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thepagelady's review
4.0
Book Review…Hester by Laurie Lico Albanese
Who is the real Hester Prynne?
A pile of debts have forced Isobel and her husband Edward to flee Edinburgh for a fresh start in the New World. But only days after they've arrived Edward joins a departing ship as a medic leaving Isobel penniless and alone and forced to make her way by any means possible.
When she meets a young Nathaniel Hawthorne, the two are instantly drawn to each other: he is a haunted man and she is troubled by her own strange talents. As the weeks pass and Edward's safe return grows increasingly unlikely, Nathaniel and Isobel grow closer. Together, they are the enchanter and the enchanted. But which is which?
This was a compelling story full of mystery! Both Nathaniel and Isobel are very interesting characters! Isobel is Synesthesia which is a sensory phenomenon with responses through vision and sound. She lives in a time when women are supposed to be depend on their husbands but she is starting to see the New World as an opportunity for something different. Nathaniel is a writer haunted by his ancestor’s past. They each add to this interesting and mysterious story. It talks about the Salem witch trials, the underground railroad, and much more! It's a beautifully written story that has a way of enchanting the reader!
Thank you St. Martin's Press and Laurie Lico Albanese for sharing this wonderful book with me!
Who is the real Hester Prynne?
A pile of debts have forced Isobel and her husband Edward to flee Edinburgh for a fresh start in the New World. But only days after they've arrived Edward joins a departing ship as a medic leaving Isobel penniless and alone and forced to make her way by any means possible.
When she meets a young Nathaniel Hawthorne, the two are instantly drawn to each other: he is a haunted man and she is troubled by her own strange talents. As the weeks pass and Edward's safe return grows increasingly unlikely, Nathaniel and Isobel grow closer. Together, they are the enchanter and the enchanted. But which is which?
This was a compelling story full of mystery! Both Nathaniel and Isobel are very interesting characters! Isobel is Synesthesia which is a sensory phenomenon with responses through vision and sound. She lives in a time when women are supposed to be depend on their husbands but she is starting to see the New World as an opportunity for something different. Nathaniel is a writer haunted by his ancestor’s past. They each add to this interesting and mysterious story. It talks about the Salem witch trials, the underground railroad, and much more! It's a beautifully written story that has a way of enchanting the reader!
Thank you St. Martin's Press and Laurie Lico Albanese for sharing this wonderful book with me!
thealyssa_ann's review
adventurous
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
I loved Isobel from the moment I met her and I love that she wasn't your typical witch/woman going out on her own in new country trope. She was complex, open to new ideas, smart, resourceful, and kind. Though I don't love her initial taste in men, I think her journey and choices do demonstrate a pattern a lot of women find themselves in when they don't know how to be or don't feel comfortable being themselves. I also really loved this portayal of Salem and getting to see a very literary place and person portrayed in this way. There were so many quotes I highlighted and pulled out, it was so beautifully written.
shaunie991's review against another edition
4.0
An interesting take on a classic. I did find it sometimes difficult to stay alert, but all in all, it is well written. The narrator is absolutely amazing, and is likely the reason I was able to hold on to the very end. Such talent! Brava! I will definitely be seeking out more of her work.
I would recommend this book to fans who enjoy The Scarlet Letter itself, or folks who appreciate historical fiction.
(ALC received from NetGalley in exchange for honest review. Thank you.)
I would recommend this book to fans who enjoy The Scarlet Letter itself, or folks who appreciate historical fiction.
(ALC received from NetGalley in exchange for honest review. Thank you.)
shaunie991's review
4.0
An interesting take on a classic. I did find it sometimes difficult to stay alert, but all in all, it is well written. The narrator is absolutely amazing, and is likely the reason I was able to hold on to the very end. Such talent! Brava! I will definitely be seeking out more of her work.
I would recommend this book to fans who enjoy The Scarlet Letter itself, or folks who appreciate historical fiction.
(ALC received from NetGalley in exchange for honest review. Thank you.)
I would recommend this book to fans who enjoy The Scarlet Letter itself, or folks who appreciate historical fiction.
(ALC received from NetGalley in exchange for honest review. Thank you.)
lisahopevierra's review
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.25
marinaemoore's review
4.0
I came close to DNF-ing this book around the 25 page mark, but am glad I didn’t. I really enjoyed the story. It was very creative and kept me guessing throughout.
atrautmann217's review
5.0
Absolutely loved this one! I would recommend to anyone who loves historical fiction about women’s life back in the day. A lot of this book discusses women’s role and daily life during this time period. The main character finds her power through her embroidery work, while having a love affair with Nathaniel Hawthorne. The ending was satisfying and wrapped up all the characters stories. Just great!
swampbooks's review
4.0
Buying a book at random based on the vibes alone is always a gamble, but sometimes it’s one that you win! I’ve never read [b:The Scarlett Letter|30527619|The Scarlett Letter|Nathaniel Hawthorne|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1465744160l/30527619._SX50_.jpg|4925227], and if I knew that’s what this book was inspired by I honestly probably wouldn’t have bothered getting it. I’m glad I did, though, because it was a truly breathtaking and powerful story.
Our main character, Isobel, is the human embodiment of determination and willpower. She faces hardship after hardship, but she doesn’t let that stop her from reaching for her goals while still being there to support others. The writing was bewitching (hah, get it?) and the plot engaging, if a bit slow at times.
Our main character, Isobel, is the human embodiment of determination and willpower. She faces hardship after hardship, but she doesn’t let that stop her from reaching for her goals while still being there to support others. The writing was bewitching (hah, get it?) and the plot engaging, if a bit slow at times.