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Only love can set you free
Prisoners in her wealthy sister's attic, Emily and her young daughter Amelia struggle to survive against all the odds in Victorian England. Amelia has never walked freely under the sky or played with other children, but she has a unique gift—she can fly out of her body—which Emily will protect with her own life.
Remembering when she was a spirited 16 year old with the world at her feet, Emily had no idea about the code of family honour, treacherous secrets and malicious jealousies. Her life changed irrevocably the day she entered a little bookshop near the British Museum and fell passionately in love with sophisticated black playwright, Josiah Equiano. A second fateful encounter at the British Museum sealed the beginning of their clandestine romance.
But when the racial hatred of her family is revealed and a husband of their choice is about to be forced upon her, Emily’s world is shattered.
Determined to help her daughter escape from her cruel sister’s deadly intentions, she vows to exact revenge upon those who would murder for the sanctity of honour—even beyond death.
*Please note that the language/spelling of this novel is English (UK)*
Prisoners in her wealthy sister's attic, Emily and her young daughter Amelia struggle to survive against all the odds in Victorian England. Amelia has never walked freely under the sky or played with other children, but she has a unique gift—she can fly out of her body—which Emily will protect with her own life.
Remembering when she was a spirited 16 year old with the world at her feet, Emily had no idea about the code of family honour, treacherous secrets and malicious jealousies. Her life changed irrevocably the day she entered a little bookshop near the British Museum and fell passionately in love with sophisticated black playwright, Josiah Equiano. A second fateful encounter at the British Museum sealed the beginning of their clandestine romance.
But when the racial hatred of her family is revealed and a husband of their choice is about to be forced upon her, Emily’s world is shattered.
Determined to help her daughter escape from her cruel sister’s deadly intentions, she vows to exact revenge upon those who would murder for the sanctity of honour—even beyond death.
*Please note that the language/spelling of this novel is English (UK)*
304 pages, Paperback
First published June 26, 2013
160 people are currently reading
1361 people want to read
About the author
Tami Egonu
10 books68 followersTami Egonu is a British indie author (her surname is Igbo, Nigerian) who is addicted to writing fiction, whatever the genre, sometimes a mash-up (speculative fiction), including contemporary and historical romance, horror, time travel, ghosts, and (to come) science fiction.
She loves travelling, eating naughty things, and spending time with her nearest and dearest. She also enjoys long walks when new stories of imperfect love and sinister intentions will bloom in her usually positive mind.
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She loves travelling, eating naughty things, and spending time with her nearest and dearest. She also enjoys long walks when new stories of imperfect love and sinister intentions will bloom in her usually positive mind.
Stay in the loop with the latest information on promotions: Facebook, Bookbub and Pinterest
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
July 17, 2013
I absolutely loved this book. I read Tami Egonu's previous novel, A Rhapsody of Dreams, and loved it and she has written another book that I love. If you haven't read either one of her novels, you should!
This book breaches a subject that we all know and unfortunately is still around - racism. I absolutely loved Josiah and Emily's relationship and Amelia is a wonderful girl... I kind of want to meet her! :) I want to know more and can't wait to read the next installment of Amelia's story. I want to know more about the gifts that she has and who is responsible for the horrendous violence that is extended on this family that just wants to love in peace. I won't write anymore as I don't want to give away anything, so just read this book already! :)
In case you couldn't tell, I highly recommend this book to everyone.
This book breaches a subject that we all know and unfortunately is still around - racism. I absolutely loved Josiah and Emily's relationship and Amelia is a wonderful girl... I kind of want to meet her! :) I want to know more and can't wait to read the next installment of Amelia's story. I want to know more about the gifts that she has and who is responsible for the horrendous violence that is extended on this family that just wants to love in peace. I won't write anymore as I don't want to give away anything, so just read this book already! :)
In case you couldn't tell, I highly recommend this book to everyone.
November 30, 2019
I have a problem with many novels, particularly genre historical novels; I am constantly bothered at the protagonist (usually female) with modern day values (which I tend to share) behaving as though she were in the modern day and thereby reforming the culture she is in.
