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Strange Eden #1
Strange Eden
Everything familiar to Eliza has been ripped away. Even worse, the cruel deed was done by her own hands.
Nassau, Bahamas, 1791…
Eliza Sharpe, recently wed to a mysterious and brooding soldier, departs for the West Indies with him to begin their new life. Once there, she realizes their marital arrangement is ill-fated and that she has made a disastrous choice. Charles, the man she finds herself bound to, is nothing short of a monster.
On their very first night in New Providence, her innocence is irrevocably shattered. The walls of her new home hide a dark family secret, and Eliza realizes that the freedom she sought within marriage is a worse cage than the constraints she faced before.
Eliza struggles with her new existence, her exposure to Charles’ explosive temper, the brutality of slavery, and her isolation as she tries to grow accustomed to life on distant shores. The only source of comfort she finds is swimming in the startlingly clear ocean, an activity Charles expressly forbids.
As she attempts to flee her deteriorating situation, an unexpected encounter with a beguiling stranger named Jean offers a promise of escape. Despite the dark rumors that swirl around her recent acquaintance and his mysterious past, he captures Eliza’s interest, and ultimately, her heart―with deadly consequences.
On an island where nothing is as it appears, Eliza is confronted with the harsh realities of living on the fringe of empire, of womanhood, and the overt corruption that festers in the governor’s mansion on the hill. Will she ever be able to secure her freedom―and possibly even find redemption in love?
“An ambitious and multifaceted novel that cunningly challenges patriarchy and its consequences.” - Kirkus Reviews
Nassau, Bahamas, 1791…
Eliza Sharpe, recently wed to a mysterious and brooding soldier, departs for the West Indies with him to begin their new life. Once there, she realizes their marital arrangement is ill-fated and that she has made a disastrous choice. Charles, the man she finds herself bound to, is nothing short of a monster.
On their very first night in New Providence, her innocence is irrevocably shattered. The walls of her new home hide a dark family secret, and Eliza realizes that the freedom she sought within marriage is a worse cage than the constraints she faced before.
Eliza struggles with her new existence, her exposure to Charles’ explosive temper, the brutality of slavery, and her isolation as she tries to grow accustomed to life on distant shores. The only source of comfort she finds is swimming in the startlingly clear ocean, an activity Charles expressly forbids.
As she attempts to flee her deteriorating situation, an unexpected encounter with a beguiling stranger named Jean offers a promise of escape. Despite the dark rumors that swirl around her recent acquaintance and his mysterious past, he captures Eliza’s interest, and ultimately, her heart―with deadly consequences.
On an island where nothing is as it appears, Eliza is confronted with the harsh realities of living on the fringe of empire, of womanhood, and the overt corruption that festers in the governor’s mansion on the hill. Will she ever be able to secure her freedom―and possibly even find redemption in love?
“An ambitious and multifaceted novel that cunningly challenges patriarchy and its consequences.” - Kirkus Reviews
536 pages, Paperback
Published December 13, 2022
112 people are currently reading
31214 people want to read
About the author
Gina Giordano
3 books1,467 followersGina Giordano always had an insatiable curiosity and a penchant for history. Born in New York City, she is a writer, artist, and a conjurer of the past. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and a master’s degree in historical fiction from New York University and has traveled to sixty-seven countries across the globe. When she is not climbing ancient ruins or exploring forgotten palaces, she enjoys swimming with sharks in remote pristine waters. Her debut novel, Strange Eden, was longlisted for the 2023 Bath Novel Award. Strange Eden and The Island King have both topped the bestseller chart for Historical Caribbean & Latin American Fiction on Amazon multiple times, and she is grateful for the support of readers like you.
You can find Gina on Instagram under the handle @ginagiordanobooks. Her website is www.ginagiordanobooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews
September 27, 2025
"She mused that the hands of an omniscient artist stroking his brush over their scales could serve as the only explanation for the beauty of some fish;"
- Gina Giordano, Strange Eden (Strange Eden #1)
I am just going to say what I feel. And my first thought, sitting down to write this review was :
How on earth am I going to review a book like this?!
Strange Eden is a five star book.
Everybody should read it . If you have it on your to read list, bump it up.
it is a magnificent, sweeping saga that I literally could not stop reading until I finished.
This is historical fiction that takes place in the 1700s in the Caribbean in a house on a windswept beach in the Bahamas.
I just stumbled upon this book. Within about five seconds of reading what it was about, I knew that I would be reading it soon. I actually stopped reading another book to read this one. I read it over the course of a 48 hour time period.
Eliza is ahead of her time. She is what we would call today, a feminist.
As one might expect, feminism in the 1700s in the Bahamas in a house on a windswept Beach is not received with joy.
Eliza comes to be there after accepting a marriage proposal from Charles, a man whom she really doesn’t know at all.
Eliza has always dreamed of adventure in her life. She never really wanted to be married at all, but she dreams of seeing other, more exotic places and she desperately wants and yearns for freedom and she thinks this marriage will get her that.
The island does not receive her with welcoming arms. She is a stranger in a strange land, a woman in a man’s world and is horrified by some of the things that she sees .
One of them is the international slave trade, and I have to say upfront, that there was a lot of that in this book.
Naturally, Eliza is horrified at this and she wants to change things.
There is also a menacing, Governor’s mansion and a menacing governor, and then there is Cleo , one of the slaves and Celia, another slave, and the angelic Jean, who I can’t say much about.
Oh -- I must not forget the pirates! And there is also a Gothic feel and some super natural events.
But always there is Charles, her husband, and the two of them might be living on different planets for how much they understand each other.
Of course, in the year 2024 they could divorce but as you know things were quite different back then.
Eliza find solace and freedom in the ocean. The house Charles takes her to live in, is located on the beach with the swirl of the glittering waters inches from her at all times.
Eliza has no fear of the water. it is her friend.
I have to take a moment and say that this is one of the most lush, visually magnificent, gorgeously written books I’ve ever had the pleasure to read.
The island, and it’s tropical winds, the beach, and it’s ethereal glow in so many different shades of shimmering blues is described in an almost otherworldly way.
If you. are a visual reader and you like that kind of writing you really need to read this.
The essence of the Caribbean is present through the whole book. I have never been to the Bahamas, but I’ve been to other Caribbean islands, and this book left in my soul a longing to go back. It Left me thinking about the clear, gentle waters of palm tree, covered islands, and coconuts and Mystic beauty and tropical winds.
You can even inhale the smells and scents. You are put right there. . I’m telling you I was starry eyed reading this.
But there’s violence, and there’s things that could be triggering like slavery and emotional abuse and physical abuse.
And now I will continue on with my review, but I have to put in place spoilers so if you do have an interest in reading this book, I would stop here. For those that have read it or who don’t mind spoilers.
SPOILERS:
Yes, there is a romance in this book. No I generally don’t read much in the way of romance. Yes, I fucking loved the romance in this book.
It is very unlike me to get deeply emotionally invested in a romantic coupling in a book. I read much more romance in my teen years and 20s than I did in my childhood and adulthood. Don’t get me wrong. I have read many a smutty Jackie Collins novel in my time and love them but the point is my tastes have changed, and I don’t read as much romance anymore . But I loved the romance here.
