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Emboldened
How do you begin your life again when you've lost everything you've worked for and your dreams have been shattered?
That was the question beloved Australian author Belinda Alexandra faced one freezing winter night when she ran from her home in terror, clutching only her wallet, her phone and her latest manuscript on a USB stick.
To pull herself up from rock bottom, Belinda drew strength from the real life women who had inspired her bestselling historical fiction: her mother, Tatiana Morosoff, a White Russian who had fled a home more than once due to wars and revolutions; Virginia Hall, an American who lost her leg in an accident but went on to become one of the most revered Allied agents in World War II France; Carmen Amaya, who despite being born into abject poverty in Barcelona rose to become the greatest Flamenco dancer of all time; Edna Walling, who lost her own dream home in a freak fire but created garden designs that made her one of Australia's most celebrated landscape designers.
They were women who had faced seemingly insurmountable challenges and found ways to forge ahead on their own terms.
In a compelling and exquisite blend of memoir and history, Belinda shows readers that, no matter what challenge they might be facing, there is always the possibility of building a bold life full of meaning again from the ashes.
That was the question beloved Australian author Belinda Alexandra faced one freezing winter night when she ran from her home in terror, clutching only her wallet, her phone and her latest manuscript on a USB stick.
To pull herself up from rock bottom, Belinda drew strength from the real life women who had inspired her bestselling historical fiction: her mother, Tatiana Morosoff, a White Russian who had fled a home more than once due to wars and revolutions; Virginia Hall, an American who lost her leg in an accident but went on to become one of the most revered Allied agents in World War II France; Carmen Amaya, who despite being born into abject poverty in Barcelona rose to become the greatest Flamenco dancer of all time; Edna Walling, who lost her own dream home in a freak fire but created garden designs that made her one of Australia's most celebrated landscape designers.
They were women who had faced seemingly insurmountable challenges and found ways to forge ahead on their own terms.
In a compelling and exquisite blend of memoir and history, Belinda shows readers that, no matter what challenge they might be facing, there is always the possibility of building a bold life full of meaning again from the ashes.
- GenresNonfictionAudiobook
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 26, 2023
25 people are currently reading
258 people want to read
About the author
Belinda Alexandra
19 books744 followersBelinda Alexandra has been published to wide acclaim in Australia and internationally. She is the daughter of a Russian mother and an Australian father and has been an intrepid traveller since her youth. Her love of other cultures is matched by her passion for her home country, Australia, where she is a volunteer carer for the NSW Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service (WIRES).
Belinda is also an ambassador for the World League for the Protection of Animals (Australia) and lives in Sydney with a menagerie of adored pets.
Join Belinda's community of readers at facebook.com/BelindaAlexandraAuthor
Belinda is also an ambassador for the World League for the Protection of Animals (Australia) and lives in Sydney with a menagerie of adored pets.
Join Belinda's community of readers at facebook.com/BelindaAlexandraAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
June 7, 2023
I have read one book by this author and did not imagine a nonfiction release. The author is definite to say this is not designed as a work of self-help, but her story of how she moved forward using inspiration from strong women.
In embolding myself, I told my stories of resilience, purpose, passion and connection. I was not interested in stories of revenge or anger or being a victim. They would have only made me bitter and unable to transform my supernova dust cloud into a new star or planet.
I don’t normally embrace ideas like that last part of the quote, but the author has told her story of running away with no possessions in the middle of the night, to heal personally and to guide others.
With my sincere thanks to @Betterreadingau for my copy to read and review.
In embolding myself, I told my stories of resilience, purpose, passion and connection. I was not interested in stories of revenge or anger or being a victim. They would have only made me bitter and unable to transform my supernova dust cloud into a new star or planet.
I don’t normally embrace ideas like that last part of the quote, but the author has told her story of running away with no possessions in the middle of the night, to heal personally and to guide others.
With my sincere thanks to @Betterreadingau for my copy to read and review.
June 7, 2023
⭐️4 Stars⭐️
‘𝐼𝑛 𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑒𝑟 𝑡𝑜 𝑏𝑒 𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑜𝑙𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑑 𝑤𝑒 𝑛𝑒𝑒𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑚 𝑜𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑎 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑤𝑒 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑤ℎ𝑜 𝑤𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒. 𝑁𝑜 𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑢𝑝𝑏𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑜𝑟 𝑐𝑖𝑟𝑐𝑢𝑚𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒𝑠, 𝑤𝑒 𝑑𝑜 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑓𝑟𝑒𝑒 𝑐ℎ𝑜𝑖𝑐𝑒. 𝐼𝑡 𝑖𝑠 𝑒𝑥𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑖𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑐ℎ𝑜𝑖𝑐𝑒 𝑑𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑦 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑤𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑛𝑔.’
Emboldened
Belinda Alexandra is a wonderful story teller of historical fiction and her novels are full of inspiring heroines. In this part memoir book she presents the question of how do we rise above challenges and find the strength to begin again after losing everything.
The author tells her own story of starting over after her dreams are shattered and she draws strength from women in history who inspired her to pick herself up when everything in her life was lost.
I enjoyed the heart warming story telling of the authors own experiences and those of family and other fearless women in history that faced terrible challenges.
My favourite part of the book was the story of Belinda’s grandmother and mother, just incredible.
This book is written with so much heart, it’s an inspiring and passionate read of becoming emboldened. A wonderful book to give hope to those going through a difficult time of despair or enjoys stories about women of resilience that overcome life trauma’s.
Publication Date 26 April 2023
Publisher Affirm Press
RRP AUD 19.99
Loved this book! Thank you so much Belinda Alexandra and Affirm Press for sending me a copy.
‘𝐼𝑛 𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑒𝑟 𝑡𝑜 𝑏𝑒 𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑜𝑙𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑑 𝑤𝑒 𝑛𝑒𝑒𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑚 𝑜𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑎 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑤𝑒 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑤ℎ𝑜 𝑤𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒. 𝑁𝑜 𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑢𝑝𝑏𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑜𝑟 𝑐𝑖𝑟𝑐𝑢𝑚𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒𝑠, 𝑤𝑒 𝑑𝑜 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑓𝑟𝑒𝑒 𝑐ℎ𝑜𝑖𝑐𝑒. 𝐼𝑡 𝑖𝑠 𝑒𝑥𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑖𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑐ℎ𝑜𝑖𝑐𝑒 𝑑𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑦 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑤𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑛𝑔.’
