What do you think?
Rate this book
The Sevenstones Trilogy #1
The Treasures
Every family’s story starts somewhere.
Alice and Tom’s begins here.
On the eve of her sixteenth birthday, Alice Jansen collects her treasures – the keepsakes, figurines and momentoes that help her make sense of her fragile family. But the next day her heart is broken, and the final treasure, a gift from her father, is lost. Two years later, Alice answers a phone call from a stranger and runs away to New York, and tries to forget her last golden summer at the orchard on the banks of the Hudson.
Tom Raven can’t understand why he keeps losing so many of the things and people that really matter to him, but he knows for certain that something important is missing from his life. One day, he remembers a forgotten letter and makes a phone call, then leaves Sevenstones, the only place that feels like home, for a strange city...
Alice and Tom’s begins here.
On the eve of her sixteenth birthday, Alice Jansen collects her treasures – the keepsakes, figurines and momentoes that help her make sense of her fragile family. But the next day her heart is broken, and the final treasure, a gift from her father, is lost. Two years later, Alice answers a phone call from a stranger and runs away to New York, and tries to forget her last golden summer at the orchard on the banks of the Hudson.
Tom Raven can’t understand why he keeps losing so many of the things and people that really matter to him, but he knows for certain that something important is missing from his life. One day, he remembers a forgotten letter and makes a phone call, then leaves Sevenstones, the only place that feels like home, for a strange city...
435 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 2, 2025
103 people are currently reading
6768 people want to read
About the author
Harriet Evans
107 books1,207 followersI was born in London and grew up there. I was very bookish, and had a huge imagination which used to cause me to get rather anxious at times. Now I know it's a good thing for a writer to have. I loved musicals, and playing imaginative games, and my Barbie perfume making kit. Most of all I loved reading. I read everything, but I also read lots of things over and over, which I think is so important.
At university I read Classical Studies, which is a great way of finding out that the world doesn't change much and people make the same mistakes but it's interesting to look at why. I was at Bristol, and i loved the city, making new friends, being a new person.
After university I came back to London and got a job in publishing. I loved working in publishing so much, and really felt for the first time in my life that when I spoke people understood what I was saying. Book people are good people. I became an editor after a few years, working with many bestselling novelists, and in 2009 I left to write full time.
I've written 13 novels and several short stories and one Quick Read, which is an excellent way of getting people into reading more. I've acquired a partner and two children along the way.
In 2019 we moved to Bath, out of London, and I am very happy there. We live opposite a hedgerow, and I can be boring about gardening, and there's room for my collection of jumpsuits and all our books. We have lots of books. Apart from anything else they keep the house warm. xxx
At university I read Classical Studies, which is a great way of finding out that the world doesn't change much and people make the same mistakes but it's interesting to look at why. I was at Bristol, and i loved the city, making new friends, being a new person.
After university I came back to London and got a job in publishing. I loved working in publishing so much, and really felt for the first time in my life that when I spoke people understood what I was saying. Book people are good people. I became an editor after a few years, working with many bestselling novelists, and in 2009 I left to write full time.
I've written 13 novels and several short stories and one Quick Read, which is an excellent way of getting people into reading more. I've acquired a partner and two children along the way.
In 2019 we moved to Bath, out of London, and I am very happy there. We live opposite a hedgerow, and I can be boring about gardening, and there's room for my collection of jumpsuits and all our books. We have lots of books. Apart from anything else they keep the house warm. xxx
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
May 21, 2025
ARC Review
3.5 Stars
The Treasures, the first of a multi-generational family trilogy, follows Alice Jansen and Tom Raven. In the first part, we meet Alice and her parents, Betsy and Bob, who live in Orchard, a small and traditional place, in the US. They live on the Kynaston family estate, where they take care of the apple orchard and other upkeep. It quickly becomes clear that there are struggles in her family, and power dynamics between them and the Kynastons that muddle into them. As they progress, they reveal secrets and unanswered questions. But before Alice can even try to uncover what is hidden, she has more immediate problems to deal with: how to get away from this place, whether college is an answer (although it seems impossible with little to no money) or if there is something else calling to her - a particular revolution happening in New York City, for example?
We meet Tom as a much younger boy in the second part, who grows up with his Dad Edward in a more rural Scotland in the 1950s. An unexpected turn of events leads Tom to come to London, England, however, which similarly leads him on a path of discovery about his family history - one he is yet too young to understand.
The book then explores their paths of discovery - will they converge? What could they learn from each other? Is there an invisible string that has tied them together, a family history that has set them on paths bound to cross? And what will they do if they meet?
If you, like me, enjoy having the space to really get to know your characters, their histories and what makes them tick - this is the book for you. I would also say, do not let the trilogy aspect put you off! This book is a great one off read AND will give you the opportunity to delve deeper into the Jansen-Raven saga, should you wish. I, for one, am excited to know how this story continues.
I do want to mention some content/trigger warnings before I continue: Themes of trauma, grief, depression, violence, suicide and sexual assault are prevalent in this story and not just briefly touched on but really shape the character's internal and external worlds.
Now, I will admit, I struggled to really 'get into it' in the beginning. I ended up putting the book down frequently and taking a breather because it is quite meaty. At times, it reminded me of the beginnings of a fantasy book, where you are in a constant state of confused "who, what, where" as you are trying to remember the names of people and places and have to go back and forth to recall important information that you can no longer place. Once you pass that bridge though (which is not a short one, I might add, as around half of the book introduces you to Alice and Tom and their families), you have a lot of insight into the characters and it is immensely interesting to be able to read about characters that you have such detailed context for.
I, personally, did not regret spending my time on the first half, both for that reason but also because both halves were really well written. The first half may have been more effortful to read, but no less interesting or good. I will say that, after such a thorough first half, the second half was easier to read and a little more fun, but it feels more rushed as the events happen so quickly. This is really represented by the way I read this book, where it took me a long time to read the first half but I breezed through the second in a day.
I do also think that, for the prevalence of the Sevenstones (I mean, it is called the Sevenstones trilogy...), it is too unexplored in the latter half of the book, especially in relation to one of the characters. This does not help the rushed feel of the second half, especially as the first half really builds up to finally seeing it. I also think that, while it is often described from the outside and surroundings, I was missing the real feel and atmosphere that it is meant to have within. That did not come through for me, unfortunately!
I feel that the writing itself also contributed to it being more effortful for me personally. There are many, many extensive descriptions of people and particularly places in this book (writing like this to me feels like the literary equivalent of a landscape painting, if anyone gets my drift). Some people may love this and find it easier to picture exactly the happenings and locations, but for me, I found quite a few of these descriptions very convoluted and a little too much. The sentences, at times, would go on and on, comma after comma, and drag on for multiple lines. Sometimes, just one subject would get multiple (3, 4, 5!) adjectives to describe it in one part of one sentence and if I was reading this out loud I would be droning.
Some of the chosen words are also quite 'sophisticated', at least for a non-native English speaker - I would often have to put the book down to look them up but I do not think this is due to a language barrier but rather, they are just very dictionary-esque words that are not necessarily known to the average person. This is not a bad thing, but after a while it does become a bit tiring. This is of course just personal opinion and preference and quite frankly just not my preferred writing style. But objectively I can say it is very impressive and does not feel too performative overall. It pops up here and there. And most times, as mentioned previously in regards to the characters, I did find the intricate descriptions of the people very interesting and fun to read.
In terms of content, I was hooked! The historical placement of this narrative, exploring the cusps and the heights of the hippie movement and anti-war protests, as well as the civil rights movement and the generational divide between the traditional parents and towns and the movement of the young towards larger, more forward-thinking cities, really hit the mark for me in terms of setting. It really supported the characters, their developments - I do adore when books explore the socio-economic influences on characters and do not shy away from the intersection of everything that in the end, shapes a life.
I also want to take this moment to applaud Evans on her hugely accurate, intricate and respectful use of trauma. As someone with PTSD, I felt seen by this book and had my highlighter to hand most of the time. This is something I feel strongly about, and that I feel often narratives of any kind get wrong, overdo or miss the nuance of. Reading this, I could tell that Evans had done her research on what it means to be traumatised, its influence on the different stages of life. It always felt true, and not dramatised for effect. But again, I would not recommend this for anyone who feels raw or shaken at the moment, as it does rattle you (and I think the rattling can be insightful and enjoyable or get under your skin depending on your own state).
Overall, objectively, this is a hugely impressive piece of work and a very large task to take on for an author, one I believe Harriet Evans took on with fierce confidence in her abilities that were not misplaced at all. She did what I believe she set out to do, and she did it incredibly well.
I would hugely recommend this to readers who enjoy "landscape-writing" (I am really running with this here, I do hope it makes sense!), elaborate storylines, characters and descriptions and also fans of historical fiction, as this really plays into a super interesting time in history (and across multiple countries, at that!).
Thinking of things I read and enjoyed, I had to think of these titles when writing this review: The Great Gatsby for its historical aspects and how it shaped the narrative, Call Me By Your Name for its writing (particularly intricate but at times lengthy descriptives) as well as the passion and sensuality, and A Little Life for the concept of following characters over time through detailed and intricate insights into their lives at different times (noting that it is by far not as intensely traumatic as A Little Life). I also had to think of the new movie Here, with Tom Hanks and Robin Wright – do see it if you read or want to read this book! If those things call to you, pick up this book when it hits the shelves!
3.5 Stars
The Treasures, the first of a multi-generational family trilogy, follows Alice Jansen and Tom Raven. In the first part, we meet Alice and her parents, Betsy and Bob, who live in Orchard, a small and traditional place, in the US. They live on the Kynaston family estate, where they take care of the apple orchard and other upkeep. It quickly becomes clear that there are struggles in her family, and power dynamics between them and the Kynastons that muddle into them. As they progress, they reveal secrets and unanswered questions. But before Alice can even try to uncover what is hidden, she has more immediate problems to deal with: how to get away from this place, whether college is an answer (although it seems impossible with little to no money) or if there is something else calling to her - a particular revolution happening in New York City, for example?
We meet Tom as a much younger boy in the second part, who grows up with his Dad Edward in a more rural Scotland in the 1950s. An unexpected turn of events leads Tom to come to London, England, however, which similarly leads him on a path of discovery about his family history - one he is yet too young to understand.
The book then explores their paths of discovery - will they converge? What could they learn from each other? Is there an invisible string that has tied them together, a family history that has set them on paths bound to cross? And what will they do if they meet?
If you, like me, enjoy having the space to really get to know your characters, their histories and what makes them tick - this is the book for you. I would also say, do not let the trilogy aspect put you off! This book is a great one off read AND will give you the opportunity to delve deeper into the Jansen-Raven saga, should you wish. I, for one, am excited to know how this story continues.
I do want to mention some content/trigger warnings before I continue: Themes of trauma, grief, depression, violence, suicide and sexual assault are prevalent in this story and not just briefly touched on but really shape the character's internal and external worlds.
Now, I will admit, I struggled to really 'get into it' in the beginning. I ended up putting the book down frequently and taking a breather because it is quite meaty. At times, it reminded me of the beginnings of a fantasy book, where you are in a constant state of confused "who, what, where" as you are trying to remember the names of people and places and have to go back and forth to recall important information that you can no longer place. Once you pass that bridge though (which is not a short one, I might add, as around half of the book introduces you to Alice and Tom and their families), you have a lot of insight into the characters and it is immensely interesting to be able to read about characters that you have such detailed context for.
I, personally, did not regret spending my time on the first half, both for that reason but also because both halves were really well written. The first half may have been more effortful to read, but no less interesting or good. I will say that, after such a thorough first half, the second half was easier to read and a little more fun, but it feels more rushed as the events happen so quickly. This is really represented by the way I read this book, where it took me a long time to read the first half but I breezed through the second in a day.
I do also think that, for the prevalence of the Sevenstones (I mean, it is called the Sevenstones trilogy...), it is too unexplored in the latter half of the book, especially in relation to one of the characters. This does not help the rushed feel of the second half, especially as the first half really builds up to finally seeing it. I also think that, while it is often described from the outside and surroundings, I was missing the real feel and atmosphere that it is meant to have within. That did not come through for me, unfortunately!
I feel that the writing itself also contributed to it being more effortful for me personally. There are many, many extensive descriptions of people and particularly places in this book (writing like this to me feels like the literary equivalent of a landscape painting, if anyone gets my drift). Some people may love this and find it easier to picture exactly the happenings and locations, but for me, I found quite a few of these descriptions very convoluted and a little too much. The sentences, at times, would go on and on, comma after comma, and drag on for multiple lines. Sometimes, just one subject would get multiple (3, 4, 5!) adjectives to describe it in one part of one sentence and if I was reading this out loud I would be droning.
Some of the chosen words are also quite 'sophisticated', at least for a non-native English speaker - I would often have to put the book down to look them up but I do not think this is due to a language barrier but rather, they are just very dictionary-esque words that are not necessarily known to the average person. This is not a bad thing, but after a while it does become a bit tiring. This is of course just personal opinion and preference and quite frankly just not my preferred writing style. But objectively I can say it is very impressive and does not feel too performative overall. It pops up here and there. And most times, as mentioned previously in regards to the characters, I did find the intricate descriptions of the people very interesting and fun to read.
In terms of content, I was hooked! The historical placement of this narrative, exploring the cusps and the heights of the hippie movement and anti-war protests, as well as the civil rights movement and the generational divide between the traditional parents and towns and the movement of the young towards larger, more forward-thinking cities, really hit the mark for me in terms of setting. It really supported the characters, their developments - I do adore when books explore the socio-economic influences on characters and do not shy away from the intersection of everything that in the end, shapes a life.
I also want to take this moment to applaud Evans on her hugely accurate, intricate and respectful use of trauma. As someone with PTSD, I felt seen by this book and had my highlighter to hand most of the time. This is something I feel strongly about, and that I feel often narratives of any kind get wrong, overdo or miss the nuance of. Reading this, I could tell that Evans had done her research on what it means to be traumatised, its influence on the different stages of life. It always felt true, and not dramatised for effect. But again, I would not recommend this for anyone who feels raw or shaken at the moment, as it does rattle you (and I think the rattling can be insightful and enjoyable or get under your skin depending on your own state).
Overall, objectively, this is a hugely impressive piece of work and a very large task to take on for an author, one I believe Harriet Evans took on with fierce confidence in her abilities that were not misplaced at all. She did what I believe she set out to do, and she did it incredibly well.
I would hugely recommend this to readers who enjoy "landscape-writing" (I am really running with this here, I do hope it makes sense!), elaborate storylines, characters and descriptions and also fans of historical fiction, as this really plays into a super interesting time in history (and across multiple countries, at that!).
Thinking of things I read and enjoyed, I had to think of these titles when writing this review: The Great Gatsby for its historical aspects and how it shaped the narrative, Call Me By Your Name for its writing (particularly intricate but at times lengthy descriptives) as well as the passion and sensuality, and A Little Life for the concept of following characters over time through detailed and intricate insights into their lives at different times (noting that it is by far not as intensely traumatic as A Little Life). I also had to think of the new movie Here, with Tom Hanks and Robin Wright – do see it if you read or want to read this book! If those things call to you, pick up this book when it hits the shelves!
June 12, 2025
4.5* The first of Harriet Evans’ novels I’ve read since The Wildflowers & it felt like a different author. A really great read which kept me turning the pages & finding it hard to put down. The last third does get a little surreal & drawn out but it’s still gripping.
Both Alice & Tom’s childhoods are brutally interrupted by different -equally sad- circumstances. What happens next will shape their lives for ever and find each of them back at Seventstones seeking comfort and closure. Along the way we will encounter alot of harsh events- this is no tiptoe through the countryside! I’m really looking forward to rest of this trilogy and finding out more of Emma’s story too.
Many thanks to Net Galley for the advance copy.
