Book Summery (Via Goodreads):Olivia Mead is a headstrong, independent girl—a suffragist—in an age that prefers its girls to be docile. It’s 1900 in Oregon, and Olivia’s father, concerned that she’s headed for trouble, convinces a stage mesmerist to try to hypnotize the rebellion out of her. But the hypnotist, an intriguing young man named Henri Reverie, gives her a terrible gift instead: she’s able to see people’s true natures, manifesting as visions of darkness and goodness, while also unable to speak her true thoughts out loud. These supernatural challenges only make Olivia more determined to speak her mind, and so she’s drawn into a dangerous relationship with the hypnotist and his mysterious motives, all while secretly fighting for the rights of women. Winters breathes new life into history once again with an atmospheric, vividly real story, including archival photos and art from the period throughout.
Book Review:
I would like to start off this review by asking myself, WHY DID I WAIT SO LONG TO READ THIS?! This book has everything I love...historical fiction, feminism, a touch of paranormal. I should have read this the minute it was released! Olivia is such an easy character to relate to. The world sees her as a "soft and delicate" creature that is very "docile and obedient." We find out very early in the book that this is not the case. Olivia is doing her best to appease her very controlling, opinionated father. However, she has strong beliefs, especially on women's rights and goes through a great deal to have her voice heard. I very much enjoyed the supporting characters in this book. I initially thought Fanny to be meek, plain, and well...not very interesting, but I couldn't have been more wrong. Percy eventually shows his true colors. And Henry...oh Henry...such a progressive man in an oppressive time. Needless to say, I loved ALL scene's that included both Olivia and Henry. The historical background was a perfect backdrop to the story line. All I can say is thank goodness I was not born near the turn of the century! Let's take a minute to talk about hypnosis. I seriously don't understand how or why anyone would submit themselves to be controlled by another person. It freaks me out on MULTIPLE levels. As we learn from this story, its effects can be quite unsavory. *ahem* Back to my main point...Overall, I can't *squee* enough about this book! I will DEFINITELY be reading Winter's future publications!
Cover Art Commentary:
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