This book doesn't do that. The protagonist is a product of her time, a sheltered daughter of a middle class Victorian family, with fairly mainstream values for the day. She wants to marry for love which, though well within social norms, her family has little patience which. The person she finally falls in love with is not at all acceptable to her family (he's black, in the 1850's in London) and all hell breaks loose. Possibly literally. (Yes, there were black Londoners in the 1800's and well before... Not many, but they were there and there is a growing awareness of them now.)
The story goes on to become one of human horrors and supernatural vengeance (though I gather the supernatural vengeance part will continue through books two and three).
Even better, the author's afterward explains her motivation to write this book was some recent 'honor killings' in the UK. 'Modern values' aren't as pure as we'd like to believe either.
Definitely going to look for the sequels.
This book doesn't do that. The protagonist is a product of her time, a sheltered daughter of a middle class Victorian family, with fairly mainstream values for the day. She wants to marry for love which, though well within social norms, her family has little patience which. The person she finally falls in love with is not at all acceptable to her family (he's black, in the 1850's in London) and all hell breaks loose. Possibly literally. (Yes, there were black Londoners in the 1800's and well before... Not many, but they were there and there is a growing awareness of them now.)
The story goes on to become one of human horrors and supernatural vengeance (though I gather the supernatural vengeance part will continue through books two and three).
Even better, the author's afterward explains her motivation to write this book was some recent 'honor killings' in the UK. 'Modern values' aren't as pure as we'd like to believe either.
Definitely going to look for the sequels.
August 3, 2013
Exceptional writing, and an incredible book! This tale spans the 1800's in London for the most part, but gives you a glimpse of the world at large during this time period. The focus is race, love, family and hate ~ really those things are all intertwined to create a captivating and moving story. Emily is a courageous heroine, and I fell in love with her idealism right away. She is not willing to let others tell her what to think, or how to feel. Josiah is fascinating, and has overcome so much. The love story captured my heart, but the message of hope that resonated throughout is what made this one of the best historical fiction books I've ever read. I don't want to give anything away, as the author does a fabulous job of taking this story to levels I did not see coming, and you won't either.
If you enjoy historical fiction and romance, please read this book~ I have no doubt it will move you like it has me. A special thank you to the author for allowing me to read such a wonderful novel in exchange for my honest opinion. I will be eagerly looking forward to the sequel.
If you enjoy historical fiction and romance, please read this book~ I have no doubt it will move you like it has me. A special thank you to the author for allowing me to read such a wonderful novel in exchange for my honest opinion. I will be eagerly looking forward to the sequel.
April 14, 2014
I must admit that I was hooked as soon as the book started. I found it easy to read and enjoyed the flowing style of the writing.
The story follows Emily, Josiah and Amelia as they navigate through racism in early 1800’s London. Emily is from a wealthy white family and Josiah is a free black man. They fall in love secretly and battle against all the issues that society has on mixed-race relationships. They have a daughter, Amelia and, after the loss of Josiah, Emily is forced to raise Amelia (who looks very different from her cousins) in the best way that she can. This environment is cruel and destructive and soon Ameila loses Emily too.
As I said, I enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to reading the sequel too as I think we have not seen the last of Emily and her ‘powers’. Thanks for the opportunity for the read and review.
The story follows Emily, Josiah and Amelia as they navigate through racism in early 1800’s London. Emily is from a wealthy white family and Josiah is a free black man. They fall in love secretly and battle against all the issues that society has on mixed-race relationships. They have a daughter, Amelia and, after the loss of Josiah, Emily is forced to raise Amelia (who looks very different from her cousins) in the best way that she can. This environment is cruel and destructive and soon Ameila loses Emily too.
As I said, I enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to reading the sequel too as I think we have not seen the last of Emily and her ‘powers’. Thanks for the opportunity for the read and review.
September 5, 2014
I was curious to read another story by this author. I loved Tami Egonu’s first book, and equally love this one. It’s very different and had me hooked from the start. I love Josiah and Emily, and followed every step of their growing relationship with hope and trepidation. I’m very keen to find out more about Amelia, who I adore. I’m not going to risk over reviewing here, as there were so many angles concerning family, color, love, sexuality, trust that I didn’t see coming. This was both heart breaking and hopeful and I look forward to reading the next instalment.