But that is only one part of this book, one aspect, and I was just riveted by everything. I would say not only is this a five star book but one of the best books I’ve read this year and it has been an incredible year of books too.
Still with me?
Well, if anyone knows when part two is coming out feel free to comment in the comment section! Do authors read their own reviews on Goodreads? If so, please, I am yearning for part two. I hope it’s out soon. That was a heck of a way to end the book.
One last thing before I end this review. This year has been interesting for reading because there’s been a few times that some of my favorite books of 2024 have reminded me of some of my favorite books ever. I’m talking about books on my top 20 or 30 of all time.
This one really really reminds me of a book that I read in my youth called Fiona. I read it so many times that it became a joke in my family that I was always reading Fiona. That book also features a main character, who is a stranger in a strange land, and it takes place in the West Indies. It also deals heavily with the issue of slavery, and there was also a tragic romance In that book I guess I like these kind of books!
Five gorgeous turquoise, fragrant, tropical stars for a wonderful story.
- Gina Giordano, Strange Eden (Strange Eden #1)
I am just going to say what I feel. And my first thought, sitting down to write this review was :
How on earth am I going to review a book like this?!
Strange Eden is a five star book.
Everybody should read it . If you have it on your to read list, bump it up.
it is a magnificent, sweeping saga that I literally could not stop reading until I finished.
This is historical fiction that takes place in the 1700s in the Caribbean in a house on a windswept beach in the Bahamas.
I just stumbled upon this book. Within about five seconds of reading what it was about, I knew that I would be reading it soon. I actually stopped reading another book to read this one. I read it over the course of a 48 hour time period.
Eliza is ahead of her time. She is what we would call today, a feminist.
As one might expect, feminism in the 1700s in the Bahamas in a house on a windswept Beach is not received with joy.
Eliza comes to be there after accepting a marriage proposal from Charles, a man whom she really doesn’t know at all.
Eliza has always dreamed of adventure in her life. She never really wanted to be married at all, but she dreams of seeing other, more exotic places and she desperately wants and yearns for freedom and she thinks this marriage will get her that.
The island does not receive her with welcoming arms. She is a stranger in a strange land, a woman in a man’s world and is horrified by some of the things that she sees .
One of them is the international slave trade, and I have to say upfront, that there was a lot of that in this book.
Naturally, Eliza is horrified at this and she wants to change things.
There is also a menacing, Governor’s mansion and a menacing governor, and then there is Cleo , one of the slaves and Celia, another slave, and the angelic Jean, who I can’t say much about.
Oh -- I must not forget the pirates! And there is also a Gothic feel and some super natural events.
But always there is Charles, her husband, and the two of them might be living on different planets for how much they understand each other.
Of course, in the year 2024 they could divorce but as you know things were quite different back then.
Eliza find solace and freedom in the ocean. The house Charles takes her to live in, is located on the beach with the swirl of the glittering waters inches from her at all times.
Eliza has no fear of the water. it is her friend.
I have to take a moment and say that this is one of the most lush, visually magnificent, gorgeously written books I’ve ever had the pleasure to read.
The island, and it’s tropical winds, the beach, and it’s ethereal glow in so many different shades of shimmering blues is described in an almost otherworldly way.
If you. are a visual reader and you like that kind of writing you really need to read this.
The essence of the Caribbean is present through the whole book. I have never been to the Bahamas, but I’ve been to other Caribbean islands, and this book left in my soul a longing to go back. It Left me thinking about the clear, gentle waters of palm tree, covered islands, and coconuts and Mystic beauty and tropical winds.
You can even inhale the smells and scents. You are put right there. . I’m telling you I was starry eyed reading this.
But there’s violence, and there’s things that could be triggering like slavery and emotional abuse and physical abuse.
And now I will continue on with my review, but I have to put in place spoilers so if you do have an interest in reading this book, I would stop here. For those that have read it or who don’t mind spoilers.
SPOILERS:
Yes, there is a romance in this book. No I generally don’t read much in the way of romance. Yes, I fucking loved the romance in this book.
It is very unlike me to get deeply emotionally invested in a romantic coupling in a book. I read much more romance in my teen years and 20s than I did in my childhood and adulthood. Don’t get me wrong. I have read many a smutty Jackie Collins novel in my time and love them but the point is my tastes have changed, and I don’t read as much romance anymore . But I loved the romance here.
But that is only one part of this book, one aspect, and I was just riveted by everything. I would say not only is this a five star book but one of the best books I’ve read this year and it has been an incredible year of books too.
Still with me?
Well, if anyone knows when part two is coming out feel free to comment in the comment section! Do authors read their own reviews on Goodreads? If so, please, I am yearning for part two. I hope it’s out soon. That was a heck of a way to end the book.
One last thing before I end this review. This year has been interesting for reading because there’s been a few times that some of my favorite books of 2024 have reminded me of some of my favorite books ever. I’m talking about books on my top 20 or 30 of all time.
This one really really reminds me of a book that I read in my youth called Fiona. I read it so many times that it became a joke in my family that I was always reading Fiona. That book also features a main character, who is a stranger in a strange land, and it takes place in the West Indies. It also deals heavily with the issue of slavery, and there was also a tragic romance In that book I guess I like these kind of books!
Five gorgeous turquoise, fragrant, tropical stars for a wonderful story.
November 16, 2023
Woah… so many emotions compressed in this book. Honestly I’m not sure of what to say but I’ll try my bets.
A warning tho, this book has some Violet scenes and a cliff hunger that really hursts at the end.
The book follows Eliza, a woman who knows she’s not cut out for the ideal wife of the times. Against everything she believes she marries Charles, a man who offers her a life in an exotic Caribbean island. There she finds herself a front row seat to the cruelty of the slave trade, the plantations and a man who embodies everting in him. She moves in the island trying to survive her husband and enjoy the ocean and the marvels the land gives her. But life doesn’t seem offer as much freedom as she hoped. Powerless agains the cruelty society embodies she fights small battles to try and help others and herself.
The story is really well written. I loved to read the descriptions of the place. You could feel how much Eliza loved the ocean and her surroundings. The characters are incredibly well written and have powerful depths to them. It was nice to read how Eliza goes against Charles and powerful man to fight for her beliefs. I really hope to read more about her story and quest for justice for everyone.
My opinions:
- I loved how sincerely Eliza’s emotions were portrayed
- Loved the setting
- Loved that the author included the bibliography (will defiantly read some of those)
Go read this if you like historical fiction! It was an incredible emotional roller coaster!
A warning tho, this book has some Violet scenes and a cliff hunger that really hursts at the end.
The book follows Eliza, a woman who knows she’s not cut out for the ideal wife of the times. Against everything she believes she marries Charles, a man who offers her a life in an exotic Caribbean island. There she finds herself a front row seat to the cruelty of the slave trade, the plantations and a man who embodies everting in him. She moves in the island trying to survive her husband and enjoy the ocean and the marvels the land gives her. But life doesn’t seem offer as much freedom as she hoped. Powerless agains the cruelty society embodies she fights small battles to try and help others and herself.
