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Frances Hardinge's novel "The Lie Tree" is a dark and intricate tale of a young girl's journey towards self-discovery, set in the Victorian era. The novel combines elements of mystery, science fiction, and coming-of-age, and explores themes such as gender roles, societal expectations, and the consequences of deceit.The protagonist, Faith Sunderly, is a 14-year-old girl who struggles to fit into the rigid gender roles and expectations of Victorian society. She is intelligent, curious, and has a thirst for knowledge that is constantly thwarted by the patriarchal society she lives in. However, when her father, a renowned naturalist, is found dead under mysterious circumstances, Faith is propelled into a dangerous and thrilling adventure that tests her strength, courage, and moral compass.One of the central themes of the novel is the power of deception and the consequences of living a lie. Faith's father was a respected member of the scientific community, but it is revealed that he was involved in a web of lies and deceit. He had been fabricating his findings in order to maintain his reputation and prestige, and he even had a secret laboratory where he conducted experiments that went against the moral code of Victorian society. Faith discovers her father's deception, and although she initially struggles to come to terms with the truth, she eventually realizes that she cannot perpetuate his lies and must face the consequences of her actions.Another significant theme of the novel is the subversion of gender roles and the oppression of women in Victorian society. Faith is constantly reminded of her place as a young girl, and her intellectual pursuits are dismissed and belittled by those around her. However, through her adventures, she discovers her own strength and resilience, and she learns to embrace her femininity as a source of power rather than weakness. The Lie Tree can be interpreted as a feminist critique of the gender norms of Victorian society, and a celebration of women who defy those norms to pursue their passions and ambitions.The novel is also notable for its exploration of the relationship between science and religion. Faith's father is a naturalist who is fascinated by the natural world and the secrets it holds. He is constantly pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge, even if it means going against the beliefs of his religious community. The Lie Tree raises questions about the compatibility of science and religion, and whether it is possible to reconcile the two worldviews. However, the novel does not offer a straightforward answer to this question, and instead leaves it open for interpretation.The Lie Tree is a rich and complex novel that offers a nuanced exploration of themes such as deception, gender, science, and religion. Frances Hardinge's writing is evocative and vivid, and she creates a richly detailed world that is both fantastical and grounded in historical reality. The novel is also notable for its strong and complex female characters, who defy societal expectations and challenge traditional gender roles. Overall, The Lie Tree is a compelling and thought-provoking read that is sure to captivate readers of all ages.