The Everlasting

The Everlasting by Alix E. Harrow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a genre-blending historical fantasy that follows Owen, a quiet and deeply devoted historian whose life has long orbited around the legend of Sir Una Everlasting - a possibly mythical figure whose story is entwined with the very place he lives. As Owen digs deeper into Una’s past, the novel weaves together history, folklore, and time travel, creating an emotionally charged narrative that feels both intimate and epic. This story mixes romance, myth, and the strange elasticity of time in a way that feels classic and fresh all at once.

This was a book club pick for me, which is probably why it feels a little out of step with my usual reading habits. I typically lean hard toward contemporary stories, and this one is much heavier on the historical side than I normally go for. And yet - I was completely sucked in. This is, at its heart, a love story for the ages: tragic, tender, and maybe-sort-of fated. Una is a fascinating, almost legendary presence, and Owen’s quiet obsession with her makes perfect sense as the layers of her story unfold. There are evil queens, time travel shenanigans, and plenty of delightful timey‑wimey goodness, all wrapped in writing that feels both thoughtful and emotionally rich. It’s beautiful and heartbreaking in equal measure.

Overall, I loved this book and am genuinely so glad my book club chose it. The Everlasting is perfect for readers who enjoy historical fantasy with romantic depth, mythic echoes, and a bittersweet edge. Even if, like me, you don’t usually gravitate toward historical fiction, this one is absolutely worth the leap. Atmospheric, tragic, and quietly powerful - definitely a standout read and an easy recommendation.


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