Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Publication Date: January 2013
Categories: Jewish, Historical Fiction
Source: St. Martin's Press via Shelf Awareness
Description:
In the wake of World War II, a young, enigmatic woman named Lily arrives in Montreal on her own, expecting to be married to a man she’s never met. But, upon seeing her at the train station, Sol Kramer turns her down. Out of pity, his brother Nathan decides to marry her instead, and pity turns into a deep—and doomed—love. It is immediately clear that Lily is not who she claims to be. Her attempt to live out her life as Lily Azerov shatters when she disappears, leaving a new husband and a baby daughter with only a diary, a large uncut diamond – and a need to find the truth.
Who is Lily and what happened to the young woman whose identity she stole? Why has she left and where did she go? It's up to the daughter Lily abandoned to find the answers to these questions, as she searches for the mother she may never find or truly know.
My Thoughts:
The story is told in alternating chapters by Lily and her daughter Ruth. Even though the book begins with Lily the story really belongs to Ruth. She is only an infant when her mother abandons the family and she grows up knowing little to nothing about her. Ruth is surrounded by family members that love and care for her but more than anything she wants to know about her mother. Why did she leave? What was her real name? Where is she now?
All Ruth has of her mother are the few things she left behind and a lot of questions. This book is about her search for answers.
This book is quiet and powerful. It reminded me that family can come in many different forms.
The Imposter Bride was shortlisted for the Giller Prize in 2012.
Posts
What would drive someone to assume another person's identity, I wonder? Nowadays, it won't be that easy anymore, but still, the reasons behind trying so do intrigue me. Sounds like an engrossing read!
ReplyDeleteThe answer to that question is one that her daughter is searching for :)
DeleteI never would have matched the cover to what the book is about. It's an intriguing story from the sounds of it, and one I would likely enjoy. I am really curious about what Lily was thinking--and what she was up to. Great review!
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't have either! I'm glad your curiosity is piqued ;)
DeleteI'm really looking forward to reading this one :-)
ReplyDeleteI hope you like it Melissa! :)
DeleteThis sounds like a novel I'd really enjoy. I'm off to add it to my TBR list. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteIt is my pleasure! I hope that you enjoy it
DeleteThis sounds familiar. That and I'm not quite certain this one escaped my notice. Now it's your turn to add to my wish list!
ReplyDeleteYay! I'm glad to do that Michelle ;)
DeleteThis book sounds REALLY good. It doesn't sound like you loved it though. . . but do you think it's a book I might enjoy?
ReplyDeleteAlso, I'm reading Y finally!!!! :) Sooo good so far! I'll probably pass it on to The Book Wheel once I finish! Although she doesn't know that yet.
I liked it but it wasn't jaw droppingingly good. (I love making up words)
DeleteI'm glad you're enjoying Y! I can't wait to read your review!
Loving the twist, the book sounded quite ordinary at first but with a stolen identity I'm thinking this is one to note down. Glad to hear it's good :)
ReplyDeleteExactly! At first it's similar to other books with the same "Left Europe during/after WWII" theme but then it goes in other directions :)
DeleteI really want to read this book but unfortunately my library doesn't stock it at the moment. After reading your review, I hope they decide to acquire it in the future!
ReplyDeleteI hope they do too Sam! Badger them, they'll come around! ;)
DeleteWhat a beautiful cover. I would definitely be tempted to pick it up if I saw it on a shelf. Alternating chapters can be so hit and miss - I'm glad you found this one an engaging read!
ReplyDeleteYou are right about the alternating chapters, thankfully this one hit the mark!
DeleteWow, this sounds like a terrific read!
ReplyDelete