Frances Hardinge has been one of my favorite writers since I first read Fly By Night many, many years ago. She has an amazing sense of storytelling (yes, it is a sense!) and uses language wonderfully. Her most recent book, The Lie Tree, won the prestigious Costa Bood Award that's given in the UK. It definitely deserves it. (The cover here is the US edition which comes out in another week.)
This book is somewhat of a departure from her earlier work--being more creepy and serious--but it is kind of amazing. Set in 1860 England on an isolated island, the story tackles the difficult subjects of women's education, evolution, the limitations of society, and, ultimately, the role of religion.
This may sound a bit daunting, but in Hardinge's worthy hands the story is fast paced, mysterious, and enthralling. (Below is the cover of the UK edition which is way better looking and more appropriate for the subject matter of the book.)
This book is somewhat of a departure from her earlier work--being more creepy and serious--but it is kind of amazing. Set in 1860 England on an isolated island, the story tackles the difficult subjects of women's education, evolution, the limitations of society, and, ultimately, the role of religion.
This may sound a bit daunting, but in Hardinge's worthy hands the story is fast paced, mysterious, and enthralling. (Below is the cover of the UK edition which is way better looking and more appropriate for the subject matter of the book.)
