Mirella Sichirollo Patzer's Blog, page 44

The Book of Lost Fragrances by MJ Rose

A sweeping and suspenseful tale of secrets, intrigue, and lovers separated by time, all connected through the mystical qualities of a perfume created in the days of Cleopatra--and lost for 2,000 years.

Jac L'Etoile has always been haunted by the past, her memories infused with the exotic scents that she grew up surrounded by as the heir to a storied French perfume company. In order to flee the pain of those remembrances--and of her mother's suicide--she moved to America. Now, fourteen years later she and her brother have inherited the company along with it's financial problems. But when Robbie hints at an earth-shattering discovery in the family archives and then suddenly goes missing--leaving a dead body in his wake--Jac is plunged into a world she thought she'd left behind.

Back in Paris to investigate her brother's disappearance, Jac becomes haunted by the legend the House of L'Etoile has been espousing since 1799. Is there a scent that can unlock the mystery of reincarnation - or is it just another dream infused perfume?



The Book of Lost Fragrances fuses history, passion, and suspense, moving from Cleopatra's Egypt and the terrors of revolutionary France to Tibet's battle with China and the glamour of modern-day Paris. Jac's quest for the ancient perfume someone is willing to kill for becomes the key to understanding her own troubled past.

Although The Book of Lost Fragrances is not purely a historical novel, it encompasses historic facts and lore from ancient Egypt and Greece. The subject matter also touches on past lives and the possibility of reincarnation. Beyond that, it is mostly contemporary, taking the reader from New York to the Europe, and the Far East.

Facts about fragrance and how it is produced both in ancient times and today was rather fascinating. The author truly delved deeply into her research to be able to describe fragrances and practices in such detail. The story is a good one, albeit a little difficult to read due to numerous characters and flashbacks. I suspect by the way the book ended, that there might be a sequel in contemplation. A bit archaeological, a bit suspenseful, and a bit mystical, The Book of Lost Fragrances is an ambitious, but fascinating read. It will be released on March 13, 2012. You can pre-order it now on Amazon! 









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The Whipping Club by Deborah Henry

A heart-wrenching novel about painful abuses in Irish Catholic Institutions

Synopsis:

Deborah Henry's new historical novel, THE WHIPPING CLUB (T.S Poetry Press, March 2012) is a literary page-turner and a tale of redemption, set against the backdrop of violence and deeply entrenched prejudice in 1960s Ireland as told through the heartrending experience of one inter-faith family. In it, an Irish Catholic woman, Marian, in love with a Jewish journalist hides the birth of her out-of-wedlock child to save her future marriage. The child she has relinquished does not end up with an American family as promised. Instead, he is committed to a notorious Catholic orphanage where there is little hope for his survival.

Tormented by feelings of remorse and guilt that have plagued her throughout her marriage to the boy's father, the woman must confront the truth and reveal her long-buried secret. While putting her marriage and family at risk, she determines to save her son and in so doing correct the terrible wrongs of her own past and challenge a system that chronically serves up children to abusive clergy.

Using a hidden Ireland as a backdrop, an island in which thousands of adults and children were forcibly separated in the 1950's and 1960's, the novel explores the sacrificial secrets we keep to protect our loved ones and their impact on a marriage, a family and a society. THE WHIPPING CLUB raises powerful questions about the nature of sin, guilt, and redemption by chronicling a young boy's perilous travels through a corrupt system and one couple's heartbreaking struggle to bring him home.

The Whipping Club is a timely novel that makes a powerful statement, revealing the sufferings of victims and families at the hands of the Catholic Church in the mid 1900's. Although the story focuses on Ireland's orphanages, Magdalene Laundries, and homes for unwed mothers, parallels can be drawn in many other countries where survivors of similar institutions are coming forward.

The story centers around one family. Marian is a Catholic teacher at a Zionist school who falls in love with a young Jewish man named Ben. When she discovers she is pregnant, she tries to tell Ben, but his mother's antagonism at her religious background forces her to keep her secret. Instead, she enters into a special hospital/home for unwed mothers where she puts her son up for adoption, assured he will find a good family in America.

Marian and Ben marry and they have a young daughter. All seems perfect until one day, she learns the son she gave up for adoption is still in the Catholic orphanage she originally left him in. Ben and Marian take legal action to acquire custody of their son, Adrian, and begin to assimilate him into their lives. But he is under the custody of the nuns at the orphanage and they, together with the court system, maintain their hold and custody of the boy.

Not for the faint of heart, this novel addresses several complicated and painful issues that are coming forward in today's society. For the sake of the survivors, it is important to learn about what truly happened, to understand, and to learn from these mistakes so that such things never occur again. As a Catholic myself, it was a shattering experience to read about the harsh punishments, cruelties, and sexual abuse against innocent children and the prejudices against unwed mothers. I admired the fact the author took care to not only portray depraved or cruel religious members, but also those who were loving and kind, albeit the former outweighed the latter in numbers.

What I admire is that the author had the courage to deal with such contentious issues such as deeply ingrained religious beliefs, transgressions, mercy, and the devastating consequences of not speaking out. This novel has depth and punch. It is not a light read – one should not skim over the words light-heartedly. Rather, readers need to prepare themselves to face a realm of emotions as they read and try to understand the true purpose for which the author wrote such a story. This heart-wrenching tragic drama has depth and richness. Despite the painful topic, the author leaves the reader with hope at the end. Bravo Deborah Henry for having the courage to address such tragic and painful realities in our recent past.







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Orphan of the Olive Tree

Coming Summer 2012

A tumultuous family saga about two families torn apart by dark secrets born from raw superstition that threatens to destroy one woman's life while healing that of another's.



Orphan of the Olive Tree which is nearing completion, has been the most delightful story to write. Even I have to admit it's quite a page turner to say the least, a truly fun book to write.



Set in medieval Tuscany, it's about two women and their families. Family, lies, jealousy, true love, and a desire to chase one's own destiny are the main themes running through the story.



Look for it this summer.

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Sonoma Rose by Jennifer Chiaverini

A fascinating story about love and courage set during America's Prohibition.



Book Summary:



From New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Chiaverini, a powerful and dramatic Prohibition-era story that follows the fortunes of Rosa Diaz Barclay, a woman who plunges into the unknown for the safety of her children and the love of a good but flawed man.



As the nation grapples with the strictures of Prohibition, Rosa Barclay lives on a Southern California rye farm with her volatile husband, John, who has lately found another source of income far outside the federal purview.Mother to eight children, Rosa mourns the loss of four who succumbed to the mysterious wasting disease that is now afflicting young Ana and Miguel. Two daughters born of another father are in perfect health. When an act of violence shatters Rosa's resolve to maintain her increasingly dangerous existence, she flees with the children and her precious heirloom quilts to the mesa where she last saw her beloved mother alive.



As a flash flood traps them in a treacherous canyon, only one man is brave-or foolhardy-enough to come to their rescue: Lars Jorgenson, Rosa's first love and the father of her healthy daughters. Together they escape to Berkeley, where a leading specialist offers their only hope of saving Ana and Miguel. Here in northern California, they create new identities to protect themselves from Rosa's vengeful husband, the police who seek her for questioning, and the gangsters Lars reported to Prohibition agents-officers representing a department often as corrupt as the Mob itself. Ever mindful that his youthful alcoholism provoked Rosa to spurn him, Lars nevertheless supports Rosa's daring plan to stake their futures on a struggling Sonoma Valley vineyard-despite the recent hardships of local winemakers whose honest labors at viticulture have, through no fault of their own, become illegal.

