Uncovering Iris

by Karen Hyatt

Stella, adopted at birth, moves from England to Canada following the death of her adoptive parents and the discovery that her live-in boyfriend is gay. On the plane to Toronto she meets Madeleine, whose offer of help to this young and na�ve stranger ushers in a remarkable series of events for both women-almost all of which, it transpires, revolve around a woman they do not know they share a deep connection to: Iris Parker.

Intertwining the family sagas of each of its main characters, Uncovering Iris lifts the lid on each of their lives and the circumstances that have shaped them. Spanning many generations of families in twentieth-century Canada, the novel pays particular attention to the fates of women in a dangerously patriarchal world.

With deep insight and compassion, author Karen Hyatt tells the stories of the hardened protagonist, Iris, and those of the many people she has hurt, hindered, and harried in her life as a strong-willed and defiant single woman. What causes a person to become who they are? How do life events change a personality? How can we come to terms with the way we are treated by others, including those whom we love? These are just some of the questions asked and explored in this engaging first novel....

300 pages, Paperback

Published July 15, 2019

Reviews

[Pronovost André Jr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loves It got caught up in It very quickly. Loved the way the Author presented the characters and their lives. I don't read much at all but went though this in no time. Great Work Karen

Loved it got caught up in It Very quickly. Loved the way the Author presented the characters and their lives. I don't Read much at All but went though this in no time. Great Work Karen

[Dianna Harrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it the characters were well described and was easy reading, kept me intriguing.

[Nancy Morrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read! I could not put the book down! It’s not a fluffy read but a pragmatic reality of the different generations past and present! The author engages you from start to finish! Very well written! I highly recommend this book! You will not be disappointed!

[Ethan Hamel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although titled Uncovering Iris, the reader uncovers the lives of a variety of characters. You follow them throughout different periods of their lives and learn about how they were raised and the impacts of childhood on adulthood. I found myself invested in their lives and the stories they had to offer. Karen Hyatt did an incredible job of tying an array of stories into one jaw dropping, emotional, as well as light hearted, beautiful story. I’m eager to read what’s coming next from the author.

[Teresa Karlinski]

Let me begin by saying this is a fascinating novel for first time author, Karen Hyatt. I dove right in and raced through the book in two sittings. This is an intriguing saga spanning numerous generations at the centre of which is unbendable Iris whose life touches many but not often kindly. A few hints here and there kept me guessing while I flipped pages faster and faster. The pacing is well balanced and the characters vivid. At risk of revealing spoilers, I’ll keep this short. Read the back jacket for more. You will never guess the twists at the ending, and you will not be disappointed.

[Ally · Rating 5 out of 5]

Despite spanning several generations and multiple countries, the depth of the author's characters makes it easy to keep track of the numerous story lines. The author beautifully captures the bitter-sweetness of life, death, and of looking into our pasts. Difficult conversations are brought to the forefront, many of which have surely been had by readers with family members of different generations. Uncovering Iris is captivating, empowering, and relevant. I can't wait for the author's next book!

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Karen Hyatt catches the reader's interest right from the get-go, and introduces various characters and their history in a way that makes you want to keep on reading.

There were parts of the book that I found difficult, but the author had good reasons to include these details. We would not be able to fully understand why the characters did what they did, without understanding their pasts.

An excellent first novel.....Looking forward to the next one!

[Luisa Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

An entertaining read with many characters that provoked many emotions, especially Iris, with whom I had a love/hate relationship - okay, a strong dislike. There were many evening walks with my husband (who also read this book) where we discussed the many characters and situations presented in the story. There were many laugh out loud moments and many heart wrenching parts. Definitely solicited thoughts of how people and society has progressed - or not. A must read.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the book. At first I had a little trouble with the many story lines but as the story progressed I was captivated by the way the author brought them all together. I must admit I really didn’t like Iris!! Not one little bit but I really enjoyed the Epilogue! Very interesting way to finish the book!
I look forward to Karen Hyatt’s second book!

[Mary Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book kept me interested from start to finish. As the characters unfolded, you could identify with them. I started reading it at night and by the third night, I could not put it down until I finished it (way past my bedtime) it is a must read. Mary Howard

[cecelia sloan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book! Once I started to read Uncovering Iris by Karen HYATT I could not put it down! It was vivid and well written also a fast read with the chapters being short!
I will be waiting for Karen’s next book with anticipation!

[Sydney Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the book! Looking forward to the authors next novel.

[Lesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book with characters of depth. Thoroughly enjoyed the book