Both Alice & Tom’s childhoods are brutally interrupted by different -equally sad- circumstances. What happens next will shape their lives for ever and find each of them back at Seventstones seeking comfort and closure. Along the way we will encounter alot of harsh events- this is no tiptoe through the countryside! I’m really looking forward to rest of this trilogy and finding out more of Emma’s story too.
Many thanks to Net Galley for the advance copy.
January 24, 2026
took awhile to get going with the back stories once it got going enjoyed the book
September 10, 2025
Let me begin by saying that I read ‘Not Without You’ by this author a long time ago. And, I loved it! And, it stayed with me for a long time!
So, when I saw to her name (and book) come up on a NetGalley page, I immediately requested it! And,I’m so glad I did!
This story spans multiple generations and a few families.
We begin with Alice and her parents.
It’s coming up on her 16th birthday and her Dad always has great surprises for her. They live in the gatehouse on an apple orchard in the Hudson Valley in NY, where her Dad works. They do not have a lot of money, but they do have love. ❤️
And then, in the blink of an eye, everything changes…
A couple of years go by and Alice is now turning 18. She’s still living at home, but life is not the same. When she’s in the position of almost being raped, well she decides she needs to get out! But, just before she leaves she gets a mysterious phone call… and the boy on the other end sounds lost, and sweet too… but she cannot help him.
At this point she decides to leave upstate NY. It’s the 60’s and Flower Power, Vietnam and Free Love are all around her…. She falls into a group that welcomes her. Her life is VERY different right now though…
Then, we meet Tom. We learn all about his family. He lives with his Dad, and his Mom died years ago. Again, they don’t have a lot of money… but they manage. And, there is love.❤️
One day his world is upended too! A woman claiming to be his aunt shows up and wants to take him away. She speaks with his Dad, and next thing he knows…they’re on a train, heading back to the UK. ?????
He’s just a kid. He has no idea what’s going on… but he promises to keep in touch with his Dad.
But the days, and weeks and months go on… time stops for no one…
Next thing you know, he’s all grown up. And he remembers speaking to a girl on the phone…all those years ago.
That’s it! 🛑🛑 Stopping right here!! 🛑🛑
Once again, this book had all the feels! So although I was originally thinking 4-4 1/2 stars, but I decided it is definitely worth the rounding up to 5!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
#TheTreasures by @HarrietEvans and narrated beautifully by @EmilyBarber.
*** THIS HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED YET!!! LOOK 👀 FOR IT ON 9/2/25!! ***
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #HarperAdultAudio and #HarperVia for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
So, when I saw to her name (and book) come up on a NetGalley page, I immediately requested it! And,I’m so glad I did!
This story spans multiple generations and a few families.
We begin with Alice and her parents.
It’s coming up on her 16th birthday and her Dad always has great surprises for her. They live in the gatehouse on an apple orchard in the Hudson Valley in NY, where her Dad works. They do not have a lot of money, but they do have love. ❤️
And then, in the blink of an eye, everything changes…
A couple of years go by and Alice is now turning 18. She’s still living at home, but life is not the same. When she’s in the position of almost being raped, well she decides she needs to get out! But, just before she leaves she gets a mysterious phone call… and the boy on the other end sounds lost, and sweet too… but she cannot help him.
At this point she decides to leave upstate NY. It’s the 60’s and Flower Power, Vietnam and Free Love are all around her…. She falls into a group that welcomes her. Her life is VERY different right now though…
Then, we meet Tom. We learn all about his family. He lives with his Dad, and his Mom died years ago. Again, they don’t have a lot of money… but they manage. And, there is love.❤️
One day his world is upended too! A woman claiming to be his aunt shows up and wants to take him away. She speaks with his Dad, and next thing he knows…they’re on a train, heading back to the UK. ?????
He’s just a kid. He has no idea what’s going on… but he promises to keep in touch with his Dad.
But the days, and weeks and months go on… time stops for no one…
Next thing you know, he’s all grown up. And he remembers speaking to a girl on the phone…all those years ago.
That’s it! 🛑🛑 Stopping right here!! 🛑🛑
Once again, this book had all the feels! So although I was originally thinking 4-4 1/2 stars, but I decided it is definitely worth the rounding up to 5!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
#TheTreasures by @HarrietEvans and narrated beautifully by @EmilyBarber.
*** THIS HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED YET!!! LOOK 👀 FOR IT ON 9/2/25!! ***
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #HarperAdultAudio and #HarperVia for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
June 22, 2025
✮ 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 ✮
𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: Historical fiction
𝗟𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵: 435 pages
𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Sevenstones Trilogy
𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4 ⭐
𝗜𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
• Family Saga
• Many generations
• Lots of imagery/places
• Immersive world
𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂!
In moments like this, I really wish I could jump ahead to the future just to see how this story unfolds further.
Honestly, at first I found it a bit tough to dive into. I ended up going back and re-reading some sentences to really grasp them, especially since there were a lot of detailed descriptions of characters and various settings. It took me back to when you start a new fantasy book or series, where the beginning can be a bit tricky as you try to picture the world and all the new characters we’re introduced to. BUT... once you push through the first half, the rest becomes so much more enjoyable, and you’ll be hooked all the way to the end.
The historical context, the exploration of the hippie and anti-war movements, and the perspective of young people towards growing cities really resonated with me. I have to say, I’m really impressed.
I’d suggest this to anyone who loves historical fiction and is looking for a story filled with unforgettable characters, rich landscape writing that paints a vivid picture, and unique settings.
𝗣𝗥 | 𝗚𝗜𝗙𝗧𝗘𝗗
Thank you to @vikingbooksuk for sending me the ARC.
𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: Historical fiction
𝗟𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵: 435 pages
𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Sevenstones Trilogy
𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4 ⭐
𝗜𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
• Family Saga
• Many generations
• Lots of imagery/places
• Immersive world
𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂!
In moments like this, I really wish I could jump ahead to the future just to see how this story unfolds further.
Honestly, at first I found it a bit tough to dive into. I ended up going back and re-reading some sentences to really grasp them, especially since there were a lot of detailed descriptions of characters and various settings. It took me back to when you start a new fantasy book or series, where the beginning can be a bit tricky as you try to picture the world and all the new characters we’re introduced to. BUT... once you push through the first half, the rest becomes so much more enjoyable, and you’ll be hooked all the way to the end.
The historical context, the exploration of the hippie and anti-war movements, and the perspective of young people towards growing cities really resonated with me. I have to say, I’m really impressed.
I’d suggest this to anyone who loves historical fiction and is looking for a story filled with unforgettable characters, rich landscape writing that paints a vivid picture, and unique settings.
𝗣𝗥 | 𝗚𝗜𝗙𝗧𝗘𝗗
Thank you to @vikingbooksuk for sending me the ARC.
tbr-2
November 6, 2025
October 16, 2025
Actual rating 4.5.
October 2, 2025
I won a free copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
Right away, I did not like this book. The "treasures" is not enough of a premise for a book this long. In Part 1, Alice was not a likeable character. (I also found it weird that there were British spellings for words when they were in NY.) But I thought, well, it's completely shifting setting/narrator in Part 2, so maybe it will get better. I didn't like that part either. Jenny and Henry were just too strange. You guessed it, I liked Part 3 even less. I couldn't get behind the attitude of the 1960s. And then Part 4 ends strangely. The Epilogue was too long to be an epilogue. There are going to be 2 more books in this series? I'm good.
Right away, I did not like this book. The "treasures" is not enough of a premise for a book this long. In Part 1, Alice was not a likeable character. (I also found it weird that there were British spellings for words when they were in NY.) But I thought, well, it's completely shifting setting/narrator in Part 2, so maybe it will get better. I didn't like that part either. Jenny and Henry were just too strange. You guessed it, I liked Part 3 even less. I couldn't get behind the attitude of the 1960s. And then Part 4 ends strangely. The Epilogue was too long to be an epilogue. There are going to be 2 more books in this series? I'm good.