Emboldened
Belinda Alexandra is a wonderful story teller of historical fiction and her novels are full of inspiring heroines. In this part memoir book she presents the question of how do we rise above challenges and find the strength to begin again after losing everything.
The author tells her own story of starting over after her dreams are shattered and she draws strength from women in history who inspired her to pick herself up when everything in her life was lost.
I enjoyed the heart warming story telling of the authors own experiences and those of family and other fearless women in history that faced terrible challenges.
My favourite part of the book was the story of Belinda’s grandmother and mother, just incredible.
This book is written with so much heart, it’s an inspiring and passionate read of becoming emboldened. A wonderful book to give hope to those going through a difficult time of despair or enjoys stories about women of resilience that overcome life trauma’s.
Publication Date 26 April 2023
Publisher Affirm Press
RRP AUD 19.99
Loved this book! Thank you so much Belinda Alexandra and Affirm Press for sending me a copy.
June 29, 2023
*www.onewomansbbr.wordpress.com
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
Emboldened by Belinda Alexandra. (2023).
**Thank you to the author for getting in contact and sending me a free copy of this novel, I am very appreciative**
How do you begin your life again when you've lost everything and your dreams are shattered? This is what author Belinda Alexandra asked herself after a traumatic event. To pull herself up, she drew strength from the real-life women who had inspired her historical fiction: her mother Tatiana, Virginia Hall, Carmen Amaya and Edna Walling. All of these women faced seemingly insurmountable challenges and yet found ways to forge ahead on their own terms.
I'm going to preface this review by saying that I really don't read non-fiction much so this was a bit out of my comfort zone. I have really enjoyed this author's historical fiction novels so when offered the opportunity to read this part memoir and part historical non-fiction, I thought I would give it a go. I appreciated the stories of these strong women who inspired the author's fiction books, and their endurance in the face of their challenges. Non-fiction is not something that I typically overly enjoy, but I didn't mind this one.
Overall: this would be a really good read for you if you enjoy memoirs/biographies, and historical non-fiction.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
Emboldened by Belinda Alexandra. (2023).
**Thank you to the author for getting in contact and sending me a free copy of this novel, I am very appreciative**
How do you begin your life again when you've lost everything and your dreams are shattered? This is what author Belinda Alexandra asked herself after a traumatic event. To pull herself up, she drew strength from the real-life women who had inspired her historical fiction: her mother Tatiana, Virginia Hall, Carmen Amaya and Edna Walling. All of these women faced seemingly insurmountable challenges and yet found ways to forge ahead on their own terms.
I'm going to preface this review by saying that I really don't read non-fiction much so this was a bit out of my comfort zone. I have really enjoyed this author's historical fiction novels so when offered the opportunity to read this part memoir and part historical non-fiction, I thought I would give it a go. I appreciated the stories of these strong women who inspired the author's fiction books, and their endurance in the face of their challenges. Non-fiction is not something that I typically overly enjoy, but I didn't mind this one.
Overall: this would be a really good read for you if you enjoy memoirs/biographies, and historical non-fiction.
May 8, 2023
4.5*
Belinda Alexandra has many fans who follow her wonderful historical fiction stories. Emboldened sees Belinda embolden herself, moving into the field of nonfiction, offering a wonderful discourse on finding strength and courage in the face of adversity. Belinda recounts factual tales inclusive of personal recounts, to drawing inspiration from some key female figures from history.
‘Goals can help us focus and bring us satisfaction when we achieve them, but they don't embolden us the way a true sense of purpose does.’
Emboldened is therefore part family memoir as Belinda tells the tale from her grandparents and mother and how they came to inspire her. She also includes inspiration from the American spy Virginia Hall, Carmen Amaya a famous flamenco dancer and Edna Walling and Australian landscape artist. Belinda looks at these personal life stories through the sectional themes of Reliance, Purpose, Passion and Connection. Personally, I found the recount of her personal family history incredibly engaging with regards to their migration from Russia to Australia via China and an internment camp.
Belinda alludes to, without going into detail, her own experiences of trauma and how the above stories provided strength, determination and resilience. She uses the stories as a foundation of how to move forward in overcoming great stress and life changing experiences. Emboldened is an uplifting book drawing inspiration from the past on how some have dealt with adversity. It is beautifully written that is sure to inspire and hopefully embolden its readers.
‘Life is a bumpy ride. The struggles are real and sometimes relentless. But the journey can ultimately be a beautiful and rich one. And overcoming the struggles are what will make it worthwhile. You already have everything inside you that you need to live life courageously and boldly.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
Belinda Alexandra has many fans who follow her wonderful historical fiction stories. Emboldened sees Belinda embolden herself, moving into the field of nonfiction, offering a wonderful discourse on finding strength and courage in the face of adversity. Belinda recounts factual tales inclusive of personal recounts, to drawing inspiration from some key female figures from history.
‘Goals can help us focus and bring us satisfaction when we achieve them, but they don't embolden us the way a true sense of purpose does.’
Emboldened is therefore part family memoir as Belinda tells the tale from her grandparents and mother and how they came to inspire her. She also includes inspiration from the American spy Virginia Hall, Carmen Amaya a famous flamenco dancer and Edna Walling and Australian landscape artist. Belinda looks at these personal life stories through the sectional themes of Reliance, Purpose, Passion and Connection. Personally, I found the recount of her personal family history incredibly engaging with regards to their migration from Russia to Australia via China and an internment camp.
Belinda alludes to, without going into detail, her own experiences of trauma and how the above stories provided strength, determination and resilience. She uses the stories as a foundation of how to move forward in overcoming great stress and life changing experiences. Emboldened is an uplifting book drawing inspiration from the past on how some have dealt with adversity. It is beautifully written that is sure to inspire and hopefully embolden its readers.
‘Life is a bumpy ride. The struggles are real and sometimes relentless. But the journey can ultimately be a beautiful and rich one. And overcoming the struggles are what will make it worthwhile. You already have everything inside you that you need to live life courageously and boldly.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
May 7, 2023
Thank you Belinda and Affirm Press for sending us a copy to read and review.
The journey of life is like a kaleidoscope with a piñata full of emotions and motives. Each person has a different experience and this is often determined and shaped by how they view situations, respect themselves and react to peripheral factors and issues.
To be emboldened is having the courage to face insurmountable challenges head on and show braveness and confidence in future challenges.
