Testimonials about Rowing in Eden
"Rowing in Eden is a love letter to American literature."
"Firmly rooted within the comfort of her world of science and logic, Catherine Rossetti must embrace the magical universe of her charge, Sarah Elizabeth Huntley in order to usher forth a new era for them both. Following multiple unique and expressive points of view, this story of love, passion, and grief immerses the reader in the enigmatic world of storytelling. von Rosenvinge uses rich descriptive imagery and compelling narratives to guide the reader on a journey of poetry and prose. An instant classic, this tale of kindred spirits will enrapture your soul."
Taylor Widmer
To be “rowing in Eden” is to be on a calmer and more blissful sea...
Valerie von Rosenvinge, in her novel of the same title, takes us on a story-telling feast with characters whose lives intersect, creating two love stories; one traces a brief affair between Anna Bradford Huntley, a housewife, and Austin Wilde, a painter, who are true soulmates, who meet too late. The second occurs decades later when Anna’s Daughter, Sarah, meets Chase Evans. With the poems of Emily Dickinson as a backdrop, they find passion, truth, and an unshakeable bond until tragedy strikes.
Sarah then meets a young intern, Catherine Rossetti, whose ordered world turns upside down as she embraces young Sarah to discover her truths, and together they find a path forward.
Rowing to Eden is a page-turner. Our investment in these characters is palpable and so worth the journey. von Rosenvinge’s writing is infectious; you want to get lost in her prose, imagination, and visual imagery. Beautiful writing!
Celia Couture
Ms. von Rosenvinge weaves words together to create images that resonate with my soul. Within the novel are beautifully written stories of love and connection told with a tender sensuality, infused with nature, poetry, and self-discovery. This is a ‘book club read’ chock full of characters, images and stories to discuss.
Darlene Howland
Rowing in Eden is a page turner and one is captivated from the prologue on. The twists and turns came on gently, but with such definite purpose that one has to marvel at the mind who put them there. I was totally invested in each main character and stopped imagining what would happen and instead allowed myself to be taken on the journey orchestrated by the author. The eloquent writing and attention to detail enhanced the story and provided visual scenes succinctly and completely. I did not want the book to end.
Jane Brown