A Fugue in Time

This captivating novel explores love, family history, and the haunting presence of the past, making A Fugue in Time a memorable read.

In A Fugue in Time, Rumer Godden weaves a poignant wartime love story that intertwines the lives of its characters with the haunting echoes of the past. Grizel Dane, a brave young servicewoman in the US Army, seeks refuge in her great-uncle Sir Rollo Dane's London home, escaping the chaos of war. As she settles into the old house, she uncovers the rich and surprising history of her family, particularly the tale of Lark Ingoldsby, an orphan taken in by the Danes who faced her own trials of love and jealousy.

The narrative unfolds a century's worth of family history, revealing the complexities of sibling rivalry and unfulfilled dreams. Selina Dane, consumed by jealousy, becomes a formidable obstacle to Lark's aspirations, while Grizel discovers her own chance at love with Pax Masterson, a wounded airman. Sir Rollo, with his wisdom and experience, encourages Grizel to embrace her happiness, contrasting with his own regrets.

As the war rages on, the house at Number 99 Wiltshire Place becomes a vessel of memories and emotional ties, where the past continually influences the present. Rumer Godden's A Fugue in Time is not just a tale of romance and tragedy; it is also a unique ghost story that captures the essence of love, loss, and the enduring impact of family history, resonating deeply with fans of her previous works.