Title: The Return of the Native    

Author: Thomas Hardy   

Genre: Classics     

Publisher: Wordsworth Classics 

Format: Paperback 

Pages: 337

Rating: 4/5 stars 

Synopsis (Goodreads):

The Return of the Native is widely recognised as the most representative of Hardy’s Wessex novels. He evokes the dismal presence and menacing beauty of Egdon Heath – reaching out to touch the lives and fate of all who dwell on it. The central figure is Clym Yeobright, the returning ‘native’ and the story tells of his love for the beautiful but capricious Eustacia Vye.

As the narrative unfolds and character after character is driven to self-destruction the presence of the Heath becomes all-embracing, while Clym becomes a travelling preacher in an attempt to assuage his guilt.

Review:

Another day, another Hardy! I’ve read many books by this author, and have thoroughly enjoyed his books! This one was pretty good, but definitely not my favourite! –

The book follows a number of interesting characters, but mainly Clym, who returns to his town in England after spending time in Paris working with diamonds I believe? He returns because he wants to live a simpler, country life! The other main character, Eustacia, wants to get out of the town and looks at the return of Clym as her way out! As in most Hardy books, there is some tragedy and the characters go through many changes! I think for this one though there was too much description and not enough action! Not sure if it’s because I have read many Hardy books with the descriptions of scenery, or if it is this book specifically! But just slower than others! 

Happy reading!