Sunday, August 31, 2025

Giveaway : September 2025 Free Printable Calendar

Cozy Up! Your FREE September 2025 Autumn Calendar is Here!

Hello, lovely readers!
Can you believe we're already waving goodbye to August and welcoming the hint of autumn?
That crispness in the air, the subtle shift in the light... it truly is one of my favorite times of the year!

And you know what that means, right? It's time for your shiny new, absolutely FREE monthly calendar giveaway!

As is tradition here on the blog, at the end of each month (or the very beginning of the next!), I love to share a little piece of art with you, a brand new calendar for the month ahead.
It's my way of saying thank you for being here, and hopefully, adding a little splash of joy and organization to your daily life.

Get Ready for September 2025 in Style!

For September 2025, I've poured all my autumn-loving energy into Photoshop to create something truly special.
Get ready to dive into a palette of brilliant reds, soft oranges, rich browns, and vibrant greens.

I've truly tried to capture all the incredible nuances autumn brings with itself, that magical shift in nature's wardrobe.
Every element is designed to evoke those cozy, crisp autumn vibes!

But it's not just about the leaves! This month's calendar features some of my favorite tiny forest friends that just scream autumn cuteness. Look out for:

- A sweet little owl with those adorable, big, curious eyes.
- A lovely sparrow on the doorstep of its little house
(by the way, do you have the good habit of putting them in your garden? All the birds appreciate them very much!).
- A darling hedgehog with the tenderest little face, ready to greet you each day.

It's cute, colorful, and just bursting with seasonal charm!

The best part? This calendar is yours to enjoy, completely free!
It's super easy to download and designed for high-quality printing, so whether you go big or small, it'll look fantastic.
No annoying pop-up ads, I promise!

CLICK ON THE PREVIEW BELOW TO DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE SEPTEMBER 2025 CALENDAR!
I create these with versatility in mind, so you can use it however best suits your needs:

- Desktop Background: Give your computer or tablet a fresh, autumnal makeover.
- Printable Calendar: Print it out in large format for your wall, fridge, or desk.
- Cute Bookmark: Print it smaller to tuck into your current read, perfect for those cozy autumn evenings with a good book!

I hope this calendar brings a smile to your face and helps you stay beautifully organized as we transition into one of the most picturesque seasons.

Let me know in the comments how you plan to use your calendar, I always love hearing your creative ideas!

Happy September prep, everyone!

With much love and autumn cheer, Tizi from Tizi Ccozy Corner :-)

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Monday, August 18, 2025

Book review : City of Jasmine by Deanna Raybourn

City of Jasmine
City of Jasmine book #1
by Deanna Raybourn

A Sweet and Intriguing Prelude
GENRE : #historical-adventure-mystery
( with a touch very little touch of romance)


My rating: ★★★★☆
Actually 3,9 stars rounded up to 4.

Deanna Raybourn's "City of Jasmine" offers a vibrant desert adventure, filled with compelling characters, sparkling dialogue, and a charming, exotic setting with a touch of historical depth. While I wouldn't recommend this to those seeking a passionate, sweeping romance, I wholeheartedly recommend it to those who enjoy a light, fast-paced read packed with thrilling adventures and a satisfying resolution.

THE STORY IN A NUTSHELL:

It's the 1920s, and renowned aviatrix Evangeline Starke has long believed her adventurer husband, Gabriel Starke, perished with the Lusitania. Their whirlwind courtship amidst London's glittering pre-war social scene was cut short by his apparent death. Now, five years later, Evie is forging a new life, circling the globe as a celebrated pilot and journalist. However, her world is shattered when she receives a mysterious – and recent – photograph of Gabriel, forcing her ambitious stunt to a screeching halt.

Accompanied by her eccentric Aunt Dove, Evie traces the photograph's origin to the ancient City of Jasmine, Damascus. There, she discovers that nothing is as it seems. Danger lurks around every corner, and a priceless relic – an artifact lost to time – is at stake. Criminals will stop at nothing to acquire it, even murder. Evie embarks on a perilous journey across the desert, determined to uncover the truth behind Gabriel's disappearance and recover the relic.

Along the way, Evie must confront the deceptions that separated her from Gabriel and embrace a passion that could redefine her future...

