Customer Reviews

The House On The Strand

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Intrigued by the title, I just knew that this book would be a good "beach read," so I stuck it in my beach bag and headed to the strand. Hmmm. Titles can be misleading because this book was anything but light and entertaining. However, I've never been disappointed by one of duMaurier's books and was determined to read it.

After the first couple of chapters,I was hooked. The book actually tells two stories, one of which takes place in the 20th century and the other in the 14th. Although the names of people, homes, and places seemed foreign and "old" (Tywardreath) to me, I found myself becoming so involved with Dick, Vita, Mrs. Collins, Magnus, Roger, and Isolda that I found myself reading "just one more chapter" before putting the novel down...for a while at least. Would Vita and the boys be a hindrance to Dick as he continued as Magnus's guinea pig? Would the family move to New York? Would Roger profess his love to Isolda?

I was impressed with duMaurier's knowledge of the life and times of 14th century England and her ability to weave such an interesting story along beside one occurring over 600 years later. Also, the ending carried a punch reminiscent of Rebecca.

I long ago classified this book as my favorite book of all time. I know that is probably hyperbole at this point as I have read so many books since my Du Maurier period in my 30's. But it is a very engaging book. It is one I have re-read several times which is a very rare compliment from me who believes there is so much to read, why spend time re-reading.