April 8, 2015
I bought this with a plan to wait for the third book - my plan failed. One chapter led to the next and then it was over. The writing and story are easy to follow and the characters were believable. A relevant story with many facets. This was another really solid read.
September 7, 2016
I want to read it again and again. Beautiful story by Tami Egonu and very well written.
I'm ready to devour The Enchanted.
I'm ready to devour The Enchanted.
April 16, 2014
Bird was a very interesting book, an emotional roller coaster ride with high and low points following each other closely.
The story presents likeable, round female characters and very human decisions and mistakes. There is even a hint of the supernatural in the first book.
I would have preferred if instead of a trilogy, the author had chosen to write one complete book. It is my belief - obviously subjective - that it would have spared the reader a sense of asperity.
All in all, I am looking forward to reading the next book to find out what the future brings for the heroine!
The story presents likeable, round female characters and very human decisions and mistakes. There is even a hint of the supernatural in the first book.
I would have preferred if instead of a trilogy, the author had chosen to write one complete book. It is my belief - obviously subjective - that it would have spared the reader a sense of asperity.
All in all, I am looking forward to reading the next book to find out what the future brings for the heroine!
August 11, 2016
A fascinating read.
This is a thought provoking and relevant book with strong characters. It deals with racism in the 19th century that’s sadly pertinent in the 21st century, and shows how people can turn on their own family. It’s also about unconditional love and I relished every page. I fell in love with Josiah and Emily, and enjoyed Wilbert’s dandy character. I adore Amelia who is an exceptional child, and I'm intrigued by the supernatural element. I can’t wait to find out what happens next. I highly recommend this book.
This is a thought provoking and relevant book with strong characters. It deals with racism in the 19th century that’s sadly pertinent in the 21st century, and shows how people can turn on their own family. It’s also about unconditional love and I relished every page. I fell in love with Josiah and Emily, and enjoyed Wilbert’s dandy character. I adore Amelia who is an exceptional child, and I'm intrigued by the supernatural element. I can’t wait to find out what happens next. I highly recommend this book.
July 31, 2013
I really liked this book. The author did a good job on approaching the racisim aspect. The characters were intruiguing and Ameila was really likeable. I loved the author's other book A Rhapsody of Dreams and it was also very good. Good job again Tami!
August 17, 2013
This book was engaging from the very beginning to the last word. In fact, I will eagerly await the next installment.
The subject matter was approached with grace and dignity and made this reader empathize with mother and daughter, especially as a single mother myself.
The subject matter was approached with grace and dignity and made this reader empathize with mother and daughter, especially as a single mother myself.
September 12, 2014
Really enjoyed this. It was a quick read with characters that I won't soon forget. Plus, it was a great ghost story!
April 9, 2016
What do I say about this book. AWESOME 5 stars.
If I say what I want to say I would give the book
away. Sure hope the next book in the trilogy
is just as good. Will let you know.
If I say what I want to say I would give the book
away. Sure hope the next book in the trilogy
is just as good. Will let you know.
April 7, 2018
Sentimental
A novel that tells a story of its time, historical setting but with underlying commentary around racialism and social contexts, valid today.
A novel that tells a story of its time, historical setting but with underlying commentary around racialism and social contexts, valid today.
Currently reading
October 23, 2020EReaderNews
June 22, 2020
Racism
A novel which takes place in Victorian England. Emily is a feisty upper middle class young woman who falls in love with a well educated Caribbean black man (Josiah). When she has a miscarriage her family rejects her and sends her to the country side to live with her sister. Upon returning to London Josiah and Emily run away and get married. When Josiah goes to visit her father in an attempt to have Emily reconcile with her family tragedy happens and Emily is left widowed. Emily must return to her sister’s house with her newborn baby (Amelia). Alice, her sister, makes Emily and Amelia’s lives miserable. This is the first of a series concentrating on Emily. The second in the series appears as though it will concentrate on Amelia.
