The Sudden Appearance of Hope

The Sudden Appearance of Hope cover
Good Books rating 3.92
Technical
  • ID: 4637
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9780356504544
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2016-05-19
  • Reviews: 3

Hope Arden is a girl with a peculiar condition: no one remembers her. From her parents to her friends, everyone forgets her existence the moment she leaves their sight. This makes her life incredibly challenging, but also gives her a unique power. The Sudden Appearance of Hope explores the complexities of identity, memory, and the human condition through Hope's extraordinary journey. The book has been praised for its poignant storytelling and intense grip on the reader's imagination, making it a standout in contemporary fiction. Claire North, the author, is known for her imaginative and thought-provoking works. The Sudden Appearance of Hope is no exception, blending elements of fantasy and literary fiction to create a compelling narrative. The book has won the World Fantasy Award and been shortlisted for the Sunday Times / PFD Young Writer of the Year Award, highlighting its impact and quality.

Reviews
Death Is Bad Blog · Death Is Bad · 2021-04-11
disappointed 2.00

The book feels directionless and lacks a compelling conclusion, leaving the reader unsatisfied. It's a missed opportunity for a more engaging narrative.

The reviewer from Death Is Bad Blog expresses disappointment with 'The Sudden Appearance of Hope', stating that it feels directionless and lacks a compelling conclusion. They feel that the book doesn't do much and seems unsure of how to end, leaving the reader unsatisfied. The reviewer finds it a missed opportunity for a more engaging narrative, as the potential for a great story is not fully realized. They note that the book could have been more impactful with a stronger sense of direction and a more satisfying ending.


Quick quotes

    It's… not bad. It just doesn't do anything.

    It feels very much like North wasn't sure how to end the book, or else didn't want to.

    It's a missed opportunity for a more engaging narrative.

Fantasy Book Review · 2016-06-27
thoughtful 4.75

This novel explores complex themes with depth and insight, though it may not be as entertaining as some of the author's previous works. It's a thought-provoking read that delves into intricate ideas.

The reviewer at Fantasy Book Review highlights that 'The Sudden Appearance of Hope' is an excellent novel that tackles complex themes. They appreciate the depth and insight the book offers, even if it isn't as entertaining as some of the author's other works. The reviewer finds the book thought-provoking and believes it delves into intricate ideas that will resonate with readers. They also note that the book is more about exploring these themes rather than providing straightforward entertainment.


Quick quotes

    It's not one that will entertain as much as her previous novels, but one that looks at complex themes with a depth of insight.

    It's a thought-provoking read that delves into intricate ideas.

    It's an excellent novel.

SFBook · Ant · 2016-06-27
entertaining 5.00

This story is clever, thought-provoking, and highly entertaining from start to finish. It's a moving and joyful piece of fiction that leaves a lasting impression.

Ant from SFBook praises 'The Sudden Appearance of Hope' as a clever, thought-provoking, and highly entertaining story from beginning to end. They find the book moving and joyful, noting that it leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Ant appreciates the depth and creativity of the narrative, as well as the emotional impact it has. They highlight the book's ability to engage and captivate readers throughout, making it a memorable and enjoyable read. The reviewer also notes that the book's themes and characters are well-developed, adding to its overall appeal.


Quick quotes

    The Sudden Appearance of Hope is a clever, thought-provoking and highly entertaining story from beginning to end.

    It's moving, joyful fiction that will leave a lasting impression.

    It's a book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

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