Some of my readers may recognize the name of this prolific participant in Friday Fictioneers. Over the past week, I’ve been completely lost in this beautifully written novel. So I’m posting my review here.
I never did learn to speed read. It will usually take me a while to plod through a book, even if I’m enjoying the read. It’s rare for me to pick up a 400 plus page novel and read it from cover to cover in three days.
Emilia by Na’ama Yehuda is one of those books. The multi-faceted story sucked me in from the first paragraph and didn’t cut me loose until the last line.
Granted, other tasks ended up in the ignore pile. Things like sleeping.
Set in the 1800’s, the story opens with KayAnne, Emilia’s tutor, rescuing the child from the unimaginable horror she’s suffered at the hands of her guardian. Determined to take Emilia to a safe place, KayAnne boards a train to a place she’s only heard of in passing—a lighthouse run by an old woman who helps broken women heal.
Not only did the compelling story draw me in, but the well-developed characters from Marion the keeper of the lighthouse to Big Ben, a gentle intuitive horse. The moment I met Marion, I felt safe.
I laughed at the antics of puppy, Billy-Boo and ground my teeth at the cruelty exhibited by certain characters. The intricate plot twists kept me engaged and in suspense. As I came to the final line, my heart cried out for more.
Na’ama’s experience working with childhood trauma shines through exquisitely in this sensitively written novel.
Dear Rochelle,
I couldn’t have said this any better (though I said it differently 😉).
This is a wonderful review of an outstanding read…
Shalom and Lotsa literary love,
Dale
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Dear Dale,
I think you said it very well. I was, in fact, trying not to repeat you. Glad you agreed with my review. I could’ve gone on and on but wouldn’t want to give it all away. 😉
Thank you.
Shalom and lotsa non-fictitious hugs,
Rochelle
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I know what you mean! I always try to leave the reader wanting to go read it themselves so leave out the deets!
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And isn’t that the point of leaving a review? 😉
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Of course… But some give too much away, no?
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Yes…exactly. Why read the book if you know what’s going to happen?
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It’s like those previews for movies that show all the good parts… 🙂
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Reblogged this on Na'ama Yehuda and commented:
I’m humbled and happy and delighted. Thank you, Rochelle!
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Yay, Rochelle! I’m so happy for this! Thank you, too, for the lovely discussion with Dale, of the reviews and how much or how little to say – you both hit the mark so so perfectly!!! 🙂
Luv yas!
Na’ama
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Na’ama Y’karah,
It’s not too difficult with a book that hits the mark so perfectly. ❤
Shalom,
Rochelle
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XOXO and lotsa loves!
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🥰😘😍💕
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Will give it a go. Thanks Rochelle.
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You won’t regret it, Trish. I promise.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Terrific review here!
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Thank you, Laurie. It really is a fabulous book.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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