The story is really well written. I loved to read the descriptions of the place. You could feel how much Eliza loved the ocean and her surroundings. The characters are incredibly well written and have powerful depths to them. It was nice to read how Eliza goes against Charles and powerful man to fight for her beliefs. I really hope to read more about her story and quest for justice for everyone.
My opinions:
- I loved how sincerely Eliza’s emotions were portrayed
- Loved the setting
- Loved that the author included the bibliography (will defiantly read some of those)
Go read this if you like historical fiction! It was an incredible emotional roller coaster!
June 10, 2024
I received an AD PR copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Insta Book Tours.
Strange Eden is a breathtaking debut historical fiction book that completely captivates and pulls you into the story.
Set in 1791 in the Bahamas, we follow Eliza, who's a feminist way ahead of her time. I loved Elizas character and spirit from the instant we meet her. Free spirited, adventurous, and filled with dreams, Eliza becomes engaged to Charles and moves to the carribean island to live with him. The shock and despair she experiences she tries in whatever small way she can to help others suffering as well as ease her own,as she's married to a monster and no matter her exotic, beautiful surrounding she cannot escape the horrors happening around her.
The book is very vividly brought to life, and I could almost feel the wind in my hair and hear the sound of the ocean. It's truly heartbreaking to envisage the horrors the people in the book faced for the time period as it is set when slavery was rife.
This is a deep, well researched, and thought-provoking book I urge all to read.
Strange Eden is a breathtaking debut historical fiction book that completely captivates and pulls you into the story.
Set in 1791 in the Bahamas, we follow Eliza, who's a feminist way ahead of her time. I loved Elizas character and spirit from the instant we meet her. Free spirited, adventurous, and filled with dreams, Eliza becomes engaged to Charles and moves to the carribean island to live with him. The shock and despair she experiences she tries in whatever small way she can to help others suffering as well as ease her own,as she's married to a monster and no matter her exotic, beautiful surrounding she cannot escape the horrors happening around her.
The book is very vividly brought to life, and I could almost feel the wind in my hair and hear the sound of the ocean. It's truly heartbreaking to envisage the horrors the people in the book faced for the time period as it is set when slavery was rife.
This is a deep, well researched, and thought-provoking book I urge all to read.
August 20, 2024
Really enjoying this book. So atmospheric, I'm watching it come to life in my mind.
Here it is!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️The author does an incredible job at creating an atmospheric, dark historical tale that takes place in colonial times in Nassau Bahamas at Pleasant Hall plantation. Picture a beautiful island surrounded by pristine azure water. We’ve got pirates and debauchery. Slaves and forbidden love. History and current affairs. The traditional island ways of life. Of which all are intertwined with each other in this page-turning novel.
I highly recommend Strange Eden for historical fiction readers who want a little bit of a Caribbean flair.
The beginning of Charles and Eliza’s dowry-marriage is distant at best. Eliza is very chatty and often speaks when it’s not advised. She can be rather annoying to some. She is defiant and independent. Charles is a lieutenant colonel in the island's army. He's got his own set of troubles both in his past and his current life. He's abusive in many ways. Eliza is completely enraptured with the island and all its creatures in the ocean. She prefers to escape life's troubles in the ocean's serene blue waters and in the arms of another man.
You’ll definitely want the read the next book in this series.
Special thanks to the author @ginagiordanobooks for the opportunity to read this beautiful book.
Here it is!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️The author does an incredible job at creating an atmospheric, dark historical tale that takes place in colonial times in Nassau Bahamas at Pleasant Hall plantation. Picture a beautiful island surrounded by pristine azure water. We’ve got pirates and debauchery. Slaves and forbidden love. History and current affairs. The traditional island ways of life. Of which all are intertwined with each other in this page-turning novel.
I highly recommend Strange Eden for historical fiction readers who want a little bit of a Caribbean flair.
The beginning of Charles and Eliza’s dowry-marriage is distant at best. Eliza is very chatty and often speaks when it’s not advised. She can be rather annoying to some. She is defiant and independent. Charles is a lieutenant colonel in the island's army. He's got his own set of troubles both in his past and his current life. He's abusive in many ways. Eliza is completely enraptured with the island and all its creatures in the ocean. She prefers to escape life's troubles in the ocean's serene blue waters and in the arms of another man.
You’ll definitely want the read the next book in this series.
Special thanks to the author @ginagiordanobooks for the opportunity to read this beautiful book.
October 1, 2025
Welp, iam NOT okay. lol the emotions that you go through in this book. Man, it was very good.
This book has so much going on. Sometimes I wondered about Eliza why she even got married, so quickly just speaking to a man, after a short conversation.
You can see Eliza has grown so much, throughout this whole book. The things go on, man I feel like I can’t complain what I go through life lol just kidding, but being all serious, that being able to see someone naive to learn the harsh reality, is bad in a way….??? But at the same time to see how the world really works.
Also, can’t wait to read the next book. 😁 but first I need a breather then read it lol
This book has so much going on. Sometimes I wondered about Eliza why she even got married, so quickly just speaking to a man, after a short conversation.
You can see Eliza has grown so much, throughout this whole book. The things go on, man I feel like I can’t complain what I go through life lol just kidding, but being all serious, that being able to see someone naive to learn the harsh reality, is bad in a way….??? But at the same time to see how the world really works.
Also, can’t wait to read the next book. 😁 but first I need a breather then read it lol
July 23, 2024
TITLE: STRANGE EDEN
AUTHOR: GINA GIORDANO
PUB DATE: 12.13.2022
I love historical fiction and STRANGE EDEN is set in the late 1700’s Georgian era England and then the Bahamas. The story is centered on the last remaining unmarried daughter Eliza Hastings who finally received an offer of marriage from a baron and lieutenant colonel of the British Legion, Lord Charles Sharpe. Quickly Eliza discovers her husband’s true nature of violence, dismissiveness, and domineering trait. Moreover, as slave master, Eliza is just horrified with her situation.
I found the writing compelling and engaging, that opens my eyes to a time in history and location I am not as familiar with. Eliza’s voice gives the reader an eye opening point of view of a woman ahead of her time, and one that challenges old views, patriarchy, and colonialism.
Fantastic start of a series and perfect for gothic romance readers.
AUTHOR: GINA GIORDANO
PUB DATE: 12.13.2022
I love historical fiction and STRANGE EDEN is set in the late 1700’s Georgian era England and then the Bahamas. The story is centered on the last remaining unmarried daughter Eliza Hastings who finally received an offer of marriage from a baron and lieutenant colonel of the British Legion, Lord Charles Sharpe. Quickly Eliza discovers her husband’s true nature of violence, dismissiveness, and domineering trait. Moreover, as slave master, Eliza is just horrified with her situation.
I found the writing compelling and engaging, that opens my eyes to a time in history and location I am not as familiar with. Eliza’s voice gives the reader an eye opening point of view of a woman ahead of her time, and one that challenges old views, patriarchy, and colonialism.
Fantastic start of a series and perfect for gothic romance readers.
June 16, 2025
I found this book through a group on Facebook for both authors and readers. After seeing a post from Gina I asked for a copy of the eBook - hands down the best decision I have made this year. This book is one of the best historical fictions I have ever read.
