Olivia Twist, by Lorie Langdon: Gothic Historical YA Novel Re-imagines a Classic
Olivia Twist by Lorie Langdon | Book Review
Once known as the “Artful Dodger,” Jack MacCarron is also living a life that’s really not his. He’s entered a world he wasn’t born too, but as con man with street smarts, he knows how to adapt.
Secrets, pasts and danger collide between these two lives… lives that seem to boast a glittering future.
REVIEW | Touted as an “innovative” re-telling, this novel certainly matches this descriptor. Taking a stab at reimagining the classic Dickens story, Oliver Twist, Langdon reworks the story throu
gh a different lens, that of a female protagonist. Apart from her co-authored series (‘Doon’), the only other book to this author’s name is Gilt Hollow, a contemporary story that’s different but not dissimilar to Olivia Twist.
Part of the appeal of this novel (for my shelf) is its setting. I love that it’s a historical novel in the YA scene, a market I really don’t read anything from. The anticipation of this story’s setting does not disappoint. Every scene and descriptive phrase is perfect, all of which is likely aided by the visualizations already affixed in my mind from BBC productions. With its shadowed streets and potential dangers lurking around the corners, the world is fascinating, and also, wisely, left in realistic format.
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As characters existing in this world, Olivia and Jack are among the good. What’s so interesting about them is they have a past unlike most heroes and heroines. Of course every character has some kind of backstory, but in these arcs, both have a past, one with shadows that’s peppered with gray areas. That said, they’re easily liked, never on any kind of precipitant that leaves the reader wondering. A trait I appreciate.
Those seeking a unique historical read need look no further than Lorie Langdon’s latest. Olivia Twist is everything it promises to be – a historical work of fiction that dazzles.
Rediscover a #Dickens classic in @LorieLangdon's dazzling #YALit 'Oliver Twist' re-telling. Olivia Twist – #Gothic Historical YA Novel Re-imagines a Classic Share on XSincere thanks to the publisher for providing a copy of this book; all opinions are my own.
This sounds like it'll be pretty great. Thanks for sharing and great review, Rissi!
It's fabulous, Lauren!! Hope you enjoy if you read this one. :)
I've been looking forward to this one ever since I finished Gilt Hollow. I love gothic stories and Langdon is a unique story teller.
Lorie is indeed a unique story teller, and that's why I do adore her novels. Enjoy, Brittaney. :)
This sounds like such a fascinating story! I've never read Oliver Twist, but that's not going to stop me from reading this! Lol
I haven't read Oliver Twist either, Karen. I've seen the film adaptation though, and can certainly "see" the influences. Enjoy! :)
I will have to try to get a copy of this one, since it looks like one I would enjoy immensely!
Fun! Hope you enjoy, Amanda. It's a lovely tale. :)
I thought this book looked good, and I'm glad to see that you enjoyed it! Hoping our library will get it so I can read it.
I most definitely did, Korin. Hope you enjoy this one – it's a fun, "adventure" kind of tale. :)
This sounds like a really interesting twist on Twist! Thanks for the recco and great review – adding it to my TBR :)
Cool. Hope you enjoy this one, Mallory – I know all about those TBRs. :)
I like re-imaginings. This one sounds good.
Me too, Jane! Hope you enjoy this one if you decide to read it. :)
I've been really curious about this one. I love retellings and Oliver Twist wouldn't have occurred to me as the basis of a YA retelling – love the gender flip too!
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It's really good, Jen. I hope if you do have the chance to read it, you discover a new favorite. Happy reading. :)