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Do you ever wish that you could be someone else? Just step out of your life and wake up as someone new? Karina’s life was once mapped out for her — she was meant to follow in the footsteps of her Hungarian grandmother, a world-famous violinist. Instead, she’s a teacher, a mum and wife to Julian, a very English husband who’s not always in step with her. But when disaster befalls her best friend, Karina feels forced to question the very foundations of her existence. Encouraged by a chance encounter with a like-minded musician, she begins to delve into her grandmother’s Gypsy past, and to discover the secrets of her Hungarian family history. Life will never be the same again. Like most people, Karina isn’t sure the life she chose was the right one. But she is willing to take drastic steps to change it.
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Reviews
'Jessica Duchen's debut novel is captivating, imaginative and fascinating. As a musician and a mother, I recognized many of the scenarios and found the questions that were posed very poignant, both from a musical and personal perspective. The pace builds powerfully to a dramatic and ultimately very moving conclusion. Completely gripping!'
'Adam and Sasha appear to have the perfect life - good jobs, a nice home, money and three perfect children. But as their marriage begins to unravel, their ballet-crazy daughter starts staving herself - and her parents are too preoccupied to notice. A haunting, heartbreaking novel.'
'A sensitive and thought-provoking novel that will resonate all the more for those with musical leanings.'
'Duchen skilfully balances the conventions of the genre with the authority of a writer who really knows her subject. ALICIA's GIFT is a wonderful read. But make sure you keep the Kleenex handy when you tackle it.'
'This is a very well written study of the problem of being and having a child prodigy.... it's a gripping read and it's very easy to get caught up in the excitement of wanting Alicia to succeed... I enjoyed this book a lot'
'I suggest you give Hungarian Dances a whirl.'