_________ ******* ________


WHAT I LOVED:
1__ Evangeline Starke Adventurous Life Introduction: I was immediately drawn in by the concise yet effective introduction to Evangeline Starke. We quickly learn how she reinvented herself as a celebrated aviatrix, earning a living by globetrotting and providing newspapers with captivating articles and photographs of herself, her adventurous aunt, and her aristocratic friend, Wally. This instantly establishes an unconventional heroine and sets the stage for thrilling escapades across the world.

2__ Eve, Captivating Heroine of the Story: Evie is a beautifully crafted character who resonates deeply because of her complexity and realism. She's not a perfect heroine but a real person—full of contradictions, strength, and vulnerability.
Her enduring love for her husband, despite years of absence and a difficult marriage, showcases a passionate stubbornness that feels genuine rather than contrived. The way she conceals her true feelings, even from herself, adds layers to her emotional struggle.

What truly stands out is Evie's refusal to be a victim. Even when faced with her husband's rough treatment, she responds with wit and unyielding will, demonstrating both courage and fierce loyalty. She's patient beyond reason and willing to confront painful truths instead of running away, which gives her remarkable depth. Her self-awareness, acknowledging her flaws while also displaying generosity and warmth to those around her, makes her incredibly relatable.

It's a shame the author didn't imbue Gabriel with the same depth or charm, as this imbalance can diminish the emotional impact. But Evie's character shines so brightly that she carries the story with authenticity and heart.
She's the kind of character you want to root for, the kind who stays with you long after you turn the final page.

3__ Impressive Desert Adventure: I absolutely loved the thrilling desert adventure that unfolds, filled with twists and turns. It magically rekindled that specific atmosphere of the Middle East, reminiscent of the fairy tales of Aladdin, Scheherazade, and The Arabian Nights, which I adored as a child. Unfortunately, I had lost that enchantment over the years, particularly after the rise of ISIS and the Taliban, their attacks on the West, the executions of journalists, and the ongoing conflicts between various religious factions. For a long time, when I thought of the Arab world, all that came to mind was dust, dirt, blood, and fear.

This book, however, delivered an adventure that reignited my curiosity, making me want to discover more about the historical and cultural stories behind these lands.

4__ Historical Echoes: I also thoroughly enjoyed the historical backdrop of the 1920s. The narrative subtly highlights how, even after the devastation of the First World War, Western colonial empires continued their attempts to exert control over what was not rightfully theirs.

The references to Lawrence of Arabia were particularly engaging (whom I only knew from movies, since he's part of British history, while I'm Italian). While reading the book, I found myself exploring online the life of this Englishman who tried to help the Arabs establish an independent state, and how the subsequent events and the revolts against the Turks unfolded in a disappointing manner.

I enjoyed researching, through Wikipedia, blog articles, and old black-and-white photos, the real-world places mentioned in the book, such as Damascus, Palmyra, and the Zenobia Hotel, an elegant hotel that was still in operation until 2013, but now sadly a victim of the conflict in Syria, riddled with holes and decay. This historical immersion added a rich layer to the story.

5__ Intrigue and Mystery: The intrigue surrounding the archaeological finds, perfectly interwoven with the political climate of the time, was another strong point. It kept me guessing and fully invested in the unfolding mystery.

6__ A Vibrant Supporting Cast: Finally, I loved almost all the supporting characters, both good and bad. Evie's loyal friend Wally, the enigmatic Sheikh Hamid, the diverse personalities at the archaeological dig, the charming British diplomat Hallyday, and even the funny and chatty parrot, they all added depth and flavor to the narrative. There was only one character I didn't quite connect with, although I know many readers appreciated her.

WHAT I DIDN'T LOVE:

1__ A Romance Mismatch: My primary disappointment stemmed from the book's cover and blurb (in addition to a prequel written a year after the book), which strongly suggest an intense love story between two protagonists deeply in love with each other. However, for up to 90% of the book, it seems like the only one truly in love is Evie. Her ex-husband, meanwhile, consistently adopts a gruff tone, and the only two kisses we witness toward the middle of the book are completely sterile and devoid of passion and genuine feeling. The romance trope should be "enemies to lovers," but here, even the slightest hint of love and interest on his part is missing, making the book profoundly disappointing from a romantic perspective.
Only in the last 10% do we get a making-love scene. It's tasteful; the author hints at it without explicit details, making it suitable for younger readers. Unfortunately, even after that scene, there are no overwhelming emotions or romantic thrills.

The ending is happy, but even here, the author missed an opportunity to make the hero more tender towards his ex-wife and now-returned partner. In fact, she's the only one who says "I love you," and there are no kisses that give you goosebumps (as any romance should, even if it's "clean" and free of explicit scenes).

