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The Anger of Angels
“Words hold a terrible power. They can break a heart, or give it a reason to live. They can grant freedom – or begin a war.”
In a world where it is a crime to speak against injustice, a jester dares to perform a play that enrages a powerful tyrant prince. The jester’s daughter, Giovanna, must journey into the heart of danger to turn back the terrible consequences unleashed by her father’s words – and becomes entangled in a treacherous plot to overthrow the prince. She alone holds a secret which, if made public, will end the prince’s reign and liberate his oppressed people. But when to openly denounce him brings certain death, will Giovanna have the courage to speak out?
In a world where it is a crime to speak against injustice, a jester dares to perform a play that enrages a powerful tyrant prince. The jester’s daughter, Giovanna, must journey into the heart of danger to turn back the terrible consequences unleashed by her father’s words – and becomes entangled in a treacherous plot to overthrow the prince. She alone holds a secret which, if made public, will end the prince’s reign and liberate his oppressed people. But when to openly denounce him brings certain death, will Giovanna have the courage to speak out?
336 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2018
11 people are currently reading
359 people want to read
About the author
Sherryl Jordan
40 books326 followersAward-winning New Zealand author Sherryl Rose Jordan (née Brogden) (1949-2023) began her writing career with picture books, but soon moved on to novels for older readers. Her breakthrough came with Rocco, published in the United States as A Time of Darkness, and since that time she has gone on to pen many more titles for young adult and juvenile readers that have been published both in her native New Zealand and throughout the world.
The recipient of a 1993 fellowship to the prestigious writing program at the University of Iowa, Jordan used her time in the United States to speak widely at schools and conferences about her books, which blend fantasy with bits of science fiction and romantic realism. "All my young adult novels have been gifts," she noted in the St. James Guide to Children's Writers. "I don't think them up. They hit me over the head when I least expect them; overwhelm me with impressions, sights, and sounds of their new worlds; enchant me with their characters; and dare me to write them."
The recipient of a 1993 fellowship to the prestigious writing program at the University of Iowa, Jordan used her time in the United States to speak widely at schools and conferences about her books, which blend fantasy with bits of science fiction and romantic realism. "All my young adult novels have been gifts," she noted in the St. James Guide to Children's Writers. "I don't think them up. They hit me over the head when I least expect them; overwhelm me with impressions, sights, and sounds of their new worlds; enchant me with their characters; and dare me to write them."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
November 11, 2018
I’ve never read any work by the New Zealand author Sherryl Jordan before, but I was drawn in with the promise of a beautifully written historical fantasy for young adults, set in a world much like Renaissance Italy.
The novel begins ‘I shovelled in a sprinkling of dirt, and it fell on the head of the corpse …’ From that moment on, the story races along with enormous pace and verve. The heroine of the story is Giovanna, the daughter of a court jester. She can juggle and throw knives, two skills that come in handy in a world ruled by autocrats. Her father, in the guise of a fool, has the right to speak the truth, but one day his words anger a neighbouring prince. As violence breaks out, war between the two neighbouring princedoms seems imminent. Giovanna sets out alone to try and avert the conflict. Behind her, she leaves her dying father and the young man with whom she is falling in love. Raffaelle knows first-hand the cruelty of the tyrant-prince, and it is too dangerous for him to return. Yet he risks his life by following her, hoping to help ...
The Anger of Angels was just as vivid, compelling and romantic as I had hoped for. Giovanna is a wonderful heroine, quick and clever and kind, and I loved the slowly growing relationship between her and Rafaelle. I have always really enjoyed young adult fiction, but lately I have been finding books published in this genre too dark and dystopic for my taste. Although The Anger of Angels is filled with danger, intrigue and conflict, the overall message is one of strength and hope. Most importantly, Sherryl Jordan has a crucial message to communicate about the power of words: ‘they can break a heart, or give a reason to live. They can grant freedom – or begin a war.’
A truly beautiful book, brimming over with compassion and wisdom.
