The Gifts

by Liz Hyder
The Gifts cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Magical Realism
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Waterstones
Paperback • £8.99 Hardback • £7.00
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Technical
  • ID: 3039
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9781786580764
  • Publisher: Bonnier Zaffre Ltd.
  • Published: 2022-02-10
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3

In October 1840, a young woman's life takes a dramatic turn as a pair of enormous wings tear from her shoulders in a Shropshire forest. Meanwhile, in London, rumors of a 'fallen angel' captivate the city, drawing the attention of a surgeon driven by ambition and obsession. The Gifts weaves together five distinct perspectives against the vivid backdrop of nineteenth-century London, exploring themes of science, nature, religion, and the role of women in society. The novel delves into the dark dangers of ambition and the extraordinary lengths people will go to for fame and fortune./n/nLiz Hyder's debut adult novel is a luminous and ambitious work that combines historical fiction with elements of magical realism. Praised for its imaginative prose and vivid historical detail, The Gifts is a captivating exploration of female empowerment and the complexities of human nature. With its richly drawn characters and evocative settings, this novel is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and magical realism.

Reviews
The Indiependent · 2024-04-15
excellent 4.50

The Gifts is praised as one of the best contemporary novels, captivating readers with its historical setting and compelling narrative. It stands out regardless of one's usual preferences in historical fiction.

The reviewer absolutely loves this book and thinks it's one of the best contemporary novels they've read in a long time. They highlight how the story's historical setting and engaging narrative make it a standout read, even for those who might not typically enjoy historical fiction. The depth and richness of the characters and plot are particularly commended, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a captivating and immersive experience.

Quick quotes

    To conclude, The Gifts is one of the best contemporary novels I have read in a long time.

    Regardless of whether you enjoy reading historical fiction, this book is a must-read.

    The narrative is compelling and the characters are deeply engaging.

The Guardian · 2022-02-27
great 4.00

The Gifts is described as a vivid Victorian fantasy that explores the struggles of women against patriarchal constraints. The novel's unique blend of gothic fiction and magical realism is particularly noteworthy.

The reviewer highlights the vivid and imaginative setting of The Gifts, describing it as a compelling Victorian fantasy. They appreciate how the novel delves into the struggles of women in a patriarchal society, using a unique blend of gothic fiction and magical realism. The story's exploration of themes such as science and the supernatural adds depth and intrigue, making it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    In The Gifts, a Victorian novel for adults, four feisty women struggle against the constraints of a patriarchal society.

    A fascinating mélange of gothic fiction and magical realism.

    The novel unpacks the bizarre Victorian obsession with angels—celestial angels, the perfect embodiment of the divine.

Linda's Book Bag · 2022-02-22
brilliant 4.50

The Gifts is praised for its immersive and bewitching narrative that transports readers out of the ordinary. The novel's enchanting storytelling and beautiful illustrations are particularly highlighted.

The reviewer is captivated by The Gifts, describing it as a wonderful and immersive read that bewitches the reader and transports them out of the ordinary. They particularly appreciate the enchanting storytelling and the beautiful illustrations that complement the narrative. The novel's ability to create a rich and engaging world is commended, making it a delightful and unforgettable reading experience.

Quick quotes

    The Gifts is the most wonderful, immersive read that bewitches the reader and transports them out of the ordinary.

    The novel is littered with beautiful illustrations that enhance the storytelling.

    A delight of a book, part historical fiction, part fantasy.

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