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Diamonds Fall
"She noticed as if in a dream, a single diamond hair comb fall to the floor. The sparkling jewels landed face down in the mud."
Annabel Maria Hoddington is the epitome of high society. She has everything money can buy and as befits a lady of her station, is engaged to the richest bachelor in England. However, on the day of her eighteenth birthday - her perfect future on the brink of fulfilment - she is abducted and held hostage in an isolated village, where she finds herself entrapped in the harsh world of poverty. Forced to live amongst three mentally scarred siblings, she must adapt to her new, sinister world...or die.
Annabel Maria Hoddington is the epitome of high society. She has everything money can buy and as befits a lady of her station, is engaged to the richest bachelor in England. However, on the day of her eighteenth birthday - her perfect future on the brink of fulfilment - she is abducted and held hostage in an isolated village, where she finds herself entrapped in the harsh world of poverty. Forced to live amongst three mentally scarred siblings, she must adapt to her new, sinister world...or die.
- GenresHistorical Romance
283 pages, Paperback
First published June 30, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 17, 2015
Overall, I actually kind of liked this book. Strange, because it had so many problems.
First of all, it was extremely predictable. I feel like I've read this general story many times. The only thing that wasn't predictable was . The second that Annabel It wasn't a bad story, it just wasn't an amazing one.
Based on the storyline alone, I would have given the book 3 stars. However, I must deduct a star for the grammar and punctuation. In fact, I'd like to deduct 2 stars─it was that bad. However, I can't in good conscience give this book 1 star, as it was nowhere near as appalling as other books I've given that rating to.
I am not referring to the British spellings. I am Canadian and strongly prefer non-Americanised English. The -ises, the -ours, the double Ls─it was marvellous and refreshing. Also, Gibson appears to have used the spell-checker, which is a step further than many self-published authors. Every word in the story does appear in a dictionary. However, the wrong spelling was used for the context. There were numerous compound words split into two or more (e.g., dumb founded), and many word sets that needed hyphens. There were some strange malapropisms and the like─all be it for albeit, came too for came to, distain for disdain, pass time for pastime, wretched for retched, you wondered off instead of wandered, stop this instance instead of instant, etc. Twice, there was a random degrees symbol in between 2 words (his°background, else°whatever)
The worst part by far was the missing commas. Many self-published authors will use extraneous commas; Gibson suffers from the opposite problem. To be fair, I did have forewarning: there are 2 blatant errors in the synopsis alone. Interestingly, the quote in the synopsis is fixed in the book.
There were too few apostrophes overall. Many indie authors have the opposite problem. Gibson often made words plural instead of possessive. Of course, she had problems with plural possessives. Interestingly, she did get them right some of the time; most authors I've seen get them consistently wrong. Also, she only once used it's in the place of its, quite a feat amongst self-published authors.
There were some weird stylistic choices. For example, instead of em dashes, she uses a hyphen with spaces (' - '). Also, for words beginning with an apostrophe, she used backticks instead (`im, `here). I've never encountered backticks before, self-published or not.
Overall, it's by far not the worst I've seen in an indie book, but it was bad.
There was also some laziness in the production of the ePub. Chapters were not set up, and there was no cover.
(I received a free copy of this book through the New Adult Book Club in exchange for a review.)
First of all, it was extremely predictable. I feel like I've read this general story many times. The only thing that wasn't predictable was . The second that Annabel It wasn't a bad story, it just wasn't an amazing one.
Based on the storyline alone, I would have given the book 3 stars. However, I must deduct a star for the grammar and punctuation. In fact, I'd like to deduct 2 stars─it was that bad. However, I can't in good conscience give this book 1 star, as it was nowhere near as appalling as other books I've given that rating to.
I am not referring to the British spellings. I am Canadian and strongly prefer non-Americanised English. The -ises, the -ours, the double Ls─it was marvellous and refreshing. Also, Gibson appears to have used the spell-checker, which is a step further than many self-published authors. Every word in the story does appear in a dictionary. However, the wrong spelling was used for the context. There were numerous compound words split into two or more (e.g., dumb founded), and many word sets that needed hyphens. There were some strange malapropisms and the like─all be it for albeit, came too for came to, distain for disdain, pass time for pastime, wretched for retched, you wondered off instead of wandered, stop this instance instead of instant, etc. Twice, there was a random degrees symbol in between 2 words (his°background, else°whatever)
The worst part by far was the missing commas. Many self-published authors will use extraneous commas; Gibson suffers from the opposite problem. To be fair, I did have forewarning: there are 2 blatant errors in the synopsis alone. Interestingly, the quote in the synopsis is fixed in the book.
There were too few apostrophes overall. Many indie authors have the opposite problem. Gibson often made words plural instead of possessive. Of course, she had problems with plural possessives. Interestingly, she did get them right some of the time; most authors I've seen get them consistently wrong. Also, she only once used it's in the place of its, quite a feat amongst self-published authors.
There were some weird stylistic choices. For example, instead of em dashes, she uses a hyphen with spaces (' - '). Also, for words beginning with an apostrophe, she used backticks instead (`im, `here). I've never encountered backticks before, self-published or not.