A novel which takes place in Victorian England. Emily is a feisty upper middle class young woman who falls in love with a well educated Caribbean black man (Josiah). When she has a miscarriage her family rejects her and sends her to the country side to live with her sister. Upon returning to London Josiah and Emily run away and get married. When Josiah goes to visit her father in an attempt to have Emily reconcile with her family tragedy happens and Emily is left widowed. Emily must return to her sister’s house with her newborn baby (Amelia). Alice, her sister, makes Emily and Amelia’s lives miserable. This is the first of a series concentrating on Emily. The second in the series appears as though it will concentrate on Amelia.
April 20, 2019
What an incredibly unsatisfying book. Even having had read it, I don't know who it was supposed to be about, or what the story ultimately is. The only thing that's clear is that racism is bad - no kidding!
The narrative changes viewpoint schizophrenically, and NO storyline is finished. Add in a writing style that is no show and all 'tell', inconsistent world-building, occasional discontinuities and frustrating grammar errors, and this is a book to skip. I honestly don't know why I made myself endure it.
1.5*
The narrative changes viewpoint schizophrenically, and NO storyline is finished. Add in a writing style that is no show and all 'tell', inconsistent world-building, occasional discontinuities and frustrating grammar errors, and this is a book to skip. I honestly don't know why I made myself endure it.
1.5*
September 1, 2018
Love and racial tangles
As the first blacks came into English society there was little to no acceptance. Certainly not any support for an interracial couple. This is the story of the struggles from such a relationship.
As the first blacks came into English society there was little to no acceptance. Certainly not any support for an interracial couple. This is the story of the struggles from such a relationship.
August 9, 2019
Still true today
It is a fact and a shame that this behavior continues and will do so in until time ends. There are so many egotistical bigots in this world that continue to breed more of them. Tolerance is unheard of in some places and equality is never uttered!
It is a fact and a shame that this behavior continues and will do so in until time ends. There are so many egotistical bigots in this world that continue to breed more of them. Tolerance is unheard of in some places and equality is never uttered!
September 13, 2019
Beautiful book with heartrending moments. I had to read the second book as soon as possible. I fell in love with Emily and Josiah.
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June 11, 2020Available FREE today (6/11/2020)
June 14, 2020
This book is so relevant to our current time. It is heart wrenching , and exposes so clearly the effects and total distinction racism can cause. A must read.
April 3, 2018
Emily, who is not like other girls(™), falls for a black man. Tragedy befalls these star-crossed lovers and their poor daughter gets the brunt of it. Thank goodness for the daughter, there's an afterlife and Emily comes back to take vengeance on those who wronged them.
I could easily get angry that Emily encompasses all the traits of being a Special Snowflake(™) in Ye Olde Times. She's a woman who reads and wants to marry for love. Gasp! What a noval concept! But I appreciate the fact that as soon Emily claps her eyes onto her love interest, she goes home and masturbates furiously. Actually this might be the best crafted romance I've read this year. Not only do Emily and Josiah wax poetic to each other but they're comfortable enough with each other to giggle over how smelly other people are.
The buildup over what happened to Josiah could have been shorter though. Right at the beginning, you know that Josiah and Emily are no longer together. In fact, it doesn't take a genius to know that Josiah met an unfortunate end so I got kind of annoyed at how Egonu tried to drag out the drama of what happened to him.
I could easily get angry that Emily encompasses all the traits of being a Special Snowflake(™) in Ye Olde Times. She's a woman who reads and wants to marry for love. Gasp! What a noval concept! But I appreciate the fact that as soon Emily claps her eyes onto her love interest, she goes home and masturbates furiously. Actually this might be the best crafted romance I've read this year. Not only do Emily and Josiah wax poetic to each other but they're comfortable enough with each other to giggle over how smelly other people are.
The buildup over what happened to Josiah could have been shorter though. Right at the beginning, you know that Josiah and Emily are no longer together. In fact, it doesn't take a genius to know that Josiah met an unfortunate end so I got kind of annoyed at how Egonu tried to drag out the drama of what happened to him.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews