tales_of_1001_books's review
Slow pace and I’m honestly confused about why you’d include Magic in this book. I feel like the historical fiction part would be interesting enough with some editing
librarianlayla's review
3.0
Whilst the writing style was not for me, I can appreciate that this will be a story that those who truly adore factually correct historical fiction, will love.
Lengthy and slightly dry at times, it does have an interesting magic system, but whilst it is an ingredient of the story, it is merely a hint. More for those who want historical fiction, not for those looking for magical realism within a historical background.
Lengthy and slightly dry at times, it does have an interesting magic system, but whilst it is an ingredient of the story, it is merely a hint. More for those who want historical fiction, not for those looking for magical realism within a historical background.
j2teapot's review against another edition
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.5
Despite its length, huge attention to detail, dozens of characters and pov swaps, this book held me until the last page. Yes it dipped a little every now and then, and I cannot say I did not get slightly confused at points, but this is a solidly good book. Wonderfully fleshed out characters with a fascinating magical system, and the twist at the end! I will absolutely be following whatever else this author produces
tengu23's review
I could not get past the mistake on the first page. The imperative is a mood and not a case
jack_b's review
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
"The Embroidered Book," is a masterpiece that blends history and imagination, taking readers on a journey through the rich tapestry of the past.
Heartfield's meticulous research comes alive with vivid authenticity: from the intricacies of daily life to the grandeur of societal structures, the author's ability to capture the essence of the time period pulls readers into a world that feels both familiar and unknown.
The colorful Habsburg siblings in "The Embroidered Book" feel fully-formed, each with their own hopes, dreams, and struggles. Their journeys of self-discovery are compelling, as they navigate the challenges of love, loss, and resilience in the face of adversity. The reader cannot help but become emotionally invested in their tragic fates.
This is a great historical novel that excels on every level.
Heartfield's meticulous research comes alive with vivid authenticity: from the intricacies of daily life to the grandeur of societal structures, the author's ability to capture the essence of the time period pulls readers into a world that feels both familiar and unknown.
The colorful Habsburg siblings in "The Embroidered Book" feel fully-formed, each with their own hopes, dreams, and struggles. Their journeys of self-discovery are compelling, as they navigate the challenges of love, loss, and resilience in the face of adversity. The reader cannot help but become emotionally invested in their tragic fates.
This is a great historical novel that excels on every level.
loisfaye's review
emotional
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
cat_adams's review
adventurous
emotional
informative
mysterious
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
"The Embroidered Book" is a captivating journey through a beautifully woven tapestry of history and fantasy. I found myself utterly entranced by the skillful storytelling, mesmerizing prose, and intricate details.
Set in a meticulously researched historical backdrop, the novel follows the destinies of two royal Habsburg sisters who marry two kings - Charlotte, who is sent to Naples, and Marie Antionette who goes to France. Although far from each other, the sisters are connected by a childhood secret - an embroidered book of magic. But Heartfield cleverly shows us that magic is no frivolous pastime, but a hard skill with a very high price. And even when that price is paid, it is still impossible to change the course of history or prevent the tragedy from unfolding.
Heartfield blends history with elements of magic and fantasy and masterfully combines real-world events with enchanting folklore, crafting a unique narrative. The characters - Charlotte, Marie Antoinette and their families - are multi-dimensional and relatable, making them easy to connect with and care for deeply.
While "The Embroidered Book" is a work of fiction, it also offers insightful commentary on historical events and societal norms. Heartfield does not make the mistake of making the sisters and their beliefs too modern - they do their best while looking at the world from the perspective of the extremely privileged 18th century women.
Set in a meticulously researched historical backdrop, the novel follows the destinies of two royal Habsburg sisters who marry two kings - Charlotte, who is sent to Naples, and Marie Antionette who goes to France. Although far from each other, the sisters are connected by a childhood secret - an embroidered book of magic. But Heartfield cleverly shows us that magic is no frivolous pastime, but a hard skill with a very high price. And even when that price is paid, it is still impossible to change the course of history or prevent the tragedy from unfolding.
Heartfield blends history with elements of magic and fantasy and masterfully combines real-world events with enchanting folklore, crafting a unique narrative. The characters - Charlotte, Marie Antoinette and their families - are multi-dimensional and relatable, making them easy to connect with and care for deeply.
While "The Embroidered Book" is a work of fiction, it also offers insightful commentary on historical events and societal norms. Heartfield does not make the mistake of making the sisters and their beliefs too modern - they do their best while looking at the world from the perspective of the extremely privileged 18th century women.
hallht98's review against another edition
1.0
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for an ARC.
I'm not typically a huge fan of books that are based on the lives of real-life people, but Marie Antoinette fascinates me, so I requested this ARC. This book did not live up to my expectations in the slightest. I dnf'd around 14%. I wanted so badly to get through this, but this is so well-encapsulating of the full life that we don't get hints of excitement at all this far in the book. I need more to hook me and keep my attention than the intrigue of royals and hidden magic. When there is no big adventure beyond the palace walls, there is nothing for me to enjoy at the start.
I'm not typically a huge fan of books that are based on the lives of real-life people, but Marie Antoinette fascinates me, so I requested this ARC. This book did not live up to my expectations in the slightest. I dnf'd around 14%. I wanted so badly to get through this, but this is so well-encapsulating of the full life that we don't get hints of excitement at all this far in the book. I need more to hook me and keep my attention than the intrigue of royals and hidden magic. When there is no big adventure beyond the palace walls, there is nothing for me to enjoy at the start.
novelideea's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
informative
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
3.75