May 24, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. I wasn’t sure what to expect as it took me a few chapters to get going but once I did, I couldn’t put it down! I liked the way that Alice’s story was told first, then Tom’s, before cleverly piecing them together. There was so much heartache and tragedy which I felt was handled well, and throughout, I felt the story fitted well into that era. There was a lot of drugs in NYC which I think fed back to Sevenstones. Teddy’s story was so very sad, but I liked the way it came back to her. I felt the epilogue dragged on far too long, by which point I found myself skimming, I think I felt it needed wrapped up sooner. However, a solid 4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars for me. I am really looking forward to the next book and hope we don’t have to wait too long for it!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book.
June 12, 2025
I absolutely adored this book and it is a very promising start to a new trilogy. To begin with, I did think it was a bit slow but I decided to savour the build up and the latter half of the book does ramp up the action and set up future plot threads.
I loved the characters of Alice and Tom, we get to know them separately and then together as their lives converge and a gripping will they/won't they plot starts. Not in a long time have I ever wished for two characters to get together so much, here's hoping!
Evans has created a spectacular plot that pulls the reader in and leaves you wanting more and more. I adored the plot, locations and characters and cannot wait for the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin General UK for an advance copy.
I loved the characters of Alice and Tom, we get to know them separately and then together as their lives converge and a gripping will they/won't they plot starts. Not in a long time have I ever wished for two characters to get together so much, here's hoping!
Evans has created a spectacular plot that pulls the reader in and leaves you wanting more and more. I adored the plot, locations and characters and cannot wait for the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin General UK for an advance copy.
May 24, 2025
As a huge Harriet Evans fan, I was delighted to dive into an advance copy of her new novel. This is a wonderfully rich, slow-burn family saga spanning the 1940s to the 1960s. I particularly enjoyed the nostalgic details, especially the prominent feature of China animals – a sweet blast from my own past!
Don't let the gentle pace fool you; Evans doesn't shy away from depicting life's harsher realities. The book explores hard-hitting themes such as racism, attempted rape, extortion, lesbianism (in the 1940s), drug use, all rendered with a brutal honesty that is somehow still beautifully written. Harriet Evans' prose is as captivating as ever, and I'm eagerly anticipating the continuation of this compelling series.
Don't let the gentle pace fool you; Evans doesn't shy away from depicting life's harsher realities. The book explores hard-hitting themes such as racism, attempted rape, extortion, lesbianism (in the 1940s), drug use, all rendered with a brutal honesty that is somehow still beautifully written. Harriet Evans' prose is as captivating as ever, and I'm eagerly anticipating the continuation of this compelling series.
June 5, 2025
It's the 1960s Alice is an American teen whose father commits suicide the day before she turns 16. In 1950s Scotland, 9 year old Tom is sent to London to live with his mother's family instead of his widowed Dad. Years later their paths cross and this leads to some life changing events. This is such wonderful storytelling with heart and drama. Very much looking forward to continuing with the series when the rest is released.
April 26, 2025
A beautiful novel, spanning generations, and intertwining stories of love, loss and sacrifice. It took me a little bit to get engaged with this novel, there is a lot to take in, and a lot of characters to get to know, but it was absolutely worth the effort. The writing is beautiful and heartfelt, the characters are wonderfully crafted and the story unfolds in a dreamlike and magical manner. I'm delighted that this is only the first in the trilogy as I very much look forward to spending more time with these people, in this landscape. A writer at the peak of her craft!
September 22, 2025
I received an advanced reader copy of The Treasures from Goodreads. The story brings the worlds of Alice (in America, living on the Hudson) and Tom (raised in Scotland until his life abruptly changes) together, connecting them by chance and by historical events. There is mystery, childhood trauma, the changes brought on in the 1960s, romance, and so many questions to keep you reading more. A drama involving multiple families and the question of how they intersect.
July 10, 2025
Brilliant read!
First in a trilogy of an epic family saga, cannot wait for Threads (part 2) 🤩
First in a trilogy of an epic family saga, cannot wait for Threads (part 2) 🤩
August 8, 2025
loved the stories of the main characters of this book. very gripping stories and can't wait for the next one in the series.
September 27, 2025
I feel this book lacked a little bit of the magic that Harriet Evans books normally do. I much preferred Tom’s chapters to Allie’s. The story was interesting, but i wasnt super invested. A little disappointed.
July 24, 2025
📖 ARC Review 📖
Summary: Two strangers. Two lives unfolding over the years. Their coming of age, their hardships, and their histories are all intricately tied together by one central thread: the Sevenstones, a home that each prominent character is connected to in some way. Follow their paths as they twist, turn, and ultimately converge. “Every family’s story starts somewhere.”
My Overall Thoughts: Whoa this one packs an emotional gut punch. There are no happy endings here, just raw, honest explanations for broken people making broken choices that lead to broken outcomes. And yet. . .somehow, it’s really good? I’m flabbergasted too. It’s absolutely not a fun or comforting read. But I can’t deny that it’s a fantastic start to the trilogy. Think Yellowstone family drama meets Tom Lake style narrative, with a heavy dose of Charles Dickens level bleakness. It’s hard to summarize and even harder to explain but undeniably compelling. A hesitant recommend . . .with a few disclaimers.
If you’re a fan of classic literature, slow burning, multi generational sagas, and stories packed with hidden meaning and symbolism, this is for you. You need to be willing to dig deep and unafraid to stare into the uglier parts of the past though.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Via for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. While it ultimately wasn’t the best fit for me I think others will love it!
My Rating: 3 ⭐️
Release date: September 2nd
What I Liked:
🍎 The Writing! The writing in this novel is beautifully done. It often felt like reading a modern classic and I could easily imagine this being assigned reading one day. Even in the moments when I was completely devastated by the storyline, I still found myself appreciating the prose and the author’s ability to hide important details in plain sight.
🍎 The Characters! It took me nearly the entire book to get there, but I did end up caring deeply about these characters. These poor, traumatized souls slowly crept under my skin. By the end, I was surprisingly emotional. The last 50 pages, especially, did some serious heavy lifting in building that emotional connection.
🍎 The Meaning! I can’t say much here without giving away major spoilers but just know that the book’s overarching message and the many life lessons woven throughout really landed for me. Subtle, powerful, and haunting.
What I Didn’t Like:
🍎 The Pacing. This might be the slowest book I’ve ever read. The author takes a lot of time to build backstories and character arcs, and I found myself repeatedly asking, “What’s the point here?” We do get there eventually but it happens much later than I’m used to. Did the pacing serve the story? Maybe. But I wasn’t quite convinced it was worth the slog.
🍎 The Trigger Warnings. This book took me by surprise more than once with its content. There are some seriously intense and disturbing elements: death, attempted SA, heavy drug use, neglect, starvation, abandonment, you name it. It’s very, very dark. Don’t be fooled by the gorgeous cover, this story is overwhelmingly heavy. If that’s not a dealbreaker for you, then yes, I think I still recommend it . . . with caution.
🍎 The Ending. After that long, emotional, and often semi torturous journey . . .we end on a cliffhanger. A CLIFFHANGER, y’all. 🤯😒 It felt like a gut punch after everything we’d been through. I get that it’s a trilogy, but still some closure would’ve been nice.
Summary: Two strangers. Two lives unfolding over the years. Their coming of age, their hardships, and their histories are all intricately tied together by one central thread: the Sevenstones, a home that each prominent character is connected to in some way. Follow their paths as they twist, turn, and ultimately converge. “Every family’s story starts somewhere.”
My Overall Thoughts: Whoa this one packs an emotional gut punch. There are no happy endings here, just raw, honest explanations for broken people making broken choices that lead to broken outcomes. And yet. . .somehow, it’s really good? I’m flabbergasted too. It’s absolutely not a fun or comforting read. But I can’t deny that it’s a fantastic start to the trilogy. Think Yellowstone family drama meets Tom Lake style narrative, with a heavy dose of Charles Dickens level bleakness. It’s hard to summarize and even harder to explain but undeniably compelling. A hesitant recommend . . .with a few disclaimers.
