The Gifts is, I think, a book about many things, a slice of imagined history woven with inspiration from real-life 19th century figures; it explores the dangers of ambition, the power of friendship and the nature of enlightenment. Both Etta and Natalya ‘open their eyes’ to nature too, something that is dear to my heart – I truly believe that our relationship with the natural world, as the climate crisis unfolds, has never, in human history, been more important. Above all though, it is a book about women; strong, determined, glorious women who fought to be seen for themselves.

Thank you so much for reading The Gifts and, if you would like to hear more about my books, you can visit www.lizhyder.co.uk and sign up to become part of my free Readers’ Club. It only takes a moment to join, there are no catches, Bonnier Books UK will keep your data private and confidential and never pass it on to a third party. I promise not to spam you with loads of emails too! I’ll just get in touch every now and then with news about my writing. And of course, you’re welcome to unsubscribe whenever you want.

If you would like to get involved in a wider conversation about The Gifts, you can find me on both Twitter and Instagram as @LondonBessie or tag me in at #TheGifts. I love it when readers get in touch! And, if you wanted to, please feel free to review it on Amazon, Goodreads, any other e-store, or on your own social media.

Very best wishes,