Review: The Rose Arbor by Rhys Bowen
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The Rose Arbor by Rhys Bowen takes readers on a compelling journey through time, blending the mysterious disappearance of a girl in 1968 with secrets hidden during World War II. Bowen’s talent for creating vivid settings and engaging, complex characters is again on display in this dual-timeline historical fiction mystery. With a unique plot full of unexpected twists, this book promises to satisfy both longtime fans and newcomers to Rhys Bowen’s work.
Key Takeaways: The Rose Arbor by Rhys Bowen
What It’s About
In The Rose Arbor, Rhys Bowen takes readers into a story that straddles two haunting time periods. In 1968, Liz Houghton is eager to prove herself as more than an obituary writer when the disappearance of a young girl gives her the chance to chase a real story.
Following the trail to Dorset with her friend Marisa, Liz is drawn into the eerie silence of Tydeham, an abandoned village left behind during World War II.
As Liz begins to unravel its secrets, she discovers unsettling ties between the vanished girl and three others who disappeared decades earlier. The deeper she digs, the more she realizes her own past is entangled in the mystery—and that the answers hidden in Tydeham may change her life forever.
My Review Rating – 4 out of 5 stars.
A richly atmospheric dual-timeline mystery with vivid settings and a strong heroine. While the middle slows a little, the suspense and emotional depth make this a rewarding read.
What I Liked
The Setting
The abandoned village of Tydeham feels almost like a character in its own right. Bowen brings the ruined houses, overgrown gardens, and echoes of wartime life vividly to life, creating an eerie and unforgettable backdrop.
The Characters
Liz is an engaging heroine – determined, resourceful, and easy to root for as she pushes her way into journalism. Marisa adds warmth and balance, while the glimpses into the WWII-era lives of the villagers deepen the story’s emotional weight.
The Plot
The way Bowen weaves together two timelines is smart and suspenseful. The mystery builds gradually, with well-timed reveals and a satisfying payoff. The balance of historical intrigue and personal stakes kept me invested throughout.
What I Disliked
At times, the pacing lags in the middle, particularly when the narrative leans too heavily into background details. A few of the connections between past and present feel a little too convenient. And while the story hints at romance, it remains underdeveloped compared to the mystery elements—readers looking for more in that direction may find it lacking.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Rose Arbor by Rhys Bowen
Do you need to read this book along with any other Rhys Bowen books?
No – it’s a standalone novel and works entirely on its own.
Is The Rose Arbor based on a real place?
Yes – Tyneham (sometimes spelled Tydeham), a real Dorset village requisitioned by the British Army during WWII, inspired this setting.
What makes Rhys Bowen’s writing stand out here?
Her graceful, atmospheric prose – richly descriptive yet pacing just right to build suspense – stands out, as noted by critics.
Conclusion
The Rose Arbor by Rhys Bowen is an atmospheric and engaging historical mystery that keeps readers guessing until the very end. With its strong female lead, clever dual timelines, and a dash of romance, this novel is sure to please fans of historical fiction and crime alike. Whether you’re already familiar with Bowen’s work or discovering her for the first time, this book is a rewarding read that intertwines the past and present in a way that feels both seamless and gripping.
Rhys Bowen does such a great job with her historical fiction books. For a bit of a laugh along with your historical fiction, don’t miss the Royal Spyness series. I promise you’ll love Lady Georgiana. But that’s not all that Rhys Bowen has in store for you.
📚 Did You Know?
Rhys Bowen is the pen name of Janet Quin‑Harkin, and The Rose Arbor joins an impressive roster of over fifty books she’s written – including beloved series like Royal Spyness and Molly Murphy, as well as deep, emotional standalones like this one.