2__ The Unconventional Aunt: The character I didn't like was the elderly aunt. While she's meant to be a whimsical, adventurous character, which could have been endearing, her portrayal as a 60-year-old Victorian woman who, despite her storied past, still flirts and makes insistent advances, even towards young men, felt off-putting. I found it quite jarring and out of place within the narrative.
It's also utterly absurd that, at a certain point in the story, she, at 60 years old and without prior experience, manages to fly an airplane on her own after less than an hour of lessons. This is particularly unbelievable, considering Evie herself has taken countless lessons from aviators recovering from the war, preparing herself practically, mentally, and physically.

3__ Too much of Peter Pan Influence: The last thing that bothered me slightly was the constant references to Peter Pan and Wendy, and the famous fairy tale. I've loved that fairy tale since I was a child, but in this context, it seemed a bit forced, and for a man of the world like Gabriel to constantly reference Peter Pan felt somewhat ridiculous and out of character.

*******______ ******
In any case, the negative aspects I mentioned were only a minor annoyance for me; overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the story, and the main characters and their world stayed with me for several days after I finished reading.

Despite its few flaws, "City of Jasmine" is a fantastic read for those seeking adventure, historical intrigue, and an escape to a vibrant, bygone era.

Thank for stopping by and reading my review. :-)

A review of the short prequel that tells the story of Eve's first meeting with her husband Gabriel can be found here: WHISPER OF JASMINE book #0.5

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Sunday, August 10, 2025

Book review : Whisper of Jasmine by Deanna Raybourn

Whisper of Jasmine
City of Jasmine book #0.5
by Deanna Raybourn

A Sweet and Intriguing Prelude
GENRE : #historical-short-romance #novella

My rating: ★★★★☆
Actually 3,5 stars rounded up to 4.

"Whisper of Jasmine" is a short novella that serves as a charming introduction to Deanna Raybourn's "City of Jasmine."
While I found the whirlwind romance a tad implausible at times, this quick read offers a glimpse into the world of Eve and Gabriel and how their paths first crossed amidst the glittering backdrop of a 1914 Christmas Eve and pre-war party.

________ WHAT IT'S ABOUT:_______ England, December 1914.
Notorious socialite Delilah Drummond won't be deterred by the war. Instead, she decides to throw the event of the year, and she's handing out invitations with an eye for wanton fun and wild abandon. There is the dashing explorer and archaeologist Gabriel Stark, a man at a crossroads in his life and then there is the charming if flighty Evangeline Merriweather, who has dreamed her whole life of adventure. After her vivacious Aunt Dove acts as fairy godmother, if a saucy one, providing a scandalous gown and a whisper of jasmine on her skin.... Evie will shake cool Gabriel to his core... One seductive night that will change their life forever.

___________ **************** ____________

This story immediately establishes a strong connection between Eve and Gabriel. Raybourn masterfully crafts the whirlwind meeting of the two main characters, making their instant spark feel not just palpable, but fated. This rapid-fire romance serves as a bold declaration of destined love, perfectly fitting for characters who are clearly meant for extraordinary lives.
However, their insta-love story is a bit fast-paced for my personal taste.

What truly elevates this story beyond a simple charming romance is the genius inclusion of a subtle yet significant hint of something more... The brief appearance of other intriguing characters and a whisper of intrigue that suggests a larger, more dangerous world lurking beneath the surface.
This taste of espionage really piqued my interest! It definitely encourages you to dive into "City of Jasmine" to uncover the secrets that await.

It's a tantalizing glimpse behind the curtain, leaving the reader eager to delve into the full-length novel to uncover the secrets hinted at.

My mom, a big fan of Deanna Raybourn's "Lady Julia mystery series", assures me Raybourn is a skilled storyteller who writes captivating historical tales with memorable deeply compelling characters, and I can see that potential here.

"Whisper of Jasmine" provides an intriguing background for Eve and Gabriel’s relationship and a tempting preview of the adventures to come in "City of Jasmine." A lovely short story that definitely makes you want to read the full novel.

If you're looking for a quick, romantic read with a hint of mystery, this might be the perfect appetizer before diving into the main course!

