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Song For A Lost Kingdom #1
Song for a Lost Kingdom: Music is Not Bound by Time
It would take two women separated by time to complete music with the power to change history. But will it be enough to save the man they care about most?
Adeena Stuart and Katharine Carnegie were born nearly three centuries apart. Yet their music and an ancient cello connect them to each other and to a man doomed by the Battle of Culloden.
In Book I of the Song for A Lost Kingdom series, Adeena receives an untitled musical score from her dying grandmother in Scotland. The music was hidden away for over two hundred and seventy years, as part of a violent family battle between siblings on different sides of the Jacobite rising of 1745.
When the score is played on the oldest surviving cello ever made in the UK, the music connects Adeena directly to the past as Katharine, struggling to find words to complete her symphonic tour-de-force in the midst of 18th Century political rebellion that is threatening to tear apart Scotland and England.
But Adeena is not a scientist or historian. What she wants more than anything is to compose music and to join the National Arts Centre Orchestra in Ottawa. Just as she is about to realize her wish, she’s lifted away, out of her control, and immersed in her ancient family history. As she is buffeted back and forth between the worlds, she grows to want more of the past, even though the promise of her most yearned-for musician dreams is coming true.
Not even her passionate boyfriend can keep her rooted in the present, especially when another man from the past falls for her and her music. Although unsure whether her time travel is a hallucination, she’s willing to steal a five million dollar cello to get back to the 1700’s.
With a clear voice that sets us in modern day Ottawa and old world Scotland, Song for a Lost Kingdom, Book I, begins a journey of discovery between two women who share the same musical soul and love for the same doomed man.
Adeena Stuart and Katharine Carnegie were born nearly three centuries apart. Yet their music and an ancient cello connect them to each other and to a man doomed by the Battle of Culloden.
In Book I of the Song for A Lost Kingdom series, Adeena receives an untitled musical score from her dying grandmother in Scotland. The music was hidden away for over two hundred and seventy years, as part of a violent family battle between siblings on different sides of the Jacobite rising of 1745.
When the score is played on the oldest surviving cello ever made in the UK, the music connects Adeena directly to the past as Katharine, struggling to find words to complete her symphonic tour-de-force in the midst of 18th Century political rebellion that is threatening to tear apart Scotland and England.
But Adeena is not a scientist or historian. What she wants more than anything is to compose music and to join the National Arts Centre Orchestra in Ottawa. Just as she is about to realize her wish, she’s lifted away, out of her control, and immersed in her ancient family history. As she is buffeted back and forth between the worlds, she grows to want more of the past, even though the promise of her most yearned-for musician dreams is coming true.
Not even her passionate boyfriend can keep her rooted in the present, especially when another man from the past falls for her and her music. Although unsure whether her time travel is a hallucination, she’s willing to steal a five million dollar cello to get back to the 1700’s.
With a clear voice that sets us in modern day Ottawa and old world Scotland, Song for a Lost Kingdom, Book I, begins a journey of discovery between two women who share the same musical soul and love for the same doomed man.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 16, 2018
About the author
Steve Moretti
13 books262 followersI am drawn to creativity in whatever form it takes, fascinated by all we do still do not understand about the universe and continually surprised by the things human beings do or have done.
My writing journey started in broadcast journalism, public relations, and advertising, then continued into educational software development while running a company I founded and ran for twenty years.
I now concentrate my time on writing historical fantasy, with one series complete, Song for a Lost Kingdom and the first book in a follow-up trilogy, Michael Angelo & the Stone Mistress released earlier this year.
I also co-authored a biographical work on composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky entitled Pyotr which explores key moments in Tchaikovsky’s difficult life.
I grew up in London, Ontario and also lived in Pompano Beach, Florida as a teenager. I moved to Ottawa to attend Carleton University many years ago and now live just south of the city with my wife and a fountain pen full of words.
Please visit stevemorett.ca for information on all my books and audiobooks.
You can download a FREE copy of my novella prequel to the Song for a Lost Kingdom series and join my mailing list to keep updated on new and current projects.
My writing journey started in broadcast journalism, public relations, and advertising, then continued into educational software development while running a company I founded and ran for twenty years.
I now concentrate my time on writing historical fantasy, with one series complete, Song for a Lost Kingdom and the first book in a follow-up trilogy, Michael Angelo & the Stone Mistress released earlier this year.
I also co-authored a biographical work on composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky entitled Pyotr which explores key moments in Tchaikovsky’s difficult life.
I grew up in London, Ontario and also lived in Pompano Beach, Florida as a teenager. I moved to Ottawa to attend Carleton University many years ago and now live just south of the city with my wife and a fountain pen full of words.
Please visit stevemorett.ca for information on all my books and audiobooks.
You can download a FREE copy of my novella prequel to the Song for a Lost Kingdom series and join my mailing list to keep updated on new and current projects.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
September 13, 2018
What a page-turner...
As early as Chapter one, I knew I'd love the book because of the heroine herself, Adeena Stuart, a musician wannabe, a cellist. The book started with her in an audition, which somehow reminded of a scene from 'If I stay'. And right then, I realized that she's crazy as a dreamer. And I love characters that are dreamers because they remind me of ME. And Adeena didn't disappoint. She's a big reason why I loved this book. Though I might disagree with some thing she did which I'll get to later.
The plot was so intricate but well constructed. I was almost worried that there would be a hole, because hello? we all know how hard it is to write about two timelines-different language, different settings, different people. But the author did an amazing job. I was never confused, not even once, about who I'm reading, where I am and what is happening. I had never had a hard time with the change in scenes/timelines/Povs.
The characters were all well-defined. I found the characters from the past so fascinating that I didn't question even for once that their history must be studied or should I say, continued (not a spoiler..hehe) I mean if they're not interesting enough, I wouldn't be excited to learn about their lives. On the other hand, the modern-day characters seemed so real. Adeena and her parents, Adeena's bestfriend, Tara, Her boyfriend Philipp...