The scene is set as Belinda describes how she faced rock bottom when fleeing a traumatic and threatening situation.
Drawing on inner strength she illustrates core components of becoming emboldened through resilience, purpose, passion and connections.
This enlightening process is described in a format of part memoir and relevant history and is written in gentle and non prescriptive way.
Heart warming anecdotes of her own family show the influence of ancestry and the origin of her passions as with gritty determination to face adversity.
Notable and admirable women from the past also punctuate the narrative with relevance.
I have been a huge fan of this talented writer and sensed through the magic of social media that she has a beautiful and genuine soul.
Meeting Belinda in person consolidated every belief and then some.
After reading this I know she is an aligned kindred spirit.
An awe inspiring read.
The journey of life is like a kaleidoscope with a piñata full of emotions and motives. Each person has a different experience and this is often determined and shaped by how they view situations, respect themselves and react to peripheral factors and issues.
To be emboldened is having the courage to face insurmountable challenges head on and show braveness and confidence in future challenges.
The scene is set as Belinda describes how she faced rock bottom when fleeing a traumatic and threatening situation.
Drawing on inner strength she illustrates core components of becoming emboldened through resilience, purpose, passion and connections.
This enlightening process is described in a format of part memoir and relevant history and is written in gentle and non prescriptive way.
Heart warming anecdotes of her own family show the influence of ancestry and the origin of her passions as with gritty determination to face adversity.
Notable and admirable women from the past also punctuate the narrative with relevance.
I have been a huge fan of this talented writer and sensed through the magic of social media that she has a beautiful and genuine soul.
Meeting Belinda in person consolidated every belief and then some.
After reading this I know she is an aligned kindred spirit.
An awe inspiring read.
May 10, 2023
Many thanks to Better Reading and Affirm Press for my copy to read and review.
To be honest this book was not what I expected but I thoroughly enjoyed the stories within this book. It touched on many relevant aspects of life and I believe everyone could benefit from reading it.
Woman doing all they could to follow their dreams and become exactly who they wanted to be despite the obstacles in their paths. It shows a strength that we all have but many are unsure how to achieve this.
This book opened my eyes to many things in the way it was written that I believe will stay with me and help me to become emboldened. One is the lessons I will take away is to break everything down in a way as to not get overwhelmed by what I have to do as I have a habit of doing.
Well worth the read and as an animal and nature lover I loved Belinda’s attitude to this.
To be honest this book was not what I expected but I thoroughly enjoyed the stories within this book. It touched on many relevant aspects of life and I believe everyone could benefit from reading it.
Woman doing all they could to follow their dreams and become exactly who they wanted to be despite the obstacles in their paths. It shows a strength that we all have but many are unsure how to achieve this.
This book opened my eyes to many things in the way it was written that I believe will stay with me and help me to become emboldened. One is the lessons I will take away is to break everything down in a way as to not get overwhelmed by what I have to do as I have a habit of doing.
Well worth the read and as an animal and nature lover I loved Belinda’s attitude to this.
April 26, 2023
When I lost my shop last year I turned to my favourite fiction characters for lessons in resilience. I’m not surprised at all that Belinda Alexandra would turn to her own fiction. Her novels are full of heroines rising from the ashes. I loved and so appreciated being along for the emboldenment. What a gorgeous book to read; what a gorgeous gift to give us. I feel I have been allowed to see the journey Belinda Alexandra took in creating a new life for herself. I have been a huge fan of Belinda Alexandra since White Gardenia so it was also a wonderful experience to reflect on her stories and see overarching themes of resilience and courage explored.
I can’t recommend it more highly enough, I loved every page
I can’t recommend it more highly enough, I loved every page
May 1, 2024
If you enjoy Belinda Alexandra’s fiction novels, you will probably like the insights this non-fiction/partial memoir offers. I particularly loved reading about the real people who inspired many of Alexandra’s former protagonists and while the switch to her own life experiences could sometimes be jarring, there’s plenty of insightful snippets that I appreciated reading and learning about.
Overall this inspired me to embrace the joy in life and I will continue reading whatever comes next from Belinda Alexandra.
Overall this inspired me to embrace the joy in life and I will continue reading whatever comes next from Belinda Alexandra.
July 16, 2023
Emboldened by Belinda Alexandra is an exceptionally well-written book.
It's not your normal novel this time. It's philosophical, intense and about real life in general and some of the things the author, Belinda Alexandra has had to endure through her life in order to become the woman she is today, Emboldened.
It's part autobiography, biography and psychological as well as some fiction and non fiction.
Only an author as educated and knowledgeable on Life and Events is able to write ✍️ a book 📖 such as Emboldened.
It's also a self-help book 📖 broken down into sections including:- Introduction; Resilience; Purpose; Passion; Connection; Final Words; Acknowledgements and Bibliography.
I think my favourite section was Passion as without passion what do we have left or to believe in?
It's also a blend of memoir and history.
I loved reading about Russia and Spain.
Belinda has drawn her strength from real-life women who had inspired her including her very own mother, Tatiana Morosoff, Virginia Hall an allied agent and Carmen Amaya who rose to become the greatest flamenco dancer of all time and Edna Walling who lost her own dream home in a freak fire but created gardens that made her one of Australia's most celebrated landscape designers.
I hope as Belinda does that the stories inside this book 📖 make you become as Emboldened as we are and can all possibly be in this Life we have to Live.
It's about finding the fire 🔥 within our soul when all seems lost and the ways in which you too can become Emboldened.
I would like to thank Kinokinuya Sydney Bookshop for my complimentary copy Signed by one of my very favourite authors, Belinda Alexandra to read, review and enjoy! 📚
Loved it 😍
It's not your normal novel this time. It's philosophical, intense and about real life in general and some of the things the author, Belinda Alexandra has had to endure through her life in order to become the woman she is today, Emboldened.
It's part autobiography, biography and psychological as well as some fiction and non fiction.
Only an author as educated and knowledgeable on Life and Events is able to write ✍️ a book 📖 such as Emboldened.
It's also a self-help book 📖 broken down into sections including:- Introduction; Resilience; Purpose; Passion; Connection; Final Words; Acknowledgements and Bibliography.
I think my favourite section was Passion as without passion what do we have left or to believe in?
It's also a blend of memoir and history.
I loved reading about Russia and Spain.
Belinda has drawn her strength from real-life women who had inspired her including her very own mother, Tatiana Morosoff, Virginia Hall an allied agent and Carmen Amaya who rose to become the greatest flamenco dancer of all time and Edna Walling who lost her own dream home in a freak fire but created gardens that made her one of Australia's most celebrated landscape designers.
I hope as Belinda does that the stories inside this book 📖 make you become as Emboldened as we are and can all possibly be in this Life we have to Live.
It's about finding the fire 🔥 within our soul when all seems lost and the ways in which you too can become Emboldened.
I would like to thank Kinokinuya Sydney Bookshop for my complimentary copy Signed by one of my very favourite authors, Belinda Alexandra to read, review and enjoy! 📚
Loved it 😍
April 15, 2023
The publisher, Affirm Press, provides a magnificent blurb for Belinda Alexander’s book, Emboldened.
“How do you begin your life again when you've lost everything you've worked for and your dreams have been shattered?
That was the question beloved Australian author Belinda Alexandra faced one freezing winter night when she ran from her home in terror. She had only her wallet, her phone and her latest manuscript on a USB stick. She was wearing her slippers.
To recover from the devastating emotional and psychological aftermath, Belinda turned to the real life women who had inspired her bestselling historical fiction: her own mother, Tatiana Morosoff, a White Russian who had fled a home on more than one occasion due to wars and revolutions; Virginia Hall, an American who lost her leg in an accident but went on to become one of the most revered Allied agents in World War II France; Carmen Amaya, who was born into abject poverty in Barcelona but used her inner spirit to rise to become the greatest Flamenco dancer of all time; Edna Walling, an Australian landscape designer and independent thinker, who lost her own dream home and artwork in a freak fire but created garden designs that celebrated the unique Australian landscape.
They were women who had faced seemingly insurmountable challenges, and yet found ways to forge ahead and create new lives on their own terms.
In a compelling and exquisite blend of memoir and history, Belinda shows readers that, no matter what challenge they might be facing, there is always the possibility of building a bold life full of meaning again from the ashes.”
Boldened by Belinda Alexander is a journey of her dealing with her Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Her sharing of this journey aims to give strength to others to take control back of their lives and find individual ways to move forward in their lives.
Some quotes reflects this for me:
“To be emboldened we need to have a vision and a purpose. Boldness is a forward-moving energy. It involves charging ahead bravely.”
And
“Break it down and do each step well, seems to be the way. This is an important principle for becoming emboldened. We may not change our lives in one gigantic leap. Rather, we might have to take”
An inspiring rendition that provides guidance and inspiration.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from Affirm Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#Enboldened #Netgalley
“How do you begin your life again when you've lost everything you've worked for and your dreams have been shattered?
That was the question beloved Australian author Belinda Alexandra faced one freezing winter night when she ran from her home in terror. She had only her wallet, her phone and her latest manuscript on a USB stick. She was wearing her slippers.
To recover from the devastating emotional and psychological aftermath, Belinda turned to the real life women who had inspired her bestselling historical fiction: her own mother, Tatiana Morosoff, a White Russian who had fled a home on more than one occasion due to wars and revolutions; Virginia Hall, an American who lost her leg in an accident but went on to become one of the most revered Allied agents in World War II France; Carmen Amaya, who was born into abject poverty in Barcelona but used her inner spirit to rise to become the greatest Flamenco dancer of all time; Edna Walling, an Australian landscape designer and independent thinker, who lost her own dream home and artwork in a freak fire but created garden designs that celebrated the unique Australian landscape.
They were women who had faced seemingly insurmountable challenges, and yet found ways to forge ahead and create new lives on their own terms.
In a compelling and exquisite blend of memoir and history, Belinda shows readers that, no matter what challenge they might be facing, there is always the possibility of building a bold life full of meaning again from the ashes.”
Boldened by Belinda Alexander is a journey of her dealing with her Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Her sharing of this journey aims to give strength to others to take control back of their lives and find individual ways to move forward in their lives.
Some quotes reflects this for me:
“To be emboldened we need to have a vision and a purpose. Boldness is a forward-moving energy. It involves charging ahead bravely.”
And
“Break it down and do each step well, seems to be the way. This is an important principle for becoming emboldened. We may not change our lives in one gigantic leap. Rather, we might have to take”
An inspiring rendition that provides guidance and inspiration.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from Affirm Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#Enboldened #Netgalley
May 5, 2023
It's impossible not to be inspired by this brilliant, insightful new book by Belinda Alexandra.
All of us face challenges in our day to day lives and indeed many people are living with the ongoing effects of past or present trauma: events which wreak emotional and psychological devastation on our lives and possibly the lives of our children and grandchildren.
The question Belinda poses in this book is how do we rise above these challenges and find the strength to begin again? To find the fire to keep going when it seems all is lost?
The answer can be found in this profound work. With a compulsive blend of memoir (hers and her family's experiences) and history (real life women who inspired some of Belinda's fiction), Belinda shows us how we can move beyond trauma and loss, empower ourselves, embrace opportunities and find the courage to live the life you want for ourselves.
A thoroughly enlightening read which will challenge you to look at your own life and what, if anything, is holding you back from living a life emboldened.
Loved it.
All of us face challenges in our day to day lives and indeed many people are living with the ongoing effects of past or present trauma: events which wreak emotional and psychological devastation on our lives and possibly the lives of our children and grandchildren.
The question Belinda poses in this book is how do we rise above these challenges and find the strength to begin again? To find the fire to keep going when it seems all is lost?
The answer can be found in this profound work. With a compulsive blend of memoir (hers and her family's experiences) and history (real life women who inspired some of Belinda's fiction), Belinda shows us how we can move beyond trauma and loss, empower ourselves, embrace opportunities and find the courage to live the life you want for ourselves.
A thoroughly enlightening read which will challenge you to look at your own life and what, if anything, is holding you back from living a life emboldened.
Loved it.
May 18, 2023
- thanks to @affirmpress for my #gifted copy
Belinda Alexandra's very first Non-Fiction book is a fabulous mix between Memoir and History. Belinda's personal experiences, her family history and the exploration of the lives of successful and inspirational women she admires made a pleasurable read.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Belinda's family and how her mother and grandmother migrated to Australia. It was not only a fascinating story that resonated at a personal level because of my own migrational experience, but it was also effortless to identify the love and admiration that transpired in Belinda's writing. I was deeply moved by how Belinda chose to share her family history and the care and love she put into telling such a personal story.