The novel begins ‘I shovelled in a sprinkling of dirt, and it fell on the head of the corpse …’ From that moment on, the story races along with enormous pace and verve. The heroine of the story is Giovanna, the daughter of a court jester. She can juggle and throw knives, two skills that come in handy in a world ruled by autocrats. Her father, in the guise of a fool, has the right to speak the truth, but one day his words anger a neighbouring prince. As violence breaks out, war between the two neighbouring princedoms seems imminent. Giovanna sets out alone to try and avert the conflict. Behind her, she leaves her dying father and the young man with whom she is falling in love. Raffaelle knows first-hand the cruelty of the tyrant-prince, and it is too dangerous for him to return. Yet he risks his life by following her, hoping to help ...
The Anger of Angels was just as vivid, compelling and romantic as I had hoped for. Giovanna is a wonderful heroine, quick and clever and kind, and I loved the slowly growing relationship between her and Rafaelle. I have always really enjoyed young adult fiction, but lately I have been finding books published in this genre too dark and dystopic for my taste. Although The Anger of Angels is filled with danger, intrigue and conflict, the overall message is one of strength and hope. Most importantly, Sherryl Jordan has a crucial message to communicate about the power of words: ‘they can break a heart, or give a reason to live. They can grant freedom – or begin a war.’
A truly beautiful book, brimming over with compassion and wisdom.
December 14, 2019
This book has both really good and bad qualities that don't really outweigh each other (hence my 3 stars). By quantity, I actually liked MOST things about this book. The characters, plot and concept of this book? I really liked those. They're brilliant. Unfortunately, I faced a major problem that ruined parts of the book for me and I couldn't enjoy this book as much as I wanted to:
Too much dialogue!
Yep, at first thought, it might not sound that bad, but anyone who's ever read a book would know how annoying it is if there's too much dialogue, specifically small talk. This book really wasn't bad but like, sometimes I just wish a character would just STFU.
And not just talk either. Thoughts as well. For example, there was this chapter where almost after every sentence a character says, Giovanna's (the protagonist) thoughts kept showing up in italics. Let the dude talk without Giovanna's thoughts interrupting him constantly, please.
If it were not for these flaws, this would have actually been a beautifully-written historical fantasy for younger teens about the power of words, but I found it to be quite a forgettable read because I had to skim a lot. :/
Too much dialogue!
Yep, at first thought, it might not sound that bad, but anyone who's ever read a book would know how annoying it is if there's too much dialogue, specifically small talk. This book really wasn't bad but like, sometimes I just wish a character would just STFU.
And not just talk either. Thoughts as well. For example, there was this chapter where almost after every sentence a character says, Giovanna's (the protagonist) thoughts kept showing up in italics. Let the dude talk without Giovanna's thoughts interrupting him constantly, please.
If it were not for these flaws, this would have actually been a beautifully-written historical fantasy for younger teens about the power of words, but I found it to be quite a forgettable read because I had to skim a lot. :/
September 22, 2018
I devoured this in one night.
It was such a thought-provoking and beautiful tale.
I have always been a fan of Sherryl Jordan’s work. All of it. She’s a rare talent.
I’m thrilled to see there’s a sequel in the works, because I have theories about certain characters that I don’t want to reveal here in case of spoilers, but which I’d dearly love to see come to pass.
It was such a thought-provoking and beautiful tale.
I have always been a fan of Sherryl Jordan’s work. All of it. She’s a rare talent.
I’m thrilled to see there’s a sequel in the works, because I have theories about certain characters that I don’t want to reveal here in case of spoilers, but which I’d dearly love to see come to pass.
October 27, 2025
The title of this book, 'The Anger of Angels', is also the title of a play by the court jester in a medieval Italian city. The play mocks the despotic ruler of the neighbouring city and shows him being turned away from the gates of heaven by St. Peter because of his cruelty to his subjects. When the Prince hears about the play, the jester's life is threatened. In order to try to undo the harm caused, the jester's daughter, Giovanna, travels with a handsome young hunchback to the neighbouring city to give the only copy of the play to the Prince. Unfortunately, she underestimates the ruthlessness of the Prince and both Giovanna and Raffaele find themselves in a dangerous situation.