Thanks for reading! I hope this helps you choose your next book. :-)

Want to know more about Gabriel and Eve after they get married? Will their adventures tear them apart or bring them closer together?
My review about the sequel can be found here: CITY OF JASMINE book #0.5

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Saturday, August 02, 2025

Book review : Secrets of the Nile by Tasha Alexander

Secrets of the Nile
Lady Emily Mysteries book 16
by Tasha Alexander

GENRE : #historical-cozy-mystery

My rating: ★★★★☆
Actually 3,5 stars rounded up to 4.

"Secrets of the Nile" is a well-written tribute to Agatha Christie, and not a simple rehash of "Murder on the Nile."

I've read many books in the "Lady Emily" series by Tasha Alexander , and that is primarily why I'm giving this one 3.5 stars instead of a full 4: while I used to be a devoted fan of Golden Age whodunits, in recent years I've preferred mysteries with more action, coupled with solid investigation, historical settings (ideally with real historical figures), and a dash of flirtation and romance.

That winning combination often characterizes the "Lady Emily" books. However, this particular installment leans heavily into the style of the "Queen of Crime," focusing on investigation, scattered clues, logical reasoning, and deductive solutions, culminating in the classic final meeting of all suspects and the detective's (or their deputy's) revelation of the truth.

The book includes the series' hallmark alternating chapters, featuring a story set in the past (very common in much modern fiction), but the connection between the ancient past and Lady Emily's present feels somewhat tenuous.

Before delving into the details, here's the PLOT IN A NUTSHELL:

Lady Emily and her husband, Colin, along with Colin's illegitimate daughter, are invited by his mother to join a friend on a trip down the Nile, followed by a stay at his Egyptian villa.

Other British guests, all longtime friends of the host, join them. A sumptuous and elaborate welcome dinner is served on the first evening, but, at the very last moment, the host is poisoned to death, right before everyone's eyes.

Colin, a Crown Agent, takes charge of the investigation, with Emily's assistance (and the forced participation of his daughter, Kat), to unravel the mystery. Despite the group's dismay and long-standing friendships, cooperation proves difficult to come by.

________ ************** ____________

_____ THE MYSTERY_____

While many readers (myself included) might expect a murder mystery closely resembling Agatha Christie's "Death on the Nile," Tasha Alexander appears to have drawn inspiration from another of Christie's works, transplanting it to the exotic setting of Egypt, with its archaeological digs, impressive pyramids, giant statues, temples and stories of pharaohs and gods.
She mentions this in her end notes (which I always read before starting a book). She doesn't specify which Christie novel, but having read all of them, I immediately thought of three or four possibilities.

I didn't immediately identify the solution, as the author skillfully blends elements reminiscent of Christie's books with the personal lives of Lady Emily and her family.
Even if I developed a strong hunch a couple of chapters before Emily uncovers the truth, I suspect this was mere luck, and my suspicion didn't detract from my enjoyment.
I felt compelled to discover the truth until the very end. Similarly, I was eager to learn the fate of Meryt, the female sculptor and protagonist of the ancient Egyptian storyline.

Overall, the puzzle is well-crafted, and the author's work is excellent.
Even the historical subplot, though less captivating than those in previous books, maintained my suspense, as the dramatic events hinted at from the beginning remain unknown until the climax.

Both timelines are narrated in the first person (Emily in 1904 and Meryt in ancient Egypt at the time of Ramesses II).


_____ CHARACTERS______

Readers familiar with the "Lady Emily" series will know the many recurring characters (her family and friends) who often participate in the stories.
This book features her handsome, clever (and very much in love with her) husband, her always-challenging mother-in-law, and Colin's impertinent and rebellious illegitimate daughter, Kat (a new character to me, as I skipped the two previous books).

While the characters are usually well-defined in the early books of the series, later installments tend to describe them with fewer details, both physically and personality-wise. This makes their personal experiences interesting for long-time readers, but it may be more challenging for newcomers to empathize with them.

I tend to read this series out of order (each book works as a STANDALONE and I select them based on the setting and time of year). However, I don't recommend this approach.
----->READING THE BOOK IN SEQUENCE is definitely more rewarding, as the series begins with Emily as a young woman.
Approximately twenty years elapse between the first book and this one, during which Emily experiences considerable personal growth and change.


____ SIDE CHARACTERS_____

None of the supporting characters are explored in great depth, but, in the style of classic Christie novels, each is presented with a characteristic that hints at a potential motive for murder.


_______ HISTORICAL PART______

This element, in my opinion, feels less pronounced compared to previous books.
Nevertheless, through Lady Emily's exploration of archaeological sites and Meryt's story, the author introduces us to the mysterious and fascinating world of the pyramids, their stunning frescoes, and the funerary customs surrounding not only deceased pharaohs but also the artists who decorated their tombs and lived together in villages near their construction sites.