Overall, it's by far not the worst I've seen in an indie book, but it was bad.
There was also some laziness in the production of the ePub. Chapters were not set up, and there was no cover.
(I received a free copy of this book through the New Adult Book Club in exchange for a review.)
June 18, 2015
I have read this book earlier than anticipated as I expected it after 30th June, To my joy it arrived much earlier, although I now want more. I have been greatly impressed by this story line. The characters are very endearing and the friendships that grew out of a tragic situation are warm and encouraging. The authors youth comes through in a positive way which makes me want to read more. I think this author will evolve as she builds confidence and followers. I would very much recommend this novel. I Also feel, if I left lying around the house I have no issues in my young teenage children picking it up and reading it..as it is refreshingly not 'grey'..
June 18, 2015
This is not my usual genre of book, however I have read and thoroughly enjoyed this novel, the author writes extremely well and I found that her use of language at times took my breath away. I think the author shows good research of the time period in keeping with a fictional novel and not an item of period research ( which could have made this a boring read ). Well done Rebecca and one assumes a sequel will be on the horizon ??
June 18, 2015
1.5 ★s - http://www.bookcrossing.com/journal/1...
I found this story naive, sentimental & not very well-written. The language is wrong for the period & the vocabulary not strong. I think it shows a lack of thought & research. Having chosen the historical genre, the author should have paid more attention to the period.
I can see that Anna was enthusiastic about the first friends she had ever had, but unless she was half-witted, Anna would have known that the only power she had was through her father & that she would have little or no say what became of herself or her "friends". The scandal at her disappearance would have had the fiance & his powerful family heading for the hills, not to mention that she was damaged goods. Good grief, this is set in the Victorian era.
It's hard to tell how long Anna remained captive. Was it a short time? No time to make deep loves & friendships. Was it a long time? No chance of preventing a scandal. And where is this forest she just happened to wander into for a stroll & suffered brutal rape, abuse & kidnapping? She'd gone for a walk in the park - whether her family's own or a public one - I'm not sure how the rape & abduction was achieved in such a public situation.
I could not engage with the characters. Patsy seemed to be the most well-rounded & I was starting to feel some empathy with her, but the others were too superficial. Theodore, in his brief appearance, was a better character sketch than the protagonists.
No, the premise is too silly for me. Sometimes a good idea is not enough. I wish this new author more experience, better research, a richer vocabulary, a good editor (if they still exist) & good luck.
I found this story naive, sentimental & not very well-written. The language is wrong for the period & the vocabulary not strong. I think it shows a lack of thought & research. Having chosen the historical genre, the author should have paid more attention to the period.
I can see that Anna was enthusiastic about the first friends she had ever had, but unless she was half-witted, Anna would have known that the only power she had was through her father & that she would have little or no say what became of herself or her "friends". The scandal at her disappearance would have had the fiance & his powerful family heading for the hills, not to mention that she was damaged goods. Good grief, this is set in the Victorian era.
It's hard to tell how long Anna remained captive. Was it a short time? No time to make deep loves & friendships. Was it a long time? No chance of preventing a scandal. And where is this forest she just happened to wander into for a stroll & suffered brutal rape, abuse & kidnapping? She'd gone for a walk in the park - whether her family's own or a public one - I'm not sure how the rape & abduction was achieved in such a public situation.
I could not engage with the characters. Patsy seemed to be the most well-rounded & I was starting to feel some empathy with her, but the others were too superficial. Theodore, in his brief appearance, was a better character sketch than the protagonists.
No, the premise is too silly for me. Sometimes a good idea is not enough. I wish this new author more experience, better research, a richer vocabulary, a good editor (if they still exist) & good luck.
June 15, 2015
Annabel Hoddington, a vain and self-centered young woman of privilege, impulsively walks alone into the woods one day and meets with a nightmare that ultimately brings about her transformation.
As unbearable circumstances unfold, she is thrown closely together with three young people she would have scorned in her previous life. They need her friendship and caring as much as she needs theirs, and warm bonds grow between them. We see unexpected aspects of her personality emerge when she and her new friends join together against a common enemy in order to survive.
And then Annabel must face her greatest challenge.
The author put great feeling into her story of these unlikely friends and makes her readers care about them. New author Rebecca Gibson can be proud of her achievement, and we can look forward to more of her books in the future.
As unbearable circumstances unfold, she is thrown closely together with three young people she would have scorned in her previous life. They need her friendship and caring as much as she needs theirs, and warm bonds grow between them. We see unexpected aspects of her personality emerge when she and her new friends join together against a common enemy in order to survive.
And then Annabel must face her greatest challenge.
The author put great feeling into her story of these unlikely friends and makes her readers care about them. New author Rebecca Gibson can be proud of her achievement, and we can look forward to more of her books in the future.
