The Hangman's Daughter is a novel by Oliver Pötzsch. It is the fictional book I was allowed to pick out for my birthday from ML. I chose this book at random having never heard of it, and I was not disappointed. The truth is I am a firm believer in "old" stories. The Hemingway's, the Fitzgerald's; these are the authors I am drawn to. I love books with dust and fingerprints on them. I was surprised by what I found inside this book considering it was just published in 2010. I found a great mystery full of truth and a lovely and engaging writing style.
Have you ever sat down at a buffet and realized that it was so good you didn't want to leave, but you knew how stuffed you were? This book is like a big wonderful, well prepared meal. Each chapter is a different course. Each chapter leaves you full, but you know you want more. I had to step away after I finished the first chapter, I had to ask myself if I truly understood what I just read, and was I prepared for what was coming.
This book deals with the murder of children. Its characters are a hangman, a doctor, and a strong willed young woman. All 3 of the main characters are smart and not to be undone by superstition. They have their feet firmly planted in reality, but are surrounded by uneducated, superstitious villagers who still cling to the dark ages. It is a book that tackles the feeling of trying to reason with someone who refuses to see the light just because they want emotion rather than justice. If you liked The Crucible or if you like the story behind The Crucible, then you will appreciate The Hangman's Daughter.
I have since discovered that this book is part of a trilogy. I cannot get my hands on the last two books fast enough. The characters are very real and remind me of people that I know. It is a book that will stay in my library and I wish so badly to see this book become a movie...it played out that well in my head.
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