A review by readingoverbreathing
Marking Time by Elizabeth Jane Howard

emotional funny hopeful reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Another delightful foray into the world of the Cazalet family, this time with the stakes considerably heightened by the onset of the Second World War.

Elizabeth Jane Howard has created the most charming cast of characters here (except Edward whom I hate) and weaves beautifully between each's perspective. This is such a female-focused family saga, with the women by far taking up most of the page time. Howard presents such a rich portrait of womanhood across every stage that for a woman makes for simply wonderful, though often heavy, reading.

Only a couple of minor complaints — I was pretty put off by Louise for most of this. I think Howard affords her way too much page time and tries to make up for it with how much Polly and Clary complain about her elsewhere. But I do appreciate (even if I don't necessarily feel fully comfortable with) her portrayal of Louise's romantic relationships so far. A man would never believe that a woman could hold herself at a distance from anything more than sexual interest and attraction.

My only other issue was the ongoing lack of communication between Hugh and Sybil. While it might have been somewhat sweet in this previous book, it really reached some highly concerning heights here, and I am just so over it.

However, overall, this was such a lovely reading experience, and I really feel like I have my footing, my favorites, and my least favorites (Edward) within the series now. Looking forward to the next one!

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