I specifically liked Adeena's relationship with her father. Also Adeena's friendship with Tara and thankfully, it all turned out great between them. But I must admit, sometimes Adeena's attitude put me off a bit. But I still liked her and actually her little flaw made her more real and relatable. :)
Overall, a solid 4-star. And you guys, I'm so excited for Book 2, I think, it's gonna be amazing. Even more amazing than Book 1 because Adeena is... sorry you have to read the book to know. hehe.
As early as Chapter one, I knew I'd love the book because of the heroine herself, Adeena Stuart, a musician wannabe, a cellist. The book started with her in an audition, which somehow reminded of a scene from 'If I stay'. And right then, I realized that she's crazy as a dreamer. And I love characters that are dreamers because they remind me of ME. And Adeena didn't disappoint. She's a big reason why I loved this book. Though I might disagree with some thing she did which I'll get to later.
The plot was so intricate but well constructed. I was almost worried that there would be a hole, because hello? we all know how hard it is to write about two timelines-different language, different settings, different people. But the author did an amazing job. I was never confused, not even once, about who I'm reading, where I am and what is happening. I had never had a hard time with the change in scenes/timelines/Povs.
The characters were all well-defined. I found the characters from the past so fascinating that I didn't question even for once that their history must be studied or should I say, continued (not a spoiler..hehe) I mean if they're not interesting enough, I wouldn't be excited to learn about their lives. On the other hand, the modern-day characters seemed so real. Adeena and her parents, Adeena's bestfriend, Tara, Her boyfriend Philipp...
I specifically liked Adeena's relationship with her father. Also Adeena's friendship with Tara and thankfully, it all turned out great between them. But I must admit, sometimes Adeena's attitude put me off a bit. But I still liked her and actually her little flaw made her more real and relatable. :)
Overall, a solid 4-star. And you guys, I'm so excited for Book 2, I think, it's gonna be amazing. Even more amazing than Book 1 because Adeena is... sorry you have to read the book to know. hehe.
August 24, 2018
I beta read for Steve a while ago (over a year ago, according to my notes) and really loved his story. The only thing I didn't like was that it didn't end and I have to wait until he can make time to finish the story.
The idea of two lives connected across time by a cello, of all things, really intrigued me when I first heard about it. I have a soft spot for time travel stories (and dragons; imagine time traveling dragons!), so was willing to take a gamble. Well, it was a gamble that paid off handsomely, as Steve is a great writer who weaves a great story with memorable characters.
You don't have to be a time travel aficionado to enjoy the book, the story and characters are so well written that there's no need for artifice to hold your attention. I can't recommend this enough.
The idea of two lives connected across time by a cello, of all things, really intrigued me when I first heard about it. I have a soft spot for time travel stories (and dragons; imagine time traveling dragons!), so was willing to take a gamble. Well, it was a gamble that paid off handsomely, as Steve is a great writer who weaves a great story with memorable characters.
You don't have to be a time travel aficionado to enjoy the book, the story and characters are so well written that there's no need for artifice to hold your attention. I can't recommend this enough.
April 22, 2019
I received Song For A Lost Kingdom from the Canadian author , Steve Moretti, and fell in love with the premise.
A facile description of Song For A Lost Kingdom would be that it's Outlander with music. This is true, but in a limited way. If you love Outlander because it's about time travel to 18th century Scotland, then Song For A Lost Kingdom may be the sort of book that you'll enjoy. Yet if you're an Outlander fan because of the romance between Jamie and Claire, then you may be disappointed by Moretti's novel. There is romance in the novel, but it isn't the central focus. The time traveling 21st century protagonist, Adeena Stewart, is a musician. Music is Adeena's primary commitment in both time periods. That's what I loved most about this book. It shows that music can transcend time and place.
It did seem to me that Adeena was irresponsible in some of her decisions. So she is an ambivalent character. Her dedication to the music she loves is admirable, but the wreckage of her personal life could make readers want to slap some sense into her. Some of us may find her similar to people in our own lives which makes her recognizable if not always likeable.
Song For A Lost Kingdom is composed of comfortable elements of the familiar and intriguing elements of the mysterious. Yet it's the music that continued to haunt me.
For my complete review see https://shomeretmasked.blogspot.com/2...
A facile description of Song For A Lost Kingdom would be that it's Outlander with music. This is true, but in a limited way. If you love Outlander because it's about time travel to 18th century Scotland, then Song For A Lost Kingdom may be the sort of book that you'll enjoy. Yet if you're an Outlander fan because of the romance between Jamie and Claire, then you may be disappointed by Moretti's novel. There is romance in the novel, but it isn't the central focus. The time traveling 21st century protagonist, Adeena Stewart, is a musician. Music is Adeena's primary commitment in both time periods. That's what I loved most about this book. It shows that music can transcend time and place.
It did seem to me that Adeena was irresponsible in some of her decisions. So she is an ambivalent character. Her dedication to the music she loves is admirable, but the wreckage of her personal life could make readers want to slap some sense into her. Some of us may find her similar to people in our own lives which makes her recognizable if not always likeable.
Song For A Lost Kingdom is composed of comfortable elements of the familiar and intriguing elements of the mysterious. Yet it's the music that continued to haunt me.
For my complete review see https://shomeretmasked.blogspot.com/2...
September 10, 2018
I have heard that music connects the people of this world. This is the first time that music has connected time. A haunting symphony, a beautiful melody the notes which travel through space to find the rightful owner who could play the soulful piece.
The bridge for this symphony spanning the 1700s and 2000s was the Cello. Adeena, a brilliant talented musician, plays a Duncan Cello, and suddenly finds herself transported to the 1700s as Katherine Carnegie. She finds herself living in both spans of time, trying to solve the mystery of what happened to Katherine. And it comes with health and career repercussions. She saves one thing and she loses the other.
What does Adeena save? Will she die saving it?
This is Steve Moretti's debut, and it is a very entertaining read. For most parts, it kept me gripped to the story wanting to get to the truth. I loved the closeness between Adeena and her parents, but I hated that nobody believed her, in spite of the written proof, including the guy who professes to love her the most.
