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1930, Rajputana, India. De la moartea soțului ei, tânăra ziaristă Eliza s-a refugiat doar în pasiunea pentru fotografie. Când guvernul britanic o trimite să fotografieze familia regală la palatul de pe marginea unui lac, îl cunoaște pe Jay, fratele extrem de atrăgător al prințului.
Deși ea îi reproșează sărăcia în care trăiește poporul indian, iar el îi amintește de nedreptățile comise de britanici, cei doi descoperă că au surprinzător de multe în comun. Dar familiile și societatea dezaprobă relația care se înfiripă. Așa că trebuie să ia o hotărâre: își ascultă inima sau fac ce așteaptă ceilalți de la ei?
Un roman fascinant, care duce cititorii în vremea când Imperiul Britanic încă influența puternic India, cu amestecul ei de tradiții, obiceiuri, locuri seducătoare și festivaluri pline de culoare.
Deși ea îi reproșează sărăcia în care trăiește poporul indian, iar el îi amintește de nedreptățile comise de britanici, cei doi descoperă că au surprinzător de multe în comun. Dar familiile și societatea dezaprobă relația care se înfiripă. Așa că trebuie să ia o hotărâre: își ascultă inima sau fac ce așteaptă ceilalți de la ei?
Un roman fascinant, care duce cititorii în vremea când Imperiul Britanic încă influența puternic India, cu amestecul ei de tradiții, obiceiuri, locuri seducătoare și festivaluri pline de culoare.
368 pages, Paperback
First published February 23, 2017
329 people are currently reading
3278 people want to read
About the author
Dinah Jefferies
23 books1,287 followers*Breaking News* Richard & Judy pick THE TEA PLANTERS WIFE for their autumn bookclub 2015. Here's what Santa Montefiore said: ‘My ideal read; mystery, love, heart-break and joy – I couldn’t put it down.’
Here's what Richard Madeley said. "The Tea Planter’s Wife is so much more than a conventional love story, with all its twists and turns and guilt and betrayal...deeply impressive. The fetid, steamy atmosphere of the tropics rises from these pages like a humid mist. We are on a tea plantation in 1920s Ceylon and 19 year old Gwendolyn Hooper is the new bride of the owner, a wealthy and charming widower. But her romantic dreams of marriage are overshadowed by echoes from the past – an old trunk of musty dresses; an overgrown and neglected gravestone in the grounds. Her new husband refuses to talk about them. Gwen’s perfect man is becoming a perfect stranger…"
Quote from the great author Kate Furnivall about my first book THE SEPARATION:
'A powerful story of love and loss that is utterly captivating. I was drawn deep into the world of Malaya and England in the 1950s in this intense exploration of what it means to love. Beautifully written and wonderfully atmospheric, Dinah Jefferies skilfully captures this fragile moment of history in a complex and thrilling tale. THE SEPARATION is a gripping and intelligent read.'
In 1985, the sudden death of Dinah Jefferies’ fourteen year old son brought her life to a standstill. She drew on that experience, and on her own childhood spent in Malaya during the 1950s to write her debut novel, The Separation. The guns piled high on the hall table when the rubber planters came into town for a party, the colour and noise of Chinatown, the houses on stilts, and the lizards that left their tails behind.
Now living in Gloucestershire, Dinah once lived in Tuscany working as an au pair for an Italian countess; she has also lived in a ‘hippy’ rock’n roll commune based in an Elizabethan manor house, but started writing when she was living in a small 16th Century village in Spain.
Here's what Richard Madeley said. "The Tea Planter’s Wife is so much more than a conventional love story, with all its twists and turns and guilt and betrayal...deeply impressive. The fetid, steamy atmosphere of the tropics rises from these pages like a humid mist. We are on a tea plantation in 1920s Ceylon and 19 year old Gwendolyn Hooper is the new bride of the owner, a wealthy and charming widower. But her romantic dreams of marriage are overshadowed by echoes from the past – an old trunk of musty dresses; an overgrown and neglected gravestone in the grounds. Her new husband refuses to talk about them. Gwen’s perfect man is becoming a perfect stranger…"
Quote from the great author Kate Furnivall about my first book THE SEPARATION:
'A powerful story of love and loss that is utterly captivating. I was drawn deep into the world of Malaya and England in the 1950s in this intense exploration of what it means to love. Beautifully written and wonderfully atmospheric, Dinah Jefferies skilfully captures this fragile moment of history in a complex and thrilling tale. THE SEPARATION is a gripping and intelligent read.'
