The Wives of Henry Oades by Johanna Moran

The Wives of Henry Oades by Johanna Moran

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

So, this was another pull off the shelf at the library and give it a go. Such an interesting plot, which may or may not have been taken from an actual court case: In 19th century, a British family moves to New Zealand. Wife and children are kidnapped by natives and after years of searching, thought dead. Consumed with grief the devastated husband sails for America and begins a new life and eventually finds a new wife. Back in New Zealand, original wife and kids are freed and make their way to America - SURPRISE! You're a polygamist.

I thought this was compelling and was anxious to see how the author would handle this situation.

Unfortunately, not well. I didn't like how the author handled the story. At all. Not because of personal taste, but because it was poorly done. The husband in the first half of the book and the husband in the second half of the book were completely different characters. Consistency was only one of the problems with the plot. The differing narration was confusing and not well done.

Also, and this is a matter of personal taste, I found it really annoying that ALL religious people in the book were harsh, judgmental, and small minded.

Skip this. I gave it 3 stars mostly for an interesting premise.

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