August 13, 2016
Diamonds Fall is a very emotional read, an interesting yet personal journey of a young woman who comes from a rich family, she sure has pride in her lifestyle, and often judges people by their way of living. Though the brutal experience she goes through on her 18th birthday changes her way of thinking, and shows her the simple elements of life. She matures quickly as she learns to accept the sudden changes surrounding her,while getting to love people for who they really are,and not for what they appear to be. Especially when it comes to their everyday struggle and the limits that they are willing to cross in order to survive.
I liked Rebecca's choice of words, she has a nice flow. She also has a special attention to details which helps the reader connect with the story on a much personal level.
I liked Rebecca's choice of words, she has a nice flow. She also has a special attention to details which helps the reader connect with the story on a much personal level.
August 7, 2015
I was fortunate enough to receive a copy of this story before the release. WOW! I could not put this book down and read it in one go. There is nothing better than reading a story that takes you so far into its covers that you battle to come back to reality. This book did that for me.
***Spoiler***
Annabel Hoddington is abducted and held hostage in complete poverty, a complete contrast to her high society life, yet it is in the stable; filthy and starving that she finds herself, as well as affection and true love.
I want to go on and on about this story but won't as I don't want to give away anymore spoilers. Do yourself a favour and get this book!
***Spoiler***
Annabel Hoddington is abducted and held hostage in complete poverty, a complete contrast to her high society life, yet it is in the stable; filthy and starving that she finds herself, as well as affection and true love.
I want to go on and on about this story but won't as I don't want to give away anymore spoilers. Do yourself a favour and get this book!
November 24, 2015
From the very first page, I knew that I would not like this book.
I thought this story was set in our current time instead of the past (I personally don't like stories set in the past). I hated how predictable the book was and how there was barely any character development. I did not fall for the love story. Majority of the characters were abusive. I wish I could like this book more but I really don't.
I thought this story was set in our current time instead of the past (I personally don't like stories set in the past). I hated how predictable the book was and how there was barely any character development. I did not fall for the love story. Majority of the characters were abusive. I wish I could like this book more but I really don't.
January 25, 2019
Bearable enough to make it through to the end, but contained too many grammar/spelling errors and the story was almost too depressing at times to be enjoyable.
I'd have liked more of a "before" story, more development on the main character before the whole "the diamond has fallen" plot kicked in, I didn't feel like I got to know her well enough to have an opinion, let alone care about her. She was meant to be that spoiled princess type yet I didn't catch that personality off of her at any point of the story, if anything she seemed just sheltered and lacking in knowledge about reality rather than truly vapid or shallow. As horrible as the events that led up to it were, her development into a street smart and tough woman was rather decent, a strong point of the story.
Another thing that really stood out to me is how the story really demonised the low caste of the country it was set in, the evil antics they were up to felt even over the top sometimes, I didn't get the impression the author researched what a medieval style class divide would look like properly. Sure, you would expect there to be a lot more crime than in the middle and upper caste, and I like actually irredeemable, truly evil villains most of the time, but almost every man of every family being extremely abusive and incestuous is not very realistic aside from making for dreary reading. On a more positive note, I enjoyed the poignant interactions with the children who helped Annabel through her ordeal as their bond of friendship developed through the course of the story, and the romance plot was decent in a very normal and realistic way, not exactly what I'd call exciting but it shone some light of reason on the otherwise saddening events. It's almost a shame that those potentially strong positives get lost in a very predictable plot course and a confusing, sad ending.
It had something oddly addictive about it once I got past the scene mentioned in the spoiler, therefore two stars, however the overtly upsetting story and the grammar/spelling issues won't let me go higher. It wasn't an abysmal book, but I can't with a clean conscience call it a good or even decent one. Only recommended if you think the aforementioned issues wouldn't bother you.
I'd have liked more of a "before" story, more development on the main character before the whole "the diamond has fallen" plot kicked in, I didn't feel like I got to know her well enough to have an opinion, let alone care about her. She was meant to be that spoiled princess type yet I didn't catch that personality off of her at any point of the story, if anything she seemed just sheltered and lacking in knowledge about reality rather than truly vapid or shallow. As horrible as the events that led up to it were, her development into a street smart and tough woman was rather decent, a strong point of the story.
Another thing that really stood out to me is how the story really demonised the low caste of the country it was set in, the evil antics they were up to felt even over the top sometimes, I didn't get the impression the author researched what a medieval style class divide would look like properly. Sure, you would expect there to be a lot more crime than in the middle and upper caste, and I like actually irredeemable, truly evil villains most of the time, but almost every man of every family being extremely abusive and incestuous is not very realistic aside from making for dreary reading. On a more positive note, I enjoyed the poignant interactions with the children who helped Annabel through her ordeal as their bond of friendship developed through the course of the story, and the romance plot was decent in a very normal and realistic way, not exactly what I'd call exciting but it shone some light of reason on the otherwise saddening events. It's almost a shame that those potentially strong positives get lost in a very predictable plot course and a confusing, sad ending.
It had something oddly addictive about it once I got past the scene mentioned in the spoiler, therefore two stars, however the overtly upsetting story and the grammar/spelling issues won't let me go higher. It wasn't an abysmal book, but I can't with a clean conscience call it a good or even decent one. Only recommended if you think the aforementioned issues wouldn't bother you.