Despite the medieval setting, Giovanna is no damsel waiting for rescue. She is a deadly accurate knife thrower who wants to determine her own future. Although she wants to find a young man who would love her, she would rather stay single and support herself than be married to someone not of her choosing. Giovanna is a heroine who is easy to identify with and the other characters are just as well realised. A note in the back describes the book as an ‘alternate history’ but although the places are not real Italian cities, the Medieval setting feels authentic. Part romance, part historical fiction, this story is primarily an adventure, with Giovanna and Raffaele proving to be equally determined, intrepid and brave.
Reviewed by Penny Guy for Bookrapt (23 September 2018).
____
Duke Ubertini rules Valenzio and is loved by all. Prince Savernola rules the rival city of Goretti and is feared for his cruelty. Giovanna's father is Ubertini's jester, and when he writes a play mocking Savernola he unwittingly unleashes terror on the countryside. When her father suffers a heart attack under the strain, Giovanna makes the decision to deliver the one copy of the play to Savernola for destruction, in order to stop his slaughter of the innocent. But the play contains a riddle which Savernola fears and Giovanna is soon caught up in a plot to overthrow the prince. She will need help, and that comes from the hunchback Raffaele, one who she has a growing affection for. Tauranga author Sherryl Jordan has once again given us a strong heroine in Giovanna, who can both juggle and throw knives. When she is fighting for her life against wolves, and other animals, she is strong and determined, but still has compassion for the innocent animals that have been starved for the entertainment of the audience. A great read.
Reviewed by Debbie McCauley for Bookrapt (25 November 2018).
Despite the medieval setting, Giovanna is no damsel waiting for rescue. She is a deadly accurate knife thrower who wants to determine her own future. Although she wants to find a young man who would love her, she would rather stay single and support herself than be married to someone not of her choosing. Giovanna is a heroine who is easy to identify with and the other characters are just as well realised. A note in the back describes the book as an ‘alternate history’ but although the places are not real Italian cities, the Medieval setting feels authentic. Part romance, part historical fiction, this story is primarily an adventure, with Giovanna and Raffaele proving to be equally determined, intrepid and brave.
Reviewed by Penny Guy for Bookrapt (23 September 2018).
____
Duke Ubertini rules Valenzio and is loved by all. Prince Savernola rules the rival city of Goretti and is feared for his cruelty. Giovanna's father is Ubertini's jester, and when he writes a play mocking Savernola he unwittingly unleashes terror on the countryside. When her father suffers a heart attack under the strain, Giovanna makes the decision to deliver the one copy of the play to Savernola for destruction, in order to stop his slaughter of the innocent. But the play contains a riddle which Savernola fears and Giovanna is soon caught up in a plot to overthrow the prince. She will need help, and that comes from the hunchback Raffaele, one who she has a growing affection for. Tauranga author Sherryl Jordan has once again given us a strong heroine in Giovanna, who can both juggle and throw knives. When she is fighting for her life against wolves, and other animals, she is strong and determined, but still has compassion for the innocent animals that have been starved for the entertainment of the audience. A great read.
Reviewed by Debbie McCauley for Bookrapt (25 November 2018).
October 22, 2018
This is one of those reviews where you blankly stare at your screen, pulling your hair in disarray. Did I like it? Didn’t I? Why?
There were a great deal of elements of this book that I enjoyed but then again it came all crashing down with one flaw that irritated the bones under my skin.
Starting with the plot, it was great. I loved the concept, the idea and how everything played out. The medieval feel to the book was real, raw and fascinating at the same time. I loved that the woman set out to do the right thing and continues on her path no matter what.
The characters were amazing. Giovanna and Raffaele, as individuals were strong, charismatic and power, together they were unstoppable, doing what they must for each other and those they love. Brilliant. I also loved the fact that the main female was a red head since that’s a rare trait not only in the world but on the pages of a book. And Raffaele was slightly deformed which is another rarity as well, especially in the YA world of ‘perfect’ looking men and woman. Those somewhat normal standards of what characters are in the YA world were crippled when this book was published and to Jordan for creating new rules for character standards.
Again, the world building was great, you manage to set a standard medieval setting in your head with little and yet enough detail provided.
What killed me though, was the talking. There was way too much talking between our characters about small and insignificant things that surpassed the standard small talk required for characters to have a conversation. And fair you could say that they were learning more about each other and so on and so forth but truly at one point I though you could skip every second page in this book and still have enough information required to know what was happening. Simply put the chit chat was too much and needed to be thinned out. They spoke more in this book than I think I have ever spoke to my partner in the whole time we have known each other, which is 10 years by the way. A LONG TIME. However you see where I am heading with this right??
Overall everything about the book was beautiful, well written and engaging but unfortunately the constant and unstoppable chit chat between the characters brought it down for me and was a deal breaker. Also stunning as cover!!
There were a great deal of elements of this book that I enjoyed but then again it came all crashing down with one flaw that irritated the bones under my skin.
Starting with the plot, it was great. I loved the concept, the idea and how everything played out. The medieval feel to the book was real, raw and fascinating at the same time. I loved that the woman set out to do the right thing and continues on her path no matter what.
The characters were amazing. Giovanna and Raffaele, as individuals were strong, charismatic and power, together they were unstoppable, doing what they must for each other and those they love. Brilliant. I also loved the fact that the main female was a red head since that’s a rare trait not only in the world but on the pages of a book. And Raffaele was slightly deformed which is another rarity as well, especially in the YA world of ‘perfect’ looking men and woman. Those somewhat normal standards of what characters are in the YA world were crippled when this book was published and to Jordan for creating new rules for character standards.
Again, the world building was great, you manage to set a standard medieval setting in your head with little and yet enough detail provided.
What killed me though, was the talking. There was way too much talking between our characters about small and insignificant things that surpassed the standard small talk required for characters to have a conversation. And fair you could say that they were learning more about each other and so on and so forth but truly at one point I though you could skip every second page in this book and still have enough information required to know what was happening. Simply put the chit chat was too much and needed to be thinned out. They spoke more in this book than I think I have ever spoke to my partner in the whole time we have known each other, which is 10 years by the way. A LONG TIME. However you see where I am heading with this right??
Overall everything about the book was beautiful, well written and engaging but unfortunately the constant and unstoppable chit chat between the characters brought it down for me and was a deal breaker. Also stunning as cover!!
September 15, 2018
A heart racing and romantic adventure, proving yet again why master storyteller, Sherryl Jordan, is an enduring force in young adult literature.
January 12, 2019
I'm giving this four stars as I enjoyed the story and the characters, however there are a few plot lines that are vastly unrealistic. A 16-year old girl would not travel and take a hotel room on her own, nor would she spend so much time with a young man unchaperoned (her friends don't but it seems ok for her). Having said that, I'm expecting a sequel - there is much more story to tell and I'm looking forward to it.
Recommended to young readers 13 yrs (Y9) and up.
Recommended to young readers 13 yrs (Y9) and up.
August 7, 2024
mid 🤓
October 3, 2018
This wonderfully written tale marks the return of New Zealand author Sherryl Jordan to the historic fiction market. Set in a country inspired by Italy, it encompasses two realms: one ruled by a generous and benevolent duke, the other by a cruel prince.
Our heroine is Giovanna, the jester's daughter. She has had a relatively unconventional upbringing and dreams of travel and adventure. That is, until her father's latest performance is heard by the wrong ears - and suddenly the cruel prince's eyes, and attention, fall on her city. Now, the fate of her people may lay in Giovanna's hands, as armed with a dangerous secret, she must journey into the hostile land and plead for forgiveness - or seek retribution.
As befits any strong young adult book, there is romance too, and Raffaele makes for a worthy love interest. Whilst undeniably handsome, he is marred by a slight physical variation that marks him as different - and the source of the occassional scorn. He also comes armed with a strong dose of heretical cynicism - which does not go down well in lands where the church hold reign. He has fled the tyrant prince's Kingdom, along with his artist brother, Santos, and has seen much of the horrors it contains.
Giovanna is a worthy protagonist. She does not need a man to save her from danger - instead the two support and complement each other. The setting is evocative and somewhat romantic, a nice counterpoint to the dark dystopia novels currently ruling the teen market. And, despite all the tragedy and treachery that does befall our heroes and their home, there is also the strong element of hope. Overall, a fresh and compelling read with a few minor loose ends that I would hope hint at future novels.
Our heroine is Giovanna, the jester's daughter. She has had a relatively unconventional upbringing and dreams of travel and adventure. That is, until her father's latest performance is heard by the wrong ears - and suddenly the cruel prince's eyes, and attention, fall on her city. Now, the fate of her people may lay in Giovanna's hands, as armed with a dangerous secret, she must journey into the hostile land and plead for forgiveness - or seek retribution.
As befits any strong young adult book, there is romance too, and Raffaele makes for a worthy love interest. Whilst undeniably handsome, he is marred by a slight physical variation that marks him as different - and the source of the occassional scorn. He also comes armed with a strong dose of heretical cynicism - which does not go down well in lands where the church hold reign. He has fled the tyrant prince's Kingdom, along with his artist brother, Santos, and has seen much of the horrors it contains.
Giovanna is a worthy protagonist. She does not need a man to save her from danger - instead the two support and complement each other. The setting is evocative and somewhat romantic, a nice counterpoint to the dark dystopia novels currently ruling the teen market. And, despite all the tragedy and treachery that does befall our heroes and their home, there is also the strong element of hope. Overall, a fresh and compelling read with a few minor loose ends that I would hope hint at future novels.
September 14, 2018
I read all of Sherryl Jordan's books as a tween and teen. They were formative works for me, so naturally I re-read (and now own) them all as an adult. And they hold up, people. The most impressive thing about Jordan's writing then was that it was so progressive -- her novels were advocating for equal rights and addressing hot button topics decades ago! The Anger of Angels is very true to that spirit -- Jordan's a master of discussing highly relevant, contemporary issues in a historical fiction setting. I'm also in favour of less cliche-perfect love interests and this delivers on that front too. I know I'm in excellent company of loyal fans who are still here, ready and happy to receive but I also hope this new work will lead to an insurgence of throw-back reading for a new audience. Enjoyed this? Pick up The Raging Quiet, Winter of Fire or Wolf-Woman (your library may have this stocked as "Tanith"). Happy delving!
Advisory notes: Though some may remember occasional sexual violence / heavy allusions in early Jordan, The Anger of Angels is very sedated on the sensuality scale. The language is also very tame. There IS some violence.
Read my interview with Sherryl Jordan here:
http://strikingkeys.blogspot.com/2018...
January 22, 2019
The Anger of Angels was an unexpected gem. I picked it up without ever having heard of the author, and knowing nothing about the story; this, and the unconventional structure of the story, left every plot movement utterly unpredicted. This doesn't often happen to me when I'm reading, as authors often weave foreshadowing in to their plot. As much as this can be a useful writing tool, it means that the reader can expect such stories to go along regular patterns of progression. The Anger of Angels didn't follow these norms, and I loved that.
There were a few things which held this back from being a five-star read. These were, namely, the writing style (clunky sentence structure at times) and small bugbears of mine (such as 'woman helplessly sits around in the turmoil and lets the strong man, who never fatigues or fails or anything, take care of her') which I was generally willing to look past due to how much I loved the characters.
I think that if you like sweet characters, a plot-line not overly steered by lovey-dovey teens, a bit of well-placed historical aesthetic and maybe a touch of magic, I'd recommend this book to you.
There were a few things which held this back from being a five-star read. These were, namely, the writing style (clunky sentence structure at times) and small bugbears of mine (such as 'woman helplessly sits around in the turmoil and lets the strong man, who never fatigues or fails or anything, take care of her') which I was generally willing to look past due to how much I loved the characters.
I think that if you like sweet characters, a plot-line not overly steered by lovey-dovey teens, a bit of well-placed historical aesthetic and maybe a touch of magic, I'd recommend this book to you.
March 31, 2019
4.5 star rating
What I liked
-The rep for a disfigured MC
-The Political plot
- The weaving of history and fantasy
What I was meh about
-nothing
What I liked
-The rep for a disfigured MC
-The Political plot
- The weaving of history and fantasy
What I was meh about
-nothing
January 10, 2020
I really enjoyed this book!
At first I was a little uncertain whether to get the book or not at the bookstore, but I'm glad I did because it has surpassed my expectations. I was thinking it was going be another of those books which has a similar plot line to others and you get annoyed at the characters, annoyed at the plot, and don't end up finishing it. However, this was not the case...
