the dolls : flowers . petals . thorns . seeds . garden . clear

Impressions:
   The novel that started it all...
   Readers were fascinated at the plot of this horrific tale, including myself.
   Ever since reading the plight of four beautiful children locked away from what most people take for granted, I was hypnotised. As they played in the attic, I envisioned it, as they ate their fried chicken, I ate with them.
   I felt the hatred that consumed them as the days turned into weeks and the weeks turned into months and the months into years.
   I cried when one of those beautiful children was taken from the attic, only to die. I was shocked when Chris and Cathy, the eldest, began something in the attic that never stopped, no matter how Cathy tried.
   I rejoiced when they escaped from their prison and tasted the bittersweet freedom that they had longed for for over three years.
   I was a part of this story and it was a part of me. And though this story is filled with dark shadows, there is light at the end...


Quotes:
My heart, even in my dream, pounded in excitement and joy! It was Daddy! Daddy had come to meet Cory so he wouldn't have to travel alone the rest of the way. And though I knew I should release Cory's small hot hand, I would hold him forever with me. Daddy looked at me, not with pity, not with reprimand, but only with pride and admiration. And I let go of Cory's hand and stood to watch him joyfully run into Daddy's arms. He was swept up by powerful arms that once used to hold me and make me feel all the world was a wonderful thing. And I would step down the path, too, and feel those arms about me once again, and allow Daddy to take me where he would.
- from:
Color All Days Blue, But Save One For Black

We lived in the attic,
Christopher, Cory, Carrie and me-
Now there are only three.

- from:
Endings, Beginnings

It is relief that I end the telling of our foundation years, which we were to base the rest of our lives. After we escaped Foxworth Hall, we made our way, and managed somehow, to always keep striving toward our goals. Our lives were always to be tempestuous, but it taught both me and Chris that we were survivors. For Carrie, it was far different. She had to be persuaded to want a life without Cory, even when she was surrounded by roses. But how we managed to survive- that's another story.
- from:
Epilogue


Rating:
   This is an excellent book. Intriguing, heartfelt, dramatic. Everything a good book should be. You are able to feel for the characters and worry about the outcome.
   The plot was addictive. I could barely put it down. I've read this book numerous times and am never tired of it. I am never any less sad about the events taking place. This book really touches me.
   And so, after this glowing review I happily give this book a perfect rating.
[5/5]



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