Coincidentally, I watched a documentary on TV about excavations in Egypt, specifically focusing on the tombs of artists who decorated the tombs of the pharaohs during the reign of Ramesses II, the very period depicted in the book. Witnessing the remarkable preservation of those paintings was thrilling. Therefore, if you choose to read this book, I recommend enhancing your knowledge with readily available video documentaries on YouTube... or perhaps planning your next vacation to Egypt!

----> SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES: clean language, no gruesome scenes, no sex scenes.

In conclusion, while this wasn't my favorite Tasha Alexander novel, I will continue to eagerly follow the adventures of her heroine wherever she travels, both geographically and through history.

Thank you for reading my review.

If you want to know more about OTHER BOOKS IN THE SERIES, you can read some reviews here :

(Alas I was not used to reviewing books until a couple of years ago, so reviews of books #1 and #12 and some Christmas stories are missing )

BOOK #2 : A Poisoned Season

BOOK #3 : A Fatal Waltz by Tasha Alexander

BOOK #4: Tears of Pearl

BOOK #5: Dangerous to Know

BOOK #13.5 : Upon the Midnight Clear ( Christmas novella )

BOOK #17: A Cold Highland Wind



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Thursday, July 31, 2025

Giveaway : August 2025 Free Printable Calendar

Hello lovely readers! ☀️

Saying goodbye to July, I'm so excited to share my August 2025 calendar with you!

As always, it's a little gift from me to you, designed with a whole lot of summer joy in mind.

This month's theme is all about the countryside!
Think sunshine, warm breezes, and the bounty of the fields. You'll find a charming scene complete with juicy watermelons, vibrant poppies, cheerful sunflowers, and golden ears of wheat.
To complete the picture, I've added a few adorable friends: a cute white mouse, an adorable chick, a fluttering butterfly, and a little sparrow, all enjoying the summer vibes.

I hope this calendar helps you stay organized and brings a smile to your face throughout August.

To get your free downloadable copy, simply click on the preview image to enlarge it, and then download.

Once you have downloaded the image you can set it as your desktop on your PC, or you could print it on adhesive paper and stick it on cardboard and then hang it on the wall.
By reducing the image size with any app, you can stick it on a smaller cardboard and use it as a bookmark (if you still love reading on paper).

----> No annoying pop-up ads, I promise! Just a little dose of sunshine from me to you.

Wishing you all a joyful and wonderful August 2025!
Enjoy! 💖

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Friday, July 25, 2025

Book review : The Missing Sister by Dinah Jefferies

The Missing Sister
by Dinah Jefferies


Standalone

GENRE: Historical fiction suspense-romance
My rating: ★★★★★
Actually 4.7 rounded up to 5 stars.

I chose to read "The Missing Sister" expecting a passionate love story infused with a touch of mystery and adventure, and a hint of historical elements.
While the novel does contain those components, it primarily revolves around a cold case involving the main character's family.
The love story is more of a subplot, developed on an emotional level rather than through explicit romantic scenes.

I have to admit that in the start I felt disappointed by the love story being put in the background (and I notice that the male character of the couple appears only after 25% of the book, then disappears halfway through the book and reappears in the last quarter), but later, feeling fully involved in the intrigue of the mystery and the family dynamics that were gradually revealed, I couldn't help but turn one page after another with great excitement and trepidation.

__THE PLOT IN SHORT ___ Burma, 1936 Belle Hatton starts a new, glamorous job as a nightclub singer, in the country where her parents used to live before her birth.
However, she is haunted by a family mystery:: a 25-year-old newspaper clipping found in her deceased father's belongings about the disappearance of their baby daughter, Elvira.
Desperate to discover what happened to the sister she never knew, Belle's inquiries lead to unsettling rumors, outright threats, and the attention of a handsome American journalist named Oliver.
Can she trust her growing feelings for Oliver? Is her sister really dead? And could there still be a chance Belle might find her?

_____________ *********** _______________

The whole story is told in the first person, in alternating chapters, by Belle, the main character, in the present of the book, i.e., the late 1930s, and by her mother in the past, in the 1910s and then the 1920s.