I also enjoyed getting to know the stories of remarkable women whom, I am ashamed to admit, I had not heard of before. The historical context and the research on this book were imperative to understand what happened to these women and why their efforts and sacrifices are worthy of admiration. While reading, I grew increasingly curious about women with such significant roles and their contributions to extraordinary changes. After reading this book, I swore I would make time to research and learn more about women like Virginia Hall, Carmen Amaya and Edna Walling.
However, what I admired the most about Emboldened was Belinda's constant encouragement for boldness and passion throughout her book. I am fortunate to have found my passion early in my life. After many sacrifices (including moving countries and learning a new language), I have been able to make my whole life about what I love the most: books. Emboldened reminded me and inspired me to keep on going, to keep fighting to live my dream every single day of my life. To make room and space to connect with nature and purposefully search for all the things that bring me joy.
Overall, Emboldened is a powerful and heartwarming book about bravery, passion, boldness and strength—100% recommended.
Belinda Alexandra's very first Non-Fiction book is a fabulous mix between Memoir and History. Belinda's personal experiences, her family history and the exploration of the lives of successful and inspirational women she admires made a pleasurable read.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Belinda's family and how her mother and grandmother migrated to Australia. It was not only a fascinating story that resonated at a personal level because of my own migrational experience, but it was also effortless to identify the love and admiration that transpired in Belinda's writing. I was deeply moved by how Belinda chose to share her family history and the care and love she put into telling such a personal story.
I also enjoyed getting to know the stories of remarkable women whom, I am ashamed to admit, I had not heard of before. The historical context and the research on this book were imperative to understand what happened to these women and why their efforts and sacrifices are worthy of admiration. While reading, I grew increasingly curious about women with such significant roles and their contributions to extraordinary changes. After reading this book, I swore I would make time to research and learn more about women like Virginia Hall, Carmen Amaya and Edna Walling.
However, what I admired the most about Emboldened was Belinda's constant encouragement for boldness and passion throughout her book. I am fortunate to have found my passion early in my life. After many sacrifices (including moving countries and learning a new language), I have been able to make my whole life about what I love the most: books. Emboldened reminded me and inspired me to keep on going, to keep fighting to live my dream every single day of my life. To make room and space to connect with nature and purposefully search for all the things that bring me joy.
Overall, Emboldened is a powerful and heartwarming book about bravery, passion, boldness and strength—100% recommended.
April 13, 2023
Belinda Alexandra is an Australian writer of international bestsellers - and I'm sure the fans of her many novels will love her latest book.
𝙴𝚖𝚋𝚘𝚕𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚎𝚍 is part memoir told alongside stories of five remarkable women who have inspired @belinda_alexandra_author . From her grandmother, Alexandra; her mother, Tania; Virginia Hall, an American who worked as a spy for the UK Special Operations Executive; the greatest flamenco dancer, Carmen Amaya; and Edna Walling, an Australian landscape artist.
My favourite part of the book is about Alexandra's grandmother and mother and their migration story from Russia to China and then Australia - it is an incredible story.
Through the many stories of strong and resilient women, Alexandra alludes to her own experience of overcoming trauma. She gives little about her own experience other than to describe how she is moving forward and it seems this book is part of that journey. Alexandra writes:
𝙸𝚗 𝚘𝚛𝚍𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎 𝚎𝚖𝚋𝚘𝚕𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚎𝚍, 𝚠𝚎 𝚗𝚎𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚏𝚒𝚛𝚖 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚒𝚍𝚎𝚊 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚠𝚎 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚙𝚘𝚗𝚜𝚒𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚠𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚎. 𝙽𝚘 𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚞𝚙𝚋𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚘𝚛 𝚌𝚒𝚛𝚌𝚞𝚖𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎, 𝚠𝚎 𝚍𝚘 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚏𝚛𝚎𝚎 𝚌𝚑𝚘𝚒𝚌𝚎. 𝙸𝚝 𝚒𝚜 𝚒𝚗 𝚎𝚡𝚎𝚛𝚌𝚒𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚌𝚑𝚘𝚒𝚌𝚎 𝚍𝚊𝚒𝚕𝚢 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚠𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚎 𝚜𝚝𝚛𝚘𝚗𝚐.
My late mother whose mantra was 'never feel sorry for yourself! Hold your head high! And always be kind!' would have loved this book. It will inspire you to reflect on the strong women in your life. ❤️
Thanks to #netgalley and @affirmpress for the e-ARC in return for an honest review.
𝙴𝚖𝚋𝚘𝚕𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚎𝚍 is part memoir told alongside stories of five remarkable women who have inspired @belinda_alexandra_author . From her grandmother, Alexandra; her mother, Tania; Virginia Hall, an American who worked as a spy for the UK Special Operations Executive; the greatest flamenco dancer, Carmen Amaya; and Edna Walling, an Australian landscape artist.
My favourite part of the book is about Alexandra's grandmother and mother and their migration story from Russia to China and then Australia - it is an incredible story.
Through the many stories of strong and resilient women, Alexandra alludes to her own experience of overcoming trauma. She gives little about her own experience other than to describe how she is moving forward and it seems this book is part of that journey. Alexandra writes:
𝙸𝚗 𝚘𝚛𝚍𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎 𝚎𝚖𝚋𝚘𝚕𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚎𝚍, 𝚠𝚎 𝚗𝚎𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚏𝚒𝚛𝚖 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚒𝚍𝚎𝚊 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚠𝚎 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚙𝚘𝚗𝚜𝚒𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚠𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚎. 𝙽𝚘 𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚞𝚙𝚋𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚘𝚛 𝚌𝚒𝚛𝚌𝚞𝚖𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎, 𝚠𝚎 𝚍𝚘 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚏𝚛𝚎𝚎 𝚌𝚑𝚘𝚒𝚌𝚎. 𝙸𝚝 𝚒𝚜 𝚒𝚗 𝚎𝚡𝚎𝚛𝚌𝚒𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚌𝚑𝚘𝚒𝚌𝚎 𝚍𝚊𝚒𝚕𝚢 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚠𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚎 𝚜𝚝𝚛𝚘𝚗𝚐.
My late mother whose mantra was 'never feel sorry for yourself! Hold your head high! And always be kind!' would have loved this book. It will inspire you to reflect on the strong women in your life. ❤️
Thanks to #netgalley and @affirmpress for the e-ARC in return for an honest review.