I loved that Adeena was very strong and brave to travel both worlds, but I hated the way she cried so frequently. I loved that Adeena stood up for her principles and had courage of her convictions, but I hated the way she sometimes came across as a spoiled brat. But those were tiny niggles in the entire story.
Time travel is a difficult topic to right on, especially if one is going back in time. To get the era and the characterizations, tone and dialect perfect requires huge research, and I am happy to say that Steve has done a pretty good job in being authentic as well as making the prose easily understandable.
A melody which can span space and time, a Cello which plays that haunting music, and a character who stands up strong in both times - this trio makes this story a mystical fast read.
The bridge for this symphony spanning the 1700s and 2000s was the Cello. Adeena, a brilliant talented musician, plays a Duncan Cello, and suddenly finds herself transported to the 1700s as Katherine Carnegie. She finds herself living in both spans of time, trying to solve the mystery of what happened to Katherine. And it comes with health and career repercussions. She saves one thing and she loses the other.
What does Adeena save? Will she die saving it?
This is Steve Moretti's debut, and it is a very entertaining read. For most parts, it kept me gripped to the story wanting to get to the truth. I loved the closeness between Adeena and her parents, but I hated that nobody believed her, in spite of the written proof, including the guy who professes to love her the most.
I loved that Adeena was very strong and brave to travel both worlds, but I hated the way she cried so frequently. I loved that Adeena stood up for her principles and had courage of her convictions, but I hated the way she sometimes came across as a spoiled brat. But those were tiny niggles in the entire story.
Time travel is a difficult topic to right on, especially if one is going back in time. To get the era and the characterizations, tone and dialect perfect requires huge research, and I am happy to say that Steve has done a pretty good job in being authentic as well as making the prose easily understandable.
A melody which can span space and time, a Cello which plays that haunting music, and a character who stands up strong in both times - this trio makes this story a mystical fast read.
August 21, 2018
We're it possible, I might have gone to 4.5 for some relatively minor syntax issues that, while not technically incorrect perhaps, seemed a bit cumbersome to me.
That being said, my question is: when is book 2 available?!
The author had noticed that I seemed to like this genre and asked if I would review this book. I am a big fan of both historical fiction as well as time travel/time slip fiction and the concept of this book is rather remarkable. I have always thought that twining two separate stories (in this case a present time and a past time) can be tricky to accomplish with aplomb, but Mr. Moretti manages to make it seem easy. The present time and the time of the Jacobites in Scotland. 1745. The Battle of Culloden looming. Two cellists; one modern, one long dead and the story of a historic, cello as seen and "felt" by both. It unites their family through time.
I had not really planned to read this book right away, but once I began, I could not put it down. I think thatbthe author has talent, imagination and I am already thinking that the wait for book 2 is already too long! If you enjoy historical and/or time slip novels I have no doubt that you will thoroughly enjoy this read!
That being said, my question is: when is book 2 available?!
The author had noticed that I seemed to like this genre and asked if I would review this book. I am a big fan of both historical fiction as well as time travel/time slip fiction and the concept of this book is rather remarkable. I have always thought that twining two separate stories (in this case a present time and a past time) can be tricky to accomplish with aplomb, but Mr. Moretti manages to make it seem easy. The present time and the time of the Jacobites in Scotland. 1745. The Battle of Culloden looming. Two cellists; one modern, one long dead and the story of a historic, cello as seen and "felt" by both. It unites their family through time.
I had not really planned to read this book right away, but once I began, I could not put it down. I think thatbthe author has talent, imagination and I am already thinking that the wait for book 2 is already too long! If you enjoy historical and/or time slip novels I have no doubt that you will thoroughly enjoy this read!
February 25, 2019
The first thing that drew me to this book was the sumptuous cover. Who wouldn't want to look more deeply into that picture? And I was disappointed. I read Song for a Lost Kingdom (Book 1) in just over a day and loved every word of it.
It tells the story of twenty-first century musician, Adeena Stuart, and eighteenth century noblewoman, Katharine Carnegie, two women connected by the antique Duncan Cello and a mysterious piece of music. Each time Adeena plays the piece, she is drawn back into Katharine’s world. Gradually she realises there is a major wrong she must put right.
The book is well researched. I would hazard a guess that Moretti has a musical background, which allows him to include just the right level of technical detail in the orchestral sections. His descriptions of Scotland in the 1740s and the lead up to the Battle of Culloden are effective and enthralling. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
It tells the story of twenty-first century musician, Adeena Stuart, and eighteenth century noblewoman, Katharine Carnegie, two women connected by the antique Duncan Cello and a mysterious piece of music. Each time Adeena plays the piece, she is drawn back into Katharine’s world. Gradually she realises there is a major wrong she must put right.
The book is well researched. I would hazard a guess that Moretti has a musical background, which allows him to include just the right level of technical detail in the orchestral sections. His descriptions of Scotland in the 1740s and the lead up to the Battle of Culloden are effective and enthralling. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
October 21, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. It tied together the lives of two women divided by hundreds of years so well. There were many characters in this book, but you never felt like you were confused on who they were or in what time they lived. His characters were very likable and ones you could connect with. The story has some twists and turns that made the story that much better. I can’t wait to see where the author takes this.
March 14, 2021
Unbelievable. Adeena and Katherine are born centuries apart, but are connected with the same music. Absolutely loved it. Can’t wait to read the next.
June 21, 2021
..
I received a complimentary copy of the book through vivacious reads from the author
As a huge fan of Outlander this book caught my attention.
I was not disappointed, I love the idea of music connecting people through time and Adeena's and Katherine's love of music does just that.
I received a complimentary copy of the book through vivacious reads from the author
As a huge fan of Outlander this book caught my attention.
I was not disappointed, I love the idea of music connecting people through time and Adeena's and Katherine's love of music does just that.
May 9, 2019
Review: Song For A Lost Kingdom
Cy Young
Ah, yes. Creativity. It takes one to unknown places and unfolds new vistas, amazing insights, and inspiring light.
