Rowena鈥檚 Year in Books

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2023

4,966

pages read

books read

Rowena Kinread

Shortest Book

262

pages

Longest Book

554

pages

Average book length in 2023

354

pages

Most Shelved

414,478

people also shelved

Least Shelved

people also shelved

Rowena鈥檚 average rating for 2023

4.9

Highest Rated on 欧宝娱乐

4.70 average

Rowena鈥檚 first review of the year

it was amazing

From the
very first pages the author transports us from our comfy homes to Venice in renaissance Italy. From dark murky canals to grand palaces; magnificent costumes and the Grand Canal teeming with trading and transport boats. It is carneval time and the characters, unrecogniseable behind traditional masks complete the cloak and dagger effect.
The novel is full of action with one turn after the next. The main character, Mia, is sensitively descr ...more

搁翱奥贰狈础鈥橲 2023 BOOKS

it was amazing

it was amazing

Rowena鈥檚 last review of the year

it was amazing

"Times in Turmoil" by Anna Belfrage is a thrilling historical novel that transports readers to the tumultuous year of 1718. The story follows the lives of Duncan Melville and his time-traveller wife, Erin, as they endeavour to build a peaceful existence for their twin daughters in the midst of adversity and relentless enemies.
One of the book's strongest aspects is its well-developed characters. The protagonists, Duncan and Erin, are complex and r "Times in Turmoil" by Anna Belfrage is a thrilling historical novel that transports readers to the tumultuous year of 1718. The story follows the lives of Duncan Melville and his time-traveller wife, Erin, as they endeavour to build a peaceful existence for their twin daughters in the midst of adversity and relentless enemies.
One of the book's strongest aspects is its well-developed characters. The protagonists, Duncan and Erin, are complex and relatable, and readers will find themselves deeply invested in their journey. Erin, in particular, is a strong and resilient character who refuses to stand idly by when she witnesses a child being mistreated. Her determination to do what's right, despite the consequences, makes her a captivating and admirable character.
The novel also weaves in elements of the supernatural with the reappearance of a ghost from the past, Armand Joseph Chardon. The suspenseful twists and turns as he seeks revenge add an intriguing layer to the story, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
Belfrage skilfully explores the challenges and dangers of the time and place, making the historical setting come to life. Erin's status as a woman of colour in a period where prejudice and discrimination were rampant adds depth to the narrative. The threats they face because of her ethnicity are portrayed with sensitivity and highlight the real struggles people faced in that era.
The book also delves into the complexities of family and relationships. Duncan's cousin seeking refuge from an abusive husband and the reappearance of Nicholas Farrell, a figure from their past, bring additional layers of tension and drama to the story. These elements add depth to the characters and the overall plot.
"Times in Turmoil" is a compelling and well-researched historical novel that combines elements of romance, suspense, and supernatural intrigue. Anna Belfrage's writing is engaging, and she skilfully balances the historical context with the personal journeys of her characters. If you enjoy immersive historical fiction with well-drawn characters and a touch of the supernatural, this book is a must-read. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love in the face of adversity, making it an unforgettable and thought-provoking read.

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