The Lie Tree

The Lie Tree by Frances Hardinge
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Lie Tree was a book to get lost in. It is hard to describe exactly what the story is...a historical gothic feminist coming-of-age fantasy mystery? Whatever it is, the book manages to fit into all of these categories and satisfy the reader. Its mixture of suspense, creepiness, family drama, and atmospherical tension transports the reader to the lonely and isolated island where Faith finds herself struggling to make sense of the life-changing events that are surrounding her. Despite the fact that everyone around her seems to overlook, underestimate, or just not care about her, Faith struggles tooth and nail to survive and find a way to help herself and her family. She ends up doing things that would shock and astound those around her, and she ends up surprising herself. At the end the small, unassuming, quiet young female turns everything on its head.
At the heart of the story is the so-called Lie Tree. Is it real? Does it truly have power? Its presence sets up some very powerful questions that the author leaves open. Faith and the reader are able to find the answers for themselves.
The descriptions used throughout the book serve to create an immersive setting. Although the island is stark, it is very easy for the reader to imagine the sights, smells, and feelings of Faith's new home. Without being too effusive or over-the-top, the lush descriptions help to build the world that the Sunderleys find themselves in.
My only issue with the book is very slight--although I really like the cover, the fruit of the Lie Tree is described as small and citrus-like. The fruit on the cover looks more like an apple than a lime.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book. It is a great novel for middle-age readers on up. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and would love to read more about Faith as she grows and makes her own way in life.


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