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Anthems of al-Andalus #1
Emeralds of the Alhambra
For hundreds of years, Christians, Muslims and Jews lived together in peace, sharing languages and customs, and embracing a level of tolerance and mutual respect unheard of today. Working together, these three peoples spawned one of the great intellectual and cultural flowerings of history in medieval Spain.
Historical novel Emeralds of the Alhambra reawakens this remarkable era via the relationship between William Chandon, a wounded Christian knight brought to the Sultan’s court in Granada, and the strong-willed Layla al-Khatib, who is on a quest to become the first female Sufi Muslim mystic in a male-dominated society. As Chandon’s influence at court grows, he becomes trapped between his forbidden love for Layla, his Christian heritage, the demands of chivalry, and political expediency. Chandon must make a choice between love and honor, war and peace, life and death, a choice which ultimately will seal Granada’s fate as the last surviving stronghold of Muslim Spain.
The novel is set in Granada at the resplendent Alhambra Palace during the Castilian Civil War (1367-1369), a time when Muslims took up their swords to fight alongside Christians. Emeralds of the Alhambra is the first book in the Anthems of al-Andalus series.
Dr. John Cressler spent 8 years at IBM Research and 10 years at Auburn University before joining Georgia Tech in 2002, where he has authored numerous books. Emeralds of the Alhambra is the TED talk presenter’s debut novel.
Historical novel Emeralds of the Alhambra reawakens this remarkable era via the relationship between William Chandon, a wounded Christian knight brought to the Sultan’s court in Granada, and the strong-willed Layla al-Khatib, who is on a quest to become the first female Sufi Muslim mystic in a male-dominated society. As Chandon’s influence at court grows, he becomes trapped between his forbidden love for Layla, his Christian heritage, the demands of chivalry, and political expediency. Chandon must make a choice between love and honor, war and peace, life and death, a choice which ultimately will seal Granada’s fate as the last surviving stronghold of Muslim Spain.
The novel is set in Granada at the resplendent Alhambra Palace during the Castilian Civil War (1367-1369), a time when Muslims took up their swords to fight alongside Christians. Emeralds of the Alhambra is the first book in the Anthems of al-Andalus series.
Dr. John Cressler spent 8 years at IBM Research and 10 years at Auburn University before joining Georgia Tech in 2002, where he has authored numerous books. Emeralds of the Alhambra is the TED talk presenter’s debut novel.
415 pages, Paperback
First published June 15, 2013
23 people are currently reading
899 people want to read
About the author
John D. Cressler
23 books25 followersJohn D. Cressler is a historical novelist and professor at Georgia Tech. He has published five non-fiction books (two for general audiences), but his real passion is historical fiction and he is obsessed with the rediscovery of “la convivencia” (peaceful coexistence of Christians, Muslims and Jews) in medieval Muslim Spain. "Emeralds of the Alhambra," an interfaith love story set in 14th century Granada, was his debut novel (released June 2013 by Sunbury Press), and the first book in the "Anthems of al-Andalus" series. Book two in the series, "Shadows in the Shining City," was released July 2014. Book three in the series, "Fortune's Lament," set in Granada at the fall of the sultanate in 1492 was released in April 2018. Book four, "Merchants of Iniquity," the final book in the series and a sequel to "Fortunes" was release May of 2024.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
July 15, 2013
In Emeralds of the Alhambra, a medieval knight becomes embroiled in the court intrigues of Muslim Spain. He fights for his life against deadly assassins and struggles with his forbidden love for Layla, the most beautiful woman in Granada’s Alhambra. Born in Brittany, William Chandon rose from humble beginnings until he achieved the notice of the court of Edward III of England. English and French political interests in 14th-century Spain draw Chandon into the disputed frontier between Muslim Andalusia and the Christianized kingdoms of Castile and Aragon. Chandon defends the Aragonese fortress of Jaen against Moorish invaders. When his adversaries besiege and overrun the castle, Chandon suffers grievous wounds, which almost end his life. The Moors claim him as an important prisoner of war and transport him back to their capital at Granada, site of the beautiful Alhambra Palace. There, Chandon meets various doctors, courtiers, ministers, poets, and guards. The person who intrigues him most is the compassionate Layla al-Khatib, daughter of the chief minister. Layla tutors Chandon in Arabic, while she studies English with his guidance, all at the Sultan of Granada’s command. Leila’s quest for enlightenment leads to her study of Sufi mysticism. Her inherent outspoken nature coupled with startling beauty attracts Chandon’s attention, but Layla’s activities in the male-dominated court also invite danger to herself. A tender relationship blossoms between Chandon and Layla, even though the divide between them seems almost insurmountable at times.
The novel brings myriad worlds and ideals together. The extensive list of characters and their various interests represent the diversity of Muslim Spain during this period. There is the household doctor, Saluman, a Jew welcomed in most areas of the court, but still marginalized by his religious beliefs. He cares for Chandon and develops a deep relationship with the knight, despite their differences. Layla’s father Lisan al-Din ibn al-Khatib is the grand vizier within the Alhambra, a man who has known his share of personal tragedy, yet manages to keep a tight grip on his position of power. Layla hides behind her veils as Moorish society dictates, but her father’s indulgence permits her to make bold choices not often available to women of her time. Yusuf ibn Zamrak, famed for his poetry serves as a respected member of the court, harbors a dangerous infatuation for Layla. Sultan Muhammad V orchestrates an audacious plan to ensure the stability of his regime, one in which Chandon plays his part. Despite best efforts, Muhammad remains aware of the dangers surrounding him and the swift ease with which palace intrigues can destroy the foundations of all he has built.
Author John D. Cressler brings a largely ignored period to life in this novel, with sumptuous details and vivid characterizations. Where the novel really shines is in the descriptions and the relationships Chandon develops with Saluman and Leila. Each shares a deepening respect of the other as the story progresses, each open-minded and willing to accept the challenge to change preconceived notions. The novel hearkens back to a time where connections between Jews, Muslims, and Christians were as contentious as they were cooperative. It was a world allowing for the free exchange of ideas, but often permeated with ruthlessness and tragedy. Emeralds of the Alhambra is the first of a series and I look forward to more from the author
The novel brings myriad worlds and ideals together. The extensive list of characters and their various interests represent the diversity of Muslim Spain during this period. There is the household doctor, Saluman, a Jew welcomed in most areas of the court, but still marginalized by his religious beliefs. He cares for Chandon and develops a deep relationship with the knight, despite their differences. Layla’s father Lisan al-Din ibn al-Khatib is the grand vizier within the Alhambra, a man who has known his share of personal tragedy, yet manages to keep a tight grip on his position of power. Layla hides behind her veils as Moorish society dictates, but her father’s indulgence permits her to make bold choices not often available to women of her time. Yusuf ibn Zamrak, famed for his poetry serves as a respected member of the court, harbors a dangerous infatuation for Layla. Sultan Muhammad V orchestrates an audacious plan to ensure the stability of his regime, one in which Chandon plays his part. Despite best efforts, Muhammad remains aware of the dangers surrounding him and the swift ease with which palace intrigues can destroy the foundations of all he has built.