In 1985, the sudden death of Dinah Jefferies’ fourteen year old son brought her life to a standstill. She drew on that experience, and on her own childhood spent in Malaya during the 1950s to write her debut novel, The Separation. The guns piled high on the hall table when the rubber planters came into town for a party, the colour and noise of Chinatown, the houses on stilts, and the lizards that left their tails behind.
Now living in Gloucestershire, Dinah once lived in Tuscany working as an au pair for an Italian countess; she has also lived in a ‘hippy’ rock’n roll commune based in an Elizabethan manor house, but started writing when she was living in a small 16th Century village in Spain.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 406 reviews
July 11, 2017
When Eliza Fraser was only eleven years old she witnessed her father’s death in Delhi – eighteen years later she was back in India for the first time since fleeing the country back to England with her mother. Eliza was a photojournalist and she was determined to make a name for herself. When old family friend and member of the British Government, Clifford Salter organised for Eliza to travel to Rajputana in India to spend a year at the castle to photograph the royal family, she was nervous but excited.
The castle which was to be her home for the following twelve months was filled with people – concubines, eunuchs, royals; Prince Anish and his wife were quite obviously not happy Eliza was there, as were others. But when Eliza met Prince Jayant Singh, Anish’s brother, she found a different man entirely. As Jay accompanied Eliza in many of her photographic ventures across the countryside, she was shocked and horrified at the abject poverty of the little villages.
Gradually, Eliza could see there were problems in the country from the British; but common to it all was the poverty. Her photography showed it in stark detail. Would it be possible to do anything to help the country’s people? Or would she be looked upon as an interfering white Englishwoman who most certainly didn’t belong? And what about the feelings which were building between Jay and Eliza? She knew nothing could come of it – she a white commoner; he an Indian prince…
Before the Rains was another excellent historical fiction novel by Dinah Jefferies. Set in 1930 and filled with emotion – love, happiness, grief, heartache and hope – the stark descriptions of the countryside and its people was vivid. I thoroughly enjoy this author’s work and once again, she didn’t disappoint. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy to read and review.
The castle which was to be her home for the following twelve months was filled with people – concubines, eunuchs, royals; Prince Anish and his wife were quite obviously not happy Eliza was there, as were others. But when Eliza met Prince Jayant Singh, Anish’s brother, she found a different man entirely. As Jay accompanied Eliza in many of her photographic ventures across the countryside, she was shocked and horrified at the abject poverty of the little villages.
Gradually, Eliza could see there were problems in the country from the British; but common to it all was the poverty. Her photography showed it in stark detail. Would it be possible to do anything to help the country’s people? Or would she be looked upon as an interfering white Englishwoman who most certainly didn’t belong? And what about the feelings which were building between Jay and Eliza? She knew nothing could come of it – she a white commoner; he an Indian prince…
Before the Rains was another excellent historical fiction novel by Dinah Jefferies. Set in 1930 and filled with emotion – love, happiness, grief, heartache and hope – the stark descriptions of the countryside and its people was vivid. I thoroughly enjoy this author’s work and once again, she didn’t disappoint. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy to read and review.
December 1, 2019
I find India in fiction and Bollywood films to be quite magical, it may not be so in reality but in my imagination it is. Photojournalist Eliza Fraser is sent by the British government to photograph the royal family in Rajputana, India, there she meets Prince Jay, her destiny.
The story starts in Rajputana, where Eliza a British daughter to a loving father, witnesses her father's death in India's fight for freedom from the Brits.
Years later, after a failed marriage, and a strained relationship with her mother, Eliza comes back to India again as an inspiring photographer on a commission from Britain to photograph India and its people and Rajputana's royal family.
Prince Jay and Eliza form an attachment and a deep friendship, but when the people around her find out she is windowed, she is considered cursed in a town where they burn the wives after the death of their husbands. Such things makes me so thankful for Islam. The idea that people brainwash women to do such an awful thing is beyond me.
Eliza and Jay fall in love and have a private relationship because many people don't want them to be together, and many people separate them from one another.
