This is a novel to let your imagination run wild with – and when you do – when you give in to any preconceptions and expectations, oh it’s just beautiful. We follow the Rosso family over five hundred years and there is much to learn from the historical events that bring them success, poverty and yes, even plague. Throughout all this time, they remain themselves, the same age but in a new era. Each character moulds themselves to the happenings and the environment around them and we watch them grow as the stories unfold. It’s beautiful and feels very unique.
At the same time as learning of the historical events, we learn about the art of making glass. And that in itself is fascinating. Tracy Chevalier has clearly worked hard to research and explore the happenings that she writes about and it’s such a treat to read something so evocatively put together and captivating.
You will want to read this book, and with the beautiful story within, you’ll definitely want to own the independent bookshop exclusive edition. It’s stunning! Thank you to Borough Press for our advanced copy.
About the Book
Venice, 1486. Across the lagoon lies Murano. Time flows differently here – like the glass the island’s maestros spend their lives learning to handle.
Women are not meant to work with glass, but Orsola Rosso flouts convention to save her family from ruin. She works in secret, knowing her creations must be perfect to be accepted by men. But perfection may take a lifetime.
Skipping like a stone through the centuries, we follow Orsola as she hones her craft through war and plague, tragedy and triumph, love and loss.
The beads she creates will adorn the necks of empresses and courtesans from Paris to Vienna – but will she ever earn the respect of those closest to her?
About The Author
Tracy Chevalier is the author of eleven novels, including A Single Thread, Remarkable Creatures and Girl with a Pearl Earring, an international bestseller that has sold over five million copies and been made into a film, a play and an opera. Born in Washington DC, she moved to the United Kingdom in 1986. She and her husband divide their time between London and Dorset.
Photo from Tracy Chevalier’s website.
Purchase the Book
This book can be purchased in our store either on its own or in a cosy Book Box.
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