OVERVIEW
This gorgeous book was written by one of my absolute favorite authors. Alice Hoffman writes such vivid, rich, and beautiful characters and stories. It is as if you become one with the world that she creates with her books. I could feel, touch, taste, smell, and see the world that was created in this amazing book.
This book is incredibly layered and woven into a mosaic of an intense and lovely story. In this book, women are subjugated in many different ways, but it is women who save each other. The powerful and intense relationships between women, but most especially between mothers and daughters, are threaded through the entirety of the book.
This novel is another winner by Alice Hoffman. It just was so good that I had to ration it. I was able to slow down and savor it as I made myself put the book aside or I would have finished it in one setting. It is that good!!
Coincidentally, I felt a kinship and strong link to Alice Hoffman's to her Practical Magic series. There were so many comparisons and similarities so it was a pure joy to read especially as that series is one of my absolute favorites!
The second 5.0-star book in August. What is going on? I am so lucky and so happy to read so many good books this year. BTW, this was my 60th book of 2023 so I have met my adjusted goal!!
OVERALL REVIEW: 5.0 stars
Writing: 5.0 stars
As always, Alice Hoffman writes so, so, so beautifully. It is hard to explain how her words transport me so easily to her storyline. It is as if I step into the novel and am an observer. Alice Hoffman's writing is just beyond extraordinary as you are fully immersed with your heart pounding because you are reading the book TOO fast. This time, I was able to savor this book!
Character development: 5.0 stars
The character development of the two main characters, Ivy (mother) and Mia (daughter), is just so lovely. It is the type of relationship that all mothers want from their daughters AND all daughters want from their mothers. The women were very strong in this book even though they were definitely second-class citizens. Working together, these women could accomplish anything!
The secondary characters are the main antagonist, Joel, the leader of a horrific cult. But also some good people in Mia's life, Sarah and Constance, who are integral to her life.
Massachusetts, but especially western Massachusetts plays a huge role in this novel.
Storyline: 5.0 stars
The storyline was one of so many twists and turns. It starts out with a pregnant teenager who runs away from home in Boston to a commune in western Massachusetts and then adds in The Scarlett Letter. Amazing! T
The main locations were Boston, Salem, and western Massachusetts.
Memorable/Informative: 5.0 stars
All of Alice Hoffman's books are memorable. But this book makes me want to read The Scarlett Letter again!
Book cover: 5.0 stars
Gorgeousness!!
Book title: 5.0 stars
It was a PERFECT title.
Gut feeling: 4.0 stars
I was pretty certain that I would love this book as I had loved every Alice Hoffman book that I have read!
Suggestions:
A map of western Massachusetts might be a nice touch.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND
BOOK INFORMATION
The Invisible Hour by Alice Hoffman
272 pages
This was a library book; but then I bought it about half-way through
Release date of 08/15/2023
INFORMATIONAL LINKS
Happy reading,
Dorothea 💜
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