In “Song For A Lost Kingdom,” Steven Moretti explores these creative phenomena superbly and takes us on a fantastic journey covering two continents and two time periods.
Consider these elements: A talented cellist/singer with a troubled past; her grandmother who has had constant dreams of being contacted by a dead relative; time travel; the 1745 Jacobite uprising; two lovers, one in the 21st century, one in the 18th; the cellist’s history-teacher father; her psychiatrist mother; her best friend who’s also a rival; the theft of a Five Million Dollar cello; various characters who pepper the narrative landscape and give color to the story … and on and on.
Moretti blends these elements seamlessly and makes us somehow believe that the simple act of playing a nearly three-hundred-year old cello with her own composition can transport the cellist back in time to her other self in the 18th century, Catherine Carnegie, who falls deeply in love with James Drummond, a Jacobite devotee of the period.
Adeena Stuart, our protagonist/heroine/cellist, is torn between Drummond and Phillipe, her 21st century investigative reporter boyfriend, as well as her desire to fulfill and fully realize her teenage composition, a song with meaningful lyrics, lyrics she sings before Scottish soldiers in Kinniard Castle on her first transition from the present to the 18th century.
This is a key scene of foreshadowing, as the repeat singing of these few lines becomes a catalyst in the supercharged denouement.
Adeena, a researcher for the National Museum in Ottawa, discovers the priceless Duncan Cello in the Museum’s basement and can’t resist it’s magnetic pull. She picks it up, plays, and is instantly transported back to Kinniard Castle in 1745 where she finds herself playing for a squadron of Scottish soldiers in the Great Hall of the castle, soldiers preparing for a battle with the British. Reason for the conflict: Bonnie Prince Charles is striving to restore the House of Stuart to the throne of England, Scotland, and Ireland in what is known as the Jacobite Uprising of ‘45.
As the narrative spins along, Adeena’s close friend, Tara, begins to suspect Adeena of the theft of the cello, her mother and father fear for her sanity, and Adeena achieves her life-long dream and becomes a cellist for the National Arts Center Orchestra.
The complexity of the story requires a more lengthy review, but suffice it to say that the reader of this superb novel has many surprises in store, many twists that will entice, excellent character development, and a surging dramatic tension that will keep you on the edge of whatever you’re sitting on.
I give Steve Moretti five (5) stars for this immaculately researched history, romance, and action-packed novel that will fascinate, amaze, and entertain.
I await the coming spin-offs with an expectant thrill of anticipation, or a thrill of expectant anticipations, or just a big thrill!
Cy Young
Ah, yes. Creativity. It takes one to unknown places and unfolds new vistas, amazing insights, and inspiring light.
In “Song For A Lost Kingdom,” Steven Moretti explores these creative phenomena superbly and takes us on a fantastic journey covering two continents and two time periods.
Consider these elements: A talented cellist/singer with a troubled past; her grandmother who has had constant dreams of being contacted by a dead relative; time travel; the 1745 Jacobite uprising; two lovers, one in the 21st century, one in the 18th; the cellist’s history-teacher father; her psychiatrist mother; her best friend who’s also a rival; the theft of a Five Million Dollar cello; various characters who pepper the narrative landscape and give color to the story … and on and on.
Moretti blends these elements seamlessly and makes us somehow believe that the simple act of playing a nearly three-hundred-year old cello with her own composition can transport the cellist back in time to her other self in the 18th century, Catherine Carnegie, who falls deeply in love with James Drummond, a Jacobite devotee of the period.
Adeena Stuart, our protagonist/heroine/cellist, is torn between Drummond and Phillipe, her 21st century investigative reporter boyfriend, as well as her desire to fulfill and fully realize her teenage composition, a song with meaningful lyrics, lyrics she sings before Scottish soldiers in Kinniard Castle on her first transition from the present to the 18th century.
This is a key scene of foreshadowing, as the repeat singing of these few lines becomes a catalyst in the supercharged denouement.
Adeena, a researcher for the National Museum in Ottawa, discovers the priceless Duncan Cello in the Museum’s basement and can’t resist it’s magnetic pull. She picks it up, plays, and is instantly transported back to Kinniard Castle in 1745 where she finds herself playing for a squadron of Scottish soldiers in the Great Hall of the castle, soldiers preparing for a battle with the British. Reason for the conflict: Bonnie Prince Charles is striving to restore the House of Stuart to the throne of England, Scotland, and Ireland in what is known as the Jacobite Uprising of ‘45.
As the narrative spins along, Adeena’s close friend, Tara, begins to suspect Adeena of the theft of the cello, her mother and father fear for her sanity, and Adeena achieves her life-long dream and becomes a cellist for the National Arts Center Orchestra.
The complexity of the story requires a more lengthy review, but suffice it to say that the reader of this superb novel has many surprises in store, many twists that will entice, excellent character development, and a surging dramatic tension that will keep you on the edge of whatever you’re sitting on.
I give Steve Moretti five (5) stars for this immaculately researched history, romance, and action-packed novel that will fascinate, amaze, and entertain.
I await the coming spin-offs with an expectant thrill of anticipation, or a thrill of expectant anticipations, or just a big thrill!
September 26, 2018
The book took place in two different lifetime, three hundred years apart, which somehow connected by one musical intrument. Katharine in 1745 and Adeena in 2017 both are really passionate Celist. It all started when Adeena received an ancient musical score that has been hidden for hundred of years, from her grandmother, the grandmother which everyone believe is delusional because her constant rambling about she being haunted every night by some long lost family. Turns out the woman from Adeena’s father side always went through the same thing which make everyone think it’s a family trait.
Adeena was taken back to 1745 as Katharine, when she played the score with an ancient cello, she found out later that she went back in time for a reason that could change the future forever. And of course nobody believes her, and her parents think she went nuts, just like all the women before her in their family.
I really like the concept of time travelling with a musical instrument, although I really find it unusual when it’s only her mind which travel back in time and her body stays in the present time, it makes me wondering what happened with the “real” Katharine in 1745 when Adeena’s mind take control of her body. The author also didn’t explained why this strange phenomenon happens now after three thousand years and why it’s happened only to Adeena. This book mixed up two unique concept about time travelling and reincarnation, it’s confusing but I still enjoy it.
