Title: The Lie Tree
Year of Publication: 2015
Author: Frances Hardinge
"The Lie Tree" is a captivating young adult novel written by Frances Hardinge and published in 2015. Set in Victorian England, the book combines elements of historical fiction, mystery, and fantasy to tell the story of a young girl named Faith Sunderly and her intriguing encounters with a tree that feeds on lies.
The narrative follows Faith as she accompanies her family to the remote island of Vane, where her father, a renowned natural scientist, is involved in a mysterious research project. When her father is found dead under suspicious circumstances, Faith becomes determined to uncover the truth surrounding his demise.
In her quest for answers, Faith stumbles upon an extraordinary tree that thrives on lies. The more outrageous the falsehood, the greater the tree's ability to reveal hidden truths. Faith soon realizes that the power of the tree can be both a valuable tool for investigation and a dangerous weapon in the wrong hands.
Hardinge weaves a tale of secrets, deception, and the complexities of Victorian society. Through Faith's journey, the author explores themes of feminism, intellectual curiosity, and the struggles faced by women in a male-dominated world. Hardinge's rich prose and intricate world-building create an atmospheric and immersive reading experience.