Author John D. Cressler brings a largely ignored period to life in this novel, with sumptuous details and vivid characterizations. Where the novel really shines is in the descriptions and the relationships Chandon develops with Saluman and Leila. Each shares a deepening respect of the other as the story progresses, each open-minded and willing to accept the challenge to change preconceived notions. The novel hearkens back to a time where connections between Jews, Muslims, and Christians were as contentious as they were cooperative. It was a world allowing for the free exchange of ideas, but often permeated with ruthlessness and tragedy. Emeralds of the Alhambra is the first of a series and I look forward to more from the author
April 8, 2020
Muslim Spain in the 14th century: when the three Abrahamic religions coexisted in peace. Muslims fighting against Christian reconquest. A bit of court intrigue, a lot of culture explained and a romance between a Christian knight and Grand Vizier's daughter. Excitement in the battle and duel scenes. Added pluses: a historical summary of that period, and pictures of the Alhambra, the famous fortress/castles. The Emeralds refer to the heroine's green eyes.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
May 8, 2013
In 1367 the Iberian peninsula consisted of several kingdoms, including the Kingdom of Granada, the Kingdom of Castile, the Kingdom of Aragon, the Kingdom of Portugal, the Marinid Empire, and France. The Christian kingdoms were well on their way to purging the land of the Moors (as Muslims in Spain were called). The al-Andalus was the name given to the lands held by the Spanish Muslims. Granada, the last of the Moorish kingdoms, was ruled at the time by a moderate Arab of the Nasrid clan, Sultan Muhammad V, although he was allied with the less tolerant Marinid Empire of North Africa, as well as being a vassal state to the Christian Kingdom of Castile, under the rule of King Pedro.
King Pedro is in the midst of a civil war as his illegitimate brother, Enrique wants the throne. Enrique is supported by the King of Aragon, King Charles V of France, as well as the Pope, all of whom want to rid the peninsula of the Moors. So when Enrique builds an army of Aragonese, French, and Breton soldiers to invade Castile, the civil war begins in earnest.
Among the many Bretons who are enlisted, one officer, Sir William Chandon, leads a troop of cavalry to assist the fort at Jaen, close to the Granada border. A childhood friend of Edward, the Black Prince, Chandon now fights on the opposite side with Enrique’s forces. However, because of a secret access into the fortress, the Bretons are overwhelmed by the Granadines, and Chandon and what’s left of his men are captured and taken to the Alhambra in Granada.
Chandon is badly wounded, but is cared for by the Sultan’s Jewish physician, Salamun. Because of Chandon’s reputation as a warrior/hero, he is treated as an important guest of the kingdom. Sultan Muhammad hopes to use Chandon as a bargaining chip in the future as he plays the dangerous games of trying to maintain his Muslim kingdom, placate Pedro, and keep on an even keel with the more fundamentalist Muslims from North Africa. It becomes clear from the moment Chandon is healthy enough, though, that someone is determined to kill him, and even worse, find a way to dispose of Muhammad.
Chandon, recovering slowly from his wounds, begins to relish the beauty of the Alhambra, the daily baths required of all, and the amazing food that he is introduced to. Although still a prisoner, and aware of the threats against him, he doesn’t miss war, death, and the grief that follows.
The Sultan decides that he wants Chandon to learn Arabic, and for his Grand Vizier’s beautiful daughter, Layla, a scholar, to teach the Breton. He also wants Chandon to teach Layla English. Far from enthused by her assignment, Layla sullenly begins her duties, and is pleasantly surprised by the knowledge she absorbs from the Christian. He is also stunned by the green-eyed beauty, but the two soon find ways to teach each other about their two very different worlds.
EMERALDS OF THE ALHAMBRA is an amazing trek into the little known history of the Spanish Muslims. It’s not difficult to compare the more moderate Nasrid people and the Berbers who follow a much stricter code to the Muslims of today. It is also a story of tolerance, understanding, and interfaith love.
This debut novel is meticulously researched, with rich, evocative details of the incredible Alhambra, characters that are alive with passion, and a story line that is filled with mystery, romance, and historical elements that delve deeply into the relationships between Christians, Muslims, and Jews in medieval times. The author also provides maps and photographs which were very helpful. I highly recommend EMERALDS OF THE ALHAMBRA and look forward to the rest of this series.
King Pedro is in the midst of a civil war as his illegitimate brother, Enrique wants the throne. Enrique is supported by the King of Aragon, King Charles V of France, as well as the Pope, all of whom want to rid the peninsula of the Moors. So when Enrique builds an army of Aragonese, French, and Breton soldiers to invade Castile, the civil war begins in earnest.
Among the many Bretons who are enlisted, one officer, Sir William Chandon, leads a troop of cavalry to assist the fort at Jaen, close to the Granada border. A childhood friend of Edward, the Black Prince, Chandon now fights on the opposite side with Enrique’s forces. However, because of a secret access into the fortress, the Bretons are overwhelmed by the Granadines, and Chandon and what’s left of his men are captured and taken to the Alhambra in Granada.
Chandon is badly wounded, but is cared for by the Sultan’s Jewish physician, Salamun. Because of Chandon’s reputation as a warrior/hero, he is treated as an important guest of the kingdom. Sultan Muhammad hopes to use Chandon as a bargaining chip in the future as he plays the dangerous games of trying to maintain his Muslim kingdom, placate Pedro, and keep on an even keel with the more fundamentalist Muslims from North Africa. It becomes clear from the moment Chandon is healthy enough, though, that someone is determined to kill him, and even worse, find a way to dispose of Muhammad.
Chandon, recovering slowly from his wounds, begins to relish the beauty of the Alhambra, the daily baths required of all, and the amazing food that he is introduced to. Although still a prisoner, and aware of the threats against him, he doesn’t miss war, death, and the grief that follows.
