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A review by readsewknit
Rose in Bloom by Louisa May Alcott
4.0
Rose, having returned home after touring abroad for a couple years, has entered adulthood and, as an heiress, is faced with making decisions on how to invest her money. Before beginning the task, she admits to her uncle that she desires to live freely in society, attending balls and staying out late for a few months before shouldering responsibilities.
Rose in Bloom wrestles with themes of friendship, love, and contentment. Rose examines what it is to have purpose and make a difference in the world, and analyzes what her responsibilities are when it comes to being able to influence the actions of those around her. She considers what it takes to live an upright life, how entertainment and friendships have great impact on thoughts and actions.
This can read like a morality tale -- Rose seems inherently noble and good, and when those around her are choosing lesser passions, we watch consequences play out. I have a strong fondness for Louisa May Alcott's Little Women, so it pales in comparison to that notable work, and while one can predict who will gain Rose's affection, I still found it a pleasant read.
I admit I have yet to read Eight Cousins, which is the title that preceded Rose in Bloom. I initially thought this was a stand-alone title, and only after beginning did I learn it was a sequel. However, I continued on, and while I still wish to read Eight Cousins to learn more of the stories that are hinted at, I didn't feel lost past the first chapter (in the first chapter, we meet all the cousins and see the aunts and uncles, so there is a flurry of names that would be less jarring had I been familiar with the characters).
(I received a free digital ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.)
Rose in Bloom wrestles with themes of friendship, love, and contentment. Rose examines what it is to have purpose and make a difference in the world, and analyzes what her responsibilities are when it comes to being able to influence the actions of those around her. She considers what it takes to live an upright life, how entertainment and friendships have great impact on thoughts and actions.
This can read like a morality tale -- Rose seems inherently noble and good, and when those around her are choosing lesser passions, we watch consequences play out. I have a strong fondness for Louisa May Alcott's Little Women, so it pales in comparison to that notable work, and while one can predict who will gain Rose's affection, I still found it a pleasant read.
I admit I have yet to read Eight Cousins, which is the title that preceded Rose in Bloom. I initially thought this was a stand-alone title, and only after beginning did I learn it was a sequel. However, I continued on, and while I still wish to read Eight Cousins to learn more of the stories that are hinted at, I didn't feel lost past the first chapter (in the first chapter, we meet all the cousins and see the aunts and uncles, so there is a flurry of names that would be less jarring had I been familiar with the characters).
(I received a free digital ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.)