If you’re a fan of classic literature, slow burning, multi generational sagas, and stories packed with hidden meaning and symbolism, this is for you. You need to be willing to dig deep and unafraid to stare into the uglier parts of the past though.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Via for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. While it ultimately wasn’t the best fit for me I think others will love it!
My Rating: 3 ⭐️
Release date: September 2nd
What I Liked:
🍎 The Writing! The writing in this novel is beautifully done. It often felt like reading a modern classic and I could easily imagine this being assigned reading one day. Even in the moments when I was completely devastated by the storyline, I still found myself appreciating the prose and the author’s ability to hide important details in plain sight.
🍎 The Characters! It took me nearly the entire book to get there, but I did end up caring deeply about these characters. These poor, traumatized souls slowly crept under my skin. By the end, I was surprisingly emotional. The last 50 pages, especially, did some serious heavy lifting in building that emotional connection.
🍎 The Meaning! I can’t say much here without giving away major spoilers but just know that the book’s overarching message and the many life lessons woven throughout really landed for me. Subtle, powerful, and haunting.
What I Didn’t Like:
🍎 The Pacing. This might be the slowest book I’ve ever read. The author takes a lot of time to build backstories and character arcs, and I found myself repeatedly asking, “What’s the point here?” We do get there eventually but it happens much later than I’m used to. Did the pacing serve the story? Maybe. But I wasn’t quite convinced it was worth the slog.
🍎 The Trigger Warnings. This book took me by surprise more than once with its content. There are some seriously intense and disturbing elements: death, attempted SA, heavy drug use, neglect, starvation, abandonment, you name it. It’s very, very dark. Don’t be fooled by the gorgeous cover, this story is overwhelmingly heavy. If that’s not a dealbreaker for you, then yes, I think I still recommend it . . . with caution.
🍎 The Ending. After that long, emotional, and often semi torturous journey . . .we end on a cliffhanger. A CLIFFHANGER, y’all. 🤯😒 It felt like a gut punch after everything we’d been through. I get that it’s a trilogy, but still some closure would’ve been nice.
June 11, 2025
I was happy to put my hand up for this Netgalley offering as I’ve enjoyed several Harriet Evans’ novels before. She often centres her novels around an atmospheric house (Keepsake in The Butterfly Summer; Vanes in The Beloved Girls; Fane Hall in The Stargazers), which I’ve always found appealing. A bit like Manderley in Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca.
Early on in The Treasures we hear mention of a house called Sevenstones. I imagined a grand old English manor, full of secrets and mystery. In actual fact Sevenstones has more of a cottage feel, a country bold-hole where various members of the cast of characters arrive when they need a break. For some, including Tom Raven’s parents, it was a chance to take a break from the war – World War II that is – and where relationships were forged.
But we first meet Tom as a young boy, living in a two-room cottage with his much loved Dad in Scotland. At the age of nine, he is uprooted by his Aunt Jenny, leaving the simple life behind for more opportunities in London and public schooling, even though his aunt and Uncle Henry really have no idea about children or even running a house without staff. We’re in the 1950s, and there are bomb craters everywhere, and children from the upper classes aren’t to mix with the lower orders, or so Tom’s told.
There’s also another grander house in this book – Valhalla, the American home of the Kynastons. Alice is growing up as best she can, with a father battling demons and debts owed on his orchards. When he takes his life, it seems Alice and her mother are to lose their home on the grounds of Valhalla. Wilder Kynaston was a good family friend and offers them a lifeline, but there’s a price to pay.
We’re well into 1960s by now, and as Jack and Alice grow up on opposite sides of the Atlantic, another war has arrived, and with it the rise of the protest movement, women’s lib and the chance of new freedoms and ways of thinking. The novel takes you through these changes as our two young characters’ stories are set to intersect. But family secrets lurk, throwing roadblocks in their way.
Harriet Evans captures the time really well, and the dilemmas faced by young women like Alice who are trying to forge a new path for themselves, only to find they’re still chivvying for the boyfriends they tie themselves to. The men of the establishment still hold all the power, while choices for women remain limited. But there are others too, like the fathers of both Alice and Jack, who have been left haunted by the past, plagued by guilt or disappointment, also unable to be the people they want to be.
I was curious that the book starts with a modern day setting and a character, Emma, who doesn’t appear again, discovering the ‘treasures’ of the title. These are little mementos Alice has been given by her father on each of her birthdays. But I now see that this novel is the first of a trilogy – I’ll be intrigued to see how the story continues to fill in the gaps in the books that follow. The Treasures is a rich, immersive read with terrific characters you empathise with.
The Treasures is due for release on 12 June. It’s a four-star read from me.
Early on in The Treasures we hear mention of a house called Sevenstones. I imagined a grand old English manor, full of secrets and mystery. In actual fact Sevenstones has more of a cottage feel, a country bold-hole where various members of the cast of characters arrive when they need a break. For some, including Tom Raven’s parents, it was a chance to take a break from the war – World War II that is – and where relationships were forged.
But we first meet Tom as a young boy, living in a two-room cottage with his much loved Dad in Scotland. At the age of nine, he is uprooted by his Aunt Jenny, leaving the simple life behind for more opportunities in London and public schooling, even though his aunt and Uncle Henry really have no idea about children or even running a house without staff. We’re in the 1950s, and there are bomb craters everywhere, and children from the upper classes aren’t to mix with the lower orders, or so Tom’s told.
There’s also another grander house in this book – Valhalla, the American home of the Kynastons. Alice is growing up as best she can, with a father battling demons and debts owed on his orchards. When he takes his life, it seems Alice and her mother are to lose their home on the grounds of Valhalla. Wilder Kynaston was a good family friend and offers them a lifeline, but there’s a price to pay.
We’re well into 1960s by now, and as Jack and Alice grow up on opposite sides of the Atlantic, another war has arrived, and with it the rise of the protest movement, women’s lib and the chance of new freedoms and ways of thinking. The novel takes you through these changes as our two young characters’ stories are set to intersect. But family secrets lurk, throwing roadblocks in their way.
Harriet Evans captures the time really well, and the dilemmas faced by young women like Alice who are trying to forge a new path for themselves, only to find they’re still chivvying for the boyfriends they tie themselves to. The men of the establishment still hold all the power, while choices for women remain limited. But there are others too, like the fathers of both Alice and Jack, who have been left haunted by the past, plagued by guilt or disappointment, also unable to be the people they want to be.
I was curious that the book starts with a modern day setting and a character, Emma, who doesn’t appear again, discovering the ‘treasures’ of the title. These are little mementos Alice has been given by her father on each of her birthdays. But I now see that this novel is the first of a trilogy – I’ll be intrigued to see how the story continues to fill in the gaps in the books that follow. The Treasures is a rich, immersive read with terrific characters you empathise with.
The Treasures is due for release on 12 June. It’s a four-star read from me.
May 12, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Viking for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
Oh how I do love a new Harriet Evans book.
This was a hefty book and I was worried it would feel that as well reading it, but it flew by. I was immediately absorbed and I absolutely loved it and read it way into the night. In fact I read it in less than 24 hours because I was just so engrossed.
It does have long chapters though which is my big bug bear, but I managed to by pass that, the story being so good.
For someone who is allergic to apples, I did appreciate in a morbid way that they kept cropping up throughout this book.
It is a slow burn and yet doesn't feel slow. It gives you everything you need and everything you want, but gives you time and doesn't overwhelm you.
You've sort of got two stories going on: one in America with Alice, and the other in the UK with Tom. But they do overlap. Harriet's done it very cleverly. She's given us Alice's story, we get to know her, what she wants, what she's been through. And then we get to know Tom in the same way, so that when the stories start to mix, you know enough about them to get really invested.
I don't know what she's planning on putting in books two and three, as this is an epic in itself. And I'm quite said that I have to wait for the next installment. Having said that, if you just read this as a standalone, it would be just as fabulous I'm sure.
It's a mixture of historical, family drama, with a bit of romance, thrills and spills, fear, and the hangover of WW2. It's got everything you want.