June 29, 2023
The wonderful author inboxed me and asked me if I wanted to read her new book, of course I had to say yes.
I have loved Belinda’s books and it happens to be my mother in law’s favourite author.
Emboldened is a memoir combined with history.
This book is about resilience, strength and courage. I found the messages very inspiring, and uplifting.
If you are looking for a memoir with a twist then I recommend this book.
I have loved Belinda’s books and it happens to be my mother in law’s favourite author.
Emboldened is a memoir combined with history.
This book is about resilience, strength and courage. I found the messages very inspiring, and uplifting.
If you are looking for a memoir with a twist then I recommend this book.
October 27, 2023
We are perfect in our imperfections ♥️
I really enjoyed and needed to read your book, especially now.
Becoming emboldened is about being passionate in life, finding your true self, and what makes you happy.
I truly resonated with some of these women and thoughts.
Well done 👏
I really enjoyed and needed to read your book, especially now.
Becoming emboldened is about being passionate in life, finding your true self, and what makes you happy.
I truly resonated with some of these women and thoughts.
Well done 👏
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2023
In this book, Belinda shows readers that, we are always changing and growing. There are times when we can be motivated and times when we need to rest and go within, so that we can be emboldened in the next season.
April 25, 2023
Belinda Alexandra has always been one of my favourite authors for her beautiful novels that really touch your heart, and hold all your emotions in thrall until the final page. But now she's written a non-fiction book about real life, and her own struggles and hurdles, and battles to overcome some of the most testing times imaginable. It's astonishing to read of the anguish that was happening behind the scenes, but also incredibly inspiring to hear how she coped by calling on the courage of figures in her own life, and from those in history, to keep her going even in the worst of times. This is an amazing read for anyone who's ever faced difficulties in their own life and sometimes despaired of overcoming them. They say what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, and Belinda's Emboldened is a beacon for everyone who's ever been touched by the darkness life can sometimes serve up. I found it a really heartrending read, but also so incredibly life-affirming. I finished those pages ready for anything!
April 26, 2023
Emboldened has an interesting structure of combining stories of a range of women throughout history (as per the author’s interest) to illustrate her own stories of resilience and boldness.
I liked this unique format, but unfortunately did find that it felt like the author was rambling at times for no clear reason, and the message was not clear at times throughout the novel.
I also found her views on some other people to be intolerant and judgmental, which is in contrast to her perceived outlook of accepting and acknowledging people’s stories.
Overall, despite these elements I didn’t like, I did enjoy reading the book and found myself picking it up regularly. I haven’t read the author’s fiction books so I’m not sure if it’s written in a regular style for her, or is a new direction.
Thanks to Better Reading AU for the preview copy. #BRPreview
I liked this unique format, but unfortunately did find that it felt like the author was rambling at times for no clear reason, and the message was not clear at times throughout the novel.
I also found her views on some other people to be intolerant and judgmental, which is in contrast to her perceived outlook of accepting and acknowledging people’s stories.
Overall, despite these elements I didn’t like, I did enjoy reading the book and found myself picking it up regularly. I haven’t read the author’s fiction books so I’m not sure if it’s written in a regular style for her, or is a new direction.
Thanks to Better Reading AU for the preview copy. #BRPreview
March 30, 2023
‘Emboldened people have a connected strong energy and a clear sense of direction.’
One freezing winter night, Belinda Alexandra ran from her home in terror. She had her wallet, her phone, and her latest manuscript saved on a USB flash drive. To move ahead and to rebuild her life, Ms Alexandra drew strength from several women who had inspired her.
These women included her mother, Tatiana Morosoff, a White Russian who had been forced to flee home more than once — from both Russia and China — because of wars and revolutions; Virginia Hall who, despite losing her leg in an accident became an effective Allied agent in World War II France; Carmen Amaya who, despite being born into poverty in Barcelona, became a great Flamenco dancer; and Edna Walling who, despite losing her own dream home in a fire, became a celebrated Australian landscape designer. Each woman faced, and overcame, significant challenges.
‘To be emboldened we need to have a vision and a purpose. Boldness is a forward-moving energy. It involves charging ahead bravely.’
Each of these women found her own path ahead, as has Ms Alexandra. Of the women named, I was only familiar with Edna Walling and Virginia Hall. I found each of their stories interesting, was interested in reading how the lives of such women have inspired Ms Alexandra’s historical fiction.
While Ms Alexandra writes of the impact of her mother’s experience on her own life, her focus in writing of these lives is on moving forward rather than looking back.
‘It’s impossible to become emboldened without being passionate about life at the same time, or at least some aspect of it.’
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Affirm Press for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
One freezing winter night, Belinda Alexandra ran from her home in terror. She had her wallet, her phone, and her latest manuscript saved on a USB flash drive. To move ahead and to rebuild her life, Ms Alexandra drew strength from several women who had inspired her.
These women included her mother, Tatiana Morosoff, a White Russian who had been forced to flee home more than once — from both Russia and China — because of wars and revolutions; Virginia Hall who, despite losing her leg in an accident became an effective Allied agent in World War II France; Carmen Amaya who, despite being born into poverty in Barcelona, became a great Flamenco dancer; and Edna Walling who, despite losing her own dream home in a fire, became a celebrated Australian landscape designer. Each woman faced, and overcame, significant challenges.
‘To be emboldened we need to have a vision and a purpose. Boldness is a forward-moving energy. It involves charging ahead bravely.’
Each of these women found her own path ahead, as has Ms Alexandra. Of the women named, I was only familiar with Edna Walling and Virginia Hall. I found each of their stories interesting, was interested in reading how the lives of such women have inspired Ms Alexandra’s historical fiction.
While Ms Alexandra writes of the impact of her mother’s experience on her own life, her focus in writing of these lives is on moving forward rather than looking back.
‘It’s impossible to become emboldened without being passionate about life at the same time, or at least some aspect of it.’
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Affirm Press for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
July 5, 2023
My review is in no way a reflection or criticism of the writers story. From what she could divulge of her own experience, having suffered CPTSD it sounds horrific. Nor is it a reflection of her family's struggle.
I found the ideas rather old fashioned.
For example p222 '...while Doris was a natural homemaker...' ????
p253 'Edna was a terrible cook and homemaker...'
p21 ...'she could have played the victim.....there was no use crying over spilt milk....'