Eliza is nothing like the other women in the time period. Set in the Bahamas, it explores slavery - showing how awful our past really is. It also explores history’s misogyny and views towards women, whether they are the lowest or upper class.
This book is the perfect concoction of romance, heartbreak and history. I could not put this book down, and actually message Gina whilst I was reading it to show my disgust with Charles (unfortunately I think most people have met a pig like him).
I CANNOT wait for the next book. I have found another favourite author. 10/10 will recommend this to anyone who enjoys this genre.
Eliza is nothing like the other women in the time period. Set in the Bahamas, it explores slavery - showing how awful our past really is. It also explores history’s misogyny and views towards women, whether they are the lowest or upper class.
This book is the perfect concoction of romance, heartbreak and history. I could not put this book down, and actually message Gina whilst I was reading it to show my disgust with Charles (unfortunately I think most people have met a pig like him).
I CANNOT wait for the next book. I have found another favourite author. 10/10 will recommend this to anyone who enjoys this genre.
July 8, 2024
Wow this was some adventure, if you can imagine Poldark on a Caribbean island, this is the book for you.
I was totally captivated by this story and although a little lengthy, I absolutely enjoyed this tropical adventure set in the late 1700's Colonial Bahamas.
This was by no means an easy read in places, detailing the dark history of the slave trade and the rape and emotional abuse of women during that time.
Strange Eden follows the journey of Eliza Sharpe and her new soldier husband Charles and their move from England to the Bahamas. The island is not what is seems and Eliza struggles to adapt to life in a foreign land but finds comfort in the company of a stranger.
A raw, beautiful, emotional and heart-wrenching story filled with love, desire, mystery and ghostly spirits as well as political intrigue, slavery, power, abuse and corruption.
This novel's exotic setting is descriptively stunning and creatively visual as well as thought provoking and clearly very well researched.
Congratulations to Gina Giordano on a wonderful debut novel.
I cannot wait to read the 2nd book in this series.
4.5 stars superb!
I was totally captivated by this story and although a little lengthy, I absolutely enjoyed this tropical adventure set in the late 1700's Colonial Bahamas.
This was by no means an easy read in places, detailing the dark history of the slave trade and the rape and emotional abuse of women during that time.
Strange Eden follows the journey of Eliza Sharpe and her new soldier husband Charles and their move from England to the Bahamas. The island is not what is seems and Eliza struggles to adapt to life in a foreign land but finds comfort in the company of a stranger.
A raw, beautiful, emotional and heart-wrenching story filled with love, desire, mystery and ghostly spirits as well as political intrigue, slavery, power, abuse and corruption.
This novel's exotic setting is descriptively stunning and creatively visual as well as thought provoking and clearly very well researched.
Congratulations to Gina Giordano on a wonderful debut novel.
I cannot wait to read the 2nd book in this series.
4.5 stars superb!
February 24, 2024
Wow! This was a great debute novel. I really didn’t know what this was going to be about, I mean I knew it was an historical fiction but I was blown away. It was a uniquely written in a way that held me completely captive. It took place in the Bahamas in 1791 where slavery was still a thing and white women were also basically treated as property. The writing brought me right to the beaches and the humidity. I felt the warm breeze and the desperation of the characters. The struggle of the marriage and the hopeless of the situations. And then I reached the end and can’t wait for book 2.
Thanks to BooksGoSocial via NetGalley.
Thanks to BooksGoSocial via NetGalley.
June 8, 2024
We visited Nassau last year, and it’s a place full of rich history, that made for me this story irresistible. Strange Eden is a haunting and well researched novel, it touches heavy subjects such as slavery written in a way that simply draws you in. Captivating, immersive and thought provoking.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours for this tour invite.
𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗘𝗱𝗲𝗻 by @ginagiordanobooks released December 13, 2022.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours for this tour invite.
𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗘𝗱𝗲𝗻 by @ginagiordanobooks released December 13, 2022.
August 30, 2023
In 1791, Elizabeth finds herself in England with no interest in the confines of marriage. That is, until she meets a mysterious soldier and quickly accepts his hand in return for an adventurous life traveling to the Bahamas. She soon discovers that her new husband, Charles, is nothing how he first appeared. The freedom she sought in this new marriage is nowhere to be found as she experiences an abusive husband and the strict social constraints of society on the island. She is also exposed to the brutalities of slavery for the first time and comes to terms with the harsh world around her. Her only comforts are the ocean and a mysterious, handsome stranger, Jean, who promises he will help her to escape. Will she be able to find the freedom she longs for or will the corrupt island keep her in its clutches?
I want to start off by saying that you can physically feel how much research this author has put into this book. I enjoy reading historical fiction in order to learn more about different times and places and people and Strange Eden effortlessly exuded rich information on every page, but not in a way that made me feel like I was reading a textbook. I really enjoyed Elizabeth’s character development over the course of the story and getting such an in depth view into her mind as she experiences so many things for the first time and it was easy to become invested in her story. I found her character to be very relatable and it was easy to root for her; her longing for freedom, purpose, and adventure were palpable. Strange Eden is also truly so atmospheric and descriptions of the island and the ocean were so vivid.
I will say that this book tackled various heavy topics (slavery, misogyny, sexual violence, etc.) and I found it helpful to take my time to digest everything. This novel dives deep into racial and gendered hierarchies and I admired how Giordano tackled these aspects of history head on.
I would also like to thank Gina Giordano for gifting me a free copy of her book in return for an honest review 🩵
I want to start off by saying that you can physically feel how much research this author has put into this book. I enjoy reading historical fiction in order to learn more about different times and places and people and Strange Eden effortlessly exuded rich information on every page, but not in a way that made me feel like I was reading a textbook. I really enjoyed Elizabeth’s character development over the course of the story and getting such an in depth view into her mind as she experiences so many things for the first time and it was easy to become invested in her story. I found her character to be very relatable and it was easy to root for her; her longing for freedom, purpose, and adventure were palpable. Strange Eden is also truly so atmospheric and descriptions of the island and the ocean were so vivid.
I will say that this book tackled various heavy topics (slavery, misogyny, sexual violence, etc.) and I found it helpful to take my time to digest everything. This novel dives deep into racial and gendered hierarchies and I admired how Giordano tackled these aspects of history head on.
I would also like to thank Gina Giordano for gifting me a free copy of her book in return for an honest review 🩵
July 21, 2024
This book is so haunting descriptive and beautiful, the author makes you feel like you are actually there in the Bahamas, you can almost see and taste the salt in air and the beautiful island. I loved the story and felt so captivated by it, I felt like I couldn't put the books down. Eliza is a feminist, she doesn't want the life of a woman in her time, she wants to travel, see the world, experience life, to do this she accepts the marriage proposal of Charles as he is going back to the Bahamas to his families estate. This is definitely a tale of marry in haste, repent in leisure, and a costly mistake for Eliza. She has to learn to deal with a cruel husband, the advances of the lecherous governor, finding and losing the love of her life in a strange place. Gina captures the feeling of utter hopelessness and being trapped in a world Eliza doesn't understand. The author also doesn't shy away from the horrors of the slave trade and life in the colonies.
