One of the best things about the Historical Fiction community is that it is a community. Through it, I've discovered some fantastic authors, who write some amazing works of art. I'm delighted to share a review today from one lady who I met through the online Historical Fiction community, and whose fabulous new book Hiding the Flame launched on Monday. I was fortunate enough to have a sneak peek of the book before it was released, and it's been great to share in some of the excitement about this new novel. But, before I share my thoughts, let's meet the book... Florence, 1497. A city ablaze with religious fear. A woman forced to hide her art. And a love so dangerous it could cost her everything. Francesca Rosini, a gifted but silenced painter, lives under the strict rule of her husband - a man whose devotion to Savonarola’s puritanical revolution leaves no room for beauty, tenderness, or truth. While Bonfires of the Vanities burn paintings, books, and anything deemed ...
"Lifesong" by Julia Blake
Book Review
☆☆☆☆
The first thing that
struck me about this book was the beauty of the language. Each sentence has
been exquisitely crafted to ensure it has the most impact and meaning on the
reader. Although it was not my sort of book, I appreciated the artistic skill
of the author and must congratulate her that she portrayed such a worrying
concept so beautifully.
One of the main things I
look for in a book is the strength of its characters. The author developed all
the characters well in the short time she had given herself, so I felt the
characters’ concern and pain alongside them.
I found the novella a
little dark for my taste (this is purely a matter of personal taste) and I
would have liked a little more hope in the story. The end seemed satisfactory –
and not – at the same time. I acknowledge, however, that this is important for
the message the story conveys.
Blurb (from Goodreads)
She came from a different place, a world living in harmony with the lifesong that flows through everything, connecting all to the great song of the universe.
Suddenly, she's trapped on our world, a place hell bent on self-destruction, a place that destroys without thought, poisons its own water supply and pollutes the very air that it breathes. Horrified to discover we have no lifesong, the question burns – what kind of a world is this, that can treat itself so?
Hauntingly beautiful, this story will make you think and feel about our planet and our choices, and wonder - Is the love of one woman enough to save an entire world?

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