Olivia has been hypnotized at a Halloween show. Also, earlier on that day, she participated in a demonstration trying to get women the right to vote. Her father, a popular dentist, gets angry with Olivia because he is losing customers because of her behavior. He hires the hypnotist, Henri, to hypnotize Olivia so that she loses her desire for independence and conforms to the norms of the day.
The hypnotism has some unintended consequences, and Henri feels bad. But he needs the money Olivia's father has promised him because his sister is very ill and needs an operation. He promises to undo the damage after he gets paid. But Olivia can't wait. She' been put in danger, since the only thing she can say when she gets angry is "all is well."
Olivia's father wants Henri to hypnotize Olivia in front of a lot of people at a party to show that hypnotism can crush the suffragette movement. She and Henri come up with a plan to convince some people that women should have more rights, while allowing Olivia to escape from her father's grasp. They do become close romantically, but this relationship doesn't take over the story.
I rarely comment on covers, but this cover is perfect. It's beautiful, catches your eye, and is absolutely appropriate for the story. You CAN judge this book by its cover!
The Cure for Dreaming is such a quick read. Probably because I just couldn't put it down. The characters are compelling, and I really rooted for Olivia. I thought she was smart and made good decisions. Henri is a great character too. And the mix of history and the element of hypnotism just sealed the deal. I can't wait to see what Winters comes up with next.
What a great way for teens to learn about life for women in the early 1900s. They will certainly be entertained by this story. Pair this one with A Mad Wicked Folly, which covers the suffragette movement in England. Recommend this well-written story to anyone who is interested in historical fiction.
Published by Amulet Books, October 14, 2014
eARC obtained from NetGalley
368 pages (qualifies for my Books You Can Read in a Day Challenge!)
Rating: 5/5
I found this one to be a super quick read for me as well. I loved it which is probably why but I think it had a lot of short chapters too so it made it go fast. I love how she tackles such important topics in our history and really makes a compelling story out of it! it's eye opening! Glad you liked it too, Annette!
ReplyDeleteOh goodie. Another historical fiction by Cat Winters. Egads there are so many good books and I just can't read them fast enough. I am definitely getting this one for my library. Students loved her book IN THE SHADOW OF THE BLACKBIRD.
ReplyDeleteI loved this one too! I'm glad to see you enjoyed it. I agree - Cat Winters blend of history and fantasy always makes for a great read.
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