Charles doesn't love Eliza, he wants to possess her. He tries to cage her in the house, but her love of the water makes her feel free, he hates what she is but is also fascinated by her. She finds solace in Jean who accepts her for who she is, but they uncover a series of lies and intrigue that threaten all of them.
The book is full of strong female characters, and it shows the resilience women of the time had to have, you see the bonds created between Eliza and the female slaves in a time when they were both property of the master, Cleo tries to help Eliza understand why Charles is the way he is.
There is also a supernatural element to the book, which makes the story so hauntingly atmospheric.
Charles doesn't love Eliza, he wants to possess her. He tries to cage her in the house, but her love of the water makes her feel free, he hates what she is but is also fascinated by her. She finds solace in Jean who accepts her for who she is, but they uncover a series of lies and intrigue that threaten all of them.
The book is full of strong female characters, and it shows the resilience women of the time had to have, you see the bonds created between Eliza and the female slaves in a time when they were both property of the master, Cleo tries to help Eliza understand why Charles is the way he is.
There is also a supernatural element to the book, which makes the story so hauntingly atmospheric.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2023
“You cannot force someone to love you, and you cannot force someone to stop loving you. Just like you cannot make someone rich and keep them happy. Money and happiness are not the same matter.”
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This book was so good! Set in 1791 in Nassau, Bahamas, this setting was so unique and instantly pulled me in. Eliza as a character is relatable in a distant kind of way, as I haven’t experienced most of what she has, but I can understand her way of thinking and her convictions resonate with me deeply.
This tackles several heavy topics, and I definitely felt the weight of them while reading. Eliza experiences despair and heartache and faces impossible situations time and again, and that reality made my heart ache for her. It also meant that I took my time digesting the story. I wished at times that the chapters were a little shorter, but I appreciated that there were breaks within them to allow me a place to stop more easily.
Despite the heavy subject matter, I loved the way this story was woven together and I felt that matters such as slavery, which was prominent in history at this time, was discussed in a real, but reflective and respectful way. My heart and soul are reeling from this experience and I am waiting with bated breath to continue with Eliza’s journey.
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This book was so good! Set in 1791 in Nassau, Bahamas, this setting was so unique and instantly pulled me in. Eliza as a character is relatable in a distant kind of way, as I haven’t experienced most of what she has, but I can understand her way of thinking and her convictions resonate with me deeply.
This tackles several heavy topics, and I definitely felt the weight of them while reading. Eliza experiences despair and heartache and faces impossible situations time and again, and that reality made my heart ache for her. It also meant that I took my time digesting the story. I wished at times that the chapters were a little shorter, but I appreciated that there were breaks within them to allow me a place to stop more easily.
Despite the heavy subject matter, I loved the way this story was woven together and I felt that matters such as slavery, which was prominent in history at this time, was discussed in a real, but reflective and respectful way. My heart and soul are reeling from this experience and I am waiting with bated breath to continue with Eliza’s journey.
June 15, 2024
Well, it’s my day on the @instabooktours today and what a treat this book turned out to be. It’s so wonderful to discover a new author and even better to discover a new series just as the second book is being released! We follow Eliza in her bid to break free from the bonds of her parents but has she jumped straight into the bonds of her husband? I loved everything about this from the opening scene set amidst the Ton and their matchmaking ways, to journey by ship to foreign lands far away. The relationships that follow, whether they’re romantic or friendships were eye opening and I had a vested interest in how Eliza was going to be. Which is why I jumped at buying the second one straightaway. Both books are a mere 78p in the kindle store and beyond worth it! Thank you for having me on the tour I raced through this and am desperately restraining myself from jumping straight into number two in order to savour it!
April 30, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, Eliza is such a strong woman for her time period and has no interest in conforming to societies expectations of her sex.
Gina has done a wonderful job of creating a story set within the time period of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. She perfectly encapsulates the feelings of those for an against the trade and the ‘happy attitude’ slaves must use at all times. I particularly enjoyed one Slave who struggled to hide her contempt, she helps Eliza realise many important truths about the new world she has been thrown into.
It was very refreshing to read a story where a character truely hates another character with every fibre of their being and that nothing they do or say can change that.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series and seeing how Eliza further grows as a character.
Gina has done a wonderful job of creating a story set within the time period of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. She perfectly encapsulates the feelings of those for an against the trade and the ‘happy attitude’ slaves must use at all times. I particularly enjoyed one Slave who struggled to hide her contempt, she helps Eliza realise many important truths about the new world she has been thrown into.
It was very refreshing to read a story where a character truely hates another character with every fibre of their being and that nothing they do or say can change that.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series and seeing how Eliza further grows as a character.
December 15, 2025
Strange Eden is a sweeping story that takes place in Nassau, Bahamas. It's set in 1791 when colonialism was in full flow, and slavery was still deemed as normal.
Rich in description and prose, Giordano blends history with fiction and brings the story to life from between the pages.
I couldn't stop reading. It's an absolutely captivating story full of emotion and depth; one of heartbreak and romance.
A breathtaking debut!
Rich in description and prose, Giordano blends history with fiction and brings the story to life from between the pages.
I couldn't stop reading. It's an absolutely captivating story full of emotion and depth; one of heartbreak and romance.
A breathtaking debut!
May 13, 2023
An emotional roller coaster ride and ends on a cliff hanger!
Strange Eden
This book was a roller coaster and ends on a cliff hanger! Hurry Up and write the sequel!
The historical background to the main plot was well researched. The main plot itself had some twists and turns-- during the times of rum runners, slave trade & sugar cane..and the pirates?? Did I mention pirates? Women during that time period were thought of as possessions and not as equals--which is one of the main problems the heroine in the story faces.. repeatedly..again.. and again..This book would appeal to anyone who like historical romances and likes this time period in history.
Strange Eden
This book was a roller coaster and ends on a cliff hanger! Hurry Up and write the sequel!
The historical background to the main plot was well researched. The main plot itself had some twists and turns-- during the times of rum runners, slave trade & sugar cane..and the pirates?? Did I mention pirates? Women during that time period were thought of as possessions and not as equals--which is one of the main problems the heroine in the story faces.. repeatedly..again.. and again..This book would appeal to anyone who like historical romances and likes this time period in history.
August 1, 2023
This book is so lush with detail that I felt that I was right on Bahama Island myself!
I immediately liked Eliza because of her stubbornness and her love of reading. I felt saddened that she was wed to a monster of a man. She was so compassionate to the slaves and really tried to get them to not be mistreated. So this book can be very dark as all slavery is.
It's very long but so engaging. The ending gutted me as I had certain hopes for our heroine! I totally did not expect it to end with a "to be continued"! Makes me wonder what is coming next from this debut author.
I immediately liked Eliza because of her stubbornness and her love of reading. I felt saddened that she was wed to a monster of a man. She was so compassionate to the slaves and really tried to get them to not be mistreated. So this book can be very dark as all slavery is.
It's very long but so engaging. The ending gutted me as I had certain hopes for our heroine! I totally did not expect it to end with a "to be continued"! Makes me wonder what is coming next from this debut author.