The Sultan decides that he wants Chandon to learn Arabic, and for his Grand Vizier’s beautiful daughter, Layla, a scholar, to teach the Breton. He also wants Chandon to teach Layla English. Far from enthused by her assignment, Layla sullenly begins her duties, and is pleasantly surprised by the knowledge she absorbs from the Christian. He is also stunned by the green-eyed beauty, but the two soon find ways to teach each other about their two very different worlds.
EMERALDS OF THE ALHAMBRA is an amazing trek into the little known history of the Spanish Muslims. It’s not difficult to compare the more moderate Nasrid people and the Berbers who follow a much stricter code to the Muslims of today. It is also a story of tolerance, understanding, and interfaith love.
This debut novel is meticulously researched, with rich, evocative details of the incredible Alhambra, characters that are alive with passion, and a story line that is filled with mystery, romance, and historical elements that delve deeply into the relationships between Christians, Muslims, and Jews in medieval times. The author also provides maps and photographs which were very helpful. I highly recommend EMERALDS OF THE ALHAMBRA and look forward to the rest of this series.
May 24, 2013
In today’s terrorist-dominant atmosphere throughout the world, it’s hard to believe that Muslims and Christians could live together in peace. But that’s not a point of view shared by John D. Cressler who has crafted a magnificent historical novel about the Castilian Civil War which occurred between 1367 and 1369. Two brothers, King Pedro and his bastard brother Enrique, are at war over portions of Spain, both eventually eying the Muslim city of Grenada. They plot to get enough money and the approval of both Muslims and Christians, including the Pope, as well as the assistance of French and English soldiers. They are even willing to hire a group of mercenaries known as the fiercest fighters in the world but also known for their unspeakable brutality and selfish motives and goals once victory is achieved.
Into this world comes the English knight William Chandon, who is severely wounded in the Battle of Jaen and taken prisoner by the troops of Sultan of Granada. It is felt that he serves the purpose of a pawn to be used at the right time rather than be killed as the infidel he is to Muslim believers. To that end, the Sultan’s physician saves Chandon’s life and is ordered to educate him in Arabic language and culture and to learn English from him. Layla is the unusual Arab woman who is intelligent, kind-hearted, and very spiritual. She is also hated by the Berber faction of the Arabs because she doesn’t quite fit the traditional role of woman not being seen or heard in Arab society. But the Sultan in his wisdom surrounds himself with advisers of all sects from ultra-conservative to liberal.
Layla is seeking “tawhid” which is enlightenment that is experienced by the union of two persons in a love matching that of Allah and God. She is assigned to work in a hospital for abandoned citizens who have a physical or mental challenge. Layla experiences the oneness of love with one of her patients, a very moving moment. She also slowly but surely falls in love with her student, Chandon, and he falls just as hard for her. They find a way to win the approval of the Sultan and Layla’s family and Chandon is appointed to an important military position on the side of the Muslims. How that evolves will make the reader gasp with delight and other feelings best left to one’s discovery while reading.
Assassination attempts, criticisms, challenges, adventure, tender and funny moments, plots and counter-plots and more abound in these pages in such an engaging way for the reader that he or she will hate for this amazing novel to end. Add to the intriguing story line multiple beautiful descriptions of Arab architecture, literature, art, music, garden arrangements, and more that give the reader a plethora of knowledge about Arab history and culture that is probably the second, and no less important, aspect of this novel that makes one want to see more than the black and white pictures provided of these places after the story.
Emeralds of the Alhambra: A Novel is an obviously meticulously researched story told with masterful skill. As well as intellectually pleasing, the reader will get to enjoy a tender romantic story that may seem contrived but is no less wonderful because of that fact. This should be a best seller and might even be a healthy addition to high school and college reading lists. For those like Chandon who are “tired to death of death,” Emeralds of the Alhambra” is a classic historical novel of best-seller status. This reader can’t wait to read the next novel in what we are told will be a series of novels. Superb writing and reading!
Into this world comes the English knight William Chandon, who is severely wounded in the Battle of Jaen and taken prisoner by the troops of Sultan of Granada. It is felt that he serves the purpose of a pawn to be used at the right time rather than be killed as the infidel he is to Muslim believers. To that end, the Sultan’s physician saves Chandon’s life and is ordered to educate him in Arabic language and culture and to learn English from him. Layla is the unusual Arab woman who is intelligent, kind-hearted, and very spiritual. She is also hated by the Berber faction of the Arabs because she doesn’t quite fit the traditional role of woman not being seen or heard in Arab society. But the Sultan in his wisdom surrounds himself with advisers of all sects from ultra-conservative to liberal.
Layla is seeking “tawhid” which is enlightenment that is experienced by the union of two persons in a love matching that of Allah and God. She is assigned to work in a hospital for abandoned citizens who have a physical or mental challenge. Layla experiences the oneness of love with one of her patients, a very moving moment. She also slowly but surely falls in love with her student, Chandon, and he falls just as hard for her. They find a way to win the approval of the Sultan and Layla’s family and Chandon is appointed to an important military position on the side of the Muslims. How that evolves will make the reader gasp with delight and other feelings best left to one’s discovery while reading.
Assassination attempts, criticisms, challenges, adventure, tender and funny moments, plots and counter-plots and more abound in these pages in such an engaging way for the reader that he or she will hate for this amazing novel to end. Add to the intriguing story line multiple beautiful descriptions of Arab architecture, literature, art, music, garden arrangements, and more that give the reader a plethora of knowledge about Arab history and culture that is probably the second, and no less important, aspect of this novel that makes one want to see more than the black and white pictures provided of these places after the story.
Emeralds of the Alhambra: A Novel is an obviously meticulously researched story told with masterful skill. As well as intellectually pleasing, the reader will get to enjoy a tender romantic story that may seem contrived but is no less wonderful because of that fact. This should be a best seller and might even be a healthy addition to high school and college reading lists. For those like Chandon who are “tired to death of death,” Emeralds of the Alhambra” is a classic historical novel of best-seller status. This reader can’t wait to read the next novel in what we are told will be a series of novels. Superb writing and reading!
January 29, 2019
For those who read historical fiction, but possess little or no knowledge of Medieval Christian or Muslim Spain, this novel is a must read.
