The second novella within the Tottering Trilogy. Book 2 - The Sun & Stars Queen Joanna of Castile only becomes a monarch of the kingdoms due to the arranged marriage of two Spanish powerhouses. A well-educated and levelheaded woman, Joanna’s world is turned upside down when she marries "Philip the Handsome". Deeply in love with her husband, she expects nothing but a reciprocation of devotion from him. However, Philip proves otherwise with his philandering ways, leaving Joanna’s heart broken and her emotional state in ruins. When her husband forms an alliance with her power-hungry father in attempts to usurp her authority and remove her from the throne, she finds her life falling apart in more ways than one. However, through it all, Joanna manages to retain a hope in her husband’s imaginary love, and will do whatever it takes to receive his affection… Besides, how could something done out of such great love, be so terrible?
Katlyn Charlesworth is an historical fiction author. An Ohio native, she grew up writing short stories; designing her own book covers; and participating as a weekly columnist, reporter, and editor in her high school's newspaper publication.
At fifteen, Katlyn wrote and published her first historical fiction novel, We All Fall Down. Her recently acclaimed book, The Patriot's Daughter, was released in May of 2015.
An eclectic compilation of creepily clever tales that teeter on the edge of sanity
Remarkably ingenious and psychologically intriguing. MAD? Eccentricity in abundance. Outlandish prose interlaced within a lavish, lush historical backdrop. An anthology of imaginative fiction that’s darkly disturbing, seductively sinister and extraordinarily evocative.
Tot * ter * ing : to appear about to collapse; lacking stability
This complete collection including ‘The Glass Piano’, ‘The Sun & Stars’ and ‘The Beauty Mark’ is a treasure trove of exquisite narrative and masterful inspired ideas. Such depth of thought and nuance behind every single word, presents you with a supremely singular perspective on such fascinating characters. I was mesmerized by the haunting undertone that sent a chill down my spine. I was entranced by the execution of such a vast exploration into the past. And I was enamoured by each individual story and such poignancy that lingered on.
“My mind is a greenroom for the buds of equality and the fruit of fairness…I cleared the weeds of society’s expectations and killed the maggots of assumed propriety long ago.”
- An example of such powerfully metaphorical prose.
“Your heart rate speeds up. Thump, thump, thump- you can hear your heart beating deep in your ears, as if it will explode and spew out of your ear canals any minute…”
- An example of the intensity of drama building to an almighty crescendo.
Gruesome graphic scenes interwoven within thrilling, heart-pounding drama adds to the emotiveness of such realistically authentic writing. I was sucked into the alternate storylines that complimented one another beautifully; wherein each left you feeling inwardly drained and enlightened. This assured novel of impressive scope and substance will astonish historical fiction & horror readers.
5 Stars – Unexpectedly exceptional!
* I won a copy of Katlyn Charlesworth’s Tottering Trilogy through a Goodreads, first-read giveaway *
I can not wait to get my hands on a copy of this book. The novel sounds absolutely amazing and Katlyn is just a completely down to earth sweetheart. I've been promoting this book and her first novel We all Fall Down and I've had so many good responses from people. Katlyn is an author you don't want to miss out on!!! Read it BEFORE it sells out from becoming a #1 Best selling novel!
-Bethany @ YA Vixens (Full review to be posted asap)
This is an outstanding novel worth reading! The author has chosen a lyrical style of writing which really adds to the feel of the novel...very poetic. She really speaks for these lost souls. I'd say more but would hate to give anything away.