The Crook and Flail by Libbie Hawker
by
Natasa Djordjevic
- 8:43 AM
This series is truly captivating, illuminating a fascinating chapter of Egyptian history that I had not previously explored. It intricately weaves the rich tapestry of religion, political intrigue, and the nuances of daily life in a civilization that we mainly understand through the remnants of archaeological finds and the majestic monuments they left behind. Ms. Hawker masterfully breathes life into both the characters and the vibrant settings, making the past feel palpable and immediate.
The narrative resonates with themes that echo in today’s society, where women still find themselves underrepresented in positions of power, within the military, and in high-ranking religious roles. During Hatshepsut's reign, the sight of a woman wielding authority was almost unimaginable; nevertheless, she embraced that path with courage and determination, facing immense challenges and sacrifices along the way. It's both haunting and thought-provoking to consider how, despite the strides we have made since her time, some struggles continue to endure.
The author's thorough research blends seamlessly with an emotionally charged, personal narrative that draws you in. It ignites a longing in me to journey to Egypt, to tread the ancient paths once walked by these compelling characters, and to experience the echoes of their lives that reverberate through the sands of time.
The Chanel Sisters by Judithe Little
by
Natasa Djordjevic
- 10:36 AM
You don't accept what you're told you are. You decide for yourself.
This captivating tale unfolds in 1897 and is brought to life through the voice of Antionette, the sister of the iconic Gabrielle (Coco) Chanel. Following the tragic death of their mother from consumption, their father entrusted the sisters to an orphanage, a place where they endured the stern discipline of nuns and lived a sheltered existence far from the vibrant world beyond its walls.
Every so often, they were granted a rare and cherished visit with their grandparents, a delightful escape from their daily routine. During these visits, their grandparents gifted them coins, and with wide-eyed excitement, they rushed to buy glossy magazines filled with stunning images of shimmering gowns and extravagant hats. These magazines became cherished secrets, treasures tucked away in their modest living quarters, igniting their imaginations and allowing them to dream of the glamorous fashions that existed just beyond their reach.
Two sisters departed from the orphanage, their hearts brimming with hope as they promised to send for Antoinette once she turned 19. When the day finally arrived, Antoinette stepped into a world transformed; her sisters were enveloped in the glamour and sophistication of city life. She quickly found a position at a quaint hat shop, where her innate talent for crafting exquisite creations began to blossom.
Years later, Antoinette made her way to the vibrant streets of Paris to join Gabrielle, who was being lavished with attention by a wealthy benefactor. Together, they immersed themselves in the bustling fashion scene, designing hats that dazzled the elite of the haute bourgeoisie. As their reputation grew, they opened a stylish boutique on Rue Cambon, where the air buzzed with excitement and the promise of elegance.
The book intricately weaves the captivating tale of the Chanel sisters as they embark on their journey through the thriving world of fashion, establishing their bustling shops and navigating the complex relationships with the men who swept into their lives. We are drawn into Coco’s vision as she skillfully crafts exquisite garments, and we witness how her innovative designs capture the hearts of the elite, propelling her to unprecedented heights of fame.
Amidst the backdrop of war's chaos and the overwhelming hardships faced by countless individuals, the Chanel sisters persevere, transforming their challenges into threads of resilience that shine in the luxurious attire they offer to affluent women. The poignant relationships portrayed in the narrative reveal the emotional depths of love and longing that enriched their lives, painting a vivid picture of both tenderness and turmoil.
While I have encountered later accounts of Coco Chanel, including her fierce rivalries in fashion and her experiences during the ominous shadows of WWII, this exploration of her formative years is both enchanting and eye-opening. It reveals a woman who, despite her intense yearning for her father's approval, cloaked her private life in an air of mystery. Antoinette’s journey unfolds alongside Coco’s, offering an equally compelling narrative of love and ambition.
In a romantic and beautifully rendered prose style, "The Chanel Sisters" invites readers on a delightful odyssey through the enchanting streets of the City of Light, where fashion and passion intertwine in a mesmerizing dance.
Victory of Eagles by Naomi Novik
by
Natasa Djordjevic
- 3:36 PM
The war between England and France rages on, a tempest of chaos and conflict that has reached English shores with Napoleon's formidable forces making their fearless landing. Amidst this turmoil, Will Laurence stands at a crossroads, his heart heavy with the weight of his choices. He understands that he committed an act of betrayal against his country, a decision he took with resolute conviction. Yet, as the realities of war unfold around him, he is plagued by anguish, recognizing the suffering that Napoleon's ambition is inflicting upon his people, an outcome partially born from his own seditious deed.
Convicted of treason and facing the grim specter of death, Laurence reflects on his predicament. He feels that perhaps he deserves this fate. Yet paradoxically, he clings to the belief that his actions were morally justified, driven by a fierce opposition to the abominable institution of slavery. The struggle between his sense of duty and his ethical convictions creates an inner turmoil as intense as the battlefield that now encroaches upon his homeland.
Meanwhile, in the serene yet somber setting of the Pen Y Fan breeding pen in Wales, his dragon, Temeraire, languishes in boredom and sorrow, tormented by the thought that Will has perished. The air is thick with the discontent of the hags who share the space, their jealous murmurs and petty squabbles adding to his frustration. The once-vibrant surroundings feel stifling, as Temeraire grows increasingly weary of their incessant bickering. Determined to break free from their grip, he transforms them into a formidable dragon force under his command, his spirit ignited by the need to reclaim peace and purpose.
As the storm-tossed ship carrying prisoner Laurence makes its final descent into the turbulent waters of the English Channel, fate intervenes and spares his life. Clinging to the wreckage, he emerges from the chaos, only to find that a precarious opportunity awaits him. In a twist of destiny, he is offered a chance at reprieve—if he can reunite with the majestic dragon, Temeraire. Together, they must unleash the mighty Divine Wind against the formidable Bonaparte, who tightens his iron grip on London, casting a shadow over the city’s future.
The fifth tale in this alternate historical fantasy unfolds as a captivating addition, even as Will and Temeraire remain anchored at home, in stark contrast to the globe-trotting adventures of the previous novels. From the very first page, the storyline bursts forth with exhilarating momentum, immersing readers in a world where the thundering wings of dragons in battle feel strikingly real.
Yet, it is Laurence's deep-seated turmoil that truly elevates the narrative. He grapples with the agonizing tension between his conviction that he has acted rightly and the painful sense of betrayal toward his country. This inner struggle not only enriches his character but also draws readers into his emotional landscape. Meanwhile, Temeraire, ever the insightful companion, wrestles with his own uncertainties about how to guide Laurence through this storm of doubt and sorrow. Together, their journey becomes a powerful exploration of loyalty, moral conflict, and the unbreakable bond between them, making this installment a standout in the realm of military fantasy.
The Sekhmet Bed Libbie Hawker
by
Natasa Djordjevic
- 2:58 PM
The Sekhmet Bed transports us back to the mesmerizing world of ancient Egypt, where rich tapestries of culture and tradition weave a captivating backdrop. I admired how Hawker intricately brings to life this elusive chapter of humanity's history. The narrative unfolds within the opulent halls of the royal court, revealing its splendor and intrigue through the eyes of Ahmose—a spirited second daughter of the Pharaoh. Her life takes an unexpected turn as she ascends to the esteemed role of the Pharaoh's first wife, a position traditionally reserved for her elder sister, Mutnofret. The tension of ambition and familial loyalty creates a captivating portrait of love and rivalry amidst the golden sands of time.
Ahmose is celebrated as 'God-chosen,' and her extraordinary bond with the mighty gods of Egypt captivated me throughout the story. As an avid fantasy fiction enthusiast, I was utterly enchanted by the rich supernatural elements woven into the narrative. In her dreams, the gods would whisper their secrets to Ahmose, their voices echoing like distant thunder, and she would skillfully decipher their cryptic messages. Each of her predictions carried an unsettling precision as if the very fabric of fate was intricately tied to her insights, leaving a lasting impression of wonder and awe.
A significant source of tension in the narrative, particularly in the gripping first half of the book, stems from the stormy relationship between Ahmose and her sister. Their interactions crackle with intensity, pulling the reader into a whirlwind of emotions and conflicts. While this dynamic makes for thrilling reading, I couldn't help but feel that a deeper exploration of their backstory—perhaps delving into the memories of their childhood—would shed more light on the complexities driving Mutnofret’s and Ahmose’s actions. Yet, this consideration is a mere ripple in an otherwise captivating tale.
The story delves deeply into the intricate inner life of Ahmose, revealing her emotions and thoughts with remarkable intimacy, while also casting a secondary light on her sister and their powerful husband, Pharaoh Thutmose. The characters are skillfully developed, and their complex relationships stir a vivid tapestry of intrigue and drama. However, I yearned for a richer exploration of the broader aspects of Egyptian royal life.
The act of sitting on the throne to dispense judgment in the grand Egyptian court is a pivotal element that echoes throughout the narrative, painting a picture of authority and solemnity. Ahmose’s frustrations with her shared dominion over the throne with her sister create palpable tension, heightening the stakes of their royal duties. Yet, this fascinating world feels somewhat confined—allowing us only one rare glimpse into the majestic yet complex procedures of court life.
I longed for a wider lens, one that would transport me deeper into the opulent chambers of the royal court and the intricate rituals that defined it. In essence, while the story offers an incredibly close and personal view of Ahmose, it inadvertently sidelines the rich and vibrant details of royal existence. My curiosity about these broader elements of court life remained an unquenched thirst.
What captivated me about Hawker's writing was her exquisite ability to weave unusual terms into the narrative so effortlessly. Rather than bombarding us with dry definitions and modern explanations, she enveloped us in the story, allowing the context to reveal the meanings organically. Take the term "Maat," for instance; when I first encountered it, I was completely unfamiliar with its significance. Yet, intrigued and absorbed by the flow of the story, I never paused to look it up. Now, reflecting on it, I realize I have a deeper understanding of the concept than I might have gained from any dictionary. Hawker artfully illustrates what "Maat" embodied for the Egyptians, inviting us to explore its layers through the unfolding tale rather than simply telling us outright. I found this natural integration of context within the narrative truly enriching.
This historical novel is a meticulously crafted masterpiece, brimming with rich research and vibrant detail. The characters leap off the pages, each one fully realized with depth and nuance, making you feel as though you truly know them. The writing is nothing short of exceptional, weaving a tapestry of words that captivate the imagination. With its expansive and sweeping plot, the story takes you on an unforgettable journey through time. It’s truly an outstanding read that lingers long after the final page is turned!
Month of November: Best of Quotes
by
Natasa Djordjevic
- 8:02 AM
Black Powder War by Naomi Novik
by
Natasa Djordjevic
- 9:19 AM
“Justice is expensive. That is why there is so little of it, and it is reserved for those few with enough money and influence to afford it.”
In this latest installment of the series, Novik immerses readers in a vivid backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, transporting them from the windswept shores of England to the bustling streets of China, and onward through the intricate landscapes of the Middle East and the Ottoman Empire. The narrative broadens its canvas, delving deeper into the pressing social debates of the time, especially the contentious issue of slavery. Readers witness the delicate dance of diplomacy as England and its natural allies in Europe navigate a treacherous path, striving to thwart France's ambitions while carefully avoiding the ire of its formidable armies. The tension and intrigue of these historical relationships are masterfully captured, inviting a deeper understanding of the complexities of the era.
As the story unfolds, the bond between the main protagonists grows stronger, allowing for a more nuanced exploration of their complex personalities. This deepening relationship brings to light the biases and prejudices held by one of the characters, adding layers of tension and conflict to their interactions. Without this crucial foundation, many of the subsequent challenges they face would lack authenticity and depth, diminishing the impact of the dilemmas that are vividly illustrated throughout the narrative.
Novik once again showcases her remarkable talent in the fantasy genre. In a vividly imagined world, she captivates readers by intertwining rich themes and pressing issues that echo the genuine human experiences of the historical era she draws from. Remarkably, these profound experiences are embodied as a dragon, adding an enchanting layer to the narrative. This latest offering is a delightful blend of humor and adventure, guaranteed to entertain and engage readers from start to finish.
