Strange Eden

June 25, 2024June 25, 2024 by onemoreexclamation

It’s time for my spot on the Strange Eden by Gina Giordano Book Tour hosted by Suzy Approved Book Tours.

About the Book

Title: Strange Eden

Author: Gina Giordano

Release Date: December 13, 2022

Find it: Amazon

Nassau, Bahamas, 1791

Eliza Sharpe, recently wed to a mysterious and brooding soldier, departs for the West Indies with him to begin their new life. Once there, she realizes their marital arrangement is ill-fated and that she has made a disastrous choice. Charles, the man she finds herself bound to, is nothing short of a monster.

On their very first night in New Providence, her innocence is irrevocably shattered. The walls of her new home hide a dark family secret, and Eliza realizes that the freedom she sought within marriage is a worse cage than the constraints she faced before.

Eliza struggles with her new existence, her exposure to Charles’ explosive temper, the brutality of slavery, and her isolation as she tries to grow accustomed to life on distant shores. The only source of comfort she finds is swimming in the startlingly clear ocean, an activity Charles expressly forbids.

As she attempts to flee her deteriorating situation, an unexpected encounter with a beguiling stranger named Jean offers a promise of escape. Despite the dark rumors that swirl around her recent acquaintance and his mysterious past, he captures Eliza’s interest, and ultimately, her heart – with deadly consequences.

On an island where nothing is as it appears, Eliza is confronted with the harsh realities of living on the fringe of empire, of womanhood, and the overt corruption that festers in the governor’s mansion on the hill. Will she ever be able to secure her freedom and possibly find redemption in love?

About The Author

Gina Giordano always had an insatiable curiosity and penchant for history. Born in New York City, she is a writer, artist, and a conjurer of the past. She holds a BA in history and a master’s degree in historical fiction from New York University and has traveled to over fifty countries across the globe. When she is not climbing ancient ruins or exploring forgotten palaces, she enjoys swimming with sharks in remote pristine waters. Strange Eden is her debut novel.

Instagram

Reviews for Strange Eden

Longlisted for the 2023 Bath Novel Award

“Giordano produces formal yet amusing descriptive passages that may remind readers of Charlotte Bronta’s work” – Kirkus Reviews

“An ambitious and multifaceted novel that cunningly challenges patriarchy and its consequences.” – Kirkus Reviews

Follow the haunting journey through the depths of human indecency. We do have the beautiful backdrop of the Bahamas though. Set in 1791, this historical fiction focuses on choices and strength. Laced with suspense and secrets, the author explores the slavery of the era. Eliza’s character development is a highlight of the book. The forbidden love trope kept me turning the pages. While this is a dark story, the desire of a better life keeps Eliza (and us) hopeful.