The story is very engaging, although the start is a little bit slow and it annoys me because I really can’t wait to read the historical part, the pace found it’s perfect rhytm in the middle of the book, it flows so easily but then the pace get a bit rushed at the end.
The writing style is so good, especially the dialogs in the historical part. The author does know how to make the reader curious, the conflicts are not solved until the very end of the book and it makes me flipping the pages like crazy! And not to mention that ending, the cliffhanger is killing me, so cruel!
It’s a mixed up between reality and fantasy and the author did a very great job to differentiate both world. I love the historical part of the story, everything sounds so realistic, from the language, the dress, the situation, and the people, it makes me feel like I was there at the moment.
Adeena is a very ambitious and stubborn person, she kinda remind me of myself. She works hard to get what she wants, and she won’t let her personal life dragged her down from her dream and her ambition. I really admire her for stood up for what she really wants in her life, something I could never do.
Adeena was taken back to 1745 as Katharine, when she played the score with an ancient cello, she found out later that she went back in time for a reason that could change the future forever. And of course nobody believes her, and her parents think she went nuts, just like all the women before her in their family.
I really like the concept of time travelling with a musical instrument, although I really find it unusual when it’s only her mind which travel back in time and her body stays in the present time, it makes me wondering what happened with the “real” Katharine in 1745 when Adeena’s mind take control of her body. The author also didn’t explained why this strange phenomenon happens now after three thousand years and why it’s happened only to Adeena. This book mixed up two unique concept about time travelling and reincarnation, it’s confusing but I still enjoy it.
The story is very engaging, although the start is a little bit slow and it annoys me because I really can’t wait to read the historical part, the pace found it’s perfect rhytm in the middle of the book, it flows so easily but then the pace get a bit rushed at the end.
The writing style is so good, especially the dialogs in the historical part. The author does know how to make the reader curious, the conflicts are not solved until the very end of the book and it makes me flipping the pages like crazy! And not to mention that ending, the cliffhanger is killing me, so cruel!
It’s a mixed up between reality and fantasy and the author did a very great job to differentiate both world. I love the historical part of the story, everything sounds so realistic, from the language, the dress, the situation, and the people, it makes me feel like I was there at the moment.
Adeena is a very ambitious and stubborn person, she kinda remind me of myself. She works hard to get what she wants, and she won’t let her personal life dragged her down from her dream and her ambition. I really admire her for stood up for what she really wants in her life, something I could never do.
February 2, 2019
Fascinating time travel story. Adeena is a talented musician. When she plays an 18th century song on a rare antique cello, she is briefly transported back to 18th century Scotland. I really enjoyed the characters and their realistic difficulty believing what was happening.
March 20, 2020
This is a time travel novel, part of a time travel series, taking place in Ottowa, Canada in 2018 and Scotland in 1745-1746.
Adeena Stuart, a talented cellist, experiences a strange phenomenon every time she plays an eerily beautiful piece of music from 1745 on the cello it had possibly originally been played on. She blacks out. And while unconscious, she imagines that she is Katherine Carnegie, the original composer, and the sister of two people on opposite sides during the rebellion of Scotland against the Union with England. Except that in these 'dreams', Adeena can see, hear, feel, and smell things so vividly that it does not feel like a dream at all. It feels real. Not to mention the fact that those things, people, places and events she dreams about actually happened. Torn between the worlds of Adeena Stuart and Katherine Carnegie, she begins to question who she really is... and who she really loves, the loyal 2018 Philippe, or the dashing 1745 James Drummond.
This book is well written and enjoyable overall. The history is interesting, and the plot is well-fleshed-out. I liked it. However, there are some things I personally didn't like about it. One, it has at least two sex scenes that are much too graphic for my tastes. And two, it ends in a cliffhanger, so you cannot just stop at one book, you need to read all of them to find out what happens next. Because of these issues, I would give it four stars rather than five.
Adeena Stuart, a talented cellist, experiences a strange phenomenon every time she plays an eerily beautiful piece of music from 1745 on the cello it had possibly originally been played on. She blacks out. And while unconscious, she imagines that she is Katherine Carnegie, the original composer, and the sister of two people on opposite sides during the rebellion of Scotland against the Union with England. Except that in these 'dreams', Adeena can see, hear, feel, and smell things so vividly that it does not feel like a dream at all. It feels real. Not to mention the fact that those things, people, places and events she dreams about actually happened. Torn between the worlds of Adeena Stuart and Katherine Carnegie, she begins to question who she really is... and who she really loves, the loyal 2018 Philippe, or the dashing 1745 James Drummond.
This book is well written and enjoyable overall. The history is interesting, and the plot is well-fleshed-out. I liked it. However, there are some things I personally didn't like about it. One, it has at least two sex scenes that are much too graphic for my tastes. And two, it ends in a cliffhanger, so you cannot just stop at one book, you need to read all of them to find out what happens next. Because of these issues, I would give it four stars rather than five.
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December 22, 2021
Song for a Lost Kingdom, BOX SET: Time travel powered by music is a wonderful new look at time travel. In this series two gifted cellists are connected over time through the gift of music as they both play the very same cello. Steve Moretti crafts such a beautiful story that you will believe in your heart that this truly could take place, somewhere, somehow, and the gifts and love and pain shared by the two young women as they transcend time and place, replacing each other. It is as if he places pen to paper and a beautiful flower of the artistic word is born, and his flower is nursed by the gift of music nurturing it along the way. I highly recommend this box set – as it is such a lovely way to be able to read the series, how beautiful to continue from novel to the next and not have to wait. I highly recommend this novel. I was so impressed with the work of Steve Moretti. I can’ wait to see where Mr Moretti takes us next!
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September 13, 2018A Song For A Lost Kingdom was a book that I wouldn't typically read as most of you know I mainly read YA but I have tried reading a wide variety of books this year to expand my reading taste. A Song For A Lost Kingdom is a good read that definitely proves that I can like more than one type of book.
