Set in late 18th century London. This story brings a time when the British Empire was a dominating colonial power, bringing exotic animals from aroundSet in late 18th century London. This story brings a time when the British Empire was a dominating colonial power, bringing exotic animals from around the world for the first time to the amusement of the public. The animals are out of place as much as its protagonist, a six-feet tall woman, who prefers short hair and wearing pants. So much out of place that they create a special bond.
Lillian has been working as a maid for almost twenty years and feels her life dull and her being so out of place. When she sees an advertisement for Grady’s Menagerie, something inside her stirs. The world gains colors all of a sudden.
Grady, the owner of the menagerie, needs help. When he sees a very tall woman visiting his menagerie every Sunday afternoon, he sees the right person to help him out. She says yes and becomes his help. He also suggests for her to cut her hair and wear pants.
Henry Featherstone, the animal doctor, holds a fascination for the cockfight. At one such event, he notices a new man named John Button, who shows unexpected emotions. He sees the right person and offers him an apprenticeship.
When they are called to tend a lion at the menagerie, Lillian meets John. He is as tall as she is. They look at each other’s eyes and there is a spark.
When Lillian loses her own baby, she is given a baby chimp to help her heal. The bond and the skills they develop in communicating is very lovable. And I couldn’t help but mention that it reminds me of the great Jane Goodall, who has dedicated her life to studying wild chimpanzees.
Lillian’s heart is as big as she is. She cares for the animals deeply. Even with the owner being driven by profits, she finds ways to sway him to better treat the animals. The bond between Lillian and animals is so special, creating a very warm story. I love this kind of character, who is very caring and recognizes what makes her happy. She grabs for those happy stars and changes her life for better. She is also open-minded. She listens and discusses new ideas.
I enjoyed the historical background, capturing the excitement of the public by seeing exotic animals for the first time. And the passion of two people sharing conversations about books and articles involving great thinkers of the time. You can feel it, it’s contagious. You want to be part of it.
Descriptions are so real and interesting, including Brighton city by the sea. So much that I wanted to be there and experience it myself.
At first I hesitated to pick this book as I thought the storyline would be overwhelmed by animals. But it’s not. And the bond between Lillian and the animals is so endearing that I couldn’t get enough of that. When a highwayman enters the story for a moment, I missed that bond and wanted him out of the story. At the same time, I understand if the intention of his presence was to reinforce the time period.
Fully enjoyed this beautifully written, heart-warming story, and atmospheric in its depiction.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review....more
At twenty years old, Delhomme is still living with his parents. He is bored with his clerical work, his father, who is a doctor, wants him to follow hAt twenty years old, Delhomme is still living with his parents. He is bored with his clerical work, his father, who is a doctor, wants him to follow his profession, but Delhomme dreams about music. He leaves the house for the city of Paris gladly, but not so much for studying anatomy. His father’s sudden death puts the family in dire situation. He needs money and quickly. He gets apprenticed as a piano tuner. Next, he is pulled into becoming a spy for the king, but he needs to get a job of piano tuner for Chopin first. At the time, Chopin is involved with George Sand. And she is a real troublemaker, writing fanatical drivel against the king.
His story is intertwined with the diary of George Sand and her revealing the relationship with Chopin. Her voice at times sounds immature or not believable. That’s not the George Sand I’ve read about before.
The style of writing is a lot of telling, which sounds as it’s done without catching a breath, which is actually needed to put some feelings in, in order to add some dimensions to the story. I didn’t connect with any of the characters or the style of writing.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review....more
In 1875, ten years after assassination of President Lincoln, Mary Lincoln tries to poison herself. Why? Is it because of a deranged mind or traumatizeIn 1875, ten years after assassination of President Lincoln, Mary Lincoln tries to poison herself. Why? Is it because of a deranged mind or traumatized one?
1875. Mary has been estranged from her sister Elizabeth and other siblings and friends for years. She lost her husband and three sons. Robert, her eldest and only surviving child, believes that his mother is a danger to herself and has begun legal proceedings to have her committed to an asylum. Or is compassion and sympathetic companionship what she truly needs? Instead of asylum. That’s what some of her sisters think.
1825. Mary is a cheerful child, full of entertaining ideas, making others laugh. This merry child loses her mother to fever after giving birth. And this is one of the first tragic events in Mary’s life. With years and different events affecting her, she starts changing from her cheerful side into a more dramatic person.
1875. Mary’s sister Ann reveals that Mary’s “eccentricities had manifested long before she suffered these losses. (…) Mary was a moody girl” and temperamental. She presents Mary as manipulative and that she needs to learn her lesson.
Emilie, half-sister, who also lost a husband, on the other hand, sympathizes with Mary. She knows “how the accumulation of sorrows could burden the spirit.”
I enjoyed how the story was revealed through four siblings, who had different views of Mary and what estranged them. We got to know Mary’s siblings and how they got along with Mary throughout their lives.
And above all, I loved the cheerful, witty and curious side of Mary and what an incredible woman she was. From the young age she was inclined toward politics. She knew exactly what she wanted and that was to wed the president of the US. She was “bright, intellectually curious, and sociable (…) and one of the brightest and most popular students at the school.” She was a devoted wife, unwaveringly standing by her husband, who fought an uphill battle against those who saw him as unequal, thus unfit for politics.