Set in Spain between 1367-69 A.D., this is a story of love, intrigue, religious spirituality and hypocrisy, and war. In this meticulously researched book, by John Cressler, the reader learns that Granada, including the palatial Alhambra, is the last enclave of Muslim rule in Southern Spain. Christians, Jews, and Muslims live here in relative harmony. At this time, Muslims lead medieval Europe in engineering, literature, medicine and science.
But Sultan Muhammid V, Granada's moderate ruler, has to maintain a balance between his government (the Nasrids clan) and his more conservative allies of the Moorish Marinids in North Africa. He also maintains an alliance with the Christian king of Castile, to help defend against the enemies of both, the kingdom of Aragon, France, and Pope Urban V. He also is aware, that despite his alliance, the king of Castile wants to one day, along with the rest of the Christians, to drive the Muslims out of Spain.
Into this mix arrives William Chandron, an English knight from Brittany Province, France (at the time an English possession), and Lyla al-Khatib, daughter of the sultan's grand vizier. A beautiful, intelligent, headstrong, well-educated young woman of twenty, Layla dares to question the traditional passive, behind the scenes role of Muslim women. Her goal is to become and Sufi Mystic so she can become intellectually and spiritually in contact with Allah.
When Chandron is captured by Muslim victors at the Battle of Jaen, he is taken to Granada to be used as a political pawn and bargaining chip with the kingdom of Aragon and her allies. The sultan decides that Chandron must be taught Arabic and Muslim customs by Layla, and in turn he must teach her English and Christian ways.
Because Layla was ordered against her will to instruct Chandron, their first meeting is filled with tension if not downright hostility. But as the two begin to know one another, the iciness thaws between their relationship and blossoms into forbidden love.
What follows not only is beautiful love story, but graphic images of brutal regional conflict, misplaced egos, descriptions of the everyday lives of the people, poor and wealthy alike, and of the magnificent Alhambra.
The story can be read and studied on several levels/plains: character, historical, religious/spiritual, and intellectual.
This page turner will keep the reader enthralled from first to last page. Highly recommended.
Set in Spain between 1367-69 A.D., this is a story of love, intrigue, religious spirituality and hypocrisy, and war. In this meticulously researched book, by John Cressler, the reader learns that Granada, including the palatial Alhambra, is the last enclave of Muslim rule in Southern Spain. Christians, Jews, and Muslims live here in relative harmony. At this time, Muslims lead medieval Europe in engineering, literature, medicine and science.
But Sultan Muhammid V, Granada's moderate ruler, has to maintain a balance between his government (the Nasrids clan) and his more conservative allies of the Moorish Marinids in North Africa. He also maintains an alliance with the Christian king of Castile, to help defend against the enemies of both, the kingdom of Aragon, France, and Pope Urban V. He also is aware, that despite his alliance, the king of Castile wants to one day, along with the rest of the Christians, to drive the Muslims out of Spain.
Into this mix arrives William Chandron, an English knight from Brittany Province, France (at the time an English possession), and Lyla al-Khatib, daughter of the sultan's grand vizier. A beautiful, intelligent, headstrong, well-educated young woman of twenty, Layla dares to question the traditional passive, behind the scenes role of Muslim women. Her goal is to become and Sufi Mystic so she can become intellectually and spiritually in contact with Allah.
When Chandron is captured by Muslim victors at the Battle of Jaen, he is taken to Granada to be used as a political pawn and bargaining chip with the kingdom of Aragon and her allies. The sultan decides that Chandron must be taught Arabic and Muslim customs by Layla, and in turn he must teach her English and Christian ways.
Because Layla was ordered against her will to instruct Chandron, their first meeting is filled with tension if not downright hostility. But as the two begin to know one another, the iciness thaws between their relationship and blossoms into forbidden love.
What follows not only is beautiful love story, but graphic images of brutal regional conflict, misplaced egos, descriptions of the everyday lives of the people, poor and wealthy alike, and of the magnificent Alhambra.
The story can be read and studied on several levels/plains: character, historical, religious/spiritual, and intellectual.
This page turner will keep the reader enthralled from first to last page. Highly recommended.
January 15, 2015
Edited January 15, 2015
I will divide this review in three parts: The negative, the inconsistent and the positive. Warning: it contains lots of spoilers!
THE NEGATIVE
- The book could do with some editing. There were a lot of repetitive words and expressions (e.g. "That smile"). Layla´s father conjures his wife's image so much, that he could be considered a wizard. The author could use other words, beside conjure. The foreshadowing regarding poison was not a good move as well. Several adjectives are not used properly or in a strange way, like in "ridiculously fragrant scents", describing blossoms (really?).
- The rhythm was terrible. The story starts slow, has an even slower building up, a sudden peak and a sudden end. There were some weird jumps in the time too.
- Sometimes it was too cheesy and I was thinking that instead of reading a historical medieval novel, I was watching a modern american love story. On the same lines, the descriptions of the constellations acting and foreshadowing the cross-stared love was simply too much.
- I understand the author is American. Still, writing a novel assuming we are quiet instructed in European medieval culture while being ignorant of Islamic medieval culture bothers me.
- Should deformity be necessarily linked to suffering?
- I don't think Layla should have described her spiritual experience with a lot of matter of fact details. It is a spiritual experience, not some news account! And then, Chandon summarizes the whole experience in a single word that he as a foreigner should not know well, despite the fact that he is a quick learner. Hum...
- Praying is described in such an external and boring way...
- So when the Sultan repents from his sinful life, he removes all of his concubines in order to commit himself to his wives. Nice way of using people and throw them away like trash. I know it might be historically accurate, but still...
- Are we sure that the expression "curtained wives" is aesthetically and politically correct?
- That first sexual scene. Layla is a virgin, sex rarely is pleasurable the first time. Plus, she had Tawhid (she became one with God)! Like... wow!
- In the war scenes, descriptions put Blue (Chandon's horse) and his bodyguards in the same lines, as some sort of equals. The author never mentions the bodyguards' horses, which had to be there for sure.
- Finally, what makes me really uneasy on this novel: Chandon and Constancia converting to Islam in order to get married to Muslims. Sorry, but it sounds as veiled propaganda. An interfaith relationship is not only a matter of knowing your Holly books, there is so much involved there... culture, history, traditions, politics. To portray it as the only solution is not fair nor correct. Also, Chandon's "arabization", to the point that he changes his name. Now he is supposed to be Shahab, "The shooting star who lights the night", who lights Layla. That puts Layla in a passive role. It might not be such a case always, but the subtext is there. It is curious that an Italian author (Emilio Salgari) in his "Damascus Lion" written in 1910, depicted the exact opposite: a Muslim warrior changing his faith and marrying a Christian lady, accepting her culture WITHOUT changing his name. I don´t get why we should always have a black/white situation, especially taking on account that "Emeralds of the Alhambra" has been written in this century. I wonder if the author ever pondered on Mozarabs, who absorbed many cultural treats from Spanish Muslims but remained Christians, and if he ever did, why he didn't use that approach.