First off I do want to talk about some things that I didn't love about the book. One of the big ones is that it could be edited more. I ended up finding some spelling errors throughout the book and with a more careful read through these would have been spotted and it would have made the story read better. I also don't like that the Scottish people read like Scottish people on the page so there is an adaptation of dialect. I don't typically like this in books and sometimes it took me out of the story. I also couldn't tell which parts were set in the past and present day which could be fixed in editing.
Although there were some errors I did like the writing style in the book. It was really easy to read and I found it really easy to be immersed in the world and with more editing, Moretti could be a really great writer who tells really great stories. I would love to read more of his work in the future, in this series or in other books that he writes.
I think the thing that I really did like is the way that music is used in the book. You can tell that Moretti knows what he is talking about regarding music and he has clearly done his research. I feel like he makes it really easy to understand for the reader and I didn't really feel confused over it when in the plot.
I also really liked the setting of both Scotland and Canada as I don't find many books set in these locations so this made it really interesting to read about and learn more about these places. Moretti is also Canadian himself and I don't also read that many Canadian authors and this book gave me a chance to.
This book definitely had some things that I really enjoyed in it and I am glad that I had a chance to read it even though I did have some problems with it.
The Verdict:
Song For A Lost Kingdom is an interesting and entertaining read. A great first read of the series.
First off I do want to talk about some things that I didn't love about the book. One of the big ones is that it could be edited more. I ended up finding some spelling errors throughout the book and with a more careful read through these would have been spotted and it would have made the story read better. I also don't like that the Scottish people read like Scottish people on the page so there is an adaptation of dialect. I don't typically like this in books and sometimes it took me out of the story. I also couldn't tell which parts were set in the past and present day which could be fixed in editing.
Although there were some errors I did like the writing style in the book. It was really easy to read and I found it really easy to be immersed in the world and with more editing, Moretti could be a really great writer who tells really great stories. I would love to read more of his work in the future, in this series or in other books that he writes.
I think the thing that I really did like is the way that music is used in the book. You can tell that Moretti knows what he is talking about regarding music and he has clearly done his research. I feel like he makes it really easy to understand for the reader and I didn't really feel confused over it when in the plot.
I also really liked the setting of both Scotland and Canada as I don't find many books set in these locations so this made it really interesting to read about and learn more about these places. Moretti is also Canadian himself and I don't also read that many Canadian authors and this book gave me a chance to.
This book definitely had some things that I really enjoyed in it and I am glad that I had a chance to read it even though I did have some problems with it.
The Verdict:
Song For A Lost Kingdom is an interesting and entertaining read. A great first read of the series.
August 9, 2021
I received a complimentary copy of Music is Not Bound by Time from the author via Voracious Readers Only. First off any Canadian reading will recognize the references to Ottawa landmarks and institutions. On top of that its a great story! Take an aspiring professional cellist, her best friend, who happens to be her boss and a legendary historic cello and you've already got the makings for a great tale. Throw in time transference and it goes beyond. One of the first books I've read this summer that I could not put down. In fact probably going to make time to read the entire series! I was vested early in the characters and the historical and cultural references both in present day Ontario and Scotland of 1745. Really needed more than 5 star s to rate this one!
March 31, 2021
This is an incredibly interesting book to read.
Excellent, very well thought out characters.
Music itself is a type of time machine so the author's collation of the past, present, Adeena and the cello is fascinating.
Many thanks to Steve Moretti for the Complimentary copy of "Song for a Lost Kingdom" via Voracious Readers Only is gratefully appreciated. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Excellent, very well thought out characters.
Music itself is a type of time machine so the author's collation of the past, present, Adeena and the cello is fascinating.
Many thanks to Steve Moretti for the Complimentary copy of "Song for a Lost Kingdom" via Voracious Readers Only is gratefully appreciated. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
September 14, 2021
I received my copy free from voracious readers only
Omg! In love with this book! I wasn't sure how I would feel about the storyline. Its one that honestly could either be really good, or super cheesy. I'm so glad I took the opportunity to read it!
I recommend it to fans of Outlander! Despite the similarities of a person going back to the days of Culloden, these are still two very different stories.
I can't wait to see what happens in book two!
Omg! In love with this book! I wasn't sure how I would feel about the storyline. Its one that honestly could either be really good, or super cheesy. I'm so glad I took the opportunity to read it!
I recommend it to fans of Outlander! Despite the similarities of a person going back to the days of Culloden, these are still two very different stories.
I can't wait to see what happens in book two!
March 11, 2022
If you love Barbara Erskine you’ll absolutely love Steve Moretti’s style of writing. The mix of modern and historical and suspense is captivating. This book is gripping, fascinating, compelling and un-put-downable! I can’t wait to read more of his books.
October 5, 2020
Entrancing start of the series.
August 22, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this read. A great escape and fascinating insight into 18th Century Scotland and the Jacobites. Adeena’s time travel is fascinating and I look forward to reading the second novel in this series and seeing how her decision turns out.
August 11, 2019
This book cover captured my attention and the synopsis convinced me I had to read it.
You can read my full review here.
Book one has secured me as a reader for book two and I am hoping it continues the elements I liked and gives us more of the 1700's Scotland.
You can read my full review here.
Book one has secured me as a reader for book two and I am hoping it continues the elements I liked and gives us more of the 1700's Scotland.
July 30, 2021
A beautiful story! It had so many of the things I love in a story, historical fiction- 1700s and in Scotland, time travel, fantasy, and who knew MUSIC could be so BEAUTIFUL in the story... Great story!
4⭐
4⭐
July 28, 2021
Romantic and exciting
I love books about time travel. Although this isn't the typical time travel story, it has a unique story line. The characters are loveable and loving with each other. I enjoyed it very much.
I love books about time travel. Although this isn't the typical time travel story, it has a unique story line. The characters are loveable and loving with each other. I enjoyed it very much.
October 5, 2018
Full review: http://swiftcoffee.blog/2018/09/29/so...
