Morning, everyone! Today I'm a stop on the TLC book tour for Ami McKay's The Virgin Cure.Moth is just twelve when her mother sells her as a servant to a wealthy socialite. The young girl is convinced it's what's best for both of them even when it means braving abuse at the hands of her new mistress. Moth is soon saved but her mother is nowhere to be found. Now on her own, Moth must brave the streets of New York City and find her own way in the world.
Sorry for the short synopsis this morning, folks - first, I simply don't want to give too much away. Moth's story is an enchanting one and I wouldn't want to spoil anyone's enjoyment (why should I have all the fun?). Second, things are crazypants here thanks to a brief weekend vacation!
I'd set The Virgin Cure on par with last week's reads by Kate Kerrigan - they're historical fiction set in New York (though two different time periods) and they both feature headstrong and resourceful lead characters. Moth is a fabulous narrator - a clever twelve year old living through some tough situations - and McKay has brought her to life glowingly.
One thing I particularly enjoyed were the inset anecdotes and factoids from "Dr. Sadie." They vary as to content and there are extra "articles" dispersed throughout the book as well. They all help set the tone for the time and place - late 19th century New York City.
Now, you may think based on the description that The Virgin Cure might not be the best relaxing summer time read. Normally I might agree except for the fact that having read McKay's latest, I can attest to it being a super enthralling and surprisingly easy read. I actually gobbled up over half the book in just one sitting! So if you're craving a great historical fiction read with a strong female lead, I definitely recommend The Virgin Cure!
Rating: 5/5
To see what others on the tour thought, check out the official TLC tour page here.
For more on Ami McKay and her books, you can visit her website here. You can also like her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter and Pinterest.
2 comments:
My Gram grew up poor in Ireland and left home at age 10 to be a live-in servant for a local wealthy family who treated her very badly. Luckily for my Gram, her mother was able to "rescue" her by lying to the family and telling them that Gram had to leave to come with her family when they moved to America. Instead they packed up and moved to England. I can only imagine how life would have been for Gram if she had to spend it as a servant to that family ...
I can't wait to see how things turn out for Moth! What you mention about her life reminds me so much of my Gram!
Thanks for being on the tour.
I loved this book! I also loved The Birth House. She's such a talented and incredible writer.
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