The House on the Strand

by Daphne du Maurier
The House on the Strand cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Fantasy, Young Adult, Adventure
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  • ID: 10828
  • Added: 2026-02-06
  • Updated: 2026-02-06
  • ISBN: 9781405518093
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2012-06-07
  • Reviews: 3

Dick Young, seeking an escape from his troubles, accepts an offer from his friend, Professor Magnus Lane, to test a new drug. The drug transports Dick to 14th-century Cornwall, where he witnesses the dramatic and often sinister events unfolding in the manor of Tywardreath. As Dick becomes more consumed by the past, he withdraws from his modern life, and his attempts to alter history have terrifying consequences in the present. /n/n The novel explores themes of time, identity, and the blurred line between reality and illusion. It is a testament to Daphne du Maurier's skill in crafting gripping narratives that defy easy classification, blending elements of historical fiction, mystery, and psychological thriller.

Reviews
Carla Nayland · Carla Nayland · 2026-02-06
insightful 4.25

The novel stands out for its superb evocation of the writing process, rather than as a time-travel story. The historical setting is richly detailed and immersive.

They believe the novel's strength lies in its portrayal of the writing process, which is both insightful and compelling. The historical setting is richly detailed, creating an immersive experience for the reader. The reviewer appreciates the way du Maurier brings the past to life, making it a memorable read. However, they note that the time-travel aspects are less compelling, but the overall narrative is still engaging.

Quick quotes

    The House on the Strand stands out not as a time-travel story or even a historical, but as a superb evocation of the writing process.

    The historical setting is richly detailed and immersive.

    Du Maurier's skill in bringing the past to life is evident throughout the novel.

746 Books · 2019-05-17
engaging 4.00

Du Maurier's sense of place in Cornwall is extraordinary, and the historical characters are beautifully portrayed. The novel's time-traveling plot is engaging and suspenseful.

This reviewer is captivated by Du Maurier's vivid descriptions of Cornwall, which bring the setting to life. The historical characters are particularly well-crafted, adding depth to the narrative. The time-traveling plot is praised for its ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats, making the novel a compelling read. However, they note that some of the historical characters could have been developed further to enhance the overall experience.

Quick quotes

    Du Maurier's sense of place is extraordinary, her portrait of Cornwall in this one is beautiful.

    The historical characters are perhaps not as fully developed as they could be.

    The time-traveling plot keeps the suspense throughout.

Vulpes Libris · 2017-02-28
enjoyable 3.75

The novel's back-and-forth between present and past is engaging and enjoyable, with du Maurier's signature tension. The present-day elements are particularly well-executed.

They appreciate the way the novel toggles between the present and the past, finding it both engaging and enjoyable. The reviewer highlights du Maurier's skill in maintaining tension throughout the story. The present-day elements are particularly praised for their depth and engagement, making the novel a satisfying read. However, they note that the historical fiction aspects were a bit challenging for them, but they found the overall experience worthwhile.

Quick quotes

    The novel goes back and forth between present and past, and all the things in the present are engaging, enjoyable, and with du Maurier's signature tension.

    I love the way that du Maurier writes about the present.

    It's just that historical fiction is not really my thing.

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