And I couldn't overlook the fact that she doesn't say the 'l' word, lesbian. p222 'Edna was uninterested in sewing and dolls.....when she grew older she showed no interest in boys, or getting married...' then there are numerous passages about Edna Wallings 'friends', all female, how she lived with women, and was buried next to a woman.
Oh my God - HELLO!?!? Are you in denial? Alexandra doesn't even mention it, that would have influenced Wallings life tremendously at the time - how she lived, what she did etc. (Even though Walling herself never admitted to being a lesbian).
Then Alexandra talks about her books, quotes from her characters. Never read any of them, and by the looks of it I won't be. I would't call it a 'compelling and exquisite blend of memoir and history'. If, as the blurb says '...these were women who had faced seemingly insurmountable challenges and yet found ways to forge ahead on their own terms'- well then be transparent about ALL the terms. Alexandra's is an old fashioned view of the world. The writing style is full of cliches (as per above) and I found it much more frustrating than illuminating.
I found the ideas rather old fashioned.
For example p222 '...while Doris was a natural homemaker...' ????
p253 'Edna was a terrible cook and homemaker...'
p21 ...'she could have played the victim.....there was no use crying over spilt milk....'
And I couldn't overlook the fact that she doesn't say the 'l' word, lesbian. p222 'Edna was uninterested in sewing and dolls.....when she grew older she showed no interest in boys, or getting married...' then there are numerous passages about Edna Wallings 'friends', all female, how she lived with women, and was buried next to a woman.
Oh my God - HELLO!?!? Are you in denial? Alexandra doesn't even mention it, that would have influenced Wallings life tremendously at the time - how she lived, what she did etc. (Even though Walling herself never admitted to being a lesbian).
Then Alexandra talks about her books, quotes from her characters. Never read any of them, and by the looks of it I won't be. I would't call it a 'compelling and exquisite blend of memoir and history'. If, as the blurb says '...these were women who had faced seemingly insurmountable challenges and yet found ways to forge ahead on their own terms'- well then be transparent about ALL the terms. Alexandra's is an old fashioned view of the world. The writing style is full of cliches (as per above) and I found it much more frustrating than illuminating.
May 16, 2023
Thank you to Affirm Press and Belinda Alexandra for sending me a copy of this book to review!
How do you find the strength, courage and will to start over when it feels like you’ve lost everything?
This is not a self-help book, but rather a number of inspiring stories about women who have had to rise above what life has thrown at them in order to start over, or simply to achieve what appears to be the impossible. This also includes the story of the author and that of her mother and grandmother, who were forced to flee their home (and country) on a number of occasions.
Apart from the stories about the author’s mother and grandmother (as well as parts of her own life) this book tells the story of three other women who inspired characters in some of the author’s books: Virginia Hall, an amputee who went on to be one of the most skilled and revered Allied agents in WWII France; Carmen Amaya who was a very poor Romany girl who went on to become one of the greatest flamenco dancers; and Edna Walling landscape artist extraordinaire whose own beloved home was burnt to the ground.
As per the author’s immersive storytelling style, each story is relayed sensitively and artfully and I think this book would appeal equally to anyone who needs some inspiration in their life, anyone who would like to know the story behind some of the characters in the author’s books, or simply those who enjoy reading about women with real gumption. Or perhaps all of the above!
This book has so much heart ❤️ and I found it very interesting and very uplifting. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5.
How do you find the strength, courage and will to start over when it feels like you’ve lost everything?
This is not a self-help book, but rather a number of inspiring stories about women who have had to rise above what life has thrown at them in order to start over, or simply to achieve what appears to be the impossible. This also includes the story of the author and that of her mother and grandmother, who were forced to flee their home (and country) on a number of occasions.
Apart from the stories about the author’s mother and grandmother (as well as parts of her own life) this book tells the story of three other women who inspired characters in some of the author’s books: Virginia Hall, an amputee who went on to be one of the most skilled and revered Allied agents in WWII France; Carmen Amaya who was a very poor Romany girl who went on to become one of the greatest flamenco dancers; and Edna Walling landscape artist extraordinaire whose own beloved home was burnt to the ground.
As per the author’s immersive storytelling style, each story is relayed sensitively and artfully and I think this book would appeal equally to anyone who needs some inspiration in their life, anyone who would like to know the story behind some of the characters in the author’s books, or simply those who enjoy reading about women with real gumption. Or perhaps all of the above!
This book has so much heart ❤️ and I found it very interesting and very uplifting. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5.
June 11, 2023
Belinda takes us on an inspiring journey of the strong and brave women of her family history as well as the history of a few incredibly brave and empowering famous women that she has drawn strength from to recover from trauma and obstacles in her own life story. Which led to me taking twice as long to read the book as I was drawn into further research of these remarkably impressive women who we learn so much about passion, endurance and inner strength from -
*The American Virginia Hall, who was a spy for the British and then the Americans in World WW2 earning the reputation in the war as The Most Dangerous Spy.
*The passionate flamenco dancing legend Carmen Amaya
*Edna Walling who led the way creating beautiful parklands and gardens in Australia.
There is even a reflection on one of my favourite classic books Rebecca in which she talks about the destructive affects of being in a relationship with manipulative narcissist can have on a person.
You learn just how much depth of herself that Belinda Alexandra puts into the writing of her stories as she pours her heart, soul, passion, experiences and knowledge drawn from extensive research.
This book is true to its title and also left me feeling Emboldened. I hope I can keep drawing from the wisdom and inspiration from the stories of these Amazing Women and from the many insightful quotes and sageful advice too.
*The American Virginia Hall, who was a spy for the British and then the Americans in World WW2 earning the reputation in the war as The Most Dangerous Spy.
*The passionate flamenco dancing legend Carmen Amaya
*Edna Walling who led the way creating beautiful parklands and gardens in Australia.
There is even a reflection on one of my favourite classic books Rebecca in which she talks about the destructive affects of being in a relationship with manipulative narcissist can have on a person.
You learn just how much depth of herself that Belinda Alexandra puts into the writing of her stories as she pours her heart, soul, passion, experiences and knowledge drawn from extensive research.
This book is true to its title and also left me feeling Emboldened. I hope I can keep drawing from the wisdom and inspiration from the stories of these Amazing Women and from the many insightful quotes and sageful advice too.
April 30, 2023
Belinda Alexandra has been a favourite author of mine for years and I have read all her fiction books so was intrigued to learn she had written a non fiction book entitled ‘Emboldened: On finding the fire to keep going when all seems lost’.
