This was a touching book about the effects of World War 1, and some secrets that were kept and unravelled in 1997. In 1914, we meet a group of friends, and then follow their progress through the war. There is a lot of sadness,and the post war issues of flu and shell shock create havoc. This is a story about acceptance and forgiveness and it is beautifully written. I enjoyed reading about the characters and the way that people learn to move on after life throws things into disarray. I hope to read more of this author. Thanks to NetGalley and BoldWood books for the chance to read this story.

I loved Rachel Burton’s new book which moved between modern day and the First World War and told the story of two women coming to terms with tragedy and learning to move on with their lives.
From the beginning I was pulled in to the worlds the author created and it was so interesting to see the common threads that linked, not only the two main characters but also the other family members, together.
I always enjoy Rachel Burton’s novels and The House at River’s Edge was no exception. Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review an advance copy.

1914: Anticipating a long summer of freedom at her friend's family estate in Cambridge, Grace Villiers is disappointed by an unexpected addition to their party. Then the new arrival offers to teach Grace to swim, and she is forced to see there is more to Algernon Lake than his reputation. But, with war brewing across Europe, this will be a summer that changes everything.

1997: Following her father’s sudden death, Barbara finds herself living with her mother in a house that is, literally, falling down around them. As she tries to put their new home in order, she discovers a photograph of her grandfather as a young man with his friend – two soldiers at the start of the First World War. Setting aside her grief, Barbara becomes determined to uncover their story, hoping it will bring her closer to the family she feels slipping away.

But when her search for answers opens up truths she isn’t prepared for, Barbara will come to realise, some secrets may be best left alone.

A wonderfully uplifting read… A lot of sparkle and mischief… The characters are fabulous… A very relaxing read!

I loved it! I’m sitting here with a big smile on my face!… Loved it!

This is the story of an English country house, during World War I and the late 20th century and the lives of the people whose fates were intertwined in a Great House