Sonoma Rose by Jennifer Chiaverini is fascinating novel set during Prohibition in the southern United States. I loved the retro cover. It reminded me of many classic novels that I enjoyed so many years ago, or finding an old dusty classic hidden at the back of a library's bookshelf. This novel weaves through time as it follows the trials Rosa and Lars face as they attempt to escape their past and avoid treachery in their new life. One immediately feels sympathy for poor Rose who is trapped in a loveless marriage with an embittered man who refuses to provide the necessary care for her ill children and regularly abuses her.

This is an epic story that weaves itself over several years and takes the reader into the heart of wine country during the era of Prohibition. The author gave us an in-depth look at the struggle of vineyard owners at a time when wine-making was severely and how they struggled to survive. Insight was also given as to how celiac disease was first diagnosed and treated.

The novel was easy to read. Its characters, both protagonist and antagonist, were well written and realistic. It is nice to learn about lesser known eras in unusual settings, and this novel certainly made that mark. Beautiful prose, rich descriptions, and an endearing story of courage and hope make this an awesome read.

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The Healing by Jonathan Odell

An engrossing novel about slavery!



Mississippi plantation mistress Amanda Satterfield loses her daughter to cholera after her husband refuses to treat her for what he considers to be a "slave disease." Insane with grief, Amanda takes a newborn slave child as her own and names her Granada, much to the outrage of her husband and the amusement of their white neighbors. Troubled by his wife's disturbing mental state and concerned about a mysterious plague sweeping through his slave population, Master Satterfield purchases Polly Shine, a slave reputed to be a healer. But Polly's sharp tongue and troubling predictions cause unrest across the plantation. Complicating matters further, Polly recognizes "the gift" in Granada, the mistress's pet, and a domestic battle of wills ensues.

Seventy-five years later, Granada, now known as Gran Gran, is still living on the plantation and must revive the buried memories of her past in order to heal a young girl abandoned to her care. Together they learn the power of story to heal the body, the spirit and the soul.

Rich in mood and atmosphere, The Healing is the kind of novel readers can't put down—and can't wait to recommend once they've finished.

The Healing is a novel about an old woman named Gran Gran. The former slave lives alone in an abandoned mansion on a Southern plantation. In her youth, she worked as a midwife and healer to the slaves. Once revered for her skills, as time progressed, the respect she once enjoyed has faded away.

Lonely, she finds herself taking care of a young girl named Violet whose mother died after a botched abortion. Gran Gran shares her memories of her life as a slave on the plantation with the young girl, soothing her grief over her mother's death. An unhinged mistress, the hardships the slaves suffered because of heartless masters, disease, sorrow, and cruel racial prejudices abounds on every page of this engrossing novel.

Moving between present and past, the author tantalizes by revealing dark secrets and mistakes. But this novel is more than a story of the South. It is a revelation about the difficulties black women faced at the hands of slaveholders - forced separation from children and family, lack of food and clothing, and their resilience to succeed despite numerous adversities.

Odell delves deep into womanhood, never shying away from poverty, rape, and horrendous abuses that were considered normal in the treatment of slaves. And he does so in a way that evokes great respect and sympathy for the women who were not only resilient, but courageous. Above all, this is a poignant novel of hope and courage that will deeply touch readers. I truly loved this book and look forward to reading future books by this very talented author.







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The Turning of Anne Merrick by Christine Blevins

Welcome to the Book Tour for 

THE TURNING OF ANNE MERRICKby

Christine Blevins





A tale of love and espionage from the author of Midwife of the Blue Ridge...



She spies for General Washington, betrays the Redcoats and battles for America's independence...

It's 1777, and a fledgling country wages an almost hopeless struggle against the might of the British Empire. Brought together by a fateful kiss, Anne Merrick and Jack Hampton are devoted to each other and to their Patriot cause. As part of Washington's daring network of spies, they are ready and willing to pay even the ultimate price for freedom.



From battlefields raging along the Hudson, to the desperate winter encampment at Valley Forge and through the dangerous intrigue of British-occupied Philadelphia, Anne and Jack brave the trials of separation, the ravages of war and an unyielding enemy growing ever more ruthless.

