped in bluebells, magic, love and loyalty. The Daughter of the Fens is a book I totally recommend and enjoyed immensely (chills, tears and all). 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for a review copy.