THE INCONSISTENT
- I have trouble viewing Chandon as this soldier, an expert in war tactics, who suddenly fits perfectly as a skillful helper in the Hospital (let's remember Layla had troubles in the beginning). Still, having the couple working at the same place is a good way to interlink them more.
- It's perfectly logic that Lisan al-Din al-Khatib, being so open minded, would have encouraged his daughter's wishes. Still, fathers are usually cautious on the matter of their sons-in-laws. He accepted Chandon way too easily!
- No one mentions Allah in the beginning of the royal meetings. Wasn't that part of the protocol?
- The Author says that Prophet Muhammad married Aisha out of love. I think this expression is used in an incorrect way. What might look like a love marriage today, is not what used to be considered an agreed marriage (with the intervention of relatives) in those times.
- Are we sure that all the rights enlisted in the novel as unavailable for Muslim women were available for European women? Something rings skewed here. Chandon's surprise is skewed, because he later says the status quo (regarding women) is nearly similar in his country.
- The wedding ceremony with so much touching and kissing. Too modern! I can not believe Kaoru Mori, a Japanese author whose expertise is Victorian England, got a traditional Muslim weeding ceremony much more accurately than this author who claims to have studied Islamic culture throughly.
THE POSITIVE
- Good leading characters, well defined. I liked Chandon almost immediately, although I had problems with Layla. How can she be so spiritual and so bad tempered at the same time? A strong character doesn't mean you have to throw tantrums often.
- Descriptions on calligraphy and patterns were beautiful. Descriptions of horses also.
- Layla's scenes at the hospital, especially the first one. That made me like her lifestyle.
- The first conversation between the main characters was nice too. I especially liked how the author wrote the right words and the right actions in Chandon.
- The poem Layla reads to Chandon. That was intense. It is difficult to convey love, longing and desire in an elegant way, but this part made it.
- Layla´s nightmares and Sosanna´s story were good additions. Not pretty, but it is important to see the perspective of women who suffer violence.
- The way the Free Companies are managed. Although historically inaccurate, it was an interesting addition to the plot.
- Good descriptions of the battles.
- In the author's afterword, the guess about the reason for the animosity between Zamrak and Ibn al-Khatib has a good probability ratio.
- All in all, this is a testament for compassion, for love in its many forms. It made me cry sometimes.
I will divide this review in three parts: The negative, the inconsistent and the positive. Warning: it contains lots of spoilers!
THE NEGATIVE
- The book could do with some editing. There were a lot of repetitive words and expressions (e.g. "That smile"). Layla´s father conjures his wife's image so much, that he could be considered a wizard. The author could use other words, beside conjure. The foreshadowing regarding poison was not a good move as well. Several adjectives are not used properly or in a strange way, like in "ridiculously fragrant scents", describing blossoms (really?).
- The rhythm was terrible. The story starts slow, has an even slower building up, a sudden peak and a sudden end. There were some weird jumps in the time too.
- Sometimes it was too cheesy and I was thinking that instead of reading a historical medieval novel, I was watching a modern american love story. On the same lines, the descriptions of the constellations acting and foreshadowing the cross-stared love was simply too much.
- I understand the author is American. Still, writing a novel assuming we are quiet instructed in European medieval culture while being ignorant of Islamic medieval culture bothers me.
- Should deformity be necessarily linked to suffering?
- I don't think Layla should have described her spiritual experience with a lot of matter of fact details. It is a spiritual experience, not some news account! And then, Chandon summarizes the whole experience in a single word that he as a foreigner should not know well, despite the fact that he is a quick learner. Hum...
- Praying is described in such an external and boring way...
- So when the Sultan repents from his sinful life, he removes all of his concubines in order to commit himself to his wives. Nice way of using people and throw them away like trash. I know it might be historically accurate, but still...
- Are we sure that the expression "curtained wives" is aesthetically and politically correct?
- That first sexual scene. Layla is a virgin, sex rarely is pleasurable the first time. Plus, she had Tawhid (she became one with God)! Like... wow!
- In the war scenes, descriptions put Blue (Chandon's horse) and his bodyguards in the same lines, as some sort of equals. The author never mentions the bodyguards' horses, which had to be there for sure.
- Finally, what makes me really uneasy on this novel: Chandon and Constancia converting to Islam in order to get married to Muslims. Sorry, but it sounds as veiled propaganda. An interfaith relationship is not only a matter of knowing your Holly books, there is so much involved there... culture, history, traditions, politics. To portray it as the only solution is not fair nor correct. Also, Chandon's "arabization", to the point that he changes his name. Now he is supposed to be Shahab, "The shooting star who lights the night", who lights Layla. That puts Layla in a passive role. It might not be such a case always, but the subtext is there. It is curious that an Italian author (Emilio Salgari) in his "Damascus Lion" written in 1910, depicted the exact opposite: a Muslim warrior changing his faith and marrying a Christian lady, accepting her culture WITHOUT changing his name. I don´t get why we should always have a black/white situation, especially taking on account that "Emeralds of the Alhambra" has been written in this century. I wonder if the author ever pondered on Mozarabs, who absorbed many cultural treats from Spanish Muslims but remained Christians, and if he ever did, why he didn't use that approach.
THE INCONSISTENT
- I have trouble viewing Chandon as this soldier, an expert in war tactics, who suddenly fits perfectly as a skillful helper in the Hospital (let's remember Layla had troubles in the beginning). Still, having the couple working at the same place is a good way to interlink them more.
- It's perfectly logic that Lisan al-Din al-Khatib, being so open minded, would have encouraged his daughter's wishes. Still, fathers are usually cautious on the matter of their sons-in-laws. He accepted Chandon way too easily!
- No one mentions Allah in the beginning of the royal meetings. Wasn't that part of the protocol?
- The Author says that Prophet Muhammad married Aisha out of love. I think this expression is used in an incorrect way. What might look like a love marriage today, is not what used to be considered an agreed marriage (with the intervention of relatives) in those times.
- Are we sure that all the rights enlisted in the novel as unavailable for Muslim women were available for European women? Something rings skewed here. Chandon's surprise is skewed, because he later says the status quo (regarding women) is nearly similar in his country.
- The wedding ceremony with so much touching and kissing. Too modern! I can not believe Kaoru Mori, a Japanese author whose expertise is Victorian England, got a traditional Muslim weeding ceremony much more accurately than this author who claims to have studied Islamic culture throughly.
THE POSITIVE
- Good leading characters, well defined. I liked Chandon almost immediately, although I had problems with Layla. How can she be so spiritual and so bad tempered at the same time? A strong character doesn't mean you have to throw tantrums often.
- Descriptions on calligraphy and patterns were beautiful. Descriptions of horses also.
- Layla's scenes at the hospital, especially the first one. That made me like her lifestyle.
- The first conversation between the main characters was nice too. I especially liked how the author wrote the right words and the right actions in Chandon.
- The poem Layla reads to Chandon. That was intense. It is difficult to convey love, longing and desire in an elegant way, but this part made it.
- Layla´s nightmares and Sosanna´s story were good additions. Not pretty, but it is important to see the perspective of women who suffer violence.
- The way the Free Companies are managed. Although historically inaccurate, it was an interesting addition to the plot.
- Good descriptions of the battles.
- In the author's afterword, the guess about the reason for the animosity between Zamrak and Ibn al-Khatib has a good probability ratio.
- All in all, this is a testament for compassion, for love in its many forms. It made me cry sometimes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2013
Review originally posted at The Romance Reviews:
http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
There are some books that have the power to transport, to create a world so detailed and emotional that readers will want to return again and again. EMERALDS OF THE ALHAMBRA excels at creating just such a reading experience. Though slow and detail-heavy in places, fans of historic novels will find much to enjoy in this first Anthems of al-Andalus Series.
The world of 14th century Spain was one where Christians, Jews and Muslims lived together, sharing customs and language. But in this world, warfare was devastating and brutal, bringing men around the world in the name of religion. Into this fascinating and violent world marches William Chandon, a Christian knight fighting on the side of the Pope to drive all Muslims from the Spanish peninsula. When he is badly wounded on the field of battle, his wounds are treated by the Sultan's own physician and he is brought to the Sultan's court in Grenada to be used as a bargaining chip. Though in constant danger from an unseen enemy, as William begins to recover, he finds himself enthralled by the beauty of the Alhambra and its fascinating inhabitants.
Layla al-Khatib is the driven, passionate daughter of the Grand Vizier, determined to rise above the male-dominated Muslim world and become the world's first female Sufi mystic. When she is assigned the task of teaching the Christian soldier Arabic, she is convinced the task will accomplish little more than keep her from her own work. But with each passing day spent in William's company, their bond grows ever closer and they realize they both have much more than words to teach the other. But with any real relationship strictly forbidden, will these two remarkable people find a way to create a future together?
William and Layla are both vivid, complex characters, and they stand out, even against the dramatic background of the novel. William's chivalry is immediately evident and his talent as a warrior formidable, but it's his open mind and unwavering loyalty that immediately won my heart. Similarly, Layla's wisdom is remarkable, and her relentless pursuit of insight and knowledge only highlighted her strength of character and determination. Best of all, in a world full of hate and potential conflict, these two are able to see the truth in each other and make any sacrifice in order to make a future hand in hand. The power of their love is strong enough to change the world around them and becomes an unforgettable part of this deeply emotional story.
As much as this is a love story between Layla and William, this is also a beautiful tribute to a place and an era, and John D. Cressler does a beautiful job bringing Granada, and especially the Alhambra Palace, to life. Each scene is filled with vivid details and a series of photographs included in the book help readers to tumble into the world of the book. Though such detail does slow the plot frequently, as the story focused more and more on Layla and William, the pace of the story accelerated and became fully engrossing.
This is a thoroughly, exhaustively researched book, and the story told with infectious passion. The focus on religion and the differences that separate each character is dealt with very respectfully and with deep insight into all aspects of this historic moment. Though a bit slow-going and academic at times to the detriment of the plot and pace, this is a work of fiction that will delight fans of epic historic novels and moving romance, and has the hallmarks of a fascinating series.
http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
There are some books that have the power to transport, to create a world so detailed and emotional that readers will want to return again and again. EMERALDS OF THE ALHAMBRA excels at creating just such a reading experience. Though slow and detail-heavy in places, fans of historic novels will find much to enjoy in this first Anthems of al-Andalus Series.
The world of 14th century Spain was one where Christians, Jews and Muslims lived together, sharing customs and language. But in this world, warfare was devastating and brutal, bringing men around the world in the name of religion. Into this fascinating and violent world marches William Chandon, a Christian knight fighting on the side of the Pope to drive all Muslims from the Spanish peninsula. When he is badly wounded on the field of battle, his wounds are treated by the Sultan's own physician and he is brought to the Sultan's court in Grenada to be used as a bargaining chip. Though in constant danger from an unseen enemy, as William begins to recover, he finds himself enthralled by the beauty of the Alhambra and its fascinating inhabitants.
Layla al-Khatib is the driven, passionate daughter of the Grand Vizier, determined to rise above the male-dominated Muslim world and become the world's first female Sufi mystic. When she is assigned the task of teaching the Christian soldier Arabic, she is convinced the task will accomplish little more than keep her from her own work. But with each passing day spent in William's company, their bond grows ever closer and they realize they both have much more than words to teach the other. But with any real relationship strictly forbidden, will these two remarkable people find a way to create a future together?
William and Layla are both vivid, complex characters, and they stand out, even against the dramatic background of the novel. William's chivalry is immediately evident and his talent as a warrior formidable, but it's his open mind and unwavering loyalty that immediately won my heart. Similarly, Layla's wisdom is remarkable, and her relentless pursuit of insight and knowledge only highlighted her strength of character and determination. Best of all, in a world full of hate and potential conflict, these two are able to see the truth in each other and make any sacrifice in order to make a future hand in hand. The power of their love is strong enough to change the world around them and becomes an unforgettable part of this deeply emotional story.
As much as this is a love story between Layla and William, this is also a beautiful tribute to a place and an era, and John D. Cressler does a beautiful job bringing Granada, and especially the Alhambra Palace, to life. Each scene is filled with vivid details and a series of photographs included in the book help readers to tumble into the world of the book. Though such detail does slow the plot frequently, as the story focused more and more on Layla and William, the pace of the story accelerated and became fully engrossing.
This is a thoroughly, exhaustively researched book, and the story told with infectious passion. The focus on religion and the differences that separate each character is dealt with very respectfully and with deep insight into all aspects of this historic moment. Though a bit slow-going and academic at times to the detriment of the plot and pace, this is a work of fiction that will delight fans of epic historic novels and moving romance, and has the hallmarks of a fascinating series.
June 5, 2013
This started very slow for me. I think it just wasn’t my kind of book. Honestly, I read a paragraph to my husband and he was enthralled while I was wanting him to do the review for me! Although I could tell that the history behind this story was very well done. John D. Cressler must have researched thoroughly, and it shows in the amazing details that he adds in for the wars, the language, the city, the people, etc. It's immaculate.
The synopsis of this story is really interesting and honestly, so is the story. The writing is phenomenal and I did love the depth of the characters. However, I’m not into wars and the political edge behind the plot of the book was a lot for me to handle. But only because it wasn’t my thing. While reading, however, I was completely impressed by John D. Cressler’s writing. The language and the descriptions in the book were phenomenal and I never felt like something needed to be explained more. You can literally SEE everything he describes, beautifully.
Chandler and Layla are very interesting characters and once the book becomes more about them and less about war, that’s when I started getting excited. Their story pulls you into the plot. The depth of these two characters, and the other characters was great. The teach each other so much, even with being from completely different warring cultures!
And the ending had me sniffing. I thought I was going to have to get tissues out!
So, long story short… not entirely for me. It was a good read but I suggest reading if you’re more into history. I do think my husband will love this and will have to get it for him to see!
3.5/5 Stars
The synopsis of this story is really interesting and honestly, so is the story. The writing is phenomenal and I did love the depth of the characters. However, I’m not into wars and the political edge behind the plot of the book was a lot for me to handle. But only because it wasn’t my thing. While reading, however, I was completely impressed by John D. Cressler’s writing. The language and the descriptions in the book were phenomenal and I never felt like something needed to be explained more. You can literally SEE everything he describes, beautifully.
Chandler and Layla are very interesting characters and once the book becomes more about them and less about war, that’s when I started getting excited. Their story pulls you into the plot. The depth of these two characters, and the other characters was great. The teach each other so much, even with being from completely different warring cultures!
And the ending had me sniffing. I thought I was going to have to get tissues out!
So, long story short… not entirely for me. It was a good read but I suggest reading if you’re more into history. I do think my husband will love this and will have to get it for him to see!
3.5/5 Stars
April 6, 2020
This novel takes the reader into a place and time that's about 650 years removed from today, and yet a place that still beckons. The characters in Emeralds of the Alhambra are kings and courtiers, knights, ladies, academics, clerics and a supporting cast of servants, knaves and children.
And a romance.
Emeralds gives a nuanced understand of the political players of the day, how the alliances fit together, and how well they functioned - or not. The Iberian peninsula's proximity to Northwest Africa informs the western reader of the influence of Islam. The influence of mercenary armies for hire reminds the reader that kingdoms were still a concept with very movable boundaries.
The battle scenes are compelling, and yet they do not dominate the story.
John Cressler gives many descriptions appealing to the senses: the pleasure of the fountains and the baths in the Alhambra, the sumptuous feasts, the dazzle of the gifts given to royals at court, the dazzle of the macro and micro architecture of the Alhambra and Aragon.
Included are 75 pages of supporting material: maps, a list of characters, a glossary, some historical context and many photos.
The novel is 355 pages. It's not read in one evening. The different points of view give the reader stopping places along the way. A fine novel appealing to women and men of all ages -
And a romance.
Emeralds gives a nuanced understand of the political players of the day, how the alliances fit together, and how well they functioned - or not. The Iberian peninsula's proximity to Northwest Africa informs the western reader of the influence of Islam. The influence of mercenary armies for hire reminds the reader that kingdoms were still a concept with very movable boundaries.
The battle scenes are compelling, and yet they do not dominate the story.
John Cressler gives many descriptions appealing to the senses: the pleasure of the fountains and the baths in the Alhambra, the sumptuous feasts, the dazzle of the gifts given to royals at court, the dazzle of the macro and micro architecture of the Alhambra and Aragon.
Included are 75 pages of supporting material: maps, a list of characters, a glossary, some historical context and many photos.
The novel is 355 pages. It's not read in one evening. The different points of view give the reader stopping places along the way. A fine novel appealing to women and men of all ages -
April 18, 2018
1.5/5 DNF Oh I wanted to love this book. I really really did. It is about a time and place which fascinate me, and it had all the potential to be *THE* book I've been looking for about medieval/Moorish Spain. And it had a lot of the features of a historical novel that I enjoy... maps, cast of characters, glossary of terms. But even with all that, I just couldn't bring myself to finish it. It was so incredibly boring. Four pages of architectural details for every one page of character or plot development. I couldn't keep characters straight because I was getting so bogged down in the details about how far someone walked before turning left and then right and then left again, and how many stars were cut into the ceiling of each room. I give the author props for his attention to detail, but sometimes too much detail is detrimental to your story.
January 30, 2019
This book is honest. It’s prose is as beautiful as the love story it tells. It made me realize how similar the people of the world are, and how foolish and ignorant those people are who kill and war in the name of religion over our differences. It made me wonder how such history could continue to repeat itself hundreds of years later. This book is a reminder that despite all the evil and hatred in this world, love still exists, and that if we focus on love and celebrate one another, there can still be hope of a better future.
June 6, 2018
Quite enjoyable, I was relieved to find this book to be educational without being preachy. I often have difficulty really getting into stories written in the present tense, and I did initially feel myself at a distance from this novel. The execution of the present unfolds almost as a screen play, and slowly, I was able to move past the superficial writing and fully appreciate the story line, which was excellent.
June 10, 2018
Really enjoyed this book! Enjoyed the maps and photos and the time period but most of all that they lived in harmony and boy if we can get back to that life would be blessed! Easy to read !
September 28, 2021
Very interesting! It takes place in an era and place I’ve never read about before.
November 8, 2025
Art History 105 you are my enemy.
July 22, 2013
I won a copy from Goodreads First Reads.
Okay, The Emeralds of the Alhambra is an okay book. No... Scratch that, The Emeralds of the Alhambra is an above average book.