December 12, 2023
I finished this book but it left me frustrated.
Some of the book is good, the depictions of certain characters and some who are actually genuine.
Eliza was a twit and acted idiotic throughout most of the book. She gives no thought to her situation and expects others to bail her out. She also loves to place all the blame on Charles, who I actually had a lot of empathy toward.
Thanks to Books Go Social and NetGalley for the early copy.
Some of the book is good, the depictions of certain characters and some who are actually genuine.
Eliza was a twit and acted idiotic throughout most of the book. She gives no thought to her situation and expects others to bail her out. She also loves to place all the blame on Charles, who I actually had a lot of empathy toward.
Thanks to Books Go Social and NetGalley for the early copy.
October 15, 2023
Gosh, I don't think I've ever read a book with that kind of cliff hanger! I sure hope a sequel is coming soon!!
Strange Eden by gina giordano was soooooo good. I devoured it in just over a day, and at over 450 pages, that is no easy feat for me! Set in the bahamas in the 1700s, Eliza, a young woman from England, finds herself married to a stranger, Charles who runs a plantation and is immersed in the slave trade. Eliza is not your average Lady, and has some very forward ideas and beliefs for a woman from this era, much to the embarrassment and frustration of her husband and the disbelief of the other members of high society on the island. Eliza doesn't think twice before attempting to befriend her slaves, sneaking off to go swimming in the sea and voicing her opinions, despite her husband's warnings not to do all of these things. But there are dangers that lurk on the island, many of which her husband knows little about, including the slaves' belief that the house is haunted, something Eliza seems to also believe.
Between dangers, secrets and a tumultuous political climate, there is quite a bit of action, especially in the last 1/4 of the book which ends in a powerful cliffhanger! But more than anything, this author knows her stuff. The book is highly referenced and has such intricate detail I could imagine the island and the way of life at that time period. This made me want to dive into more books on this subject (but mostly just the sequel... when is that coming out btw?!) and I learned so much about things I didn't realize I didn't know a lot about! Pirates? The American Revolution? Plantation life south of the US? Well I definitely know a lot more now!
This book is so interesting and extremely well written. It was more than I could have imagined and a very powerful debut! I CANNOT wait to see what this author comes up with in the future (*cough* a sequel right?!) Thanks so much to the author and to breysbooktours for giving me the chance to read and review this fantastic book! Go get a copy of this book!
Strange Eden by gina giordano was soooooo good. I devoured it in just over a day, and at over 450 pages, that is no easy feat for me! Set in the bahamas in the 1700s, Eliza, a young woman from England, finds herself married to a stranger, Charles who runs a plantation and is immersed in the slave trade. Eliza is not your average Lady, and has some very forward ideas and beliefs for a woman from this era, much to the embarrassment and frustration of her husband and the disbelief of the other members of high society on the island. Eliza doesn't think twice before attempting to befriend her slaves, sneaking off to go swimming in the sea and voicing her opinions, despite her husband's warnings not to do all of these things. But there are dangers that lurk on the island, many of which her husband knows little about, including the slaves' belief that the house is haunted, something Eliza seems to also believe.
Between dangers, secrets and a tumultuous political climate, there is quite a bit of action, especially in the last 1/4 of the book which ends in a powerful cliffhanger! But more than anything, this author knows her stuff. The book is highly referenced and has such intricate detail I could imagine the island and the way of life at that time period. This made me want to dive into more books on this subject (but mostly just the sequel... when is that coming out btw?!) and I learned so much about things I didn't realize I didn't know a lot about! Pirates? The American Revolution? Plantation life south of the US? Well I definitely know a lot more now!
This book is so interesting and extremely well written. It was more than I could have imagined and a very powerful debut! I CANNOT wait to see what this author comes up with in the future (*cough* a sequel right?!) Thanks so much to the author and to breysbooktours for giving me the chance to read and review this fantastic book! Go get a copy of this book!
November 15, 2023
An entirely captivating story. The writing boasts of wonderfully written imagery—placing you directly in the narrative.
The characters are so dynamic—imperfect and humanized. Social Justice is the foundation of the story and the author does a magnificent job of showing the complexities of political, cultural, and social issues of the time—many of which still exist today. Eliza, the main character, is admirable and passionate about justice (which the author did a great job of avoiding “white savior complex”).
An excellent debut novel!
The characters are so dynamic—imperfect and humanized. Social Justice is the foundation of the story and the author does a magnificent job of showing the complexities of political, cultural, and social issues of the time—many of which still exist today. Eliza, the main character, is admirable and passionate about justice (which the author did a great job of avoiding “white savior complex”).
An excellent debut novel!
August 24, 2024
A novel drenched in personal anguish, torment, premonitions beyond understanding, and a young woman's journey.
Strange Eden is a wealth of contradictions. Usually when I am reading a book about misfortunes of my FMC, I picture a dark world full of muted tones. however, while Eliza's story is full of personal torment and innocence-altering anguish, the world is bright and colorful. There is magic in the serenity of the water and of some of the people that she meets.
We meet someone that we hate but someone very wise tells us not to. We meet someone that makes our heart swoon but we are told not to trust him. It is confusing to the reader and Eliza and I love that we get to be along for the ride.
The beauty in this writing, is that color dims when she is around those those torment her. The book is very much centered around on what Eliza is feeling and how she is experiencing the world around her.
Giordano depicts the colorful world beautifully but even when she isn't describing the bright colors of Nassau, when Eliza is troubled and indoors....the world is darker. The contrasting emotions is clear in not just how Eliza sees the world, but how the author has built this world.
The story is enthralling and fast paced. There are several time jumps (days/weeks...nothing large) that are mentioned casually and not always easily caught, but it adds to the chaos and lose that Eliza is feeling.
Overall: Recommend!
Strange Eden is a wealth of contradictions. Usually when I am reading a book about misfortunes of my FMC, I picture a dark world full of muted tones. however, while Eliza's story is full of personal torment and innocence-altering anguish, the world is bright and colorful. There is magic in the serenity of the water and of some of the people that she meets.
We meet someone that we hate but someone very wise tells us not to. We meet someone that makes our heart swoon but we are told not to trust him. It is confusing to the reader and Eliza and I love that we get to be along for the ride.
The beauty in this writing, is that color dims when she is around those those torment her. The book is very much centered around on what Eliza is feeling and how she is experiencing the world around her.
Giordano depicts the colorful world beautifully but even when she isn't describing the bright colors of Nassau, when Eliza is troubled and indoors....the world is darker. The contrasting emotions is clear in not just how Eliza sees the world, but how the author has built this world.
The story is enthralling and fast paced. There are several time jumps (days/weeks...nothing large) that are mentioned casually and not always easily caught, but it adds to the chaos and lose that Eliza is feeling.
Overall: Recommend!
May 31, 2024
It’s been a good minute since I have read a historical fiction book & let me tell you it did not disappoint!
I was seriously blown away, the author did an amazing job with the historical knowledge she was giving us with this book.
I loved how the characters pulled you in and you felt what they were feeling all their emotions..
Not just that but this book really had you feeling the characters desperations and had you feeling some type of way, I can’t really explain.
