By Jen McConnel
ISBN: 9781619634640
Publication Date: December 19, 2013
Reviewed from: a copy provided by Ms. McConnel and Xpresso Book Tours--Thank You!
Synopsis:
Lou is in the middle of a quarter-life crisis. Fresh out of college, she’s unemployed and unsure of herself. But when she gets the chance to escape to Scotland with her best friend, it could be the answer to her quest for self-discovery. The trip is not at all what she expected, especially when her tour guide turns out to be the dreamy historian Brian, and together they embark on a hunt for information about Isobel Key, a woman accused of witchcraft in the seventeenth century.They set out to learn the truth of the condemned witch, but Lou isn’t prepared for the knowledge that awaits her. She must face her own demons if she has any hope of righting the wrongs of the past. Flashing between the seventeenth century and modern day Scotland, The Secret of Isobel Key is a mystery that will please readers of all ages.
My Thoughts:
Blending the past and the present, we are transported to Scotland with Lou (Louisa) as she embarks on the journey with her best friend as her life seems to be stuck in a rut. While there, she discovers a mystery surrounding Scotland's history of witchcraft and witch hunting as well as a possible link to her own history. The story is told both in present day through Lou or alternatively, readers are whisked away back in time to the 1700s, when Isobel was alive and witch hunting was a prime occupation for those living during the time of King James.
Scotland has always been a place I have wanted to visit and through the rich details, both past and present, I feel that I have glimpse part of it myself. This is an unique take on new adult as well--that in itself was a pleasant surprise. Though the friendship between Lou and Tammy was irksome to me, it could be just that I did not feel that they were truly best friends. The details in the historical accounts add such lushness to this story--they make this book come alive. I would LOVE to see Ms. McConnel write a historical fiction novel someday if it were to strick her fancy.
Scotland has always been a place I have wanted to visit and through the rich details, both past and present, I feel that I have glimpse part of it myself. This is an unique take on new adult as well--that in itself was a pleasant surprise. Though the friendship between Lou and Tammy was irksome to me, it could be just that I did not feel that they were truly best friends. The details in the historical accounts add such lushness to this story--they make this book come alive. I would LOVE to see Ms. McConnel write a historical fiction novel someday if it were to strick her fancy.
To Purchase the Book:
About Ms. McConnel:
Jen McConnel first began writing poetry as a child. A Michigander by birth, she
Connect with Her:
Giveaway Time
Up for grabs is Beautiful Heathergems heart necklace, graciously donated by Heathergems. To learn more about this, please check this Facebook page or Heathergem's website.
Glad you liked it, Stephanie! I love books set in a foreign country and it sounds like the historical details were really well executed and that always puts you right in the story. Great review!
ReplyDeleteScotland has always been one of those places I have longed to visit so this book was a great way to "visit." :) Thanks for visiting today. Happy Reading!
DeleteThanks so much for hosting me today, Stephanie! I'm glad that you felt transported by the story! :)
ReplyDelete