Effortlessly written story, interestingly blending history with different personalities, views and opinions of five sisters (including Mary); taking reader on a journey full of feelings and sisterly events.
P.S. If you’re a fan of Mary Lincoln, I also highly recommend Courting Mr. Lincoln by Louis Bayard and The First Lady and the Rebel by Susan Higginbotham. Keep in mind, there is some overlapping in those three books, which I didn’t mind. ...more
Texas, 1865. Simon is a very likeable character. He evades military duty until almost the end of the war. But he is a talented fiddler which lands himTexas, 1865. Simon is a very likeable character. He evades military duty until almost the end of the war. But he is a talented fiddler which lands him in regimental band. I loved his pure nature and getting a glimpse of his thoughts. He knows what he wants; he saves money and makes plans to buy some land after the war. He knows exactly who he is looking for as a partner and when he sees her he knows it’s her. But she is indentured and by contract must finish her three years of service. He still makes plans for them.
I enjoyed his character very much and the prose is beautiful, but the pace is a bit too slow. There are some short descriptions which I loved but for most of the part I wanted to rush the events to find out what happens next. ...more
Captain Sir John Franklin was a British Royal Navy officer and explorer of the Arctic. His last expedition known as Franklin’s lost expedition (1845-1Captain Sir John Franklin was a British Royal Navy officer and explorer of the Arctic. His last expedition known as Franklin’s lost expedition (1845-1846) was followed by many searches. One of them (fictional) gives ground for this story.
Boston, 1854. Virginia Reeve is accused of “one count of kidnapping and one count of murder” of Caprice Collins, fellow explorer.
A year and a half earlier, Virginia arrives at Tremond House in Boston where she meets with Lady Jane Franklin. Lady Jane wants her missing husband back and she is forming an expedition composed of women only. Why? “Women can do far more than the narrow lens of society deems fitting.” Lady Jane believes that Virginia, once a guide in California, has the skill and strength for this kind of expedition and to be its leader of twelve women.
The proceedings at the court are intertwined with the process of choosing the women for the expedition and what value they bring, and how the expedition progresses.
The characters are interestingly developed, revealing their thoughts and feelings in alternating voices. Among them, an observant illustrator, who hopes to be the first one to record the flora of the Arctic. In whatever form it exists since she was never asked to join an expedition to an exotic place with lush vegetation.
Once the women disembark the ship and start trekking on land, then there is some sense of place and cold. But I wished for much more of that. The hardship of the Arctic expedition and its fury comes towards the end. And that’s what I was looking forward to experience in this story. I wished it was a bit more of that and started earlier.
Nevertheless, the story is masterfully woven with court proceedings and arctic expedition involving engrossing characters. You want to know what happens next. Who will be revealed next taking part in the expedition or who will be called next as a witness in the courtroom.
The skillful writing is reflected in the whole story and it also comes through with especially one character, which is not so likeable at the beginning. But once she shows her strength in hard conditions and caring side and defends her situation, then she becomes very likeable. Also, I usually do not like to read about court proceedings, but again the skill with which it is presented makes it very absorbing.
Incredibly crafted story of inspiring characters, we deeply care for, bringing one of a kind adventure.
P.S. Kudos to cover designer(s) for beautiful cover.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review....more
Fascinating story of a historical figure, shedding light on Lars Levi Laestadius’ work. As a Swedish Sami pastor, he founded the revival movement to hFascinating story of a historical figure, shedding light on Lars Levi Laestadius’ work. As a Swedish Sami pastor, he founded the revival movement to help his largely Sami congregations, who were ravaged by alcoholism.
Northern Sweden, 1852. Laestadius, an avid botanist and pastor, shelters a runaway Sami boy named Jussi. He takes the boy on many excursions into nature teaching him how to observe what surrounds them. The botanical treks are also filled with philosophical discussions, but their spiritual journey is disturbed when a maid goes missing.
Jussi is a faithful disciple in every aspect. When they’re pulled to assist in finding the missing maid, Laestadius has Jussi deducing from the scene as much as possible, with which the boy struggles at first. Pastor, on the other hand, while reasoning scenarios reveals in his knowledge. Those scenes may unnerve some.
When another maid goes missing, bait and traps are laid in the forest for the killer bear. The blame is put on a bear, but pastor notices traces of something else.
Meanwhile, the pastor preaches powerful sermons, praising the farmers and workers, discouraging drinking. When people choose revival over alcohol, the pastor gains enemies among local rulers who see their profits dwindle.
Jussi comes from an abusive family. The punches and hunger are the two things he remembers the most, and that’s what made him run away. The scenes of his abusive childhood are short, but are presented vividly, which may rattle some. On the other hand, there is a warm connection between the pastor and the boy. The boy sees the goodness in pastor despite experiencing only cruelty before. There is a nurturing relationship which is heart-warming. It gives the story a softer touch, which alleviates the harshness to some extent.
Pastor’s kindness extends to other students. He is convinced that with more education, the drinking would diminish, and with better diet some diseases would be eliminated. Thus, introducing potatoes in the north where one plant can produce many potatoes. Pastor is an extraordinary character who has a vision for a better future for the people of his harsh Arctic land. He knows that with kindness and education you can get much farther than with harshness and punishment of shortcomings. “The region needed pioneers who, with wisdom and tenacity, could lead the flock forward.”
