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Waiting Sands

susan howatch

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“Dearest Raye… I’ m writing to ask if you can possibly come to Ruthven for a few days. My twenty–first birthday falls next Sunday… I would feel much less frightened if you were beside me until after midnight on Saturday.” Dependable Rachel Lord hasn’t heard from her school friend Decima Mannering for over two years when, out of the blue, she is invited to Ruthven, the fairytale Scottish castle her friend will inherit on her coming of age. Her arrival is met with relief by Decima, who is convinced her husband Charles means her harm. Is Decima in her right mind? Or is Rachel being duped by her worldlier friend? As the eve of Decima’s twenty–first birthday approaches, a shocking event leaves Rachel with no doubt.

208 pages, Paperback

First published January 1,1966
Places
scotland, 

This edition

Format
208 pages, Paperback
Published
March 1, 2003 by Little, Brown Book Group
ISBN
9780751533118
ASIN
0751533114
Language
English

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About the author

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susan howatch

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Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 33 votes)
5 stars
10(30%)
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13(39%)
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33 reviews All reviews
Profile Image for Kimberly .
virgingod
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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This book, written in the 1960s, is clearly showing its age.

For instance, the manor doesn't even have electricity!

The story is told from the multiple points of view of every single main character, which adds an interesting layer.

The ending is suspenseful, although it might seem quite tame by today's standards.

There's a lot of he-said she-said melodrama going on.

The heroine could have done a better job of exploring and describing The Manor and the Moors.

Nevertheless, it's still a good cozy read that reminded me of Dorothy Eden.

It has its charm and flaws, but overall, it's an enjoyable book that takes you back to a different era.

Despite its shortcomings, it manages to engage the reader and keep them interested until the very end.

If you're a fan of classic mysteries or just looking for a light and easy read, this book might be worth checking out.

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sorvetie
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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My Favourite Book

Over the years, I have read numerous books, but there is one that stands out above the rest and has become my absolute favourite. I have read this book not just once or twice, but over and over again.


This book has a captivating storyline that keeps me engaged from the very first page. The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy for me to immerse myself in their world. The author's writing style is also a major draw for me. It is descriptive and vivid, painting a clear picture in my mind and allowing me to experience the story as if I were a part of it.


Each time I read this book, I discover something new. I notice details that I missed before or gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their motives. It is a book that never gets old and always manages to bring me joy and entertainment.


In conclusion, this book holds a special place in my heart and will always be my go-to when I'm in the mood for a good read. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a great story and wants to be transported to another world.
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LadyKaoru
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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I'm not really a big fan of romance reading. I usually prefer other genres. However, this book completely blew me away!

I LOVED LOVED LOVED it! It was such a captivating read that I couldn't put it down. I read it straight through without any stops.

The story was absolutely breathtaking. It had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. The characters were so well-developed and the plot was full of twists and turns.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a great romance read. It's one that you won't forget!
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Meshi_chan
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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Library. Reread.


I have a deep love for Susan Howatch. Her works are truly remarkable. The novels she writes are nice and clean romantic suspense stories that are set in the wilds of Scotland. The way she writes is excellent. The story is well-structured and hangs together pretty well. Moreover, the plot moves at a fairly quick pace, which keeps the readers engaged from start to finish. The characters in her books are extremely complicated, and they always leave you guessing about their true motives and actions.


Her novels are truly a great beach read. You can relax on the beach, soak up the sun, and get lost in the wonderful world that Susan Howatch has created. It's the perfect way to unwind and enjoy a good book. Whether you're a fan of romantic suspense or just looking for an entertaining read, Susan Howatch's novels are definitely worth checking out.

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rpgromero
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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This Gothic suspense novel was truly distinct from the typical fare that I usually devour. I found myself thoroughly enjoying every page.

I purchased it (in fact, it was a volume that included this and another Howatch novel, The Devil on Lammas Night) at a library used book sale several years ago. It wasn't until recently that I finally got around to cracking it open and delving into its pages.

The story was a brisk read, set in the alluring and exotic locale of a remote country estate in the Scottish Highlands. It had a captivating blend of mystery, a touch of romance, and a healthy dose of suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat.

The ending was highly satisfying, tying up all the loose ends in a way that left me both content and eager for more. Now, I'm eagerly looking forward to reading the second book in this series to see what other adventures and thrills await.
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Finnlikeszoro
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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This is a pulpy gothic thriller that presents a rather unique and engaging scenario.

In this story, it seems as if every single character is engaged in a devious game of trying to gaslight one another. The atmosphere, which is a crucial element of the gothic genre, does suffer to some extent as a significant amount of space is dedicated to bitchy and soapy conversations.

However, despite this minor drawback, the overall experience of the story is still quite enjoyable. It maintains a fun and fast-paced rhythm throughout, which keeps the reader hooked from beginning to end.

Moreover, it offers an atypical take on the gothic genre, presenting a fresh and different perspective that sets it apart from more traditional gothic tales.

While it may fizzle a little bit towards the end, it still manages to leave a lasting impression and provides an entertaining read for those who enjoy the gothic thriller genre.
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mudpuddles
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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Rachel receives an invitation to stay at a magnificent castle in Scotland. She arrives there along with several others, and from the moment they meet, an air of suspicion lingers among them.


As the days pass, strange things start to happen. One fateful night, tragedy strikes, leaving everyone in shock. Rachel, however, conceals some crucial information that she knows.


Years go by, and Rachel's secret continues to haunt her. The story builds tension and suspense as we wonder what exactly she is hiding and how it will all come to light.


This exciting and suspenseful tale keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, eager to uncover the truth behind the mystery. Will Rachel finally reveal what she knows, or will the secret remain buried forever?
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Dozer
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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The only reason I can envision for having perused this mystery novel is that someone--but precisely who?--commended it.

Absolutely nothing lingers in my memory regarding it. It must have been the case that I read it in a hasty manner.

Perhaps I was drawn to it by the allure of the mystery genre, hoping to be captivated by its twists and turns.

Or maybe I was simply looking for a quick read to pass the time.

Whatever the reason, it seems that this novel did not make a lasting impression on me.

I cannot recall the plot, the characters, or even the setting.

It is as if it never existed in my literary journey.

However, I do wonder if I would have had a different experience if I had taken the time to savor the story and truly engage with it.

Maybe upon a second reading, I would discover the hidden gems and appreciate the author's craftsmanship.

Only time will tell if I decide to give this mystery novel another chance.
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