Monday, February 25, 2013

The House That Built Me (& Giveaway)

The House Girl by Tara Conklin
This book takes us back and forth between two time periods. The first is the story of the house girl herself, Josephine, a slave girl in Virginia contemplating running away to freedom. The second is a modern day lawyer, Lina, working on a case that seeks reparations for American slaves. Also included in Lina's parts are historical documents, letter specifically, that are practically chapters of their own.

Normally when I read book that alternate between time periods, I love the historical parts far more. But that wasn't true with this, since I enjoyed reading Lina's voice more. And that isn't to say that each time I read from Josephine I was anxious to be finished, as sometimes happens with books written this style. Instead, I still really enjoyed Josephine's chapters, but I found it interesting given my normal preference how modern day story was able to capture me.

It did seem to take me a while to get into this. Although part of that may be that I just didn't make the time to sit down and read. Once I finally let myself escape into the world of The House Girl, I couldn't put it down until the mystery was solved.

The book did end with a bit of a cliffhanger. Although trying not to give anything away, I kind of understand why it did, since the story that was left open isn't really the point. Yes, as a reader I was curious, but also realize that the story that needed to be told, was finished and wrapped up. Normally with such a cliffhanger, I'd cross my fingers for a sequel, but yet, I don't really feel that this needs one to be complete.

Part of me wants to say I was surprised how much I enjoyed this, but given its summary and cover, it is the type of book I tend to fall in love with. I do think if you're a fan of historical fiction this is one you'd enjoy, and I can't wait to see with what Tara Conklin follows up her debut.

5/5

I'm excited to say that I have one copy available of this unforgettable book for one reader! Winners must be in located in the US or Canada, and must enter through the rafflecopter form below.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Disclosure: I was provided this book through TLC Book Tours. All opinions expressed are my own.

15 comments:

  1. I really want to read this one. Cross my fingers that I win!

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  2. A friend was just telling me about this book the other day! It sounds excellent, and this is such an interesting topic, and I have not read too much about it.

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  3. Eeeek, and I didn't realize that you were on twitter! I'm now following you there too!

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  4. I am finding the more I read the more I enjoy dual storylines with one in the past, but THE HOUSE GIRL with the slave twist is something a little different and I would love the chance to read it!

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  5. I've heard interesting things about this book!

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  6. I love reading dual time stories, and the historical time period seems like it would make a fascinating story. Thanks for the giveaway!

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  7. I love reading books set in this period and have never read a book written through a slave's eyes before

    CarolNWong(at)aol(dot)com

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  8. I would like to read this book because of my affinity for historical reads.... Thanks for the chance, Liene @ LLucane at yahoo dot com

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  9. I am an avid reader and this sounds like a great book to read. Love historical books!

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  10. to find out why there's a cliffhanger

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  11. I am your newest follower! I am having a giveaway on my blog too! Check it out!

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  12. I know what you mean about the dual time periods - I too tend to like the older time period better than the more modern one - so I'm glad you found yourself enjoying BOTH parts of the story.

    Thanks for being a part of the tour!

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  13. I want to rad this book because the two stories from present and past together sounds great.




    Bonnie

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