This book seemed to be just my kind. There’s music, there’s some kind of magic, there’s history… everything I love in a book. Maybe except for crime/mystery, but the suspense built of not knowing what this time travelling thing is exactly all about made completely up for it! I didn’t really see how these different things would mix, but somehow I instinctively felt that they suit each other well – at the end of the day, doesn’t music always have some kind of magic to it? And magic a history running back to the roots? And history a lingering suspense in the background?
I was right, it all matched perfecly. I didn’t guess the ratio of these elements right, though. Because the whole concept is based on a (may I say rather unique kind of) time-travelling, I expected it to be more of a fantasy than it was, and at first it bothered me a bit, but it all worked out well, and I came to like the way this novel was all done. The fantasy element was amazingly used to show what it is like being a true, misunderstanded, passionate musician, and to connect the old world with the modern one. Yet it was an intriguing kind of magic in itself, making me wonder about how it works out.
All the medical talk, especially in the end, gave off a bit of a sci-fi-y vibe, at least for me, but that was okay, too. As a newly graduated physician I felt home among discussing doctors. And letting us from time to time to see it all through a psychiatrist’s (and worrying mother’s) eyes was such a great idea! And it worked really well, I loved it!
And not just that, we got to see several point of views from two different time periods and different places, and it was never for a second confusing! It added to the story, the author managed to do this perfectly. I could be happy to see a bit more of the characters and their development, and I didn’t feel the ending gave me a complete satisfaction, but this novel is labelled as ‘Book I’ so I’m guessing the arc is written for more books, and that’s why there’s things left unanswered. That’s why I give the ‘characters’ only a 4 (though I found them awesome, interesting, and I really looking forward to seeing more of them), but I give a 5 for the story because it was excellent in many ways and it is an original idea, so I decided to take the sequel into consideration.
This book seemed to be just my kind. There’s music, there’s some kind of magic, there’s history… everything I love in a book. Maybe except for crime/mystery, but the suspense built of not knowing what this time travelling thing is exactly all about made completely up for it! I didn’t really see how these different things would mix, but somehow I instinctively felt that they suit each other well – at the end of the day, doesn’t music always have some kind of magic to it? And magic a history running back to the roots? And history a lingering suspense in the background?
I was right, it all matched perfecly. I didn’t guess the ratio of these elements right, though. Because the whole concept is based on a (may I say rather unique kind of) time-travelling, I expected it to be more of a fantasy than it was, and at first it bothered me a bit, but it all worked out well, and I came to like the way this novel was all done. The fantasy element was amazingly used to show what it is like being a true, misunderstanded, passionate musician, and to connect the old world with the modern one. Yet it was an intriguing kind of magic in itself, making me wonder about how it works out.
All the medical talk, especially in the end, gave off a bit of a sci-fi-y vibe, at least for me, but that was okay, too. As a newly graduated physician I felt home among discussing doctors. And letting us from time to time to see it all through a psychiatrist’s (and worrying mother’s) eyes was such a great idea! And it worked really well, I loved it!
And not just that, we got to see several point of views from two different time periods and different places, and it was never for a second confusing! It added to the story, the author managed to do this perfectly. I could be happy to see a bit more of the characters and their development, and I didn’t feel the ending gave me a complete satisfaction, but this novel is labelled as ‘Book I’ so I’m guessing the arc is written for more books, and that’s why there’s things left unanswered. That’s why I give the ‘characters’ only a 4 (though I found them awesome, interesting, and I really looking forward to seeing more of them), but I give a 5 for the story because it was excellent in many ways and it is an original idea, so I decided to take the sequel into consideration.
August 19, 2019
When I read the blurb for Song for a Lost Kingdom, I knew that I had to read this book. Not only was this book set in 18th century Scotland, but it was a time travel/love story. So, I dove right in. I am glad that I read the book, but I wish that Adeena was more likable. I will explain in my review why I said that.
Song for a Lost Kingdom starts slowly. The author chose to focus on building the backstories of the main characters. After establishing those backstories, then the main storyline (well the dual main storylines) took off. I loved it!!
There were times in the book where I wanted to throttle Adeena. Yes, I liked, and yes, I thought she was a strong, capable woman. But she was also self-centered and selfish. She put her obsession with the cello ahead of everything else. If someone other than Lang had noticed that the cello on display wasn’t the real one, Tara would have lost her job. I couldn’t connect to her after that.
I did like the time travel angle of the book. It was different having Adeena go back in time while playing the cello. Her physical body stayed in Ottawa. I liked that the author showed what was happening while she was gone. I liked the contrast. I also liked that it took more effort to pull her back to the present day.
The author was very knowledgeable about the musical angle of the book. There was never a time where I was doubting that he knew what he was talking about.
The 18th-century angle of the book was amazing to read. The research that the author did about Bonnie Prince Charlie, and the events leading up to the battle of Culloden was terrific. Like with the musical angle of the book, I didn’t doubt anything that happened. I also had no problem placing Katharine/Adeena at that time.
The romance between Adeena and Phillipe didn’t give me goosebumps. I could tell, even at the beginning of the book, that they weren’t going to last. I also foretold who Phillipe was going to end up with. Now, the romance between Katharine/Adeena and James gave me goosebumps. Not often that a book can do that to me.
The end of Song for a Lost Kingdom drove me nuts. It ended on a cliffhanger. I had so many questions that went unanswered. Guess I’ll have to read book 2!!
Song for a Lost Kingdom starts slowly. The author chose to focus on building the backstories of the main characters. After establishing those backstories, then the main storyline (well the dual main storylines) took off. I loved it!!
There were times in the book where I wanted to throttle Adeena. Yes, I liked, and yes, I thought she was a strong, capable woman. But she was also self-centered and selfish. She put her obsession with the cello ahead of everything else. If someone other than Lang had noticed that the cello on display wasn’t the real one, Tara would have lost her job. I couldn’t connect to her after that.
I did like the time travel angle of the book. It was different having Adeena go back in time while playing the cello. Her physical body stayed in Ottawa. I liked that the author showed what was happening while she was gone. I liked the contrast. I also liked that it took more effort to pull her back to the present day.