I think this is my fourth book of hers and it is by far the best. It's unbelievable storytelling, fantastically flawed but beautiful characters, such deep love and hope and joy amongst the sadness. It is so thorough, with such depth, as individual stories and the book as a whole, it's such an impressive feat and I applaud her.
I read a lot of books - we're talking 350+ a year - and so most books have to leave my head pretty quickly, otherwise I can't focus on the next one, but this is one that I'll definitely carry around for me for a long time.
Harriet's story creation, the language she uses, it's just so - and I feel there should be a more impressive word than this but sometimes the simplest is the best - it's just so very, very good.
This is the work of an author who is so sure of herself, of her talent, is experienced. Someone who is at the peak of their creativeness and storytelling abilities.
Oh how I do love a new Harriet Evans book.
This was a hefty book and I was worried it would feel that as well reading it, but it flew by. I was immediately absorbed and I absolutely loved it and read it way into the night. In fact I read it in less than 24 hours because I was just so engrossed.
It does have long chapters though which is my big bug bear, but I managed to by pass that, the story being so good.
For someone who is allergic to apples, I did appreciate in a morbid way that they kept cropping up throughout this book.
It is a slow burn and yet doesn't feel slow. It gives you everything you need and everything you want, but gives you time and doesn't overwhelm you.
You've sort of got two stories going on: one in America with Alice, and the other in the UK with Tom. But they do overlap. Harriet's done it very cleverly. She's given us Alice's story, we get to know her, what she wants, what she's been through. And then we get to know Tom in the same way, so that when the stories start to mix, you know enough about them to get really invested.
I don't know what she's planning on putting in books two and three, as this is an epic in itself. And I'm quite said that I have to wait for the next installment. Having said that, if you just read this as a standalone, it would be just as fabulous I'm sure.
It's a mixture of historical, family drama, with a bit of romance, thrills and spills, fear, and the hangover of WW2. It's got everything you want.
I think this is my fourth book of hers and it is by far the best. It's unbelievable storytelling, fantastically flawed but beautiful characters, such deep love and hope and joy amongst the sadness. It is so thorough, with such depth, as individual stories and the book as a whole, it's such an impressive feat and I applaud her.
I read a lot of books - we're talking 350+ a year - and so most books have to leave my head pretty quickly, otherwise I can't focus on the next one, but this is one that I'll definitely carry around for me for a long time.
Harriet's story creation, the language she uses, it's just so - and I feel there should be a more impressive word than this but sometimes the simplest is the best - it's just so very, very good.
This is the work of an author who is so sure of herself, of her talent, is experienced. Someone who is at the peak of their creativeness and storytelling abilities.
July 7, 2025
The Treasures by Harriet Evans is the first in a planned family trilogy. While it carries all the hallmarks of a sweeping multigenerational novel, it handles those familiar elements with care and clarity.
Set in the 1960s, the narrative moves between Alice Jensen in New York and Tom Raven in London. Alice’s life is shaped by the Vietnam War, activism, and personal tragedy. Tom, raised by relatives, struggles with identity and belonging in a world still trying to rebuild itself after WWII. Linking them is Sevenstones, a country house in rural England, once used to house service personnel during the war. It serves as the quiet centre around which the story turns. When their storylines finally converge, I realised just how much I’d been anticipating it.
Where the novel truly excels is in its emotional realism. What stood out most for me was how human the characters feel. Tom and Alice are flawed, uncertain, and shaped by forces beyond their control, but Evans never veers into melodrama. The emotional beats are earned, and the relationships are drawn with exquisite tenderness. I wholeheartedly loved these characters.
The writing is accessible and fluid. The pacing is deceptively gentle, Evans allows space for character development without losing narrative momentum. The historical settings are well researched and never feel like window dressing; they shape both character and atmosphere in ways that feel grounded and purposeful.
I wouldn’t usually reach for a book like this, but The Treasures is a reminder that emotional sincerity and strong narrative craft are not mutually exclusive. It’s immersive, tender, and intelligent, and it reminded me in tone and scope of Pachinko, one of my all-time favourites. I’ll be following this trilogy closely.
Set in the 1960s, the narrative moves between Alice Jensen in New York and Tom Raven in London. Alice’s life is shaped by the Vietnam War, activism, and personal tragedy. Tom, raised by relatives, struggles with identity and belonging in a world still trying to rebuild itself after WWII. Linking them is Sevenstones, a country house in rural England, once used to house service personnel during the war. It serves as the quiet centre around which the story turns. When their storylines finally converge, I realised just how much I’d been anticipating it.
Where the novel truly excels is in its emotional realism. What stood out most for me was how human the characters feel. Tom and Alice are flawed, uncertain, and shaped by forces beyond their control, but Evans never veers into melodrama. The emotional beats are earned, and the relationships are drawn with exquisite tenderness. I wholeheartedly loved these characters.
The writing is accessible and fluid. The pacing is deceptively gentle, Evans allows space for character development without losing narrative momentum. The historical settings are well researched and never feel like window dressing; they shape both character and atmosphere in ways that feel grounded and purposeful.
I wouldn’t usually reach for a book like this, but The Treasures is a reminder that emotional sincerity and strong narrative craft are not mutually exclusive. It’s immersive, tender, and intelligent, and it reminded me in tone and scope of Pachinko, one of my all-time favourites. I’ll be following this trilogy closely.
August 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 STARS
i won this book as an ARC from one of Goodreads' giveaways. it was my first physical print book win and was so excited! shameless admission: i haven't read any of Harriet Evans' previous work, so they are a new author to me. i didn't know what to expect, but based on the synopsis... i had a feeling it would be an interesting one. so win or not, i would've eventually read it anyway. with that said, i was blown away after reading this.
the author really took their time to build the world, the story, and characters' backgrounds, so the pacing might be off-putting for some. but from a reader's perspective, it allows you to immerse into the world and story that is being told. you get to really know and understand the characters. with that said, you start to build these emotional connections that will leave you devastated towards the end. keep in mind, also, that this is to be a trilogy. so this one does end in a cliffhanger. i'm excited for what is yet to come. i would assume that this book will help much of the future story to propel more at an easily consumable pace.
would i recommend this? YES, i would! it's beautiful, heavy, emotional, intense, destructive, powerful, etc. it was overwhelming at times, but in a way that many readers will appreciate. there may be some things that could be considering triggering for some people, so keep that in mind. nonetheless, for anyone seeking a historical fiction that sucks you in, this would be a great read.
the biggest thank you to the author, Harriet Evans, and publisher for sending me an advanced reader's copy! an extra thank you to Goodreads for the chance to win said copy. i chose to leave this review of my own volition. all thoughts and opinions are my own.
i won this book as an ARC from one of Goodreads' giveaways. it was my first physical print book win and was so excited! shameless admission: i haven't read any of Harriet Evans' previous work, so they are a new author to me. i didn't know what to expect, but based on the synopsis... i had a feeling it would be an interesting one. so win or not, i would've eventually read it anyway. with that said, i was blown away after reading this.
the author really took their time to build the world, the story, and characters' backgrounds, so the pacing might be off-putting for some. but from a reader's perspective, it allows you to immerse into the world and story that is being told. you get to really know and understand the characters. with that said, you start to build these emotional connections that will leave you devastated towards the end. keep in mind, also, that this is to be a trilogy. so this one does end in a cliffhanger. i'm excited for what is yet to come. i would assume that this book will help much of the future story to propel more at an easily consumable pace.
would i recommend this? YES, i would! it's beautiful, heavy, emotional, intense, destructive, powerful, etc. it was overwhelming at times, but in a way that many readers will appreciate. there may be some things that could be considering triggering for some people, so keep that in mind. nonetheless, for anyone seeking a historical fiction that sucks you in, this would be a great read.
the biggest thank you to the author, Harriet Evans, and publisher for sending me an advanced reader's copy! an extra thank you to Goodreads for the chance to win said copy. i chose to leave this review of my own volition. all thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 8, 2025
What a wonderful read. The first book in The Sevenstones Trilogy spanning 1940 - 1960’s and introducing us to Alice Jansen and Tom Raven. The books opens with sale particulars for a house called Sevenoaks and a prologue in spring 2004 where Emma Raven is clearing the house and finds a little bag full of treasures; china animals, stones and other oddities. A slow burning but completely compelling story, beautifully written and surprisingly uncompromising.
