I so enjoyed this historical novel with gorgeous, lyrical writing. Deborah is a heroine to root for as she grapples with society's restrictions and charts her own path forward, through tragedy and travail. ( )

I received this book from Library Thing for a fair review. I was finally in the mood to read what turned out to be a Gothic novel of sorts. I became invested pretty much right away but faded a bit at some maudlin bits, then picked back up and that remained for the rest of the book. I felt bad for the main character, Deborah, as she didn't get many breaks in her life growing up. She had intestinal fortitude to keep pushing forward, she just didn't know what she was pushing towards.
Her one steadfast thing she could hold onto was her painting. Once she discovered she could create something she found ways to paint or draw. Not everyone understood what she was creating, some were appalled at her stark reality. She modified somewhat to fit in and belong as well as she could but inside was something else ready to let loose.
This was all in a time when women were only supposed to be decorative and take care of their men and children. Deborah was different in ways she didn't completely understand.
I am glad I received this book and I'm not sure 'enjoyed reading it' is the right phrase, but I am pleased that I had the opportunity to read it. I believe others will like it too.
I can definitely recommend this book and author. ( )

I almost gave up on this as to me it was a slow starter, but then I was drawn in and wanted to find out what happened next
All through the book I kept expecting people presumed dead to arise and be found by Deborah, so many people gone from her life.
I loved the NY years, the cosiness, the contentment.
I felt the last chapter was a bit rushed as if the allocated number of words was used up and the book had to be finished.
All in all a good read.

I really enjoyed Deborah’s Gift. Characters were expertly portrayed, the story captivating, I was always curious where the main character Deborah we end up next, the story’s tragedies beautifully and descriptively written. Congratulations Ms Abraham ! ( )

I did not know anything about Martinique before reading this novel. The description of the volcanic eruption of Mt Pelee in 1902 and the catastrophic effects of it on Deborah and others makes for very compelling reading. I especially enjoyed how her current and future life as an artist was influenced by this and earlier personal tragedies. The descriptions of her paintings are very detailed, creating a vivid image in the mind. it is also interesting in that the book visits various places she lived - New York, St Louis, New Mexico, and of course, Martinique. A very good read. ( )