On a wet cold Sunday afternoon I began this story of discovery and could not put it down. The book shares the stories of four real life women who inspired the authors fictional books but also helped her through her own journey of recovery from a traumatic event.
The book is divided into four themes : resilience, purpose, passion and connection and how these qualities are displayed in real life women: Tatiana, the authors mother; Virginia Hall, an allied agent in WWII who had her leg amputated after a hunting accident prior to the War; Carmen Anaya, the worlds greatest Flamenco dance and Edna Walling, landscape gardener who lost her own house and garden in a fire.
Through the stories of these real life women and the tragedies, trauma and difficulties they all faced the author weaves a story of her own recovery and the strength she found to move forward.
This book is a celebration of women particularly strong women, their mothers and their daughters.
On a wet cold Sunday afternoon I began this story of discovery and could not put it down. The book shares the stories of four real life women who inspired the authors fictional books but also helped her through her own journey of recovery from a traumatic event.
The book is divided into four themes : resilience, purpose, passion and connection and how these qualities are displayed in real life women: Tatiana, the authors mother; Virginia Hall, an allied agent in WWII who had her leg amputated after a hunting accident prior to the War; Carmen Anaya, the worlds greatest Flamenco dance and Edna Walling, landscape gardener who lost her own house and garden in a fire.
Through the stories of these real life women and the tragedies, trauma and difficulties they all faced the author weaves a story of her own recovery and the strength she found to move forward.
This book is a celebration of women particularly strong women, their mothers and their daughters.
Read
July 27, 2023Part memoir, part history, part self exploration, part motivational read, EMBOLDENED is probably best described as a memoir with a twist.
It is impossible to read EMBOLDENED and not be filled with a desire to spend more time getting to know the lovely Belinda Alexandra. Belinda’s beautiful writing, her deep respect of the past & earnest desire for readers to live with boldness and passion flow through these pages.
This is Belinda Alexandra’s first non-fiction book and I wonder if the author found committing her family’s - and her own - story to paper a greater challenge than writing fictional characters. I can only imagine that it took some courage as Belinda explores her personal and family stories with honesty, wonder and love.
I thought that EMBOLDENED particularly shone when Belinda discussed her own passion for nature and her garden. I found this section especially inspiring as I was easily wrapped up in her enthusiasm.
EMBOLDENED is a celebration of resilience and inner strength. It’s an encouraging push for readers to pursue passions and heart’s desires while carrying & treasuring the stories of the people who trod the paths before us.
I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
It is impossible to read EMBOLDENED and not be filled with a desire to spend more time getting to know the lovely Belinda Alexandra. Belinda’s beautiful writing, her deep respect of the past & earnest desire for readers to live with boldness and passion flow through these pages.
This is Belinda Alexandra’s first non-fiction book and I wonder if the author found committing her family’s - and her own - story to paper a greater challenge than writing fictional characters. I can only imagine that it took some courage as Belinda explores her personal and family stories with honesty, wonder and love.
I thought that EMBOLDENED particularly shone when Belinda discussed her own passion for nature and her garden. I found this section especially inspiring as I was easily wrapped up in her enthusiasm.
EMBOLDENED is a celebration of resilience and inner strength. It’s an encouraging push for readers to pursue passions and heart’s desires while carrying & treasuring the stories of the people who trod the paths before us.
I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2023
A very special read. Belinda Alexandra is the international bestselling author of no less than ten historical fiction novels with combined sales of over 1 million copies. Her latest book, Emboldened, is the fascinating story behind these stories. Drawing courage from her mother, a White Russian forced to flee her home more than once, together with three other extraordinary women whose real life stories have inspired some of Belinda’s books, Belinda shares lessons learned after a difficult time in her own life, using her storytelling craft. Belinda has a fantastic knack for both simplifying and humanising complex subjects, from historical events to the latest thinking in trauma recovery. So much of Belinda's story resonated with my own life, as I think it would for many women. The book also makes a great gift hence the three extra copies I bought and gave to my girlfriends. Highly recommended!
April 4, 2025
Disjointed. I connect with the subject matter and believe that the stories shared are masterful and important; the execution just didn't land with me.
Memoirs are always difficult to rate due to the personal nature and complexity that the medium demands.
I'm not equated with Alexandra's Fictional work, however, from reading other reviews I feel as this is a different flavour we are getting entirely. Vulnerable and personal stories from her family and adolescence that are fascinating and inspiring; something is amiss within the conclusion.
Memoirs are always difficult to rate due to the personal nature and complexity that the medium demands.
I'm not equated with Alexandra's Fictional work, however, from reading other reviews I feel as this is a different flavour we are getting entirely. Vulnerable and personal stories from her family and adolescence that are fascinating and inspiring; something is amiss within the conclusion.
December 11, 2024
A refreshing blend of history, biography and motivation for hard times. When we face difficulties, it helps to look to powerful souls: women, military veterans, environmentalists, refugee survivors who inspire us with the difficulties they overcame. I am recommending this to everyone I know, and I call it a book woven with "bedtime stories for adults", it shows how powerful stories can be in our lives, and what we can learn from them. I can't wait to read more of Alexandra's works.
April 24, 2023
Loved reading Belinda Alexandra's new book! Belinda reflects on personal stories and her families history. Her mother played a pivotal role in developing Belinda's interest in history and story writing.
It makes you think about the tribulations the generations before us went through and it gives us strength and inspiration.
It makes you think about the tribulations the generations before us went through and it gives us strength and inspiration.
June 17, 2023
To rebuild her life Belinda focused initially on the stories of her own family and then on areas that were of interest to her. World War Two spies, flamenco dancing and gardening. She drew strength from each of the stories and shares her insights with us. Together they build a portrait of the author as well as her subjects.
June 18, 2023
“Life is a bumpy ride”. Yes Belinda it certainly is, some days bumpier than others.
I loved this book and the way that Belinda entwined her family story in with her own and those of others.
I loved hearing about the gutsy Virginia Hall and her exploits as well as Belinda’s own mum.
This was a great read and one that I highly recommend. I didn’t want it to end.
I loved this book and the way that Belinda entwined her family story in with her own and those of others.
I loved hearing about the gutsy Virginia Hall and her exploits as well as Belinda’s own mum.
This was a great read and one that I highly recommend. I didn’t want it to end.
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