The Knowing will take you to a bygone era through its intricate storytelling. Emma Hinds weaves a narrative inspired by real historical figures, creating a tale that delves into the depths of human experience.
The vivid descriptions in the book transported me to various locations, from the bustling streets of New York to the charming roads of Dublin and the mysterious alleys of London. The sepia-toned backdrop enhances the story’s dark allure, drew me into a world fraught with hidden secrets and shadows. In this gloomy milieu the author tackles difficult subjects such as sexual violence with a raw and unflinching approach.
At the heart of the story is Florence (and I immediately though of Florence and The Machine), a complex and mysterious psychic who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and resilience. Emerging from a harsh life in New York, Florence’s encounter with a circus artist sets her on a path of love and survival.
Drawing inspiration from real historical figures like Maud Wagner, an early female tattooist, the notorious New York gang—the Dead Rabbits, and individuals from P.T. Barnum’s circus, Emma Hinds sets the scene by infusing the narrative with authenticity.
While the captivating cover art, foreboding gloomy mood, and historical setting highlighting resilient, self-reliant women initially captivated my interest, this book didn’t charm me as much as I thought it would. I struggled to form a connection with the characters and the overall narrative. Despite the potential for a riveting tale, I found the pacing to be uneven, with some parts feeling hurried while others seemed to drag on. Even though the book possessed all the necessary elements to be a gripping read, it unfortunately did not quite hit the mark for me. Which is fine, it isn’t always possible to love everything we read.
Thank you to Exclusive Books for the chance to read this book.
About the book: Link to Exclusive Books
Buy this book: Link to Exclusive Books
About the Author: https://emmahinds.com/
If you enjoyed this, read What I Read: The Other Side of Mrs Wood by Lucy Barker