& Let me say at first I did not like the main MMC, but then getting to learn more about him you see how his childhood broke him and any compassion he might’ve had died.
The side Mc I felt soo bad for him, he really cared for the FMC🥺
The FMC I loved how freaking unpredictable she was lol
& then that cliffhanger, thank the author for the new book coming out soon glad I stumbled upon this book a while back honestly the cover had caught my attention.. I don’t read the blurbs I like being surprised in what I’m reading seeing if I’ll like it or not and soo glad I found this one and LOVEDDD ITTT!!
I was seriously blown away, the author did an amazing job with the historical knowledge she was giving us with this book.
I loved how the characters pulled you in and you felt what they were feeling all their emotions..
Not just that but this book really had you feeling the characters desperations and had you feeling some type of way, I can’t really explain.
& Let me say at first I did not like the main MMC, but then getting to learn more about him you see how his childhood broke him and any compassion he might’ve had died.
The side Mc I felt soo bad for him, he really cared for the FMC🥺
The FMC I loved how freaking unpredictable she was lol
& then that cliffhanger, thank the author for the new book coming out soon glad I stumbled upon this book a while back honestly the cover had caught my attention.. I don’t read the blurbs I like being surprised in what I’m reading seeing if I’ll like it or not and soo glad I found this one and LOVEDDD ITTT!!
June 25, 2024
This was a departure from my usual fantasy/romantasy reads, and boy, what a surprisingly lovely read! Strange Eden is very underrated and deserves a lot more hype.
The rollercoaster of emotions while reading this was so satisfying, and I found myself eagerly flipping to the next page, even in the slower parts of the story.
Eliza is a delight, and very ahead of her times. Her clear defiance of societal and gender norms for the 1700's is entertaining, charming, and most of all respectable. Even as the blinders of her sheltered upbringing fall off and she becomes someone who partakes in infidelity, causes unintentional harm to others, and is unfortunately thrust into the world of owning slaves, Eliza's intentions in these matters still shine through as pure and desperate for better. Her instant desire to connect with the slaves, recognize them as people, seek to understand their culture and see their beauty in a time when many of her countrymen and others did not agree shows the quality of her character.
I'll admit, at the start I didn't have a read on Charles, but was hopeful for his character and thought maybe this would be a slow friends to lovers. And that's not to say the romance in this book isn't friends to lovers with a deliciously slow burn, but for the first half of the book I was really left wondering how this would play out and when. Thank god it wasn't Charles.
If you've ever had the misfortune of dealing with a Charles personally, I'm sure you'll relate to Eliza's predicament. The constant anxiety, feelings of rebellion quickly squashed with a glance or sentence, the oppressive weight of knowing you need to change your circumstances but not knowing how...to say this left me angry at points of the book would be an understatement. Since I am usually all about morally grey and secret ambitions being revealed that explain a nasty first impression, I really don't have anything positive to say about Charles at this point. He just isn't a loveable character. Whether the intention is for him to stay this way or for his reasonings to be revealed in book two, I'm eager to find out.
Although it took about 50% of the book for an introduction, I immediately adored Jean. As one is supposed to. Like Eliza, he is ahead of his times in many of ideologies and where Charles seeks to tear Eliza down to her qualities, Jean loves her for who she is. The fleetingness of their interactions and love story left me sad, and I didn't see the ending coming. I wanted to know more!
The inclusion of Cleo, Celia, Lucy, and all the others at Pleasant Hall were such a beautiful part of this story. There is a lot of sadness laced throughout each paragraph, but there were also so many moments of kindness, acceptance, family, religion, customs, history that added a richness to this read. As a group of people who never needed to show a moment of kindness or understanding to those around them because of the circumstances forced upon them, all of them, especially Cleo, are a special kind of strong and inspiring to overcome (at least towards Eliza) what I could only imagine is a lot of hate.
I really took my time reading each page and am glad I came across Strange Eden and The Island King (book 2) on an Instagram add. Can't wait to read book 2.
The rollercoaster of emotions while reading this was so satisfying, and I found myself eagerly flipping to the next page, even in the slower parts of the story.
Eliza is a delight, and very ahead of her times. Her clear defiance of societal and gender norms for the 1700's is entertaining, charming, and most of all respectable. Even as the blinders of her sheltered upbringing fall off and she becomes someone who partakes in infidelity, causes unintentional harm to others, and is unfortunately thrust into the world of owning slaves, Eliza's intentions in these matters still shine through as pure and desperate for better. Her instant desire to connect with the slaves, recognize them as people, seek to understand their culture and see their beauty in a time when many of her countrymen and others did not agree shows the quality of her character.
I'll admit, at the start I didn't have a read on Charles, but was hopeful for his character and thought maybe this would be a slow friends to lovers. And that's not to say the romance in this book isn't friends to lovers with a deliciously slow burn, but for the first half of the book I was really left wondering how this would play out and when. Thank god it wasn't Charles.
If you've ever had the misfortune of dealing with a Charles personally, I'm sure you'll relate to Eliza's predicament. The constant anxiety, feelings of rebellion quickly squashed with a glance or sentence, the oppressive weight of knowing you need to change your circumstances but not knowing how...to say this left me angry at points of the book would be an understatement. Since I am usually all about morally grey and secret ambitions being revealed that explain a nasty first impression, I really don't have anything positive to say about Charles at this point. He just isn't a loveable character. Whether the intention is for him to stay this way or for his reasonings to be revealed in book two, I'm eager to find out.
Although it took about 50% of the book for an introduction, I immediately adored Jean. As one is supposed to. Like Eliza, he is ahead of his times in many of ideologies and where Charles seeks to tear Eliza down to her qualities, Jean loves her for who she is. The fleetingness of their interactions and love story left me sad, and I didn't see the ending coming. I wanted to know more!
The inclusion of Cleo, Celia, Lucy, and all the others at Pleasant Hall were such a beautiful part of this story. There is a lot of sadness laced throughout each paragraph, but there were also so many moments of kindness, acceptance, family, religion, customs, history that added a richness to this read. As a group of people who never needed to show a moment of kindness or understanding to those around them because of the circumstances forced upon them, all of them, especially Cleo, are a special kind of strong and inspiring to overcome (at least towards Eliza) what I could only imagine is a lot of hate.
I really took my time reading each page and am glad I came across Strange Eden and The Island King (book 2) on an Instagram add. Can't wait to read book 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2024
It is so good. I can't wait to read anything she writes.
October 7, 2023
This book was so so good! The FMC was like the tinder needed to start a fire and boy, did she start a big one when she crossed waters with her new husband. She was like the unpredictable waters she crossed, untamable and full of passion.
At first, you think the MMC is just a foul monster. As you read more you find out his past as a childhood ruined him and broke any compassion he had. I felt so bad for the MMC. Then I felt bad for the side MC, sure he was charting dangerous "waters" but he cared for the FMC.
This had so much going on-ghosts, flashbacks, African vudu, it keeps you hooked. I can't wait for book 2!
At first, you think the MMC is just a foul monster. As you read more you find out his past as a childhood ruined him and broke any compassion he had. I felt so bad for the MMC. Then I felt bad for the side MC, sure he was charting dangerous "waters" but he cared for the FMC.
This had so much going on-ghosts, flashbacks, African vudu, it keeps you hooked. I can't wait for book 2!
August 10, 2024
Strange Eden is a book that completely captivated me from start to finish. I started reading it and I stayed up until 3 a.m. and finished it because I was so engrossed in the story.
What sets this book apart is the way the author uses descriptive language to create an incredibly immersive experience. Being from the Bahamas, I felt like I was right back home as I read through the vivid depictions of the water, plants, and environment. The history within the story felt so real and alive, drawing me deeper into the narrative with every page.
The characters were beautifully written, complex and nuanced in a way that made it hard to pick a favorite. Eliza’s pain and struggle resonated with me deeply, and I felt for Charles too. The author did a fantastic job of making each character’s perspective understandable, even when their actions weren’t ideal.
This book blends mystery, fantasy, history, and drama in a way that’s unlike anything I’ve ever read. By far, my favourite book of the year. Five stars, and I’m eagerly looking forward to reading more from this incredibly talented author.
What sets this book apart is the way the author uses descriptive language to create an incredibly immersive experience. Being from the Bahamas, I felt like I was right back home as I read through the vivid depictions of the water, plants, and environment. The history within the story felt so real and alive, drawing me deeper into the narrative with every page.
The characters were beautifully written, complex and nuanced in a way that made it hard to pick a favorite. Eliza’s pain and struggle resonated with me deeply, and I felt for Charles too. The author did a fantastic job of making each character’s perspective understandable, even when their actions weren’t ideal.
This book blends mystery, fantasy, history, and drama in a way that’s unlike anything I’ve ever read. By far, my favourite book of the year. Five stars, and I’m eagerly looking forward to reading more from this incredibly talented author.
August 12, 2024
I really enjoyed Strange Eden. It’s the first book within the series. I really love a good historical fiction novel.
Gina Giordano wrote such a wonderful book! I love the time period where the book is set. So much within Eliza’s story, makes you just feel for her. Married to someone whom she thought would take care of her, turns out to be anyone but that. Charles is just down right cruel. I love picturing a book in my head as a movie while I’m reading it. You imagine it being a beautiful life for Eliza in Nassau Bahamas but it turns out to be a disaster of a marriage for her. Her character goes through so much. I cannot imagine going into a marriage back in those days where your life and feelings aren’t considered by your spouse.
Gina did it with this novel ! This is one book that I will recommend to anyone who loves historical fiction.
Gina Giordano wrote such a wonderful book! I love the time period where the book is set. So much within Eliza’s story, makes you just feel for her. Married to someone whom she thought would take care of her, turns out to be anyone but that. Charles is just down right cruel. I love picturing a book in my head as a movie while I’m reading it. You imagine it being a beautiful life for Eliza in Nassau Bahamas but it turns out to be a disaster of a marriage for her. Her character goes through so much. I cannot imagine going into a marriage back in those days where your life and feelings aren’t considered by your spouse.
Gina did it with this novel ! This is one book that I will recommend to anyone who loves historical fiction.
April 6, 2024
The protagonist of the story is Eliza Sharpe, a woman who marries Charles Sharpe, a man she knows nothing about. The story takes place in 1791, and moves from England to the island of New Providence in the Bahamas. We see her struggling with her new existence, her marriage, seeing how slavery works up close, the climate of the Bahamas and the isolation she lives in on a plantation far from the city. She decides she needs to escape the island and here marriage. Will she succeed?
I liked the book. I love historical fiction, it’s one of my favorite genres. The story was gripping and I wanted to know how life would be on the island for Eliza, and whether she would escape the island or not. The author has done her research on how the slaved and the English lived on the island of New Providence. How the island and nature were at the end of the 18th century. I loved reading the description of the island, how life was and the religion of the slaves. The book gives a good view on how it was for slaves to live on the island. Further I liked the political intrigue in the story.
However I found Eliza to be too naive, so naive that it irritated me. I had a hard time believing that a woman in the 18th century would know so little of what was expected of her in a marriage and her role in the household. Charles, her husband, is portrayed as a monster. But to my knowledge his views were pretty normal for 18th century standards. We’re led to believe that Eliza is innocent, while she brings herself others in danger with her actions. Charles sets himself to uphold the tasks that come with a marriage and she finds that they don’t apply to her. I got the feeling that 21st century ideas were placed in an 18th century woman’s mind.
Although I was irritated from time to time by the leading lady of the story, I would still read part two when that comes out. Since I would like to know how the story goes on.
I liked the book. I love historical fiction, it’s one of my favorite genres. The story was gripping and I wanted to know how life would be on the island for Eliza, and whether she would escape the island or not. The author has done her research on how the slaved and the English lived on the island of New Providence. How the island and nature were at the end of the 18th century. I loved reading the description of the island, how life was and the religion of the slaves. The book gives a good view on how it was for slaves to live on the island. Further I liked the political intrigue in the story.
However I found Eliza to be too naive, so naive that it irritated me. I had a hard time believing that a woman in the 18th century would know so little of what was expected of her in a marriage and her role in the household. Charles, her husband, is portrayed as a monster. But to my knowledge his views were pretty normal for 18th century standards. We’re led to believe that Eliza is innocent, while she brings herself others in danger with her actions. Charles sets himself to uphold the tasks that come with a marriage and she finds that they don’t apply to her. I got the feeling that 21st century ideas were placed in an 18th century woman’s mind.
Although I was irritated from time to time by the leading lady of the story, I would still read part two when that comes out. Since I would like to know how the story goes on.
August 11, 2024
This cover is one of the most beautiful covers of the year for me. It is literally such an instant “buy” cover. And let me tell you, the story inside is just as buy worthy. Set in the Bahamas during 1791, Eliza has been transplanted from her home in England to a tropical estate with a husband who isn’t who he initially appeared to be. Surrounded by the horrendous reality of the slave trade, an irritable and aggressive husband, and haunted by the last, Eliza is a stranger to this land.
Gina Giordano weaves a poetic tale of historical struggle, womanhood, and political corruption in the 1790s.
I read this book on the beach (where I think it’s meant to be most enjoyed!) devouring more than 3/4 of it in one sitting before the sun became too much for me and I had to flee into the shade, where I immediately cracked open the last 1/4 and let Giordano finish spinning her tale for me.
I’ve never wanted to swim so badly than when I was reading this book. Bahamas trip, anyone?
Overall, this book held me enraptured and I highly recommend this to historical and women’s fiction lovers. Get ready to be enchanted.
Gina Giordano weaves a poetic tale of historical struggle, womanhood, and political corruption in the 1790s.
I read this book on the beach (where I think it’s meant to be most enjoyed!) devouring more than 3/4 of it in one sitting before the sun became too much for me and I had to flee into the shade, where I immediately cracked open the last 1/4 and let Giordano finish spinning her tale for me.
I’ve never wanted to swim so badly than when I was reading this book. Bahamas trip, anyone?
Overall, this book held me enraptured and I highly recommend this to historical and women’s fiction lovers. Get ready to be enchanted.
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