Title: The Madman’s Daughter (book #1)
Author: Megan Shepherd
Copyright: January 29, 2013
Genre: fiction
Format: audiobook
Synopsis (from Goodreads):
Sixteen-year-old Juliet Moreau has built a life for herself in London—working as a maid, attending church on Sundays, and trying not to think about the scandal that ruined her life. After all, no one ever proved the rumors about her father’s gruesome experiments. But when she learns he is alive and continuing his work on a remote tropical island, she is determined to find out if the accusations are true.
Inspired by H. G. Wells’s classic The Island of Dr. Moreau, The Madman’s Daughter is a dark and breathless Gothic thriller about the secrets we’ll do anything to know and the truths we’ll go to any lengths to protect.
My Thoughts:
I found this book on Overdrive and really was excited when I heard the sample. First off they had great intro music which not all audiobooks have. The voice talent was performed by Lucy Rayner. I will have to add her to my list of voice talent I enjoy listening to. Second, the story takes a twist on the old Dr. Moreau tale (which I have to confess I have never read) by coming from the perspective of his daughter. As of late, I am really enjoying re-tellings of old tales. So I snatched this one up immediately.
I like that the character Juliet was a strong female throughout the book and especially in the time period she was living in. She was very analytical and compassionate at the same time. Two things that don’t always go hand in hand in character traits.
The story moved at a great pace and I continue to listen to see how the story would end. What I didn’t realize is that it is part of a series. My first reaction when completing the book was that it was good but that I would not continue on to the next book. But, with more time and space between completing it, I feel like many author’s books improve through series so I just might pick up the audio for the second book.
Having said this, I would give this 3 1/2 butterflies. Please note that I don’t condone the harming of butterflies and this is the first time I am using a half butterfly. But I didn’t like to be constrained when I think it is more that 3 but not quite 4.
I will let you know after I listen to the second book if I feel the series is growing or just alright.
Happy Reading!
Belinda