September 30, 2017
Awesome!
I absolutely loved the way the book grabed a hold of me. I couldn't put it down. Can't wait to read the next book!!!
I absolutely loved the way the book grabed a hold of me. I couldn't put it down. Can't wait to read the next book!!!
January 9, 2017
So historical isn't my "go to" genre usually, but I love the cover of this book so much that I added it to my tbr. It is a not so typical fall from grace story. Annabel is quickly taken out of her life of wealth and indulgence by those who seek to ruin her family. She is forced into a degrading and humiliating life, but rather than crumble, it gives the opportunity for the real Annabel to shine. Will she be able to every truly return to her old life?
There is much to like in this story, I enjoyed that Annabel was a strong character, finding a will within herself to endure when most would abandon hope. It's very dark in places but it needs to be in order to properly convey the hardships of the time and i'm glad that it was gritty in that regard rather than glossing over those points to focus on the romantic element.
Overall I enjoyed it and was glad i stepped out of my normal reading zone to take a chance on something new.
There is much to like in this story, I enjoyed that Annabel was a strong character, finding a will within herself to endure when most would abandon hope. It's very dark in places but it needs to be in order to properly convey the hardships of the time and i'm glad that it was gritty in that regard rather than glossing over those points to focus on the romantic element.
Overall I enjoyed it and was glad i stepped out of my normal reading zone to take a chance on something new.
September 30, 2015
This review originally appeared on my blog at www.gimmethatbook.com.
Thanks to the author for providing this review copy!
Beautiful, spoiled, and pampered Annabel is is for a rude awakening when she is kidnapped and forced to live in a slumlike village. The way the author describes how she is beaten and mentally broken was intense and depressing. Her captors have no code of morals except to put themselves first. As I read I could feel the dirt and the despair settling down around me–and I wondered when things would get better for poor Annabel.
We see her learning to give up her noble attitude as she realizes there is more to life than diamonds and sumptuous meals. I especially enjoyed the little details Gibson provided, such as how cheaper clothes feel after wearing silk, and how sleeping in a barn compares to a royal bedroom.
She learns to trust three others, and eventually her life becomes routine. There is more heartache, however, in the form of a difficult childbirth and more abuse.
Without giving away too much of the twists, eventually Annabel and her newfound friends plot an escape–which means more struggle, tense moments, and false hopes. I was beginning to wonder if there was going to be ANY bright moments in this book!
The last quarter of the book starts off as if things will finally start getting better–but then reality steps in and smashes that hope to bits. I was left with an open mouth – literally – at the ending. After all Annabel went through, and the promises she made, I was flabbergasted. The author is surely not afraid of making her lead character miserable.
Gibson did a good job with the plot, even if it was a bit of a stretch to understand how Annabel managed to slip away so easily, even though so many eyes were on her as she was out in the park.
The descriptions of the characters were wonderfully evocative—their manner of speaking, their dress, the hints of desperation and skewed moral code of the women in the village–all well done.
Some reviewers have mentioned their disapproval of speech anachronisms, but I was able to put that aside, as the plot kept me focused enough to ignore it.
There is so much bleakness and shattered promise in this book, but tiny bits of pleasure stand out; and that makes those moments seem even sweeter.
I would have liked to have seen more of Annabel’s life before the abduction, and perhaps the section in the village could have been made just a bit shorter. We don’t know exactly how long Annabel was kept there, but it started to become slightly draggy. I was ready to see more action, other than the daily living activities day after day. I think a short bit of editing would really make a difference.
October 16, 2015
You are absolutely right - I did say I was not going to review any more historical romance novels, but I was just so intrigued by Rebecca M. Gibson's woefully written "Diamonds Fall." I'm not saying I'm going to re-introduce this genre into the reviewing fold, but I'm sure glad I did make an exception for this promising, young author.
As with today's fascination with all things historical, from Outlander to Penny Dreadful, Diamonds Fall is a cohesive work that presents atypical heroes and heroines, each with their own set of flaws and strengths. The protagonist in Gibson's book is Annabel Maria Hoddington, a girl born into high society, whose life of luxury has been ripe with extravagance and luxury. However, that all suddenly changes when she is kidnapped and held hostage in a remote village that is literally the antithesis to the ways of life Annabel is used to. She soon finds herself having to live the life of the impoverished and disenfranchised, forced to live with three siblings who have their own set of problems.
Instead of glossing over the mental anguish that befalls Annabel, the author bravely presents a character portrait of a reluctant rich girl who must completely disband her knowledge of how the world works in order to survive in this slum-like village, all the while being held hostage. Annabel is complex and essentially broken down to her very core. Her captors are unlikeable and reckless, and there seems to be no hope in her situation to indicate she would survive this ordeal.
The book chronicles Annabel's learning to adapt to a different type of lifestyle and making some honest friends along the way. Gibson shines in her carefully selected words used to express and explain Annabel's predicament and her vast experiences that ultimately create a protagonist that is at once both wounded but surprisingly willful. The story unfolds so that there is a careful balance of suspense, action, and redemption, and succeeds in presenting a tale that clearly has the message that nothing is permanent in this life.
Like this review? Read more like it at www.readingotherpeople.com
As with today's fascination with all things historical, from Outlander to Penny Dreadful, Diamonds Fall is a cohesive work that presents atypical heroes and heroines, each with their own set of flaws and strengths. The protagonist in Gibson's book is Annabel Maria Hoddington, a girl born into high society, whose life of luxury has been ripe with extravagance and luxury. However, that all suddenly changes when she is kidnapped and held hostage in a remote village that is literally the antithesis to the ways of life Annabel is used to. She soon finds herself having to live the life of the impoverished and disenfranchised, forced to live with three siblings who have their own set of problems.
Instead of glossing over the mental anguish that befalls Annabel, the author bravely presents a character portrait of a reluctant rich girl who must completely disband her knowledge of how the world works in order to survive in this slum-like village, all the while being held hostage. Annabel is complex and essentially broken down to her very core. Her captors are unlikeable and reckless, and there seems to be no hope in her situation to indicate she would survive this ordeal.
The book chronicles Annabel's learning to adapt to a different type of lifestyle and making some honest friends along the way. Gibson shines in her carefully selected words used to express and explain Annabel's predicament and her vast experiences that ultimately create a protagonist that is at once both wounded but surprisingly willful. The story unfolds so that there is a careful balance of suspense, action, and redemption, and succeeds in presenting a tale that clearly has the message that nothing is permanent in this life.
Like this review? Read more like it at www.readingotherpeople.com
June 10, 2015
This book begins on the eighteenth birthday of Annabel Hoddington, one of the wealthiest women in the world. Her life is changed completely on this day. What follows is a gripping story, unpredictable and with many twists and turns. The writing moves at a fast pace and the story contains sadness and loss but also love and friendship.
At the beginning of the book, Annabel is not a particularly likeable character. She is arrogant and self centered. But as events unfolds, her sense of compassion and loyalty become evident and she shows bravery and courage in the face of great hardship. She learns to put herself in second place and to feel compassion for the suffering of others.
The minor characters are interesting and well developed. I particularly liked Billy, the stable boy. Daniel is an intriguing character and Patsy's loyalty and protectiveness towards Billy and Daniel is conveyed well.
The motives of Trevor and Tom with regards to Annabel, however, are not fully explained, nor is the reason for their hold over the whole village.
The book would benefit from a thorough editing as there are mistakes in the spelling and grammar. At times U.S. English is used as in the words skeptical and pajamas, and at other times British English is used as in colour and saviour. The story is set in Victorian England but I don't think expressions such as unfazed, duvet and autopilot fit with this time setting. A Victorian maid would not say "It's okay, miss" to her employer and I doubt the police of that time would use the expression "Freeze!"
The main theme of this book, I feel, is a journey of self discovery. Annabel is a very different person by the end of the story. She still has her determination and strong will but makes a decision which sacrifices her own needs and proves her to be a truly selfless person.
The author knows how to heighten the suspense and kept me guessing until the end.
At the beginning of the book, Annabel is not a particularly likeable character. She is arrogant and self centered. But as events unfolds, her sense of compassion and loyalty become evident and she shows bravery and courage in the face of great hardship. She learns to put herself in second place and to feel compassion for the suffering of others.
The minor characters are interesting and well developed. I particularly liked Billy, the stable boy. Daniel is an intriguing character and Patsy's loyalty and protectiveness towards Billy and Daniel is conveyed well.
The motives of Trevor and Tom with regards to Annabel, however, are not fully explained, nor is the reason for their hold over the whole village.
The book would benefit from a thorough editing as there are mistakes in the spelling and grammar. At times U.S. English is used as in the words skeptical and pajamas, and at other times British English is used as in colour and saviour. The story is set in Victorian England but I don't think expressions such as unfazed, duvet and autopilot fit with this time setting. A Victorian maid would not say "It's okay, miss" to her employer and I doubt the police of that time would use the expression "Freeze!"
The main theme of this book, I feel, is a journey of self discovery. Annabel is a very different person by the end of the story. She still has her determination and strong will but makes a decision which sacrifices her own needs and proves her to be a truly selfless person.
The author knows how to heighten the suspense and kept me guessing until the end.
