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There are currently 31 member reviews
for The Gifts
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Susan B. (Memphis, MO)
very satisfying in most respects
I really enjoyed the early parts of this novel: interesting characters and setting, paranormal/inexplicable goings-on that were nonetheless extremely believable in context, and a time period I generally enjoy. What I didn't personally find as appealing was the descent into depravity and cruelty of one of the characters, to the point where it was hard for me to finish the novel. It speaks to the quality of the writing that I did make it through, as I wanted to know what happened to the characters I did enjoy. As always, your mileage will likely vary, so if you feel drawn to the concept or time period it is certainly worth reading.
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Laurie M.
The Gifts
The Gifts by Liz Hyder is historical fiction with a dash of fantasy. The reader is transported to England during the nineteenth century, from countryside to city. Liz Hyder has done a wonderful job of researching this period, giving the reader a strong sense of place through the eyes of the characters and their settings. Within these pages the reader meets four women who are depicted with intelligence and strengths during a time when most would not be acknowledged. The beautiful prose of this unique story is both mysterious and haunting, keeping the reader engaged.
This novel was a pleasure to read with its captivating storytelling. I believe fans of historical fiction, fantasy, and stories of strong female characters would enjoy The Gifts. Book clubs members would find much to discuss with this novel.
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Jackie R. (Clark, NJ)
Angels and a Demon
It was a slow start but stay the course. The author's well thought-out evolution of the story is thought provoking. Touching on feminism, nature, religion, and science in a time when women had little choices, opportunities or the ability to question authority.
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Peggy K. (San Marcos, CA)
Angels
In many ways this book will generate a lot of questions about miracles, their meaning and what they do for humans. On the surface we have a fairly simple tale about four different women in a time when they were far less valued than today. The miracle brings them all together.
The men involved are not truly out of the ordinary, but one will be ruled by an obsession that is unusual. The women are truly fascinating, all from different stations of life and having great talents. They are also strong women who want more out of their lives.
The book is truly their story and readers will be drawn to each one. What happens to two of them is extraordinary and that event will bring all of them together and change their lives forever.
This book makes you stop and think about the struggle for women to find their place and it also makes you think more about the miracles and how religion looks at them.
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Vicky S. (Salinas, CA)
The Gifts - it gives you wings
I loved the idea of women sprouting wings at different times of their lives and appreciated those characters as well as Mary. It took me a bit to get into the book and did enjoy the last 1/2-1/3 most of all - probably because it was coming to a culmination. The representation of someone's actions being sanctioned because he thinks a god is telling him to do so is so appalling for so common it also appears to be in our reality. I wish others could see this as the nonsense and egocentrism and it is. Book clubs could have discussions around the characters, the choices and comparison to current time.
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Courtney H. (Warren, PA)
A Beautiful Dream
The design of this book is stellar and I was very excited when I received it. The author's writing is very descriptive and engaging. I enjoyed all of the visual effect she imbedded into her writing. I really felt like I was watching the events of the book unfold. The five different narrators of the story gave key insights that enhanced the journey of the "fallen angels" and really add a nice tone to the book. This novel was very thought provoking and I can't wait to share it with patrons. I'm eager to do a second, slower read-through.
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Carla A. (Winter park, FL)
The Gifts by Liz Hyder
The Gifts is an historical fiction story based in London in the 19th century. As the story unfolds we follow the lives of eight characters and learn how their lives intertwine. In those times, in a dominant man's world, it is interesting to see how the female characters deal with the gender limitations and remain strong. Diverse traits including greed, ego and determination bring the characters to life. The storyline leaves the reader on the edge waiting to see what a turn of the page brings. I suggest this book to friends who enjoy a thrilling storyline. I found the very short chapters made it easy to squeeze in a little reading when I didn't have a lot of time to spare. Well done!
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