_____ THE CHARACTERS _____

Both the female main character, Annabelle, who openly expresses her emotions, fragility and aspirations, and the supporting characters, as well as the minor ones, all of whom maintain an aura of mystery and ambiguity until the end, are well delineated by the author through their actions and words, whether they are subtle or sincere (which remains an open question until the end).

What created great tension while reading the story, in fact, was Annabelle's persistent feeling of not knowing exactly who to trust and of continually discovering clues to the truth, which in reality could only be red herrings. Belle's mother's fragility, which is then reflected in her daughter, is what makes us root for these two women and is what ultimately, after having faced them, will make them stronger.

Although I would have appreciated a deeper exploration of Belle and Oliver's relationship, particularly a more developed Oliver, I still enjoyed their connection.


_____SETTING and HISTORY _____

However, the great star of the book is the setting itself.
The author vividly depicts landscapes, scents, historical events, and sensations, creating a captivating and almost magical oriental vibe.

Skillfully interwoven with this sense of magic feel and enchanting surrealism there are dramatic historical events ( such as very violent riots with brutal killings of men , women and babies ), never presented in a distressing way and never overwhelming, but informative and necessary to give the story a sense of the difficult reality of that country in that time.

The historical notes at the end of the book are a valuable context, shedding light on British colonialism in Burma (now Myanmar) and the city of Rangoon (now Yangon).
The notes also explain how the author altered the timeline of a historical event for fictional purposes. I always appreciate such additions.


____ SOME THOUGHTS INSPIRED BY THE BOOK ______

For me, the historical element in fiction is a significant bonus, prompting reflection on both the past and the present.
Oliver's arguments and the depiction of historical events highlight the exploitation of weaker nations by empires throughout history (since before the birth of Christ, empires expanded by undermining the weakest and stealing their wealth).

This echoes modern-day situations, where Western multinational corporations often exploit resources in countries with limited political or economic power. So, not much has changed, indeed human selfishness perpetuates a cycle of inequality. This is not only unfair, but it makes me laugh bitterly when I think of all the speeches of modern politicians, who seem to want to achieve some high degree of democracy, but actually it is all thin air. (Sorry for the digression)

_____WRITING STYLE _____

The writing style is fluid, and despite the presence of both political and personal drama, the story remains captivating and entertaining without becoming overly distressing.

Icing on the cake : readers longing for the "happy ever after" will not be disappointed!

This is my first Dinah Jefferies novel, but it certainly won't be my last.
Although I've ventured outside my usual genres (which rarely include exotic settings and often lean towards historical murder mysteries or Regency romances), I'm very satisfied with this read and eager to explore more within this genre.

Thank you for stopping by and reading my review.

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LIBRO disponibile anche in EDIZIONE LINGUA ITALIANA,
----> LEGGI la mia RECENSIONE ( NO SPOILER ) !


La Sorella Scomparsa
di Dinah Jefferies


Standalone

GENRE: Fiction storica suspense-romance
Voto: ★★★★★
In realtà 4.7 arrotondato a 5 stelle.

Comincio dicendo che ho scelto di leggere "La sorella scomparsa" aspettandomi una storia d'amore appassionata, intrisa di un tocco di mistero e avventura, con un pizzico di componente storica, da qui capirete che il mio obbiettivo primario era una "storia d'amore che fosse intensa e travolgente".
----> Sebbene il romanzo contenga effettivamente tutti gli elementi citati, di fatto, la storia raccontata ruota principalmente attorno a un caso di rapimento irrisolto, che coinvolge la famiglia della protagonista. La storia d'amore è più una sottotrama, oltetutto sviluppata più a livello emotivo piuttosto che attraverso scene romantiche che riscaldano i cuori e risvegliano le emozioni delle lettrici di libri rosa.

Devo ammettere che all'inizio sono rimasta delusa, la storia d'amore era "solo" in secondo piano e, come se non bastasse, il personaggio maschile con cui di cui s'innamora la protagonista, appare solo dopo il 25% del libro, per poi scomparire a metà della trama e riapparire solo nell'ultimo quarto.
In seguito però, sentendomi pienamente coinvolta dall'intrigo del mistero e dalle dinamiche familiari che venivano gradualmente svelate, inclusi i sentimenti che legavano i genitori della protagonista, non ho potuto fare a meno di leggere voracemente, con grande entusiasmo e trepidazione.