The Emeralds of the Alhambra is set hundreds of years ago, where the people of the book lived and roamed freely. Specifically in Granada. Anyway, the plot is creative and twisty, but isn't anything too shocking or stunning. It's has a nice beginning and went off on the right foot. The writing is really descriptive and sometime repetitive, but in a way that reminds readers of the tiny details in the book.
The switching POVs are a little helpful in expanding the reader's knowledge of the setting and people (traitors). It changes between William Chandon, Layla Al-Khatib, and some other minor characters like the assassin. (No more further details from me).
The ending almost, almost made me teary eyed. It's bittersweet and I thought that the ending would be a more "happily ever after" than this one. But after pondering the ending, I thought, "Wow. It's a pretty cool ending that isn't like any other." Or maybe there is other endings like this one. I don't know. I can't possibly read every book in the world. (Goodreads can help me remember them all, but it can't keep track of all the books I'd read.) (I read about fourteen hundred books, including the books on Goodreads.)
Characters:
Layla al-Khatib is a girl like no other girl at that time. She's bold and unafraid of the consequences. She's determined and stubborn to reach her goal, no matter what. She's an excellent, leading, female character of The Emeralds of the Alhambra.
William Chandon is a Christian knight. As he falls in love with Layla, he realize that there's only one way he can be with her. As a person with a Christian background, he will become a target to the Christians if he turns his back on his religion. Brave, humbled, and young William Chandon is the main narrator in the book.
Rating: Three out of Five
-ofpaperandwords.blogspot.com
Okay, The Emeralds of the Alhambra is an okay book. No... Scratch that, The Emeralds of the Alhambra is an above average book.
The Emeralds of the Alhambra is set hundreds of years ago, where the people of the book lived and roamed freely. Specifically in Granada. Anyway, the plot is creative and twisty, but isn't anything too shocking or stunning. It's has a nice beginning and went off on the right foot. The writing is really descriptive and sometime repetitive, but in a way that reminds readers of the tiny details in the book.
The switching POVs are a little helpful in expanding the reader's knowledge of the setting and people (traitors). It changes between William Chandon, Layla Al-Khatib, and some other minor characters like the assassin. (No more further details from me).
The ending almost, almost made me teary eyed. It's bittersweet and I thought that the ending would be a more "happily ever after" than this one. But after pondering the ending, I thought, "Wow. It's a pretty cool ending that isn't like any other." Or maybe there is other endings like this one. I don't know. I can't possibly read every book in the world. (Goodreads can help me remember them all, but it can't keep track of all the books I'd read.) (I read about fourteen hundred books, including the books on Goodreads.)
Characters:
Layla al-Khatib is a girl like no other girl at that time. She's bold and unafraid of the consequences. She's determined and stubborn to reach her goal, no matter what. She's an excellent, leading, female character of The Emeralds of the Alhambra.
William Chandon is a Christian knight. As he falls in love with Layla, he realize that there's only one way he can be with her. As a person with a Christian background, he will become a target to the Christians if he turns his back on his religion. Brave, humbled, and young William Chandon is the main narrator in the book.
Rating: Three out of Five
-ofpaperandwords.blogspot.com
August 20, 2013
I enjoyed this book very much. Below is a review I gave to Sacramento/San Francisco Book Review:
In 1367, Muhammad V is Sultan of Granada, the last outpost against Christian “reconquista” of Muslim Spain. His moderate government is tolerant; under his clan (the Nasrids”), Christians, Jews, and Muslims live together peacefully. But the Sultan’s conservative allies from the North African Marinid Empire are plotting his assassination.
King Pedro rules Christian Castille. His bastard brother, Enrique is supported by the King of Aragon, ambitious for a unified Spain under his rule, and by King Charles V of France, with his own ambitions. Because of the latter, England supports Pedro.
Into this turmoil, Chandon, an English knight from Brittany, fighting for Enrique, is taken in battle to the Alhambra to be used as a bargaining chip with Pedro. The Sultan decides to have Chandon learn Arabic and the religion of Islam. Soon Chandon and his tutor, Layla, the daughter of the Grand Visier, fall in love.
The author’s vivid descriptions of battles, layouts, and various plots plunge a reader into each scene. Cressler provides maps, a cast of characters, glossaries, and photographs. The prose gets a little purple once Layla and Chandon declare their love, but ongoing mystery, palace intrigues, and a steady pace make this a good read.
In 1367, Muhammad V is Sultan of Granada, the last outpost against Christian “reconquista” of Muslim Spain. His moderate government is tolerant; under his clan (the Nasrids”), Christians, Jews, and Muslims live together peacefully. But the Sultan’s conservative allies from the North African Marinid Empire are plotting his assassination.
King Pedro rules Christian Castille. His bastard brother, Enrique is supported by the King of Aragon, ambitious for a unified Spain under his rule, and by King Charles V of France, with his own ambitions. Because of the latter, England supports Pedro.
Into this turmoil, Chandon, an English knight from Brittany, fighting for Enrique, is taken in battle to the Alhambra to be used as a bargaining chip with Pedro. The Sultan decides to have Chandon learn Arabic and the religion of Islam. Soon Chandon and his tutor, Layla, the daughter of the Grand Visier, fall in love.
The author’s vivid descriptions of battles, layouts, and various plots plunge a reader into each scene. Cressler provides maps, a cast of characters, glossaries, and photographs. The prose gets a little purple once Layla and Chandon declare their love, but ongoing mystery, palace intrigues, and a steady pace make this a good read.
August 6, 2013
Emeralds of the Alhambra squeaks it through with 4 stars because John D. Cressler has genuine storytelling talent.
Normally I do not rate books with several obvious copy editing errors and, in this case, a wee bit of uninspired dialogue.
However, overall, I feel John Cressler deserves accolades for his writing ability, and I am willing to support him on this basis.
I hope the next in the series is as compelling, with a better copy edit.
Normally I do not rate books with several obvious copy editing errors and, in this case, a wee bit of uninspired dialogue.
However, overall, I feel John Cressler deserves accolades for his writing ability, and I am willing to support him on this basis.
I hope the next in the series is as compelling, with a better copy edit.
August 29, 2014
I received this book for free through the Good Reads First Reads program.
I really enjoyed this book! It was very slow to start, and I even stopped reading at one point. I am so glad I came back to it. The love story was predictable, but plesant. I did enjoy that the sex was very mild.
I really enjoyed this book! It was very slow to start, and I even stopped reading at one point. I am so glad I came back to it. The love story was predictable, but plesant. I did enjoy that the sex was very mild.
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