September 6, 2015
This is here as a ring, and was apparently written by a friend of the person who started the ring. With that in mind, I hope it's not amiss if I go more into detail in my comments. I found it an intriguing read, and quite the page turner, but it seems to me certain things could have made me appreciate it more. This may have to be a spoiler, in fact. There were parts which I felt were too quickly dealt with - the initial scene, when the heroine arrives in the park, seemed rushed to me. We didn't really have a full sense of who she was or what she was doing (and what was the situation - a public gathering? a picnic with others? a stroll in the park? It seemed to be something formal, but not clear what). Then suddenly she was being abducted. There too I had a sense of smoke and mirrors, who were these people, how many... what actually happens? She has a pain in her groin - has she been raped? I'm guessing so, but it's all so hinted at that I think I missed some of the clues. Is the idea that this is terribly confusing for the young girl being attacked? Likewise the names - I wasn't clear on who Tom and Trevor were - only after a long while did I start to figure out the father / son relationship. I think so much of the confusion is what the heroine is experiencing, but it's not very comfortable for me as a reader to not understand what's happening or who people are. The period of captivity was long and there were a number of things I felt were not very plausible. One of these was the successful hiding of the baby... The idea that the fiancé would just accept her absence and then continue the engagement when she pops up again is another point which seems unlikely...The final scene - intended as dreamlike, perhaps, confused me completely, I'm afraid. I wondered at the authenticity of a number of historical aspects as well. This being said, I did zip through the story, and found parts moving and evocative. It will be interesting to see how this author develops.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2015
3 out 5 stars
I find this book original because it talks about the struggle of living with poverty and this is the first book I came across that discusses about such topic. I took place in England during 1895 and it is absolutely the perfect setting. But I find this book somehow boring and hard to get through. I also went across some grammatical errors. I also don't like the author's voice because I cannot connect some of the emotions from the book. The accent that the characters used, like Pat and Dan; I find it hard to understand them sometimes and I have to analyze what it meant because it has shortcuts and apostrophes. The ending is okay but I am not convinced to continue with the 2nd book. But this book felt real since almost everywhere there is poverty and cruelty; and I'm able to relate that because I see it everywhere. Every time I pass by some areas.
For the character, It was hard for me to like Annabel because sometimes she thinks high of herself (well, I understand why) and sometimes she sounds so boastful. The important fact is that she develops throughout the story and she becomes one with the poor. Also I like the 3 siblings, Pat, Billy and Dan. They showed some good characteristics, like Pat acts like a mother figure because I find her responsible and she cares for her siblings; I find Billy cute and charming; Dan is smart in someway despite not having the proper education. The only characters I don't like is Trevor, his wife and Tom. I find them so cruel and they are so violent. But the wife is not so violent.
I would still recommend this because it talks about poverty and people should be aware of the sufferings of the people affected by poverty.
I find this book original because it talks about the struggle of living with poverty and this is the first book I came across that discusses about such topic. I took place in England during 1895 and it is absolutely the perfect setting. But I find this book somehow boring and hard to get through. I also went across some grammatical errors. I also don't like the author's voice because I cannot connect some of the emotions from the book. The accent that the characters used, like Pat and Dan; I find it hard to understand them sometimes and I have to analyze what it meant because it has shortcuts and apostrophes. The ending is okay but I am not convinced to continue with the 2nd book. But this book felt real since almost everywhere there is poverty and cruelty; and I'm able to relate that because I see it everywhere. Every time I pass by some areas.
For the character, It was hard for me to like Annabel because sometimes she thinks high of herself (well, I understand why) and sometimes she sounds so boastful. The important fact is that she develops throughout the story and she becomes one with the poor. Also I like the 3 siblings, Pat, Billy and Dan. They showed some good characteristics, like Pat acts like a mother figure because I find her responsible and she cares for her siblings; I find Billy cute and charming; Dan is smart in someway despite not having the proper education. The only characters I don't like is Trevor, his wife and Tom. I find them so cruel and they are so violent. But the wife is not so violent.
I would still recommend this because it talks about poverty and people should be aware of the sufferings of the people affected by poverty.
December 28, 2015
Spoilers!!
Lets just say I was glad I only payed £2.10 for this book.
Maybe it was my fault, I saw the blurb very quickly and somehow overlooked the 'sinister' and 'three mentally scarred siblings' and thought this book would be funny and heartwarming. Actually I put my hands up, that was totally my fault at expecting a different kind of book where the arrogant heroine gets taste of another life.
However, the story was was too rushed in my opinion, I didn't connect with Annabel at all and felt her development was not that developed actually. There were also certain parts which just felt like they needed a better description and some parts did not make sense, and the rape direction could have been dealt with in a better way.
And negative points also for using 'literally' wrong. I have terrible grammar, hell I can barely write complete sentences myself but just putting 'literally' in where it doesn't need to be is a complete no
no for me. 'He had begun to literally live for Genevieve.' Sorry, but that is horribly annoying.
Also, what if the baby hadn't been Daniel's. I probably have to read the book again, I think I may have skipped over the parts where it mentioned how long she was in the village for but I guess if the baby was the product of rape, Annabel would have been showing the signs and the bump much earlier.
It was a good story but could have been so so so much better.
Lets just say I was glad I only payed £2.10 for this book.
Maybe it was my fault, I saw the blurb very quickly and somehow overlooked the 'sinister' and 'three mentally scarred siblings' and thought this book would be funny and heartwarming. Actually I put my hands up, that was totally my fault at expecting a different kind of book where the arrogant heroine gets taste of another life.
However, the story was was too rushed in my opinion, I didn't connect with Annabel at all and felt her development was not that developed actually. There were also certain parts which just felt like they needed a better description and some parts did not make sense, and the rape direction could have been dealt with in a better way.
And negative points also for using 'literally' wrong. I have terrible grammar, hell I can barely write complete sentences myself but just putting 'literally' in where it doesn't need to be is a complete no
no for me. 'He had begun to literally live for Genevieve.' Sorry, but that is horribly annoying.
Also, what if the baby hadn't been Daniel's. I probably have to read the book again, I think I may have skipped over the parts where it mentioned how long she was in the village for but I guess if the baby was the product of rape, Annabel would have been showing the signs and the bump much earlier.
It was a good story but could have been so so so much better.
November 25, 2016
Annabel Maria Hoddington is a lady born into wealth with her marriage and future arranged in a way that befits her station. She never wants for anything and is spoiled, selfish and a little bit empty headed. On her 18th birthday, her world is turned upside down as she’s kidnapped and taken to an isolated village in the woods where everyone seems to hate her and what she stands for. But not everyone shuns and abuses her, as she makes friends with three siblings, each scarred in their own way by their father. Annabel must find a way to survive in her new position in poverty or die.
This is Gibson’s first book and I must say, despite the slow start I really enjoyed this novel. There were a few predictable moments, the ending for example and the love story for me, felt unconvincing. I needed more build up, more ‘moments’ between the two before they took their relationship to the next stage. Certain parts of the book were also rushed and others dragged out which for me was a bit strange because I flew through some parts and waded through others which marred my enjoyment a little.
That said, I DID enjoy it overall. It was interesting and sweet, I felt like Anna grew up a lot through the narrative. I also liked how Gibson wasn’t afraid to shy away from the grime, poverty and abuse aspect. I liked the darker side to the story and felt like this is what set it apart from a typical historical romance.
This is Gibson’s first book and I must say, despite the slow start I really enjoyed this novel. There were a few predictable moments, the ending for example and the love story for me, felt unconvincing. I needed more build up, more ‘moments’ between the two before they took their relationship to the next stage. Certain parts of the book were also rushed and others dragged out which for me was a bit strange because I flew through some parts and waded through others which marred my enjoyment a little.
That said, I DID enjoy it overall. It was interesting and sweet, I felt like Anna grew up a lot through the narrative. I also liked how Gibson wasn’t afraid to shy away from the grime, poverty and abuse aspect. I liked the darker side to the story and felt like this is what set it apart from a typical historical romance.
June 18, 2015
This book has everything a great book needs. It has an amazingly gripping plot based around the story's lead character Annabel Hoddigton. Annabel Hoddigton is at the height of social class and has a promising life ahead of her, on the eve of her wedding serious misfortune and life changing events befall Annabel as vicious rogue characters dramatically enter her life and abduct her putting her through unspeakable ordeals. The author Rebecca Gibson has skilfully crafted intriguing characters with very descriptive dramatic events that will create vivid pictures in the reader's mind. Rebecca has that rare talent all great authors possess of writing enough to create a vivid understanding of events while letting the reader's own imagination run wild understanding events that would be more violently graphic and sexually explicit in nature. Like any good book or movie you don't know what is going to happen next. Rebecca provides great depth in her descriptions of scenes and events in this book set in historic England. This book comes across as extremely well researched and will take your imagination to a different and harsh world that the lead character suddenly finds herself in. I think that this novel should definitely be on the next to read list of Catherine Cookson, Jane Austen fans who are searching for the next greatest British novelist.
October 30, 2015
I received a copy of this book for an honest review. This is the sorry of a rich society girl set in the late 1800's. Anna is a bored rich girl getting ready to celebrate her 18th birthday and an engagement to a man her parents chose for her. She is kidnapped by 2 terrible men and taken to a poor village to stay while they try to obtain a ransom for her. Anna develops a quick and strong bond with the 3 children of the man who kidnapped her. There soon develops a love between Anna and the son of her captor, Daniel. Eventually, after many trials and tribulations together, the 4 friend's escape their poor situations. Anna mistakenly assumes her parents will welcome her new friends and be so excited about her return. Little does she know, that will not be the case. Anna has grown and changed as a person since her capture and has become a better person. Ultimately this book kept me interested and made me feel invested in the characters. I enjoyed the book and it was a pretty quick read for me. My only complaint was how abruptly the story ended. I feel like I know why the author ended the way she did, but I kept hoping for a different resolution. Looking forward to a possible book 2.
September 5, 2016
So my gut and visceral reaction to this book : Devastated, Intrigued, Scared, Happy, and What The Fudge!? A recipe sure to make you want more.
Annabel Hoddington is the heir to a massive fortune. She has lived her entire life for one purpose: To Marry and equally rich husband and provide her family with a perfect reputation. Set in Victorian England, Annabelle's journey takes us on heartbreaking lows and gut wrenching lows. On her 18th birthday, Annabel is kidnapped by a vicious thug and his family and taken to a secluded village in the countryside.
Tortured and with no hope of escape, she finds allies and friends in the younger adult children of her captor. Patsy, Billy, and Daniel Prince literally fight to keep Annabel alive. Along the way, Miss Hoddington finds herself falling for Daniel. There are so many barriers for them, one is left wondering how in the heck it's going to play out. I have to say, until I reached the last page, I had no fudging clue what the author had in mind! It is definitely a To Be Continued piece, which may upset some of you. Fear not, the sequel, Rubies Fall is just around the corner!
(full review on bibliogalblog.com)
Annabel Hoddington is the heir to a massive fortune. She has lived her entire life for one purpose: To Marry and equally rich husband and provide her family with a perfect reputation. Set in Victorian England, Annabelle's journey takes us on heartbreaking lows and gut wrenching lows. On her 18th birthday, Annabel is kidnapped by a vicious thug and his family and taken to a secluded village in the countryside.
Tortured and with no hope of escape, she finds allies and friends in the younger adult children of her captor. Patsy, Billy, and Daniel Prince literally fight to keep Annabel alive. Along the way, Miss Hoddington finds herself falling for Daniel. There are so many barriers for them, one is left wondering how in the heck it's going to play out. I have to say, until I reached the last page, I had no fudging clue what the author had in mind! It is definitely a To Be Continued piece, which may upset some of you. Fear not, the sequel, Rubies Fall is just around the corner!
(full review on bibliogalblog.com)
July 26, 2015
This reads as though it was written by a very young person. It's full of spelling and editing mistakes. These include one of my pet hates, the incorrect use of the word "too", within the first few pages of the book.
Annabel is an interesting character. She's tough and determined and her experience transforms her into a more understanding and considerate character.
I'm not sure why the author chose to set the book in the Victorian period. This setting just doesn't work;it's totally unbelievable.The speech of the characters is totally wrong for this era, and some of it is laughable.
The two "baddies" are stereotypes.Why is everyone so afraid of them? What do they want from Anabel? Why doesn't she just walk away from the situation?
This book would be greatly improved with a good editing.
Annabel is an interesting character. She's tough and determined and her experience transforms her into a more understanding and considerate character.
I'm not sure why the author chose to set the book in the Victorian period. This setting just doesn't work;it's totally unbelievable.The speech of the characters is totally wrong for this era, and some of it is laughable.
The two "baddies" are stereotypes.Why is everyone so afraid of them? What do they want from Anabel? Why doesn't she just walk away from the situation?
This book would be greatly improved with a good editing.
June 27, 2015
This book has an interesting story line and the characters are interesting too,but it has many simple spelling and grammar mistakes.
I liked Annabel, who comes from a wealthy family but surely they would have had the power and influence to rescue her?
The Victorian setting for me just did not work. At times the book seemed to have more of a Medievel setting and at other times more of a fantasy world setting. I think the book would benefit from some research into how people spoke and acted in Victorian England.This would make the whole story much more believable.
If you're going to write a book set in a certain period, then you should do some research into that period.
I liked Annabel, who comes from a wealthy family but surely they would have had the power and influence to rescue her?
The Victorian setting for me just did not work. At times the book seemed to have more of a Medievel setting and at other times more of a fantasy world setting. I think the book would benefit from some research into how people spoke and acted in Victorian England.This would make the whole story much more believable.
If you're going to write a book set in a certain period, then you should do some research into that period.
August 18, 2015
Diamonds Fall tells the story of Annabel Hoddington and her journey of self discovery.
Annabel is an 18 year old girl who comes for a very wealthy family with a very promising life ahead of her.
On the eve of her wedding she is kidnapped and forced to live in a remote village where she is put through unspeakable ordeals. This experience changes Annabel and humbles her and by the end of the story she emerges a new person with different values, a truly selfless person.
The story is intense at times but also predictable halfway through when Annabel falls in love but the end is unexpected.
Overall it was a good read.
Annabel is an 18 year old girl who comes for a very wealthy family with a very promising life ahead of her.
On the eve of her wedding she is kidnapped and forced to live in a remote village where she is put through unspeakable ordeals. This experience changes Annabel and humbles her and by the end of the story she emerges a new person with different values, a truly selfless person.
The story is intense at times but also predictable halfway through when Annabel falls in love but the end is unexpected.
Overall it was a good read.
October 25, 2015
1st - I received this book in return for my honest review - 2nd - I don't know what to say - I was torn between 4 and 5 stars so lets call it 4 1/2 - At first the book was a little tedious. Didn't know which way the book would turn and I am still a little confused by the whole "Village" idea - and the timing was slow. The writing is good, the characters are alright (and this gets better towards the end). The end- the last few chapters of this book are what makes it and I was surprised by the fact that I was already at the end. Ready for book 2!
November 3, 2015
This book is a historical book set in the 1800's. Annabel is a privileged, vain, self-centered young woman, one day she impulsively walks alone in the woods, and is kidnapped and her nightmare begins. As the circumstances unfold she is taken to the middle of nowhere where she is degraded and developes a friendship with three young people that she would have looked down on. They will need eachother for the sake of survival. I enjoyed this book and will definetly look for more from this author.
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