__LA TRAMA IN BREVE ___

Birmania, 1936: Belle Hatton inizia un nuovo, affascinante lavoro come cantante di night club, nel paese in cui i suoi genitori vivevano prima della sua nascita.
Tuttavia, è perseguitata da un mistero di famiglia: un ritaglio di giornale di 25 anni fa, trovato tra gli effetti personali del padre defunto, riguardante la scomparsa della loro bambina, Elvira.
Disperata per scoprire cosa sia successo alla sorella che non ha mai conosciuto, le indagini di Belle portano a voci inquietanti, minacce e all'attenzione di un affascinante giornalista americano di nome Oliver.
Può fidarsi dei suoi crescenti sentimenti per Oliver? Sua sorella è davvero morta? E c'è ancora una possibilità che Belle la trovi?

_____________ *********** _______________


L'intera storia è raccontata in prima persona, a capitoli alterni, da Belle, la protagonista, nel presente del libro, ovvero alla fine degli anni '30, e da sua madre nel passato, all'inizio degli anni'10 e poi '20.


_____ I PERSONAGGI _____

Sia la protagonista femminile, Annabelle, che esprime apertamente le sue emozioni, la sua fragilità e le sue aspirazioni, sia i personaggi secondari, che mantengono tutti un'aura di mistero e ambiguità fino alla fine, sono ben delineati dall'autore attraverso le loro azioni e parole, siano esse sincere o false e fuorvianti (il che rimane una questione aperta fino alla fine). Ciò che ha creato grande tensione durante la lettura della storia, infatti, è stata la persistente sensazione di Annabelle di non sapere esattamente di chi fidarsi e di scoprire continuamente indizi sulla verità, che in realtà potevano essere solo premeditati depistaggi.
La fragilità della madre di Belle, che si riflette poi nella figlia, è ciò che ci fa tifare per queste due donne ed è ciò che alla fine, dopo averle affrontate, le renderà più forti.

Sebbene avrei preferto un approfondimento sia del rapporto tra Belle e Oliver, sia del personaggio di Oliver, ho comunque apprezzato le dianmiche del loro legame e la connessione che si crea man mano che si procede nella storia.

_____AMBIENTAZIONE e STORIA _____ La vera protagonista del libro, la star che risplende, è l'ambientazione stessa. L'autore descrive vividamente paesaggi, profumi, eventi storici e sensazioni, creando un'atmosfera orientale accattivante e quasi magica. Abilmente intrecciati a questo senso di magia e a un surrealismo incantevole, si trovano eventi storici drammatici (come violentissime rivolte con brutali uccisioni di uomini, donne e bambini), sepure angoscianti per la protagonista che li vive in primo piano, essi non sono mai riportati in maniera troppo opprimente per il lettore. I momenti drammatici , concernenti fatti realmente accaduti, sono necessari per conferire al libro il senso della difficile realtà di quel paese, in quel periodo.

Le note storiche alla fine del libro sono un prezioso contenuto, che illustra brevente, a chi non ha familiarità con questa partedi storia, il colonialismo britannico in Birmania (ora Myanmar) e alcuni rivolte avvenute nella città di Rangoon (ora Yangon).
Le note spiegano anche come l'autore abbia alterato la cronologia di un evento storico per scopi narrativi.
Apprezzo sempre le note storiche finali, ogni buon autore di libri storici, seppure fiction, dovrebbe inserirle.

____ ALCUNE CONSIDERAZIONI ISPIRATE DAL LIBRO ______ Per me, l'elemento storico nella narrativa è un bonus significativo, che stimola la riflessione sia sul passato che sul presente. Le argomentazioni di Oliver e la descrizione degli eventi storici evidenziano lo sfruttamento delle nazioni più deboli da parte degli imperi nel corso della storia (fin da prima della nascita di Cristo, gli imperi si sono espansi indebolindo i più deboli e rubando le loro ricchezze).

Questo rispecchia la situazione odierna, in cui le multinazionali occidentali spesso sfruttano risorse in paesi con un potere politico o economico limitato. Quindi, non è cambiato molto, anzi, l'egoismo umano perpetua un ciclo di disuguaglianza. Questo non solo è ingiusto, ma mi fa anche ridere amaramente quando penso a tutti i discorsi dei politici moderni, che sembrano voler raggiungere un alto livello di democrazia, ma in realtà sono solo fanfaronate. (Scusate la digressione).


_____STILE DI SCRITTURA _____

Lo stile di scrittura è fluido e, nonostante la presenza di drammi sia politici che personali, la storia rimane avvincente e divertente senza diventare eccessivamente angosciante.

