One-line summary:

Once Upon a River is a captivating tale set in the 19th century English countryside, where the mysterious appearance of a young girl who seemingly comes back to life after drowning sets off a chain of events that intertwines the lives of several individuals.

The Enigmatic Arrival of a Young Girl

In Once Upon a River, author Diane Setterfield takes us on a journey to the banks of the Thames River in the 19th century, where the lives of the residents of a small village are forever changed by the arrival of a mysterious young girl. The story begins on a winter solstice night at The Swan, a local inn, where the regulars gather to share drinks, stories, and rumors. Suddenly, a man bursts into the inn carrying what appears to be a lifeless young girl. The girl, who was found in the river, is believed to be dead until she miraculously comes back to life. This event sets off a series of questions and speculations about the girl’s identity and the circumstances surrounding her arrival.

The Interwoven Lives of the Villagers

As news of the girl’s resurrection spreads, the villagers become captivated by her presence and are drawn into her story. Each character in the book has their own unique perspective and connection to the girl, and Setterfield skillfully weaves their narratives together. There is Rita, the nursemaid who believes the girl is her long-lost daughter; Lily White, the parson’s housekeeper who sees the girl as a symbol of hope; and Robert Armstrong, a wealthy landowner who sees an opportunity to exploit the situation for his own gain. Through their eyes, we gain insight into the complexities of human nature and the power of belief.

A Tale of Mystery, Love, and Redemption

Once Upon a River is not just a story about a mysterious girl; it is a tale of love, loss, and redemption. Setterfield explores themes of family, identity, and the unbreakable bonds that connect us all. The river itself serves as a powerful symbol throughout the book, representing the ebb and flow of life, the passage of time, and the interconnectedness of all things. As the story unfolds, secrets are revealed, relationships are tested, and the true nature of the girl’s identity is slowly uncovered.

• The power of storytelling: The characters in Once Upon a River are deeply affected by the stories they hear and tell. The act of storytelling becomes a way to make sense of the world, connect with others, and find solace in difficult times.
• The resilience of the human spirit: The characters in the book face numerous challenges and hardships, but they never lose hope. They find strength in each other and in the belief that miracles can happen.
• The importance of community: The village in Once Upon a River is a close-knit community where everyone knows each other’s business. Despite their differences, the residents come together in times of crisis and support one another.

“There is something about words. In expert hands, manipulated deftly, they take you prisoner. Wind themselves around your limbs like spider silk, and when you are so enthralled you cannot move, they pierce your skin, enter your blood, numb your thoughts. Inside you they work their magic.” – Diane Setterfield, Once Upon a River

In conclusion, Once Upon a River is a beautifully written and enchanting novel that explores the power of storytelling, the resilience of the human spirit, and the importance of community. Diane Setterfield’s masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions bring the 19th century English countryside to life, while her complex and compelling characters draw readers into their world. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction, mystery, and tales of redemption.