Briefly, Hudson Valley, New York June 1965 where Alice lives with her parents. It’s the day before her 16th birthday and she wants another treasure to add to her collection. After school her father takes her for an ice cream and on the way home he steps in front of a train and Alice sees it all. Two years later she runs away to New York. Galloway, Scotland 1955 and Tom is about to turn 9. He lives with his father but his world is about to be torn apart when he is taken to live with his aunt and uncle in London.
Two wonderful main characters both of whom have less than pleasant childhoods. I don’t want to give any spoilers but I have to say that there is one character, a big part of Alice’s story I absolutely hated! Despicable in just about every way you can imagine. There are some very tough issues dealt with in the book from racism and sexism to rape and drug use, but all dealt with sympathetically. I really enjoyed this book, it’s both heartbreaking and heartwarming in equal measures, and I very much look forward to book 2.
Briefly, Hudson Valley, New York June 1965 where Alice lives with her parents. It’s the day before her 16th birthday and she wants another treasure to add to her collection. After school her father takes her for an ice cream and on the way home he steps in front of a train and Alice sees it all. Two years later she runs away to New York. Galloway, Scotland 1955 and Tom is about to turn 9. He lives with his father but his world is about to be torn apart when he is taken to live with his aunt and uncle in London.
Two wonderful main characters both of whom have less than pleasant childhoods. I don’t want to give any spoilers but I have to say that there is one character, a big part of Alice’s story I absolutely hated! Despicable in just about every way you can imagine. There are some very tough issues dealt with in the book from racism and sexism to rape and drug use, but all dealt with sympathetically. I really enjoyed this book, it’s both heartbreaking and heartwarming in equal measures, and I very much look forward to book 2.
June 15, 2025
The Treasures is a great choice if you’re looking for family saga fiction. This first instalment in a multi-generational trilogy spanned the period from the 1940s through to the 1960s. Beginning in Spring 2024, we learn that a family home – Sevenstones – is being sold and from there we are transported back in time to meet Alice and then Tom.
I was initially sceptical about the premise of this novel. A collection of ornaments - which appear to be valuable for sentimental reasons only - are discovered at Sevenstones and the idea that they could be the key to unlocking a mystery about a family seemed rather far-fetched. However, as I continued reading, the execution of the novel caused me to re-evaluate my preconceptions and I read the story with increasing interest and enjoyment. When the narrative switched from Alice to Tom, I felt that I had to orientate myself in a new story, though ultimately I found myself enjoying both storylines equally and, as can be expected in this style of novel, the characters do meet. The narrative stayed interesting because of the changes that occur in the protagonists’ lives and because of unexpected plot twists. I didn’t feel that the blurb conveyed the richness of the setting and it also gave me the impression that the family’s story was predominantly inward-looking. However, the political and cultural context woven into the story, such as the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement, worked well in terms of grounding the novel in the time period.
I’m looking forward to continuing with the series and learning about the next generation. Thank you to Penguin, Viking and NetGalley for sharing this eARC with me in exchange for an honest review.
I was initially sceptical about the premise of this novel. A collection of ornaments - which appear to be valuable for sentimental reasons only - are discovered at Sevenstones and the idea that they could be the key to unlocking a mystery about a family seemed rather far-fetched. However, as I continued reading, the execution of the novel caused me to re-evaluate my preconceptions and I read the story with increasing interest and enjoyment. When the narrative switched from Alice to Tom, I felt that I had to orientate myself in a new story, though ultimately I found myself enjoying both storylines equally and, as can be expected in this style of novel, the characters do meet. The narrative stayed interesting because of the changes that occur in the protagonists’ lives and because of unexpected plot twists. I didn’t feel that the blurb conveyed the richness of the setting and it also gave me the impression that the family’s story was predominantly inward-looking. However, the political and cultural context woven into the story, such as the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement, worked well in terms of grounding the novel in the time period.
I’m looking forward to continuing with the series and learning about the next generation. Thank you to Penguin, Viking and NetGalley for sharing this eARC with me in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2025
A treasure trove of words 📖📚
This was a beautifully worded, slow burn of a story. Initially hard to get into but worth persevering with.
A book of four parts, introducing young Alice Jansen living in the 1960s, along the Hudson River in Orchard, outside New York. Alice lived with her family and was beholden to her father’s employer, Wilder Kynaston, who held a toxic relationship with his own and their family.
We also followed young Tom Raven, starting in Scotland in the 1950s and continue his story as he moved to London to live with his strange Aunt and Uncle.
There is also a house called Sevenstones, surrounded by magical stones, which was a haven and a link for all, from past to present.
This novel has a lot of back story with family and friends, but builds with a subtle intensity, plus includes much post war history. When the two main characters’ lives collide, we learn how the past has irrevocably linked them together.
This story is both magical and thought provoking and is worth the time and effort spent, but not a quick read. The phrasing was stunning and weaved a web around the reader, leaving a warm glow. I am looking forward to reading the second in the trilogy and would recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley, Penguin General UK – Fig Tree, Hamish Hamilton, Viking, Penguin Life, Penguin Business and Harriett Evans for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Due to be published on 12 June 2025.
This was a beautifully worded, slow burn of a story. Initially hard to get into but worth persevering with.
A book of four parts, introducing young Alice Jansen living in the 1960s, along the Hudson River in Orchard, outside New York. Alice lived with her family and was beholden to her father’s employer, Wilder Kynaston, who held a toxic relationship with his own and their family.
We also followed young Tom Raven, starting in Scotland in the 1950s and continue his story as he moved to London to live with his strange Aunt and Uncle.
There is also a house called Sevenstones, surrounded by magical stones, which was a haven and a link for all, from past to present.
This novel has a lot of back story with family and friends, but builds with a subtle intensity, plus includes much post war history. When the two main characters’ lives collide, we learn how the past has irrevocably linked them together.
This story is both magical and thought provoking and is worth the time and effort spent, but not a quick read. The phrasing was stunning and weaved a web around the reader, leaving a warm glow. I am looking forward to reading the second in the trilogy and would recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley, Penguin General UK – Fig Tree, Hamish Hamilton, Viking, Penguin Life, Penguin Business and Harriett Evans for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Due to be published on 12 June 2025.
May 25, 2025
The story begins with Alice in America, and how her childhood was brought to an abrupt end. It then moves to Scotland where Tom's childhood is also brought to an end on his ninth birthday. The two strands are then pulled together as both our main characters try and unravel family secrets that have been buried but still affect the next generation. It is the house named Sevenstones for the seven standing stones that surround it that pull the stories together and connect all the characters.
I found I enjoyed Tom's side of the story more than Alice's until New York when Alice comes into her own. Both characters are well described and their many relationships are authentic and sympathetic. Essentially this is a love story, or several love stories, but it is also about joy, sorrow, loss, grief and it touches on many themes of the day like the Vietnam war and racism in England and America, the Windrush generation, flower power, anti war sentiment, and the assassination of Martin Luther King. And the music of the time. The background to Tom's story is very sad and quite hard to comprehend in this day and age.
The ending is quite understated and I had to go back to the prologue to reread it and understand what finally happened. A heart wrenching and beautiful read and I look forward to the next in the trilogy.
With thanks to Netgalley and Penguin Random House for an arc copy in return for an honest review.
I found I enjoyed Tom's side of the story more than Alice's until New York when Alice comes into her own. Both characters are well described and their many relationships are authentic and sympathetic. Essentially this is a love story, or several love stories, but it is also about joy, sorrow, loss, grief and it touches on many themes of the day like the Vietnam war and racism in England and America, the Windrush generation, flower power, anti war sentiment, and the assassination of Martin Luther King. And the music of the time. The background to Tom's story is very sad and quite hard to comprehend in this day and age.