Ciliegina sulla torta: i lettori che desiderano il "e vissero felici e contenti" non rimarranno delusi!

Questo è il mio primo romanzo di Dinah Jefferies, ma di certo non sarà l'ultimo.
Sebbene mi sia avventurata al di fuori dei miei generi abituali (che raramente includono ambientazioni esotiche e spesso tendono a gialli storici, classici e cizy se ho voglia di mistero o allegri romanzi Regency se ho voglia di qualche scenetta sentimentale), sono molto soddisfatta di questa lettura e desiderosa di aleggerne molti questo genere ( che fin'ora scansavo metodicamente, pensando che fossero un po' troppo mielosi ).

Grazie per aver letto la mia opinione, spero di poter postare presto altre recensioni di libri disponibili anche in italiano :-).

Potete seguirmi su FACEBOOK, nella pagina: Tizi Cozy Corner, per essere aggiornati o semplicemente per scambiare qualche commento o suggerimento ( sempre ben accetti )

MI TROVATE ANCHE SU GOODREADS , non quello italiano, ma in inglese. Potete seguirmi o chiedere la mia amicizia, sarò lieta di seguire ache io le vostre recensioni !

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Book review : The Gardens of Bysantium by J.F. Hughes

The Gardens of Bysantium
by J.F. Hughes

GENRE : #Historical-Fiction war-romance #tragedy

My rating: ★★☆☆☆

Yes, I know the cover is amazing, I was fascinated by it too, but this is not a story I recommend to anyone who wants to read a beautiful and satisfying love story.

____ THE PLOT IN A NUTSHELL ______

The year is 622 A.D., and the Persian and Byzantine empires have been locked in conflict across the deserts long before she was born.

Asana's life has always been marked by upheaval and change. Each year, she is uprooted from her home and taken to distant, unfamiliar lands to live a strict, soldier's life alongside her father, an officer in the Persian army. But in the chaos of war, her gentle spirit often feels out of place.

Soon, she is torn from her family and forced to escape atop her beloved horse. Guided by destiny, she finds herself in the care of a handsome, mysterious Roman soldier who hides her away inside an exquisite palace in the heart of Constantinople, the Byzantine Empire’s capital.

As Asana begins to develop feelings for him, it seems she might finally discover a sanctuary of happiness amid the war-torn world around her. But that fragile peace shatters when news arrives of a Persian army advancing toward the city, setting off a chain of events that leads to an extraordinary, tragic conclusion.

___________ ********* _____________

Honestly, I was pretty excited to read The Garden of Bysantium after reading the general plot and the first intriguing chapter.
The story, told in the third person, kicks off with a Roman soldier, Antonius, captured and tortured by Persians, which immediately pulled me in.
The twist—his captor’s daughter secretly helping him, and his narrow escape with the help of more Romans—was pretty gripping.

The blend of revenge, love, and fate kept me hooked during Antonius’s chapters. Those parts really shine and made me care about his struggle.

However, things started to slide for me as soon as the story shifted focus to Asana, the Persian girl. Honestly, her chapters felt dull and at times a little silly and flat, lacking any captivating elements.

I enjoy fast-paced books, but in this case, the writing felt hurried and lacked the tension that keeps readers hooked, especially during the battles, which came across more like dull TV commentary than gripping action scenes.

The characters, overall, seemed rather flat to me, including the two protagonists. The concept was good, but they weren't developed properly, which prevented me from connecting with them as deeply as I would have liked.

And then the ending… It’s tragic !!!!! Don’t get me wrong, a dark ending can work, but here it just felt bitter and hopeless, stripping away any sense of hope or redemption the story might have offered:
______ WARNING: SPOILER ___DON'T GO ON,IF YOU WANT TO READ THE BOOK ) Everyone dies and the last survivor, Asana, commits suicide because she’s entirely alone. _________ SPOILER END

The book tries to say war is pointless and revenge only leads to more pain, which is a strong message, but honestly, it leaves the reader feeling pretty crushed rather than inspired.

Plus, the cover art is gorgeous, really appealing, but it’s kind of misleading!!!
It looks like one of those feel-good romance books, which is totally not what this story is about.
The writing style didn’t help either; it felt rushed and underdeveloped, making me not want to pick up anything else by Hughes.

Overall, not a fan. I’ve read more moving historical fiction that keeps characters real and offers some hope at the end. I wouldn’t recommend this one. If you’re into heavy, tragic stories about war with deep characters, there are definitely better options out there.


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