For love and for country, all is put at risk-and together the pair must call upon their every ounce of courage and cunning in order to survive.

If you've never read one of Christine Blevin's novels before, I can assure you that you are in for a real treat. I've had the pleasure of reading all three novels and each one supercedes the other in both quality of writing and delightful storytelling.

In The Turning of Anne Merrick continues we return to the days of the American Revolution and pick up where the first novel in the series, The Tory Wife, ended. Anne and her feisty Scottish maid Sally, have now infiltrated the English Redcoat army. As a previous printing press owner, Anne's cover is to scribe letters home for the soldiers, but secretly she is spying and sending valuable intelligence to the handsomely roguish Jack Hampton who is a mischievous scalliwag and rebel. Together, they risk their lives for the Patriot cause.

Anne Merrick is a courageous, gutsy widow, who along with her dynamic maid, Sally, endure the hardships that come with following an army on the brink of destruction. Sally, in particular, is a complex, entertaining character, who holds no words back no matter the situation, and holds her mistress's best interests at heart. You'll love her sassy Scottish accent and "in your face" retorts. Jack Hampton is an endearing hero who often finds himself in the midst of all the trouble, yet never fails to land firmly on his own two feet.

Although there is a strong romantic element, this is not a romance. It is much more than that. Author Christine Blevins is an expert at the craft of writing historical fiction. She retells history the way its meant to be told and enjoyed. This novel takes us right into the heart of the Battle of Independence, giving readers a first hand look at the finest details of the era. Magically, she weaves details such as rifles, clothing, uniforms, army life, supplies, and the machinations of those who lived and endured the hardship of the times. From start to finish, the novel is realistic, impeccably researched, and beautifully written.

Although The Turning of Anne Merrick can stand alone, I highly recommend reading The Tory Wife first because it truly enhances the highly charged relationship between the hero and heroine. Read this book! It won't disappoint. I loved all three of Chrstine's books...Can't wait for more.

Links:

Tour Schedule:  http://hfvirtualbooktours.blogspot.com/2012/01/christine-blevins-on-tour-for-turning.html
Christine Blevins' Website:  http://christineblevins.com/

Christine Blevins on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/christine.blevins

Christine Blevins on Twitter: @Author_CBlevins

Tour Event Twitter Hashtag:  #TurningofAnneMerrickVirtualTour

















Author Christine Blevins

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Hoyden of the Week - Snake Enchantress

Enchantments by Kathryn Harrison

Back Cover Blurb:



1917 was a turbulent year for Russia. Already deeply enmeshed in World War I, there were problems on the home front as well, as the seeds of revolution began to sprout. On New Year's Day, the body of the "Mad Monk" Rasputin, charismatic healer and confidante of the tsarina, was pulled from the icy river Neva. His daughters, according to his wishes, are placed under the protection of the Romanov royal family. Eighteen-year-old Masha, despite not being gifted with her father's powers, takes his place at the bedside of the young tsarevitch, Alyosha. The heir to the empire, Alyosha is frequently confined to bed with the effects of his hemophilia, and Masha must do what she can to ease his discomfort. She tells him stories, of her parents and his, but even the most enchanting fictions cannot hide the fact that the Romanovs are under house arrest by the Bolsheviks, and that Alyosha may not survive long enough to die from his disease.



Review



Enchantments is the story of the Russian Revolution, fictionally recounting what happpened to Rasputin's daughters after their father's murder. The tsarina, desperate to grasp on to Rasputin's magical healing powers for her hemophiliac son, takes Masha and her sister to live with them, in the hopes they may possess some of their father's skills. Rasputin's life and murder continue to fascinate to this day. And this is what drew me to this story.

