Olivia Twist
- Fiction
- Publisher: Blink (HarperCollins Focus)
- Published: 2023
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Publisher's Description
Olivia Twist is an innovative reimagining of Charles Dickens’ classic tale Oliver Twist, exploring what might have happened if Oliver had actually been a girl disguised for her own safety, who grows up to confront her tangled past. Perfect for fans, young and old, of Shakespeare, Mark Twain, Jane Austen, Oscar Wilde, and Edgar Allan Poe. Olivia Brownlow is no damsel in distress. Born in a workhouse and raised as a boy among thieving London street gangs, she is as tough and cunning as they come. When she is taken in by her uncle after a caper gone wrong, her life goes from fighting and stealing on the streets to lavish dinners and soirees as a debutante in high society. But she can’t seem to escape her memories … or forget the teeming slums where children just like her are still scraping by just to survive. Jack MacCarron rose from his place in London’s East End to become the adopted “nephew” of a society matron. Little does society know that MacCarron is a false name for a boy once known among London gangs as the Artful Dodger, and that he and his “aunt” are robbing them blind every chance they get. When Jack encounters Olivia Brownlow in places he least expects, his curiosity is piqued. Why is a society girl helping a bunch of homeless orphan thieves? Even more intriguing, why does she remind him so much of someone he once knew? When a villain from his past threatens Olivia’s future, Jack finds himself wondering if going legit and risking it all might be worth it for love. “This clever retelling of Dickens’ Oliver Twist is perfect for readers who love romance, adventure, historical settings, and heroines who can kick butt in formal gowns.” – Booklist, starred review
Endorsements (6)
“Delectable romance, spine-tingling danger, and an indomitable female lead make Lorie Langdon's Olivia Twist an addictively exquisite romp. One that kept me up far past midnight!”
“A brilliant reimagining of Oliver Twist! The prologue hooked me immediately. Langdon deftly plunges the reader into Dickens's world of loveable orphans fighting to survive on the darker streets of London. Their plight is set in stark contrast to the sumptuous backdrop of Victorian England's high society. Olivia Twist deals with treachery in both worlds and proves a spirited heroine worthy of admiration, while Dodger is the perfect bad boy hero. Sigh, I've fallen in love.”
“Captivating from the very first page to the very last! Olivia Twist is an enchanting story, brimming with eclectic characters, intrigue, and a romance that is certain to leave you weak at the knees. Not to be missed!”
“When I learned Lorie Langdon made a foray into historical romance, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book. And she didn't disappoint. Langdon expertly balances historical detailing and plot, the voice sparkles, and the characters were so endearing, I couldn't wait to escape into this book each night. Lively and transportive, Olivia Twist is a romantic and clever take on a classic that will leave readers yearning for more from this author.”
“Langdon has crafted a charming reimaging of the classic story Oliver Twist. There is a perfect balance between historical details, solid pacing and strong character voices. Readers may find this book to be a bit more hopeful than the original story by Charles Dickens, but the plight of the poor in London in the 1800s is still apparent. It is easy to root for the characters, particularly the intelligent and kick-butt heroine, Olivia. If you are looking for a historical tale full of adventure, twists and a bit of romance, this is one to check out.”
“This clever retelling of Dickens' Oliver Twist is perfect for readers who love romance, adventure, historical settings, and heroines who can kick butt in formal gowns.”
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