As it's National Poetry Day, I thought I'd share a few thoughts on Byron. The celebrity cult of Lord Byron began while he was still alive, boomed when he died, and still continues today. He remains an object of fascination, scandal, and appeal. I've been interested in him since I first read about him in a "Famous People" encyclopaedia. It was a children's book, so it did not explore the more infamous aspects of his life. But it was enough to inspire me to delve further into research on the man and the myth - including the puzzle of the mirror . Ultimately, Byron went on to become a major inspiration for my first published book Day's Dying Glory , right down to its title. His early poems (generally my favourite ones) feature heavily in the book, and I enjoyed weaving in lines and references which Byron-fans would spot where others might not even notice them. Poets and poetry have inspired hundreds of writers. It is fascinating that language can be so power...
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 sinful, Francesca keeps her talent locked away like a forbidden flame.
Then she meets Vittoria, a merchant’s wife with a bold gaze and a quiet courage that unsettles Francesca’s careful obedience. What begins as admiration becomes a connection too powerful to ignore - a forbidden love that awakens Francesca’s spirit, her artistry, and her longing for a life she has never dared imagine.
But Florence is a city where secrets are dangerous… and desire is deadly.
As the firestorm of religious extremism grows, Francesca must choose between the life she knows and the truth that’s calling her.
Will she continue hiding the flame - or let it burn bright, even if it destroys her?
Hiding the Flame is available here.
My Review
Florence in the 1490s was a dangerous place, with factions often resorting to underhand means to gain points over their opponents. But, for Francesca, it is home. Unfortunately, home falls apart as marriage is forced upon her, and she is forced to re-evaluate her life in light of her new situation.
Despite her mutually loveless marriage, Francesca has the benefit of her forbidden pastime: Art. And, through this pastime, she learns to truly love... but not who she is supposed to.
This book is a fantastic romance in a beautiful and extensively-researched setting. The writing is fast-paced and believable, and Francesca's journey of discovery is a real adventure. History may forget such individuals, but Angela Sims' book reminds us that their tales are worth telling.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If Historical Romance is your thing, this is the book for you!
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