Kathryn Harrison did an excellent job of bringing to life the central characters in this story. I enjoyed the historical details and the poignancy she portrayed regarding the royal family at their anticipated demise. She truly is a talented writer who did a great deal of research. Many of her scenes are gripping and so real, they truly stirred a realm of emotions as I read them. In particular is the scene depicting the murder and recovery of Rasputin's death. At times, I wished for more of Rasputin to be brought into the story through flashback or recounting some of his escapades, but I bear in mind how difficult it is to write a novel set in such a complicated era and within the constraints of required novel length. 

The cover is spectacular and definitely a draw for readers. All in all, this novel is an excellent representation of a most traumatic time in Russia's history and recommended for those who love Russian historical novels.  







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The Orchid House by Lucinda Riley

A beautiful story!

Synopsis:



As a child Julia Forrester spent many idyllic hours in the hothouse of Wharton Park, the great house where her grandfather tended exotic orchids. Years later, while struggling with overwhelming grief over the death of her husband and young child, she returns to the tranquility of the estate. There she reunites with Kit Crawford, heir to the estate and her possible salvation.

When they discover an old diary, Julia seeks out her grandmother to learn the truth behind a love affair that almost destroyed Wharton Park. Their search takes them back to the 1930s when a former heir to Wharton Park married his young society bride on the eve of World War II. When the two lovers are cruelly separated, the impact will be felt on generations to come.

Lucinda Riley skillfully sweeps her readers between the magical world of Wharton Park and Thailand during World War II with irresistible and atmospheric storytelling. Filled with twists and turns, passions and lies, and ultimately redemption, The Orchid House is a romantic, poignant novel that became an instant bestseller in the UK and Germany.

The Orchid House is a tantalizing story involving a grieving heroine, a secret diary, an ancient mansion, and long buried family secrets. The story's main character is Julia who is grief-stricken over the death of her husband and son. She returns to her roots – a dilapidated mansion where she once spent countless hours with her grandfather in the conservatory watching him tend to orchids. There she meets the heir to estate and a friendship is sparked between them. The discovery of an old diary, long forgotten, sweeps Julia into the past where she uncovers family secrets and which ultimately help her heal.

Told through some flashbacks between the present and the past, these tantalizing reminisces helped build momentum and kept me enthralled to read further. The story held my interest with its twists and turns and fascinating characters. I immediately sympathized with the heroine whose grief and pain, as well as her gradual healing, was well portrayed. I especially enjoyed how the theme of a rare orchid flowed from start to finish. I cannot say enough about how lovely this book is to read. Utterly beautiful! Completely satisfying!I LOVE COMMENTS

Becky Cotton - A True Black Widow!

A most beautiful Black Widow!



Ever wonder how someone so very beautiful can be so evil inside? Take the case of Becky Cotton. She lived in the town of Eldridge, South Carolina and had no trouble attracting husbands. In fact she married at least three times. One husband she killed with a needle through the heart. Another, she axed to death. And one she poisoned. One has to question whether she liked the state of marriage or preferred widowhood. It seemed she could not make up her mind.



And what did the pretty little delicate flower do with the bodies? She weighted them down then dumped them in a nearby pond.



But one fateful day, someone discovered one of those bodies. A quick investigation soon led to the other two victims. Before long, Becky found herself arrested and facing trial.



The evidence was strong. All three men were directly linked to Becky. The prosecution prepared themselves for victory, certain Becky Cotton would be convicted. That is, until she rose to her feet to testify on her own behalf. And did she ever lay on the charm! Through a cascade of tears, she batted her pretty blue eyes, and uttered such saccharine sweet-talk that melted the hearts of judge and jury. Despite the overwhelming evidence, the case against Becky was dismissed.



Soon afterwards, she married one of the jurors, with several other jurors attending her nuptials! Ah, but this story does not have a fairy tale ending. In an eerily similar murder to those she had herself committed,  Becky Cotton was murdered by her own brother. To this day, her legend lives on in Edgefield, and some say, so does her ghost.    











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