The author was very knowledgeable about the musical angle of the book. There was never a time where I was doubting that he knew what he was talking about.
The 18th-century angle of the book was amazing to read. The research that the author did about Bonnie Prince Charlie, and the events leading up to the battle of Culloden was terrific. Like with the musical angle of the book, I didn’t doubt anything that happened. I also had no problem placing Katharine/Adeena at that time.
The romance between Adeena and Phillipe didn’t give me goosebumps. I could tell, even at the beginning of the book, that they weren’t going to last. I also foretold who Phillipe was going to end up with. Now, the romance between Katharine/Adeena and James gave me goosebumps. Not often that a book can do that to me.
The end of Song for a Lost Kingdom drove me nuts. It ended on a cliffhanger. I had so many questions that went unanswered. Guess I’ll have to read book 2!!
September 6, 2018
Let me start by saying that this is one of the best fantasy fiction that I have ever read! It has been a long time since I read fantasy fiction - the last time was almost a decade and a half ago when I read The Harry Potter series. Not just Adeena, even I felt transported to the magical and mystical world.
The author's writing style is simple and easy to understand. The story is smooth flowing - no beating around the bush or off-tangent scenarios. The concepts are well defined.
Characters and their role in the story : Adeena's struggle with anything and everything in life; Tara, the loyal friend who always saves Adeena; Phillipe, the one-in-a-million boyfriend; Jackie and William - Adeena's supportive parents; Friedrich Lang - the self-centered musician; Margaret Rose Stuart - Adeena's grandmother who adores and believes in her.
The story takes a magical turn when Adeena plays the score on the Duncan Cello. I was awestruck by this new development in the story. As Adeena plays the cello, the story of Katherine and James are revealed. The story turns mysterious and magical as Adeena continues to play the Duncan Cello.
I loved the idea of teleporting/time-traveling to the 1700's. And I loved the medical explanation of time traveling even more! The medical explanation of time traveling is definitely an intelligent and interesting twist by the author.
Adeena's curiosity to know more about Katherine and James has no limits. She even decides to let go of something dearer in order to know more about Katherine and James! At some point, I felt bad for Phillipe. The guy is trying really hard to prove that his love is worth it but Alas! I felt happy for him as the story ended. "Why?", you ask. Now... you do not want me to ruin the suspense, do you?
Song For A Lost Kingdom is a fascinating and revetting page-turner.
The author's writing style is simple and easy to understand. The story is smooth flowing - no beating around the bush or off-tangent scenarios. The concepts are well defined.
Characters and their role in the story : Adeena's struggle with anything and everything in life; Tara, the loyal friend who always saves Adeena; Phillipe, the one-in-a-million boyfriend; Jackie and William - Adeena's supportive parents; Friedrich Lang - the self-centered musician; Margaret Rose Stuart - Adeena's grandmother who adores and believes in her.
The story takes a magical turn when Adeena plays the score on the Duncan Cello. I was awestruck by this new development in the story. As Adeena plays the cello, the story of Katherine and James are revealed. The story turns mysterious and magical as Adeena continues to play the Duncan Cello.
I loved the idea of teleporting/time-traveling to the 1700's. And I loved the medical explanation of time traveling even more! The medical explanation of time traveling is definitely an intelligent and interesting twist by the author.
Adeena's curiosity to know more about Katherine and James has no limits. She even decides to let go of something dearer in order to know more about Katherine and James! At some point, I felt bad for Phillipe. The guy is trying really hard to prove that his love is worth it but Alas! I felt happy for him as the story ended. "Why?", you ask. Now... you do not want me to ruin the suspense, do you?
Song For A Lost Kingdom is a fascinating and revetting page-turner.
October 9, 2020
I'm very glad I listened to this as an audiobook!
The actual "Song for a Lost Kingdom" that Adeena (and Katharine) plays, which connects the two of them together from 2016 to 1745, plays throughout the book. It's a beautiful cello (string quartet) and piano score piece, accompanied by the soprano of Ania Hejnar. A haunting melody that builds as it progresses in the rondo form. It gave me chills every time it played. The lyrics are simple, yet powerful in their message; I often find myself singing it!
What I appreciated was Adeena was a "average" young adult female, with a list of issues: mainly she's not certain if she loves her boyfriend and is an inspiring musician who's trying to make it into the business. She's well developed and remains in character with her decisions. There's equal weight to the internal and external conflicts, which kept the story moving.
Though, necessarily not a happily ever after, this book did resolve the major item - "the changing of history" with Catharine's lost score. And perfectly set the plot up for book two. Looking forward to continuing the series!
The actual "Song for a Lost Kingdom" that Adeena (and Katharine) plays, which connects the two of them together from 2016 to 1745, plays throughout the book. It's a beautiful cello (string quartet) and piano score piece, accompanied by the soprano of Ania Hejnar. A haunting melody that builds as it progresses in the rondo form. It gave me chills every time it played. The lyrics are simple, yet powerful in their message; I often find myself singing it!
What I appreciated was Adeena was a "average" young adult female, with a list of issues: mainly she's not certain if she loves her boyfriend and is an inspiring musician who's trying to make it into the business. She's well developed and remains in character with her decisions. There's equal weight to the internal and external conflicts, which kept the story moving.
Though, necessarily not a happily ever after, this book did resolve the major item - "the changing of history" with Catharine's lost score. And perfectly set the plot up for book two. Looking forward to continuing the series!
September 10, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. I finished the last half in a single late evening. Is this feminist literature ? or historical fiction ? maybe both ?
The old cello and a beautiful piece as an instrument for time-travel is intriguing.
The leading characters particularly the ladies are complex, smart, strong, and likable.
I eagerly await the next Book in the series... maybe Katherine's story ? or Scottish Independence ? : )
The old cello and a beautiful piece as an instrument for time-travel is intriguing.
The leading characters particularly the ladies are complex, smart, strong, and likable.
I eagerly await the next Book in the series... maybe Katherine's story ? or Scottish Independence ? : )
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