I really wanted to like this! It has so many things I like- history, castles, ghosts and witches! I loved the Wales setting, and McEwan has created compelling characters. She has a distinctly smart and witty voice. I highlighted so many clever or funny lines. The attention to historical detail in language is something you don’t see often and reflects an impressive level of research/expertise. I also liked the magical rules and history she created, so poetic and ominous with souls and thresholds. And yet I got to 80% and couldn’t bring myself to even finish the book, because the one central thing she didn’t do was sell me on the romance. I wish she’d given more lead up to Patrick revealing himself to CeCe, so we could see Patrick’s first sight of her, his initial realization that she could be his prophecy, and the way he gets to know her from afar. It would have been great if CeCe could have seen his portrait and wondered about him, caught glimpses or signs of him, before their first encounter. And then once they meet, we need more actual conversation! Not just descriptions of backstory and rote denials of the supernatural, or vague warnings of what’s to come. Because McEwan hasn’t built their connection properly, once it’s clear the toll their meetings are having on CeCe and that Patrick knew it would happen and kept meeting with her anyway, I just couldn’t keep going. He knows he might be ending her life but he doesn’t stop sleeping with her, or warn her more directly? Couldn’t get past it. I also wanted Cece to have a more well rounded life, with friends! It’s like until she meets Patrick and the witches she is just alone all the time. Still- If McEwan writes another book I will definitely try it because I see so many seeds of a good novel here.

Bound Across Time starts slow but picks up halfway through, delivering a satisfying ending. Despite initial pacing issues, the story's time travel and paranormal elements add intrigue, complemented by the author's witty voice. While the insta-love feels forced, the connection between Celeste and Patrick shines. The tale of their transcendent love, woven with magic and defying time, is a highlight. However, the plot stagnates at times, particularly in the middle, before gaining momentum towards the end. Despite some unclear plot points, the relationship between Celeste and Patrick remains a compelling aspect of the narrative.

Overall, a recommended read for fans of paranormal romance willing to overlook a patient start.

This one was too ghosty for me but if you're in to super natural romances than you will love this one. If I could have gotten rid of the ghost this would be my new favorite.

I am a sucker for time travel romance. This was good, if not a little confusing with the actual plot. The romance was believable and the ending was satisfying.

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was a pretty good book. It was not the best written book. But I still enjoyed reading this book.