Time's Convert, by Deborah Harkness, is the fourth novel in the All Souls Universe. This passionate love story provides an in-depth look on the backgrounds of Marcus de Clermont and Phoebe Taylor. Diana Bishop and Matthew Clairmont, the protagonists in the best-selling All Souls Trilogy, also appear throughout the book from Diana's point of view. The setting takes place between colonial America (Marcus' past recollections of his childhood and service in George Washington's army) and contemporary Paris (Phoebe's transformation into a vampire and the agony of being a reborn supernatural). From the book excerpt:
On the battlefields of the American Revolution, Matthew de Clermont meets Marcus MacNeil, a young surgeon from Massachusetts, during a moment of political awakening when it seems that the world is on the brink of a brighter future. When Matthew offers him a chance at immortality and a new life free from the restraints of his puritanical upbringing, Marcus seizes the opportunity to become a vampire. But his transformation is not an easy one and the ancient traditions and responsibilities of the de Clermont family clash with Marcus's deeply held beliefs in liberty, equality, and brotherhood.
Fast-forward to contemporary Paris, where Phoebe Taylor--the young employee at Sotheby's whom Marcus has fallen for--is about to embark on her own journey to immortality. Though the modernized version of the process at first seems uncomplicated, the couple discovers that the challenges facing a human who wishes to be a vampire are no less formidable than they were in the eighteenth century. The shadows that Marcus believed he'd escaped centuries ago may return to haunt them both--forever.
Initially, I held off on reading this fourth addition to the All Souls Universe for over two years because I saw mixed reactions to the release. With more than 400 pages, the novel required a deep time commitment. Nonetheless, I am so glad that I finally added the novel to my reading list for the fall of 2020. The timing could not be more perfect. The three characters-Marcus, Phoebe, and Diana--turned out to be an interesting and funny in their own way.
The story largely follows Marcus' tumultuous childhood in colonial Massachusetts and how he met Matthew de Clermont in the battlefields of the American Revolution. The flashbacks focus on Marcus' life as a vampire in the late eighteenth century. He witnesses advanced developments in medical practice, yet the call for revolution continues to fascinate him. In the present, Phoebe is separated from Marcus for the majority of the novel as she adjusts to her development as a vampire. It is not without its mishaps, but she does remarkably well. Meanwhile, Diana and Matthew have settled into parenthood. As a weaver mother and vampire with blood rage, their twins are rare Bright Borns with supernatural abilities. Since limited information is available about Bright Borns, they aim to find the right balance that allows for freedom and restraint. I believe this decision was, in part, to not repeat Diana's childhood where her own powerful magic was blocked. I also love how Diana has finally embraced her weaver side, considering she used to avoid magic in A Discovery of Witches.
Overall, this novel was a pleasure to read. While it lacks the twist-turning action and thrilling suspense in the All Souls Trilogy, it spends more quality time unpacking the backgrounds on our favorite characters. Harkness was able to skillfully weave three separate storylines together without interrupting the flow of the story. I also have a better impression of Marcus. While his personality may come across as passionate and idealistic, he is also bound by honor and duty--he was a product of the American Revolution. The historical lessons piqued my interest to revisit early American history. I highly recommend this book for fans of the All Souls Trilogy. As for news, there are rumors that Harkness's next project will focus on another popular supporting character, vampire Gallowglass (keeping my fingers crossed!). I can't wait to read that one! Additionally, check out the first season of the television series by the same name.
Stay tuned for more updates on the All Souls Universe.
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