Review of The Book of Lost Hours by Hayley
From the moment I laid eyes on The Book of Lost Hours, I knew I was in for something special. Hayley’s debut novel promises a blend of romance, time travel, and profound emotional depth that had my heart racing with anticipation. Armed with a 4.7⭐ rating and my trusty playlist of Billie Eilish’s "Ocean Eyes" echoing in the background, I dove headfirst into this mesmerizing story. Little did I know that it would leave me stunned, teetering between tears and exhilaration, questioning how one person can wield words with such power.
At its core, The Book of Lost Hours explores love, grief, and the intricate dance between memory and time. Our main characters, Lisavet and Ernest, navigate a world filled with unspeakable struggles, from personal loss to the haunting shadows of history, including the Holocaust. The dual narratives woven through multiple perspectives kept me on my toes, offering layers of intrigue, though at times, I found the pacing a bit uneven.
Ernest, oh Ernest! He’s quite possibly the most charming book boyfriend I’ve encountered. His nerdy charm and sensitivity melted my heart. There’s a breathless moment where he’s embarrassed during a kiss with Lisavet—a “tingle” he experiences described so innocently. I found myself giggling and sighing in equal measure. The vulnerability that he displays makes him relatable and undeniably lovable. On the flip side, Lisavet’s fierce dedication to her baby and her relationship had me rooting for her every step of the way. It’s in moments like these that Hayley’s writing shines; it captures the essence of human emotion beautifully.
Yet, I must admit that while the time travel element caught my eye, it left me slightly confused. The concept of "Timespace” and the journey of the Timekeepers is fascinating, but the execution could have used a bit more clarity. The historical references and poetic nuances kept me engaged, though, and I appreciated the lush, lyrical quality of Hayley’s prose.
Among the memorable moments, a particularly striking quote resonated with me: “Living was not the most dangerous thing after all. Loving was.” It encapsulates the book’s overarching theme—how the heart, despite its fragility, can endure and love fiercely against all odds.
The backdrop of violence, mixed with themes of suicide and depression, adds a weight to the narrative that may not suit every reader, but it certainly brings a gritty realism to the characters’ journeys. With content warnings that include depictions of gun violence and harassment, the story doesn’t shy away from the hard truths of life, which I found refreshing but challenging.
As I turned the final pages, I felt a bittersweet blend of closure and lingering pain. The Book of Lost Hours is not just a story; it’s an experience—one that resonates long after you close the cover. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a poignant love story entwined with historical depth and a touch of magical realism. If you’re ready to embrace heartbreak and healing, this book is for you.
Hayley has crafted something remarkable, and I eagerly await her next literary venture. My heart, though slightly bruised, is better for having felt this story.
Read it. You won’t regret it.