The story offers the great wisdom of the pastor, which is very engaging, but his detailed reasoning at times can send a chill down your spine. Nevertheless, it keeps one guessing and in suspense. It also brings what then would be something new in solving a murder case, scientific methods of papillary patterns (fingerprints) and light-pictures.
Overall, it is a very absorbing and gripping story, with characters that engage, and captivatingly setting in motion philosophical questions of life, especially at such remote place as Arctic region with as harsh climate as people’s judgements.
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com...more
London, 1850. Iris with her sister Rose work for Mrs. Salter’s Doll Emporium. Iris paints porcelain dolls’ feet, hands and face. Rose adds the “finer,London, 1850. Iris with her sister Rose work for Mrs. Salter’s Doll Emporium. Iris paints porcelain dolls’ feet, hands and face. Rose adds the “finer, more skilled detail to the rough skirts…” But Iris dreams of painting real things.
At the Great Exhibition, a collector named Silas meets Iris. His fascination with her gets obsessive. The story gives glimpses into his past and gives a better understanding about his obsessive behavior.
Louis Frost, an inspiring painter, is part of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. When he approaches Iris to be his model, she hesitates as “modeling is only half a step above prostitution.” When a lesson is offered at the end of each day of modeling, an agreement is reached.
The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood is skillfully presented with their brushes in hands and ideas expressed. All shown, and not told, creating a vibrant circle of artists, valuing artistic freedom and truth, with art going back to clarity of depiction, elegant composition, and vibrant colors.
This story is also categorized as Gothic, which has some dark moments of obsession. But it doesn’t overwhelm the story, except the story ends with obsession, which left me wishing it ended with the artists, something more vibrant. The last short chapter tries to capture that, but rather feels abrupt. On the other hand, if you're a reader of Gothic stories, then it does capture well that darker side of the story.
All characters are interestingly developed and the story is told engrossingly from the very first pages with a very fast flow....more
This story captures many lives of the Florio family, from their humble beginnings as impoverished shopkeepers to building an empire. The official founThis story captures many lives of the Florio family, from their humble beginnings as impoverished shopkeepers to building an empire. The official founder is Vincenzo Florio Sr. (1799-1868). However, the story starts with his father Paolo, who moves family from the mainland of Italy to Sicily and opens a shop in Palermo.
After an earthquake in 1799, Paolo moves his family – wife and newborn Vincenzo, and also his brother Ignazio and niece Vittoria, from Bagnara to Palermo. “Venice built her wealth on the spice trade and customs duties.” Now, Paolo wants to trade spices in Palermo. After much struggle, the brothers become known.
Their struggles are intertwined with the volatile history of Sicily. Napoleon’s wars have effects across Europe. It is 1817 and everybody is having a rough time. "Now it’s only closed store windows and bolted doors where the British warehouses used to be.” After Napoleon’s defeat, “the island has lost its strategic importance. The harbors are empty. Palermo seemed dead. (…) The changes over recent years have been too many and too quick.”
A grown-up Vincenzo gets a chance to travel to England and see how businesses operate there. He comes back with some ideas to improve their business. He also craves social recognition after having an unpleasant experience with an aristocratic young lady.
It’s January 12, 1848 and the time for rebellion has come. Palermo has had enough of taxes and tyranny imposed by the Bourbons. The rebels don’t see one’s humble beginnings. They see money and they resent people with money. With gun pointed at Vincenzo, he is forced to pick sides.
Sicilian revolutionary unrest continues to smolder beneath the surface for years, shaping Sicilian history and the Florios business.
The story is mostly concentrated on Vincenzo, the founder.
This story weaves interestingly developed characters with the rich Sicilian history and culture. It vividly portrays a man’s struggle of starting a new life at a new place, which is not that welcoming. They are foreigners and they are being despised. They can feel it and it really bothers them. It gives them an extra push to excel at their business. The brothers know how important it is to make the right appearance and talk the right way. They are quick learners. No matter how successful they are, in aristocratic eyes they are still simple laborers. “They want coat of arms. Noble blood,” which gives respectability. Not the hard work and building an empire with one’s own hands. Their emotions are very intense.
Beautifully written and engrossingly depicted story of inspiring characters.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review....more
This story of the brideship women is relatively unknown chapter of Canadian history. The idea was to give the women of different backgrounds includingThis story of the brideship women is relatively unknown chapter of Canadian history. The idea was to give the women of different backgrounds including impoverished gentlewomen and serving class a chance to marry or live independently in the colony of British Columbia. Where there were supposedly more opportunities, which later turned out not necessarily true.
England, 1862. Charlotte, impoverished gentlewoman, at the age of twenty-one is not ready to get married and a position of a governess entails the exhausting boredom. She craves something more exciting. She inherits her father’s adventurous and independent spirit.
She is told about the Columbia Emigration Society, which sends ships of unmarried women to the colonies. “The idea is to give the women a chance to marry or live independently in the colony of British Columbia, where there are more opportunities.”
Even with her adventures spirit, she is hesitant at first as she doesn’t want to share the unknown land with unlawful men. But an unfavorable situation at home puts her straight on the ship to Americas.
While crossing the oceans on the ship she gets to assist a doctor in seeing patients. It gives her an enjoyment she hasn’t foreseen. And the suffering she witnesses on her daily rounds is heartbreaking and eye-opening.
Once in the New World, the bridesmaids learn that the better opportunities don’t include the serving class. The life here is actually not that much better than at home.
The historical background is what I’d consider a pretty light one. It of course involves limitations opposed on women of the time, Proclamation of 1860 – promise of free land if you’re married and promise to farm or ranch the land, exploitation of the natives, the epidemics that wiped out villages. However, whatever is presented, it doesn’t go into details or it’s very brief.
The heroine is pretty independent and takes the challenges on. She has her dreams and she takes steps towards those dreams. There is some light romance and friendships.
It is told with simple prose. What kept me interested in the story was how her new life would look like and how the life in the New World would be depicted.
I hoped what was left behind in England would be the past and new beginnings would happen in the New World, but there was unnecessary mulling on the ship over the past, which looked like it might follow her. And a bit of it did, but that part was brief and fine.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review....more
A seven-hundred-year-old stave church is being deconstructed in Norway. This is not just a wooden church, but an intricately built artefact with decorA seven-hundred-year-old stave church is being deconstructed in Norway. This is not just a wooden church, but an intricately built artefact with decoratively painted timber walls. Why would you risk the process of transporting this precious cargo to Germany?
Norway, 1880. In a secluded village of Butangen, young Astrid Henke dreams about a life beyond the valley and beyond conventional life. She already turned down two suitors, and now is viewed as restless, of sharp nature and impossible to discipline.
The seven-hundred-year-old stave church in the village chimes with the bells donated by Astrid’s ancestors. The church has a new pastor, direct and unpatronizing, who wants to “stamp out all forms of superstition and folklore.” Christianity should lead to progress. By law, the church is too small and it’s dilapidated. He wants to build “a functional church, a warm church, with four wood burners,” with big and easy to clean windows, “not like those bumpy glass panes high up on the walls.” Thus, he sends a grand proposal to Dresden to build a new, bigger church.
When the architect named Gerhard arrives from Dresden, he sketches the stave church, asks questions about missing dragon heads and a portal - a door frame. He was sent on this once in a life time project by his professor and was briefed about history of stave churches, of which Norway once had over 1000 stave churches, now down to just 50. Artistry is being smashed across the country, and the architect is here to oversee the deconstruction of the church and later reconstruction of it in Germany.
The news announcing the fate of the church is not well-received. The sale of the church also includes the two bells and that upsets Astrid. And she hatches a plan how to save the Sister Bells.
The fate of the bells and deconstruction of the church keep readers in suspense. Deconstruction involves many aspects: careful attention to finely crafted joints so they are not damaged or the timbers split. Then everything needs to be entered “into logbook using an intricate system of numbers and letters,” then carefully stored until it’s ready to be shipped. The path that Astrid picks keeps a reader in suspense as well.
Descriptions of the place are magical, the history of the stave churches is spellbinding, and the depth of the historical background is breathtaking. The blend of the location, its people, customs, myths, their stave church and the legendary church bells all come together like a fairytale, enchanted by the chime of the bells. And with the combination of the warm characters, together create a fascinating story.
This novel is a rare gem. It has a beautiful depth and interestingly developed characters. The compelling storyline is flawlessly woven with sharp prose and undeniable humor. Excellently balanced story with history, fiction and suspense makes it a seamless read.
One of the best books ever. Rarest of the rarest gems! 100 stars!
This spellbinding gem took my breath away and I ventured with some question to the bestselling Norwegian author Lars Mytting. His answers will be live on 3/31/21 at mysteryandsuspense.com
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com...more
Story of the alleged affair, between the married Lydia Robinson and Branwell Bronte, her son’s tutor, illuminates “portrait of a courageous, sharp-witStory of the alleged affair, between the married Lydia Robinson and Branwell Bronte, her son’s tutor, illuminates “portrait of a courageous, sharp-witted woman who fights to emerge with her dignity intact.” It may not be a woman you’d sympathize with, but it gives voice to a woman who is voiceless and suffocating. She is a complex human character full of passion and worth of attention.
Yorkshire, 1843. Lydia has lost her youngest daughter and mother within the same year. She is dealing with grief, rebelling teenage daughters, scrutinizing mother-in-love, and impassive husband. She craves enjoyment, her husband’s love, his touch, instead she receives coldness.
Miss Anne Bronte is governess to her daughters and now Mr. Branwell Bronte joins the household to be her son’s tutor.
With the appearance of Mr. Bronte, the temperature in the room rises. Once again, she starts feeling the music that she plays and sings. She yearns for something more.
She’s been feeling lonely, without any aspirations, especially when she hears so much about Bronte sisters and their talents. But now, “the youthful fire” ignites inside her.
The use of library by Lydia and Branwell becomes frequent. They share their love for poetry, music, and theater.
She also notices situations in which her husband “would have lectured,” but Mr. Bronte listens and reacts with sympathy. She craves attention, which she can’t get from her husband.