It's set in another world, olden day style where the people fight with swords. Giovanna is the daughter of Ennio, a jester- the Duke's jester, to be specific. They live in a city, and the Duke rules there. Another neighboring city called Goretti is ruled by a tyrant prince who rules through fear. Ennio, Giovanna's father, is forced to perform a play, a dangerous play, which mocks the prince, and suggests the prince of having secrets within a riddle in the play. Then when the prince finds out about the play, he starts killing people of their city, terrorizing the Duke's citizens. Desperate to get the manuscript of the play, the prince finally sends a letter requesting Ennio to bring the book with the manuscript written in it to Goretti. Then he will stop the killings.
Ennio is unable to go, and his daughter, Giovanna, must go in his place. Will she have the courage to speak out? Or will all fail, and will she be imprisoned- and executed?
As I said before, this book was really good, and I'm glad I got it. I would have given it five stars, but it wasn't as good as some other books I've read, so I gave it four stars. Would definitely recommend it though!
At first I was a little uncertain whether to get the book or not at the bookstore, but I'm glad I did because it has surpassed my expectations. I was thinking it was going be another of those books which has a similar plot line to others and you get annoyed at the characters, annoyed at the plot, and don't end up finishing it. However, this was not the case...
It's set in another world, olden day style where the people fight with swords. Giovanna is the daughter of Ennio, a jester- the Duke's jester, to be specific. They live in a city, and the Duke rules there. Another neighboring city called Goretti is ruled by a tyrant prince who rules through fear. Ennio, Giovanna's father, is forced to perform a play, a dangerous play, which mocks the prince, and suggests the prince of having secrets within a riddle in the play. Then when the prince finds out about the play, he starts killing people of their city, terrorizing the Duke's citizens. Desperate to get the manuscript of the play, the prince finally sends a letter requesting Ennio to bring the book with the manuscript written in it to Goretti. Then he will stop the killings.
Ennio is unable to go, and his daughter, Giovanna, must go in his place. Will she have the courage to speak out? Or will all fail, and will she be imprisoned- and executed?
As I said before, this book was really good, and I'm glad I got it. I would have given it five stars, but it wasn't as good as some other books I've read, so I gave it four stars. Would definitely recommend it though!
January 11, 2022
Four stars
Sherryl Jordan is my favourite kiwi author. She writes beautiful fantasy/alternative history stories that suck me in. The anger of angels is no different. A mesmerizing tale of the danger and power of words. The two lead charachters, Giovanna and Raeffalle are both flawed and take slightly different sides to the same argument, creating a layered discussion around freedom of speech.
The setting is slightly unique being a (renaissance?) era Italy. I found that quite interesting as it's not something I've seen in many fantasy novels. There is romance but the main story is that of a girl who believes people should not have to die because of her father's words.
Only slight critique is it did drag a bit through the middle and there was a lot of dialogue. Otherwise this book is brilliant and superior to a lot of YA literature. It is not only a good story but has something to say. I would recommend to YA fantasy afficianados looking for something a bit different or those who love a story about the power of words.
Sherryl Jordan is my favourite kiwi author. She writes beautiful fantasy/alternative history stories that suck me in. The anger of angels is no different. A mesmerizing tale of the danger and power of words. The two lead charachters, Giovanna and Raeffalle are both flawed and take slightly different sides to the same argument, creating a layered discussion around freedom of speech.
The setting is slightly unique being a (renaissance?) era Italy. I found that quite interesting as it's not something I've seen in many fantasy novels. There is romance but the main story is that of a girl who believes people should not have to die because of her father's words.
Only slight critique is it did drag a bit through the middle and there was a lot of dialogue. Otherwise this book is brilliant and superior to a lot of YA literature. It is not only a good story but has something to say. I would recommend to YA fantasy afficianados looking for something a bit different or those who love a story about the power of words.
November 20, 2018
After finding the last couple of books by Sherryl Jordan didn't quite hit the mark for me, this was a very welcome return to form. Not 100% perfect, but definitely an engaging story with a lot of Jordan-esque elements. It's also aimed at a slightly older audience than some of her previous books - again, very welcome.
I loved the medieval Italian setting - Giovanna's world is detailed and lush. If I have any quibble with the book, it's that there is a real sense that Jordan has sketched out the whole story - from Ennio's love story through to Raffaele's background. I felt like the slice of story that was told could have been expanded - that Giovanna wasn't even the best character for the point-of-view. Even stretching out the book a few more chapters and delving in a bit more into Giovanna's character growth would have been great.
I loved the medieval Italian setting - Giovanna's world is detailed and lush. If I have any quibble with the book, it's that there is a real sense that Jordan has sketched out the whole story - from Ennio's love story through to Raffaele's background. I felt like the slice of story that was told could have been expanded - that Giovanna wasn't even the best character for the point-of-view. Even stretching out the book a few more chapters and delving in a bit more into Giovanna's character growth would have been great.
June 4, 2021
Giovanna’s father is the Jester in Duke Ubertini’s palace. When, at the Duke’s insistence, Giovanna’s dad performs a new play, a play in which he mocks the Prince of the neighbouring land, he sets in motion a series of events that puts the lives of Giovanna and her new friend, Raffaele in grave danger.
This fantasy novel that places the reader in an alternate version of Renaissance Italy is really nicely written, with well-developed characters and a great pace that reminds us that words have a powerful and long-lasting impact. I loved it.
This fantasy novel that places the reader in an alternate version of Renaissance Italy is really nicely written, with well-developed characters and a great pace that reminds us that words have a powerful and long-lasting impact. I loved it.
November 1, 2018
NZ YA :) An enjoyable action/adventure/romance set in an alternate history Italy, in what feels like medieval times - the courageous Giovanna lives at the castle with her jester father, but when he performs a controversial play the whole kingdom is endangered by the enemy prince. She meets a mysterious and handsome hunchback, and forms a lasting friendship, before they both must face danger and death... an epic story crammed into a shorter book - phew!
January 11, 2021
Really brilliant. Revolution, romance and defying discrimination. All we expect from Sherryl Jordan and more. The politics and characters are engaging and I never was sure how it would go. At times the political/religious discussions felt alittle propaganda-y but never enough it took me out of the book.
The characters are the highlight of the book and I utterly loved them and wanted to spend more time at their side.
The characters are the highlight of the book and I utterly loved them and wanted to spend more time at their side.
June 2, 2019
I enjoyed the strong character of Giovanni, and I loved the interaction between Giovanna and Rafaele. It is great to have a strong female lead who drives the story with her own actions and intentions, rather than responding to a male initiative. I liked the storyline, but I felt the narration dragged a bit at times. But all in all, a very enjoyable read from a master storyteller.
May 5, 2020
After an action packed start, this novel turned into a bit of a slow burn as it slowly built up the intensity to an action packed (and rather bloody) conclusion. Tyrants, the power of words, acceptance, a touch of romance and magic all mixed with a strong female protagonist to make a very readable novel which kept me awake until the wee small hours.
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May 17, 2021This book was very interesting. I found it cool to read about a lifestyle where it is a crime to speak about injustice. I would hate not being able to speak on my opionon so I like reading about how it effected these peoples life.
July 6, 2022
I really enjoyed this book! It had great characters with a subtle plot and just overall a gorgeous writing style! I would have loved it if the characters had been given a little bit more time at the end for their love but great book!
July 20, 2022
Sherryl Jordan is one of my favorite New Zealand authors. This is the fourth book of hers I've read and I really enjoyed it. I felt instantly connected with Giovanna's character and I thought the villain was unique and well-written.
June 23, 2018
Strong adventure fantasy.
September 9, 2018
New contender for my favourite book of 2018!
May 21, 2019
For a book about the power of words, the characters should have really talked less and acted better.
June 25, 2019
Fantastic return to young adult fantasy
Great relationships between characters, plot twists and sets up well for a sequel or series 👍👍👍
Great relationships between characters, plot twists and sets up well for a sequel or series 👍👍👍
March 30, 2020
I liked the writing style but to me the plot was just stupid.....
March 17, 2022
I've loved Sherryl Jordan's writing since I plucked The Juniper Game off my library's shelf on a whim over twenty years ago. She's still got it.
March 29, 2024
I loved the renaissance vibes. There are not many fantasy books set in a renaissance-like era, which honestly feels like a missed opportunity. The romance is also beautifully developed.
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