Through the Veneer of Time (Always and Forever Book 1)
Modern-day artist Siena has always felt an unexplained connection to Ireland, but lately, it has been even stronger. She begins having dreams about a 16th-century Irish noblewoman, Neave, and her passionate marriage to the new King of Tyrone, Aedan. The dreams start out sexy and fun, although a little bewildering, because where are they coming from, and why do they feel so real? Siena begins researching past life regression. Is it possible she has lived before? The dreams become more sinister as Adean’s enemies plot an attack.
Siena longs to tell her FBI agent husband about her mysterious and sometimes frightening dreams, but he is overwhelmed by his latest case, tracking down a serial murderer and rapist. But she can’t keep things a secret any longer when her past and present violently collide in unexpected ways.
Vera Bell’s novel successfully combines historical fiction, romance, and a contemporary thriller. The flashbacks to Ireland are particularly engaging, with detailed and vivid descriptions. The characters are, unfortunately, a bit one-note, but as this is the first book in a trilogy, one hopes they will be fleshed out more in subsequent offerings. Readers easily triggered by sexual assault and violence against women may need to skip this book, though. The author does let the reader know from the beginning that the lasting impact of trauma will be a significant theme. However, even with this warning, I found some of the scenes shockingly violent and gratuitous.