The author paints a vivid portrait of a woman who craves excitement in her life and affection of her husband. Instead, she feels lonely in her marriage, thus making her suffocate. She puts an effort to stay connected with her husband, but receives unresponsiveness in return. She feels unfulfilled in her life and searches to fill that gap. She struggles “between expectation and the wish for more.”
The affair doesn’t consume the whole story. She is a strong woman and there is more to her than this. She is also a mother, who at times struggles with this role. But she is human and tries her best, which is honest best.
I’m in awe with the writing. The combination of developing characters, describing the surroundings, moving the story forward and making it very interesting is superb. This is the style of writing I enjoy very much. Subtle descriptions (not overdone) bringing depth and beauty. “(Instead), there are rolling hills and hidden waterfalls. Miles without fences and only the occasional rock to sit on…”
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review....more
Sarah Bernhardt (1844-1923) was a French stage actress and the world’s first modern actress and international celebrity. She did what she set out to dSarah Bernhardt (1844-1923) was a French stage actress and the world’s first modern actress and international celebrity. She did what she set out to do. She made a name for herself. After sold-out performances, she emerges as “a passionate revelation.”
This story vividly explores her character. A ferocious woman with unparalleled determination. She is the epitome of what freedom means. She goes through her lows and highs, but she always remembers what fits her spirited character the most – freedom from any constrictions, freedom to be able to express her artistry the way she feels it.
In 1853, Sarah’s mother is forced to bring her daughter back to Paris. She is a high-class courtesan. She is cold and has no interest in raising her daughter. Thus, her younger sister, aunt Rosine assumes charge of Sarah.
Her education continues at convent, where to her surprise she finds unconditional love and befriends a girl of “uncertain provenance,” like her. There, at eleven years old, she is preparing for her first role for the upcoming annual Nativity play. “That applause … it was like music to me.”
After her education at convent comes to an end, she wants to be independent. She doesn’t want to marry. What else is there for a woman of her time? Especially, with such temper. Performing on stage opens the door for her to be independent.
She is accepted to “the most prestigious training academy for the dramatic arts.” And with a contract at Comedie comes a warning. “If you fail here, there are no second chances. Music halls or back-alley cabarets are all you can look forward to – if that. (…) Performing must be your entire life.”
Her career takes a bit different path from her preferred one. But her innovation leads her to even better greatness. Only to have it torn by the Prussian invasion of Paris.
Sarah is a very strong headed woman. She is so opposite of her mother. She vows to never follow her mother’s path, even if she sidesteps her preferred path. Every time an obstacle comes her way, she gets much stronger and even more driven. You can feel the fire that drives her. She is fervently tuned to her cause, giving her strength to propel herself forward.
The character of Alexander Dumas, a celebrated writer, is also very touching. When she is in dire need, his support is unmatched.
The writing is incredible. The heroine is so fleshed-out, full of emotions. She is so real. You can feel her pain and her joy. Whatever she does passion shines through it.
The story is intensely imagined. The trials and triumphs of the heroine are heartfelt, making the story highly engrossing.
Loved the talented prose injected with humor: “…class, which was taught by an effeminate remnant of the Second Empire, replete with the lace-trimmed sleeve cuffs and rouged lips.”
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review....more
Many of us have walked over the Brooklyn Bridge, but probably most of us don’t know the story behind this bridge and what an enormous achievement backMany of us have walked over the Brooklyn Bridge, but probably most of us don’t know the story behind this bridge and what an enormous achievement back then it was to build such grand bridge and to take on such massive project. And the dedication it took.
1865, Emily Warren marries Captain Washington ‘Wash’ Roebling. She marries into the family of engineers. Father and son are working on finishing “the Cincinnati-Covington Bridge, which had been long delayed by the war (…),” linking Ohio and Kentucky. And this “is just a prototype. The real challenge is the East River.”
And that’s when Emily is asked to help with “Speeches, meetings, dinner receptions, whatever necessary. We have to raise about seven million dollars.”
She is left speechless. “They were responsible for finding the project as well as building it?”
An office is established to run all the logistics pertaining to building the bridge. And the most qualified person to manage the office turns out to be Mrs. Roebling.
She meets challenges with officials as she performs man’s job. But she is not afraid to put man’s pants on, even if it means punishable offense.
An accident happens at the work site and she becomes a messenger, bearing a journal with drawings and instructions. Further events push her to get even more involved with the construction.
Richly imagined and beautifully woven story of a woman who refuses to bend to old conventions. A woman who craves changes and progress and makes a difference by taking part in it.
She is not a bystander. She is a woman of action. She wants to see more and do more, and “meet people pushing in new directions.”
But in a world when a woman meddles where she shouldn’t be, it usually results in some consequences, including being shunned by other woman and disrespected by men. Nevertheless, she is a woman of great strength. She tilts her head up and she lives her life as best as she can.
With intelligent prose, this expertly detailed account weaves a touching story of how a famous bridge comes to be and a marriage that is tested through its ups and downs like the construction of a bridge. It seems to be a parallel story (maybe not meant to be, maybe it just came through that way) that paints a powerful picture what it takes to build a bridge – a solid foundation. And what it takes to build a successful relationship – trust.
The story interestingly weaves many aspects including heart-touching story of what led Wash to become an engineer, through detailed construction and its challenges including caisson disease (decompression sickness), to undeniable determination of a woman to see completion of a bridge.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review....more
Martha Hughes Cannon (1857-1932) was a pioneer woman who knew what mattered to her and she pushed the limits to defy the odds. “Mattie” became one of Martha Hughes Cannon (1857-1932) was a pioneer woman who knew what mattered to her and she pushed the limits to defy the odds. “Mattie” became one of the first female physicians and America’s first female state senator. She overcame tremendous odds.
Wyoming, 1861. Mattie’s family journeys first from Wales and now across the mountains to Salt Lake City. During this journey, they lose Mattie’s sister and father. This experience gives Mattie fire to become a healer.
1873. With her heart racing and “books clutched against her chest” she rushes for her evening courses in chemistry at the University of Deseret. Her diligence and perseverance earn her a place at medical school in Michigan. After completing her medical program in Michigan and Philadelphia, she heads back to Utah to fulfill the meaning of her life – saving lives.
She doesn’t want to bear a child after child as her mother did. She wants to save lives. Can polygamy be an answer to her life’s fulfillment?
With her gift for speaking, a logical mind and sharp reasoning, she wins the hearts of politicians who elect her as the first female state senator of Utah.
The story is so interesting and the writing is so beautiful that I wished the story were even longer and included her years as a senator.
Mattie is a very interesting character: talented, ambitious, driven, practical (clothes should perform a function, not look prettily and be useless), caring (which comes through when caring for her patients). She prefers laboratories over kitchen, which is still hard to grasp by some women. She is human, who makes mistakes and in the direst situation asks her mother for an advice. Something she never thought she’d be doing.
The relationship she has with her step-dad and his support is very endearing. It gives the read a very human touch. And the moments when she comes to those touching conclusions in regards to her mother.
The time period of a woman forging her way in a man’s world, where she often was the first woman or one of the very few, is vividly portrayed through her first steps of perseverance to make path to medical school, then through her schooling time at medical school, and doctoring as a female doctor. It is also presented through new breakthrough in medical field of its time, humors theory vs new intriguing ideas that “illness is not caused by vapors, but by microscopic, wiggling creatures too small to be seen with a human eye.” Acknowledging and giving credit to those in medical field who did not receive it in time to enjoy it.
Phenomenal writing of beautifully imagined story with vivid descriptions and engrossing protagonist and pace moving swiftly take a reader on an incredible journey of perseverance and defiance of odds.
P.S. This is a very strong story and I don’t think the cover does this book justice.
P.S. For those who like to read the genre of spirituality, the subject of defying the odds is well-explored in The Last Arrow by Erwin Raphael McManus.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review....more
At 32” no one expects anything from her and everyone wants to protect her. As much as she appreciates the protection and love of her family, she stillAt 32” no one expects anything from her and everyone wants to protect her. As much as she appreciates the protection and love of her family, she still wants something more from life. Coming from a small town, she craves the big world. With her intelligence and ambitious spirit, she goes on to become a legend, dining with Presidents, Vanderbildts, and Astors among others.
Massachusetts, late 19th century. Mercy Lavinia “Vinnie” Warren Bump is raised on a family farm. Through her hard work and diligence, at sixteen-years-old, she becomes a primary school teacher to a surprise of many. She has proved that her size has nothing to do with her mind or even her will. From an early age she used her talent for singing to sooth her classmates with ballads.
Having her mother crying over Lavinia’s lonely and loveless fate, Lavinia becomes even more restless. When a man, who claims to be their cousin, appears at their house and offers her a position in his show on the floating boat on Mississippi River. This is her chance to leave a small town and experience the bigger world and see things she can only imagine here. But being around actors and dancers, displaying oneself before the public, that’s not something to be proud of. It’s viewed as something shameful. Nevertheless, she makes her own decision.
After an eventful and questionable time on the floating boat, she joins P.T. Barnum, the famous promoter in New York. This time she makes sure she is treated as a professional and not someone being on display.
This wasn’t necessarily a biographical fiction I’d be interested in, but after reading The Aviator’s Wife by this author I was very much impressed with this author’s writing. The dimensions that are breathed into the characters and dialogue that progresses the story and the events that make the story grasping. It’s all a testament of a very skillful writing.
And what interested the author in writing Lavinia’s story was her intelligence and ambition. And that is very well reflected in this story. As much as Lavinia loves her family, she doesn’t want to be taken care of. She wants to forge her own path. “To have a greater purpose.” She is sharp, intelligent, driven. She enjoys conversations about politics, music, art that reflect her own opinions based on her knowledge, and not just a repetition of someone else’s opinion.
Beautifully drawn characters. They are so human with their emotions, showing what makes them happy, scared, disappointed, frustrated. What they hope for and dream about.
Enjoyed small details of the time period, giving a good sense of the time. How it progressed with trains and mapping, and telegram. So you could arrange your trip much easier and book a room before getting there and the talk of setting “standardized time.” So “no longer would each individual village or town set its own clock by the sun.” And rumors of electricity running to small towns.
Heartfelt writing, infusing characters with humanity and passion, keeping the plot moving and bringing the past alive profoundly, showing us the progress of the time and that some things don’t change such as ambition and being driven and taking chances in life. ...more
Set during a rise and fall of Napoleon Bonaparte. Desiree Clary was the first fiancé of Napoleon and later became the Queen of Sweden. Overshadowed by hSet during a rise and fall of Napoleon Bonaparte. Desiree Clary was the first fiancé of Napoleon and later became the Queen of Sweden. Overshadowed by history, this book sheds a light on her life.