The ending is quite understated and I had to go back to the prologue to reread it and understand what finally happened. A heart wrenching and beautiful read and I look forward to the next in the trilogy.
With thanks to Netgalley and Penguin Random House for an arc copy in return for an honest review.
June 11, 2025
Wow!! This is just epic!! What an absolute joy this first in a new trilogy from Harriet Evans including American culture of the 1950’s and 60’s then over to the wilds of Scotland and London in the late 50’s and early 60’s. The writing is intense intelligent astute tive yet it flows beautifully.
Alice has a collection of treasures mostly given to her by her beloved father but her life changes forever in the eve of her sixteenth birthday, growing up fast until she can make her own decisions and escape.
Tom Raven has grown up with his dearest father in a sheltered existence in Scotland when his life is changed completely by an aunt he has never known, taken to London for a new life school and upbringing.
The cottage of Sevenstones in Wiltshire unites Alice and Tom and draws them together from their pasts.
An ambitious heartfelt story spanning across the post second world war generations in the Uk and the USA, the culture, politics and community. Full of reminders of how far we have come in such a short time. The details and atmosphere is described brilliantly, at times I could feel the smog and grime of post war London with the bombed out houses. So too I could feel the oppressive heat in Alice’s world.
Beautiful intelligent moving and totally gripping from the first page!! This book is exquisite and relatable! I have treasures passed down too!!
Can’t wait for the second in this trilogy!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Viking books for the early read!
Alice has a collection of treasures mostly given to her by her beloved father but her life changes forever in the eve of her sixteenth birthday, growing up fast until she can make her own decisions and escape.
Tom Raven has grown up with his dearest father in a sheltered existence in Scotland when his life is changed completely by an aunt he has never known, taken to London for a new life school and upbringing.
The cottage of Sevenstones in Wiltshire unites Alice and Tom and draws them together from their pasts.
An ambitious heartfelt story spanning across the post second world war generations in the Uk and the USA, the culture, politics and community. Full of reminders of how far we have come in such a short time. The details and atmosphere is described brilliantly, at times I could feel the smog and grime of post war London with the bombed out houses. So too I could feel the oppressive heat in Alice’s world.
Beautiful intelligent moving and totally gripping from the first page!! This book is exquisite and relatable! I have treasures passed down too!!
Can’t wait for the second in this trilogy!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Viking books for the early read!
June 12, 2025
The first book in the Sevenstones Trilogy, and told in four parts.
Part One of this book introduces us to Alice Jansen who lives with her parents in the small town of Orchard, in the Hudson Valley, New York. We slowly get to know about the Jansen family and their landlord and employer the wealthy Wilder Kynaston, some time writer who hasn’t had anything published in some years, but still thinks of himself as a person of note. As the story progresses the Kynaston hold on the Jansens tightens until Alice decides enough is enough.
Part Two brings us Tom Raven, a young boy who lives in the wilds of Scotland with his father. After the death of his wife Irene, Edward Raven decides to leave London and its memories and make a new life for him and his son somewhere totally different. The arrangement is that once Tom reaches nine years old, he will return to his mother’s family in London, the once affluent Caldicotts. Sadly Edwards omits to fill Tom in with this small detail.
As the story evolves, the lives of Alice and Tom become ever more complicated and interconnected, with secrets and lies revealed.
I really liked this book and was fully invested from the start. It is a slow burn, but very well written. Although the arc I received was far from perfect - wrong names, timelines dodgy - it was well worth persevering and still worthy of 5*. I’m sure the finished book will be perfect.
Already looking forward to book two of the trilogy.
Part One of this book introduces us to Alice Jansen who lives with her parents in the small town of Orchard, in the Hudson Valley, New York. We slowly get to know about the Jansen family and their landlord and employer the wealthy Wilder Kynaston, some time writer who hasn’t had anything published in some years, but still thinks of himself as a person of note. As the story progresses the Kynaston hold on the Jansens tightens until Alice decides enough is enough.
Part Two brings us Tom Raven, a young boy who lives in the wilds of Scotland with his father. After the death of his wife Irene, Edward Raven decides to leave London and its memories and make a new life for him and his son somewhere totally different. The arrangement is that once Tom reaches nine years old, he will return to his mother’s family in London, the once affluent Caldicotts. Sadly Edwards omits to fill Tom in with this small detail.
As the story evolves, the lives of Alice and Tom become ever more complicated and interconnected, with secrets and lies revealed.
I really liked this book and was fully invested from the start. It is a slow burn, but very well written. Although the arc I received was far from perfect - wrong names, timelines dodgy - it was well worth persevering and still worthy of 5*. I’m sure the finished book will be perfect.
Already looking forward to book two of the trilogy.
June 25, 2025
With thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for an advance review copy.
This is the perfect summer read: well plotted, evenly paced, quite compulsive. We meet Alice, living along the banks of the Hudson River, who on the eve of her sixteenth birthday in experiences a devastating loss. In the months following, her mother marries the wealthy author who has picked her brain for inspiration then tried to rape her. So she takes the decision to leave home and move to New York, joining a hippie commune. The only thing she takes with her from her past life is her collection of treasures, little figurines given to her by her father each year on her birthday. Her last treasure remains unidentified, with only a clue to go on - Sevenstones.
A parallel strand tells the story of the childhood and youth in Scotland and England of Tom Raven, taken from his father in rural Dumfries to be brought up by his wealthy but strangely detached aunt and uncle who pay for the best education but do not otherwise show any inclination to parent or nurture him. He too has a treasure, a delicately detailed wood carving made by his father of a house full of memories and secrets - Sevenstones.
This is the first volume of a promised trilogy, following the lives of Tom and Alice with Sevenstones the anchor underpinning it all. It is a riveting read in the vein of Elizabeth Jane Howard's Cazalet novels, and I will be impatiently awaiting the sequels.
This is the perfect summer read: well plotted, evenly paced, quite compulsive. We meet Alice, living along the banks of the Hudson River, who on the eve of her sixteenth birthday in experiences a devastating loss. In the months following, her mother marries the wealthy author who has picked her brain for inspiration then tried to rape her. So she takes the decision to leave home and move to New York, joining a hippie commune. The only thing she takes with her from her past life is her collection of treasures, little figurines given to her by her father each year on her birthday. Her last treasure remains unidentified, with only a clue to go on - Sevenstones.
A parallel strand tells the story of the childhood and youth in Scotland and England of Tom Raven, taken from his father in rural Dumfries to be brought up by his wealthy but strangely detached aunt and uncle who pay for the best education but do not otherwise show any inclination to parent or nurture him. He too has a treasure, a delicately detailed wood carving made by his father of a house full of memories and secrets - Sevenstones.
This is the first volume of a promised trilogy, following the lives of Tom and Alice with Sevenstones the anchor underpinning it all. It is a riveting read in the vein of Elizabeth Jane Howard's Cazalet novels, and I will be impatiently awaiting the sequels.
September 16, 2025
This book was amazing. It is a multiple generation family saga of love, heartache, secrets all wrapped up with a perfect ending. The writing is beautiful and the story flows like a pristine river. This author has a wondrous way with words. Alice Jansen is turning sixteen when her world is turned upside down when her beloved father dies. In order to keep their home at the gate keepers house at Sevenstones an old manor house she agrees to help a local author with research for his latest book. That is until he makes a lecherous move on her and she feels she must flee to New York. Right before she leaves the telephone rings and even though it is not her phone she answers it. It a a young man from England named Tom Raven looking for a reclusive woman named Teddy who lives at Sevenstones. They have an interesting but brief conversation and this is the jumping off point where their stories combine. Thus begins a journey of several time lines and how Tom and Alice intertwine and connect over mystery, friendship, family and so much more. It really is a perfect book. I listened to the audio book version of this book and the narrator was excellent with her voice overs. Highly recommended. 5 stars.
Many thanks to Net Galley and HarperAudio Adult | HarperVia for a chance to listen/read an ARC audio version of this book.
Many thanks to Net Galley and HarperAudio Adult | HarperVia for a chance to listen/read an ARC audio version of this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews