I will give Barbara Erskine credit for trying, but this fails as historical fiction and as an introspection on modern life. The main character, Joanna Clifford, undergoes hypnosis and gains access to a past life in 12th Century England. I found Erskine's depiction of medieval England unconvincing and her characters maddeningly annoying and unbelievable. I haven't read any other of her books and will be staying away like the plague. ( )

This book follows the story of Joanna Clifford who experiences a past-life regressions and learns that in the past she was Matilda of Hay, married to William de Braose, in love with Richard de Clare and pursued by King John I. When the past starts to seep into her present and influence what is going on in her life, things get very complicated. I really enjoyed the historical aspects of this book - when the Jo is experiencing Matilda's life and interacts with Richard de Clare and John I it is a very engaging read. But when the story returns to the present (circa 1986) it becomes ridiculous. People who are obviously untrustworthy are given multiple opportunities to wreak havoc in the lives of Jo and Nick (her sometimes lover). It's a shame the story didn't focus on Matilda's life and just use the present day as start and end points. ( )

I can never put this book down once I have started it, even though I have read it many times. Erskine shows true skill in weaving past and present together, and also a strong knowledge of what life would have been like back in 12th century England. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction. ( )

Still one of my favourite books of all time, "Lady of Hay" is a fantastic blend of the historic and the supernatural. Couldn't put it down ( )

I cannot get enough of Barbara Erskine and can never wait for the next book to come out - this one I have read 3 times already. It's about reincarnation and being hypnotised to discover that you have lived before and then having that past life merge with and affect your ccurrent life - fantastic ( )