Marseille, France, 1794: During the tumultuous times of the French Revolution, when in need, Desiree meets Joseph Bonaparte. He is interested in pursuing her, but when she meets his younger brother Napoleon, she is intrigued with the rough-mannered but well-read and brisk Napoleon rather than the handsome and funny Joseph.
Credited with averting a civil war, Napoleon is appointed Commander of the Army of the Interior. As he rises through the leadership of the army in Paris, his letters to Desiree dwindle with each day.
From a Parisian journal, she learns about Napoleon courting Josephine de Beauharnais.
And if that wasn’t insulting enough, Napoleon corners Desiree to marry a much older man. Duphot proposal is simply jaw-dropping. “Was the man proposing marriage or discussing the pragmatic exchange of market goods?” Stunning and yet so real of the time-period.
But it is Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte that captures her heart.
While Napoleon leads his troops in Egypt, the situation at home goes from bad to worse. People continue to be hungry and unhappy. It seems as not much has changed since the time of the last king and queen. There is a talk of overthrow. The government is teetering on collapse. “All of Paris is on edge with rumors of riots.”
And Napoleon comes through again as a man who knows when and how to capture the moment for his advancement. He captures, yet again, the crumbling power.
Paris, 1810: It comes as a surprise to Desiree and her husband to be offered a Swedish crown. But it makes sense for Swedes to align themselves with Napoleon against such power as Russia.
The story very well captures the violent times and uncertain days of the time period and gives a good outline of the rise and fall of Napoleon. And the hypocrisy of going back to the tradition of coronation and to the ancient tradition of great men being called the Marshals of France, bestowing names of royalty, which was supposed to be gone.
The historical background is like a rich cake with devouring layers. You bite into it slowly to savor its richness. Josephine had too much sugar, so she hides her brown teeth behind the sealed smiling lips. Her feet dressed in sandals instead of being fully covered is simply shocking. In setting new fashion, Josephine is not to wear muslin anymore as it’s made in India, which is a British colony. She is to wear silk and satin made only in France. Hmm, sounds as history likes to repeat itself. Even countess Marie Walewska makes a short appearance. The teeny-tiny details are marvelous.
As well as engrossing presentation of feelings between Napoleon and Josephine, and how different Desiree’s feelings were. The drama of Napoleon’s family, mother and sisters, not accepting his wife. And later the erratic outbursts of Napoleon toward his wife. It’s all so real.
Fully developed characters are intriguing: some very well-mannered and some simply don’t care how they come across. Some fear bad times, but they know how to cherries the good times and others simply complain and argue about everything and everywhere. Some are vigorously ambitious and some think the life should hand them entitlements on a silver plate.
In summary, masterfully written and richly imagined, the story captures the rich history of the France’s turbulent times, textured with fascinating characters, who captivate with their raw feelings.
The stunning and impeccable prose is a hook from the first lines of the first page. “When the snow falls at midnight, blanketing the empty cobbled streets, sugaring the gothic bell tower of the Storkyrkan church, it becomes easy to imagine. For me, a girl from the south, where the breeze carried with it the warm seaside brine and the faint scent of the hillside lemon groves, the sudden appearance of these white flecks never fails to dazzle and disorient.”
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review....more
Charlotte Mew (1869-1928) was an English poet. Author’s note: “I believe Mew’s poetry remains underappreciated today. I hope this novel helps pay a muCharlotte Mew (1869-1928) was an English poet. Author’s note: “I believe Mew’s poetry remains underappreciated today. I hope this novel helps pay a much-deserved tribute to Mew.”
London, 1894: Two sisters, Anne and Charlotte Mew, both in their early twenties make a pact to never marry in order to avoid possibility of passing insanity to their children, which runs in their family. They will have each other, Anne her paintings and Charlotte her writing.
Both sisters live with their mother in a house where they have tenants to help their dire financial situation.
Their Aunt Mary Kendall, who passed away a few months earlier, leaves Charlotte and Anne two investment properties in Brighton.
Anne rents a studio in hope of furthering her career, which later leads her only to a menial job.
Mrs. Dawson Scott, hostess of the salon, encourages “Charlotte to read her poems to a small gathering of women at her home in Southall.”
Through Mrs. Scott, Charlotte meets May Sinclair, a writer and an active suffragist. And thanks to May’s help, Charlotte’s poem gets published.
A few years later, Charlotte joins The Poetry Bookshop. The owner of the shop offers to publish a book of Charlotte’s poems.
Charlotte’s hopes of fame come in short waves, but she also has another big hope, which she keeps in secret.
The author skillfully paints a portrait of a poetess who craves for fame and it keeps eluding her, and her raw reflections of life’s ups and downs. When she is considered an older spinster with graying hair, she comes to a realization that maybe fame was the wrong thing to focus on; there are some other more important things in life.
The intricate characters are involved in lively discussions, for example, suffragette movement. The time period is skillfully presented through many layers of history, for example fashion and WWI effects on civilians.
The chapters are short and as the story begins, the first few chapters jump from one scene to another, not making much cohesion. But the original descriptions and artful language, sometimes sharp and funny, carries a reader through to an engaging story with pages turning fast, making it a quick read. I devoured this book over the weekend.
The eloquent writing and original descriptions reveal a very talented writer.
This story focuses on Goethe’s life in his late years, when he meets a young woman who becomes an inspiration for his novel.
Kreuz Spring in MarienbandThis story focuses on Goethe’s life in his late years, when he meets a young woman who becomes an inspiration for his novel.
Kreuz Spring in Marienband, Germany, 1823: Goethe recognizes Ulrike von Levetzow on a promenade with her two sisters and mother. “She had discovered him when he had not yet discovered her.” And now he gets dizzy when he sees her after not seeing her for a year.
She is the inspiration for his new novel. He is 74 and she is 19.
When he sees her next time, he gives her hints of his feelings. He would even “gladly have sunk to his knees but knew he might have trouble getting up again.”
Since then, they are almost inseparable, strolling together, conversing deeply, him presenting them as a couple, not tolerating intruders for very long.
Now, he looks so vibrant and strong. “With such effect, how could he help but worship their cause!”
By the time he gets courage to ask Frau von Levetzow for Ulrike’s hand, they decide to leave the spa town.
Then he is pushed to listen to Count Wallenski, who “tells him terrible things about the suffering of the Polish people in the hope that the world-famous poet would at once lift his world-renowned voice so that international aid could ease or even end the sufferings of the Poles.”
Told with talented language and richly imagined story of a famous writer whose feelings run deep, first with love, then with broken heart.
However, at some parts the message, even though literary, is too wordy, not moving the story forward. The first part is fairly engaging, but the literary language did not carry it through to the end for me. I wanted there to be more to the plot. The language wasn’t enough for me.
“This novel is based on the life of Mary Bryant, the woman behind one of history’s most daring escapes.” Mary Bryant (1765 – after 1794) was a Cornish“This novel is based on the life of Mary Bryant, the woman behind one of history’s most daring escapes.” Mary Bryant (1765 – after 1794) was a Cornish convict sent to Australia. She became one of the first successful escapees from the fledgling Australian penal colony.
Southern Cornwall, 1783: Jenny Trelawney grew up helping her father on a boat, but when the sea claims his life, her family is forced to sell the boat to help with the money.
Jenny already has a reputation of an odd one, and with an unladylike mouth it’s even more difficult to find a husband. With no prospects for a husband or a job in Cornwall, she travels to Plymouth in search for some work.
On her way to Plymouth, she witnesses highway robbery and this puts an idea into her mind, which leads her only to prison.
The extension of the Royal Mercy takes her to England’s newest colony of Australia to settle it.
After months of brutal journey through rough waters and deplorable conditions, they arrive at sandy beaches with the ground unsuited for growing anything. The land hasn’t been explored fully yet, but the officials of the new colony, already encourage marriages between the convicts here.
As the vegetables fail to grow and the ground turns even challenging for building huts, the new ways of the new land had to be learned in order to survive. The waters are to be explored for fish instead.
With more convicts coming to the settlement and not enough food, Jenny starts hatching a plan of escape. She learns of an island called Coepang, which was colonized by Dutch people, who are friendly and hospitable to those who get wrecked on the ocean.
This atmospheric novel gives glimpses into each step of the life’s journey of the heroine. Her missteps on her home land, the rough journey to the new colony, the reality and struggle to survive on the new land, and her escape and encounters with the natives some more friendly than the others – keeping a reader on their toes.
With interesting characters, the story is told with engaging prose and moving dialogue injected with some humor. When Jenny is called the heroine of the seas, her husband accuses her, “it rests around your shoulders like a shawl.”
And above all, it is a touching portrayal of a very strong woman who voraciously fought for survival and even more for her children to be in a safe environment and have enough food.
Hanging Mary vividly reimagines the life of Mary Surratt who could have changed the course of history, but something stopped her from intervening in tHanging Mary vividly reimagines the life of Mary Surratt who could have changed the course of history, but something stopped her from intervening in the plans leading to the assassination of President Lincoln.
1864, in Washington, Mary Surratt takes boarders to help with the debt occurred by her late husband. The Surratts are Southern sympathizers and you have to be careful with voicing your opinion in regards to secession. Mary’s son, John, becomes acquainted with John Wilkes Booth, a charismatic actor. A concern is being raised by one of the boarders in regards to her son’s deteriorating character. It is being dismissed as pure jealousy as both men used to be close friends and now both Johns, the son and the actor, are very close. There are other concerns being raised such as guns being seen at the house, but that is brushed aside as for protection as John rides regularly into the country.
As the backgrounds of the characters are revealed, the storyline builds up interestingly and holds a reader in suspense. The aftermath is tragic and continues to hold the mystery of how it will unfold implicating Mary.
Beautifully written with depth, giving a sense of closeness to characters and intimate atmosphere, the events leading to the assassination of President Lincoln progress quickly, giving the story a fast pace. This is one of those stories that we all know the ending, and yet the vivid imagination breaths lives into the historical figures and conjures engrossing and poignant story.
P.S. Also highly recommend recently released book by this author – John Brown’s Women ...more
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