I found Eliza's action to be sort of stupid, the girl was raised in India, even if she isn't Indian she must know and understand its customs and way of thinking, she was just so careless and not careful enough.
The story was supposed to be romantic, adventurous and exciting, it had an aspect of all that but it's also dull though educational.
The story starts in Rajputana, where Eliza a British daughter to a loving father, witnesses her father's death in India's fight for freedom from the Brits.
Years later, after a failed marriage, and a strained relationship with her mother, Eliza comes back to India again as an inspiring photographer on a commission from Britain to photograph India and its people and Rajputana's royal family.
Prince Jay and Eliza form an attachment and a deep friendship, but when the people around her find out she is windowed, she is considered cursed in a town where they burn the wives after the death of their husbands. Such things makes me so thankful for Islam. The idea that people brainwash women to do such an awful thing is beyond me.
Eliza and Jay fall in love and have a private relationship because many people don't want them to be together, and many people separate them from one another.
I found Eliza's action to be sort of stupid, the girl was raised in India, even if she isn't Indian she must know and understand its customs and way of thinking, she was just so careless and not careful enough.
The story was supposed to be romantic, adventurous and exciting, it had an aspect of all that but it's also dull though educational.
June 25, 2017
I am so happy this book was finally here ! I have waited forever !
The book was beautiful and typical of Dinah Jeffries style of writing , so pretty and I felt as though I was there with the characters. I've never read any fiction novel by any author that manages to create a world where you can smell the flowers she describes and see the vivid colours of the clothing etc - it's just amazing I love this author !
Please please write another !
The book was beautiful and typical of Dinah Jeffries style of writing , so pretty and I felt as though I was there with the characters. I've never read any fiction novel by any author that manages to create a world where you can smell the flowers she describes and see the vivid colours of the clothing etc - it's just amazing I love this author !
Please please write another !
February 14, 2018
L'ho trovato in biblioteca nelle novità..e non ho resistito. Nonostante ho altri milioni di libri da leggere (tanto per cambiare XD) l'ho preso, anche perché era da questa estate che volevo leggerlo. Praticamente era sotto ogni ombrellone.
Adesso ce l'ho fatta. L'ho letto anche io.
Libro molto bello per descrizioni vivissime e trama intrigante. Curato e ben fatto. Si entra proprio nella vera India, con i suoi colori, profumi e soprattutto con le sue tradizioni. Bello davvero. Brava anche lei a introdurci in questo momento storico in cui aleggiano cambiamenti. Dove Principi e popolazione sono stanchi dell'oppressione dell'Inghilterra. Di questo relegarli ai margini della società nonostante siano loro l'India. Il disprezzo reciproco è lampante e gli intrighi e giochetti per il potere osno all'ordine del giorno. Si accenna anche a Gandhi, e al suo movimento. Insomma un libro che ritrae perfettamente uno spaccato storico interessante. Tanto che pur non attraendomi molto come mondo, l'autrice è riuscita a catturare la mia attenzione e farmi innamorare di questi paesaggi spettacolari. A cercare anche di scoprire e di capire di più questo continente con alle spalle una storia ricca di tradizone. Ho adorato Jay dalla prima all'ultima riga. Mentre la protagonista Eliza non l'ho retta. Troppo ingenua. Mi ha davvero irritato in alcuni momenti. L'avrei voluta prendere a schiaffi. Solo dopo la seconda metà del libro, ho iniziato a provare simpatia per lei. Ma proprio poca cosa. Non mi è andata proprio giù. E mi ha rovinato un pò il libro.
La Jefferies mi è piaciuta perchè mentre le sue immagini sono forti e vivide, è molto delicata con le emozioni, e con la storia. Personalmente preferisco essere devastata dalle emozioni, e coinvolta dalla storia. Invece scorre tutto con semplicità. Molto pevedibile. Anche se alla fine mi ha preso così tanto da divorare le ultime 150 pagine in una sera. Questo libro mi è piaciuto nonostante abbia alti e bassi, e nononstante Eliza. E' stato una boccata di aria fresca, che mi ha fatti anche riflettere e intravedere un paese di cui non conoscevo quasi nulla.
Metto tre stelle, non perchè non mi sia piaciuto, ma perchè avrei voluto maggior coinvogimento emotivo. In questo momento ho bisogno di emozioni che mi sconvolgono l'anima. Questo libro più che sconvolgere, tocca delicatamente il cuore, avvolgendolo con il suo amore.
In ogni caso ne consiglio la lettura. Probabilmente a voi piacerà di più ^^
Adesso ce l'ho fatta. L'ho letto anche io.
Libro molto bello per descrizioni vivissime e trama intrigante. Curato e ben fatto. Si entra proprio nella vera India, con i suoi colori, profumi e soprattutto con le sue tradizioni. Bello davvero. Brava anche lei a introdurci in questo momento storico in cui aleggiano cambiamenti. Dove Principi e popolazione sono stanchi dell'oppressione dell'Inghilterra. Di questo relegarli ai margini della società nonostante siano loro l'India. Il disprezzo reciproco è lampante e gli intrighi e giochetti per il potere osno all'ordine del giorno. Si accenna anche a Gandhi, e al suo movimento. Insomma un libro che ritrae perfettamente uno spaccato storico interessante. Tanto che pur non attraendomi molto come mondo, l'autrice è riuscita a catturare la mia attenzione e farmi innamorare di questi paesaggi spettacolari. A cercare anche di scoprire e di capire di più questo continente con alle spalle una storia ricca di tradizone. Ho adorato Jay dalla prima all'ultima riga. Mentre la protagonista Eliza non l'ho retta. Troppo ingenua. Mi ha davvero irritato in alcuni momenti. L'avrei voluta prendere a schiaffi. Solo dopo la seconda metà del libro, ho iniziato a provare simpatia per lei. Ma proprio poca cosa. Non mi è andata proprio giù. E mi ha rovinato un pò il libro.
La Jefferies mi è piaciuta perchè mentre le sue immagini sono forti e vivide, è molto delicata con le emozioni, e con la storia. Personalmente preferisco essere devastata dalle emozioni, e coinvolta dalla storia. Invece scorre tutto con semplicità. Molto pevedibile. Anche se alla fine mi ha preso così tanto da divorare le ultime 150 pagine in una sera. Questo libro mi è piaciuto nonostante abbia alti e bassi, e nononstante Eliza. E' stato una boccata di aria fresca, che mi ha fatti anche riflettere e intravedere un paese di cui non conoscevo quasi nulla.
Metto tre stelle, non perchè non mi sia piaciuto, ma perchè avrei voluto maggior coinvogimento emotivo. In questo momento ho bisogno di emozioni che mi sconvolgono l'anima. Questo libro più che sconvolgere, tocca delicatamente il cuore, avvolgendolo con il suo amore.
In ogni caso ne consiglio la lettura. Probabilmente a voi piacerà di più ^^
November 30, 2019
Before the Rains by Dinah Jefferies is a lovely romance set in the 1930s.
I love historical romance novels, but I just have a hard time finding ones I enjoy. Lucky for me, Dinah Jefferie's book swept me off my feet after prancing into my life.
Eliza, a newly minted widow, is sent to India by the British government to take many lovely pictures of the Indian royal family. She's a photographer, so it is only fitting that she be one of the few to see inside the royal family's lives. She meets Jay, an Indian prince who takes her eye, and they begin a dramatic love affair. Along the way, there's an old (creepy) friend named Clifford who also sees Eliza as the apple of his eyes. Chaos then ensues. And to top it all off, somehow, because fate is cruel and interesting, she seems to know more people than she realizes.
This little book holds so much emotion in it. My heart went on a roller coaster as I tried to figure out how this book was going to end. I was connected to this book by the hip - I needed to know how it ended and I was totally obsessed with it. It's a medium-paced book but it's packed full of tears, heart ache, romance, and drama.
The plot does get predictable half way through the novel, but it's not a major con for me.
If I had a negative for this book, it would be the historical accuracy. I'm not a historian, but I feel like this love affair would have been a much bigger deal in the grand scheme of things. It was definitely a cause of strife in the book, but it seemed to go over pretty well at other times. It was... strange? Either way, the book was still a great romance/dramatic read. I would highly recommend it if you love historical romances, romances set in other geographic locations (not just the good ol' US of A), or soap opera-esque books. This book felt VERY soap opera-y (in a good way, of course).
On top of the amazing-ness of this book, the cover is absolutely stunning. If you were going to judge a book by it's cover, pick this one! All of Dinah's books have truly marvelous covers.
Four out of five stars.
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
I love historical romance novels, but I just have a hard time finding ones I enjoy. Lucky for me, Dinah Jefferie's book swept me off my feet after prancing into my life.
Eliza, a newly minted widow, is sent to India by the British government to take many lovely pictures of the Indian royal family. She's a photographer, so it is only fitting that she be one of the few to see inside the royal family's lives. She meets Jay, an Indian prince who takes her eye, and they begin a dramatic love affair. Along the way, there's an old (creepy) friend named Clifford who also sees Eliza as the apple of his eyes. Chaos then ensues. And to top it all off, somehow, because fate is cruel and interesting, she seems to know more people than she realizes.
This little book holds so much emotion in it. My heart went on a roller coaster as I tried to figure out how this book was going to end. I was connected to this book by the hip - I needed to know how it ended and I was totally obsessed with it. It's a medium-paced book but it's packed full of tears, heart ache, romance, and drama.
The plot does get predictable half way through the novel, but it's not a major con for me.
If I had a negative for this book, it would be the historical accuracy. I'm not a historian, but I feel like this love affair would have been a much bigger deal in the grand scheme of things. It was definitely a cause of strife in the book, but it seemed to go over pretty well at other times. It was... strange? Either way, the book was still a great romance/dramatic read. I would highly recommend it if you love historical romances, romances set in other geographic locations (not just the good ol' US of A), or soap opera-esque books. This book felt VERY soap opera-y (in a good way, of course).
On top of the amazing-ness of this book, the cover is absolutely stunning. If you were going to judge a book by it's cover, pick this one! All of Dinah's books have truly marvelous covers.
Four out of five stars.
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
August 28, 2017
This was a wonderfully told story for which the author has come to be known for - ravishing love stories set against a backdrop of yesteryear India. Although this novel is more politically based than her previous books, I still enjoyed it and thought the character of Eliza was inspired.
The descriptions of India are what the author is really very talented at. The country really comes alive through her writing and makes the reader feel immersed in the culture. By contrast, the book is set both in the confines of the palace walls and features life on the bustling streets.
I can only await the authors fifth book with baited breath!
The descriptions of India are what the author is really very talented at. The country really comes alive through her writing and makes the reader feel immersed in the culture. By contrast, the book is set both in the confines of the palace walls and features life on the bustling streets.
I can only await the authors fifth book with baited breath!
February 14, 2019
Această carte are de toate, o poveste de iubire imposibilă, tradiții absurde si nedrepte, secrete, și trădări. Aș spune că are tot ce trebuie pentru a te prinde între filele ei. Și totuși i-a lipsit ceva. Emoția! Am simțit cum autoarea a vrut să bifeze cât mai multe lucruri, dar parcă a trecut superficial sau poate prea rapid și astfel nu am reușit să le și trăiesc. Un singur pasaj a reușit acest lucru, să mă șocheze și să mă facă să mă cutremur.
În concluzie, a fost o carte frumoasă, cu multe descrieri ce te ajută să vizualizezi cu ușurință, cu coincidențe pe care le găsești doar în cărți și niciodată în viață, un spectacol de culori care e doar frumos.
În concluzie, a fost o carte frumoasă, cu multe descrieri ce te ajută să vizualizezi cu ușurință, cu coincidențe pe care le găsești doar în cărți și niciodată în viață, un spectacol de culori care e doar frumos.
February 9, 2017
I have been a fan of Dinah Jefferies ever since I read 'The Separation' a couple of years ago, she has become an author I can rely on to completely transport me to another country, another time period and immerse me in a great story. 'Before the Rains' is no exception and my adventure this time took place in a sultry, colourful India of 1930.
The story follows Eliza Fraser, young widow and budding photographer. This is a lady way ahead of her time, she's head strong, career driven and not afraid to stand up for herself amongst the Indian royalty she is sent to capture with her camera. I have to admire Eliza, she is totally out of her comfort zone in the royal palace and in India but she doesn't let that stop her photographing what she wants and going to the places she wants. And of course there is the dashing Prince Jay and forbidden love soon rears its head.
There are two things I love about Dinah Jefferies' books. The first is that I always learn something, her books always feature a fascinating event in history. For me in 'Before the Rains' this was the Indian culture of widow-burning or sati as it is known. This horrific, barbaric and frankly blood chilling tradition sees widows throwing themselves onto funeral pyres or in some cases being forced into the fires because it's believed that widows are bad luck and they are a failure as a wife if their husband dies first. Cue some frantic Googling on my part! This is also very significant to Eliza's story because she of course is a widow.
The second thing I love is the wonderfully descriptive writing. I was walking round the palace and feeling the searing heat of the Indian sun on my skin, whilst listening to the rain outside my living room. The sounds, scents and sights of India come alive in 'Before The Rains' whether it be the scent of jasmine in the air or the colourful powder throwing Holi celebrations, you experience it all.
I thoroughly enjoyed 'Before The Rains' as I knew I would and I recommend Dinah Jefferies to anyone who wants great story telling and an escape from the trudge of daily life.
The story follows Eliza Fraser, young widow and budding photographer. This is a lady way ahead of her time, she's head strong, career driven and not afraid to stand up for herself amongst the Indian royalty she is sent to capture with her camera. I have to admire Eliza, she is totally out of her comfort zone in the royal palace and in India but she doesn't let that stop her photographing what she wants and going to the places she wants. And of course there is the dashing Prince Jay and forbidden love soon rears its head.
There are two things I love about Dinah Jefferies' books. The first is that I always learn something, her books always feature a fascinating event in history. For me in 'Before the Rains' this was the Indian culture of widow-burning or sati as it is known. This horrific, barbaric and frankly blood chilling tradition sees widows throwing themselves onto funeral pyres or in some cases being forced into the fires because it's believed that widows are bad luck and they are a failure as a wife if their husband dies first. Cue some frantic Googling on my part! This is also very significant to Eliza's story because she of course is a widow.
The second thing I love is the wonderfully descriptive writing. I was walking round the palace and feeling the searing heat of the Indian sun on my skin, whilst listening to the rain outside my living room. The sounds, scents and sights of India come alive in 'Before The Rains' whether it be the scent of jasmine in the air or the colourful powder throwing Holi celebrations, you experience it all.
I thoroughly enjoyed 'Before The Rains' as I knew I would and I recommend Dinah Jefferies to anyone who wants great story telling and an escape from the trudge of daily life.
April 9, 2017
Stunning!
Visit the locations in the novel here - Before The Rains
As well as a story which weaves its way in and out of every page, the colour of India and the customs there, the traditions, belief system set at the time of the British rule and the building of the administration in Delhi is quite something. The background to British rule is carefully evoked to showcase the country at that time, the effect on its people and the consequences which followed.
Oh but it's the wonderful colour of the book in its entirety which shines and shimmers with spice - festivals are celebrated, the meaning of tradition explained and the beauty of India shines through. I was entranced and I feel totally transported by the words and the intrigue of the story. WOW.
Full review to follow but put this book at the top of your 2017 TBR pile. It deserves a special place indeed.
Visit the locations in the novel here - Before The Rains
As well as a story which weaves its way in and out of every page, the colour of India and the customs there, the traditions, belief system set at the time of the British rule and the building of the administration in Delhi is quite something. The background to British rule is carefully evoked to showcase the country at that time, the effect on its people and the consequences which followed.
Oh but it's the wonderful colour of the book in its entirety which shines and shimmers with spice - festivals are celebrated, the meaning of tradition explained and the beauty of India shines through. I was entranced and I feel totally transported by the words and the intrigue of the story. WOW.
Full review to follow but put this book at the top of your 2017 TBR pile. It deserves a special place indeed.
April 24, 2022
Прекалено ми беше безлична,емоцията липсваше сякаш.Дори и в моментите,когато имаше тъга или радост или се случваха някакви по-емоционални събития с героите - при мен нищо.Въпреки това темата за Индия ми е една от любимите,затова слагам повече точки.
May 13, 2017
Honestly I've not read a more cliche book in my life. You know exactly what's going to happen from beginning to end and frankly, Eliza is super annoying.
September 8, 2020
Nežinau kuo, bet Indija mane visada traukė. Visi kvapai, kai pamenu save net vaikystėje deginančią smilkalus, ir tai, kad mano tėčiui jie baisiai nepatikdavo... kai vėliau suaugusi paragavau indiško maisto, supratau, kad geresnio ko gero nėra niekur kitur pasaulyje... tiesiog gyvenimo apinkybės buvo taip susiklostę, kad su indų kultūra susipažinau išties gerai.
Dinah Jefferies yra mano šių dienų atradimas. Malonios, gražios istorijos, įstatytos į sudėtingą laikmetį ir į nepaprastai egzotiškas šalis ir kultūras. Ši istorija pasakoja apie trečią dešimtį baigiančią moterį Elizą, kuri po daugelio metų sugrįžta į Indiją kaip fotografė. Ji metams įdarbinama rūmuose, kad fiksuotų jų gyvenimą ir vėliau visos nuotraukos atsidurtų Britų imperijos archyvuose. Deja, paaiškėjus Elizos praeičiai, rūmuose prasideda nemalonūs dalykai. Viskas dangstoma ir teisinama tradicijomis, tačiau situacija negerėja net ir kai Eliza susidraugauja su jaunu sosto įpėdiniu Džėjumi...
Mane visada žavėjo daugiasluoksniai romanai. Tokie, kuriuose nemažai veikėjų, ir galiausiai paaiškėja, kad dauguma jų yra kažkuo susiję. O ypač tais atvejais, kai autoriams tai pavyksta padaryti meistriškai.
Rūmų intrigos ir paslaptys neleido atsiplėšti nuo knygos, tačiau įdomiausia dalis man pasirodė apie našles ir jų deginimą. Ir ne tik. Pastaruoju metu vis susimąstau, kodėl moterys taip nekenčiamos? Kiekvienoje kultūroje. Arba mes gauname mažesnius atlyginimus. Arba mes negalime rodyti kojų, veido, rankų dar kurių nors kūno dalių, priklausomai nuo kultūros. Arba jei vyras mus „pačiupinėja“ be leidimo, vadinas, kibina. Ir mes turime su tuo taikstytis. Romane pasakojama beveik šimtmečiu atgal, tačiau žinau, kad dauguma tų TRAGIŠKŲ indiškų tradicijų išlikę ir iki šių dienų. Ir ne tik indiškų. Viena iš tų tradicijų, minima knygoje – našlių deginimas. Jei moteris pergyvena savo vyra, tai laikoma negarbinga ir manoma, kad moteris nepakankamai rūpinosi savo vyru ir turi išeiti iš šio pasaulio kartu su juo. Britų imperija tuos deginimus draudė, tai tapo nelegalu, tačiau dėl to tų deginimų dar padaugėjo, nes žmonės tai pradėjo daryti slapta, mažuose kaimeliuose, kur niekas nespėtų įsikišti. Aš nesu feministė, tačiau kodėl?? Kodėl tai vyksta? Ir kodėl niekas apie tai nekalba? Kodėl didesnis ažiotažas kyla dėl pamestų kačiukų, o ne dėl moterų, kurios tiesiog gyvendamos užsidirba sau mirties bausmę? Arba kodėl Afrikoje visiškai niekuo dėtos mergaitės yra išmėsinėjamos? Ar kitose rytų šalyse moterys yra užmėtomos akmenimis, už tai, kad buvo neištikimos, kuomet vyrai gali viską kaišioti kur nori ir kiek nori? Klausimas po klausimo. Ir visa tai sieja tik viena maža jungtis, vienas žodis – moteris.
Liūdna knyga. Kad ir kokia graži istorija bebūtų papasakota. Daug romantikos. Daug spalvų, kvapų. Ir pabaiga... ech... viską sugadino pabaiga... tikrame gyvenime niekada taip neįvyktų. Niekada. Net ir šiais laikais.
Susitikime instagrame:
www.instagram.com/gretabrigita.lt
Visas apžvalgas rasite čia:
www.gretabrigita.lt
Dinah Jefferies yra mano šių dienų atradimas. Malonios, gražios istorijos, įstatytos į sudėtingą laikmetį ir į nepaprastai egzotiškas šalis ir kultūras. Ši istorija pasakoja apie trečią dešimtį baigiančią moterį Elizą, kuri po daugelio metų sugrįžta į Indiją kaip fotografė. Ji metams įdarbinama rūmuose, kad fiksuotų jų gyvenimą ir vėliau visos nuotraukos atsidurtų Britų imperijos archyvuose. Deja, paaiškėjus Elizos praeičiai, rūmuose prasideda nemalonūs dalykai. Viskas dangstoma ir teisinama tradicijomis, tačiau situacija negerėja net ir kai Eliza susidraugauja su jaunu sosto įpėdiniu Džėjumi...
Mane visada žavėjo daugiasluoksniai romanai. Tokie, kuriuose nemažai veikėjų, ir galiausiai paaiškėja, kad dauguma jų yra kažkuo susiję. O ypač tais atvejais, kai autoriams tai pavyksta padaryti meistriškai.
Rūmų intrigos ir paslaptys neleido atsiplėšti nuo knygos, tačiau įdomiausia dalis man pasirodė apie našles ir jų deginimą. Ir ne tik. Pastaruoju metu vis susimąstau, kodėl moterys taip nekenčiamos? Kiekvienoje kultūroje. Arba mes gauname mažesnius atlyginimus. Arba mes negalime rodyti kojų, veido, rankų dar kurių nors kūno dalių, priklausomai nuo kultūros. Arba jei vyras mus „pačiupinėja“ be leidimo, vadinas, kibina. Ir mes turime su tuo taikstytis. Romane pasakojama beveik šimtmečiu atgal, tačiau žinau, kad dauguma tų TRAGIŠKŲ indiškų tradicijų išlikę ir iki šių dienų. Ir ne tik indiškų. Viena iš tų tradicijų, minima knygoje – našlių deginimas. Jei moteris pergyvena savo vyra, tai laikoma negarbinga ir manoma, kad moteris nepakankamai rūpinosi savo vyru ir turi išeiti iš šio pasaulio kartu su juo. Britų imperija tuos deginimus draudė, tai tapo nelegalu, tačiau dėl to tų deginimų dar padaugėjo, nes žmonės tai pradėjo daryti slapta, mažuose kaimeliuose, kur niekas nespėtų įsikišti. Aš nesu feministė, tačiau kodėl?? Kodėl tai vyksta? Ir kodėl niekas apie tai nekalba? Kodėl didesnis ažiotažas kyla dėl pamestų kačiukų, o ne dėl moterų, kurios tiesiog gyvendamos užsidirba sau mirties bausmę? Arba kodėl Afrikoje visiškai niekuo dėtos mergaitės yra išmėsinėjamos? Ar kitose rytų šalyse moterys yra užmėtomos akmenimis, už tai, kad buvo neištikimos, kuomet vyrai gali viską kaišioti kur nori ir kiek nori? Klausimas po klausimo. Ir visa tai sieja tik viena maža jungtis, vienas žodis – moteris.
Liūdna knyga. Kad ir kokia graži istorija bebūtų papasakota. Daug romantikos. Daug spalvų, kvapų. Ir pabaiga... ech... viską sugadino pabaiga... tikrame gyvenime niekada taip neįvyktų. Niekada. Net ir šiais laikais.
Susitikime instagrame:
www.instagram.com/gretabrigita.lt
Visas apžvalgas rasite čia:
www.gretabrigita.lt
December 5, 2019
Before the Rains by Dinah Jefferies is a lovely romance set in the 1930s.
I love historical romance novels, but I just have a hard time finding ones I enjoy. Lucky for me, Dinah Jefferie's book swept me off my feet after prancing into my life.
Eliza, a newly minted widow, is sent to India by the British government to take many lovely pictures of the Indian royal family. She's a photographer, so it is only fitting that she be one of the few to see inside the royal family's lives. She meets Jay, an Indian prince who takes her eye, and they begin a dramatic love affair. Along the way, there's an old (creepy) friend named Clifford who also sees Eliza as the apple of his eyes. Chaos then ensues. And to top it all off, somehow, because fate is cruel and interesting, she seems to know more people than she realizes.
This little book holds so much emotion in it. My heart went on a roller coaster as I tried to figure out how this book was going to end. I was connected to this book by the hip - I needed to know how it ended and I was totally obsessed with it. It's a medium-paced book but it's packed full of tears, heart ache, romance, and drama.
The plot does get predictable half way through the novel, but it's not a major con for me.
If I had a negative for this book, it would be the historical accuracy. I'm not a historian, but I feel like this love affair would have been a much bigger deal in the grand scheme of things. It was definitely a cause of strife in the book, but it seemed to go over pretty well at other times. It was... strange? Either way, the book was still a great romance/dramatic read. I would highly recommend it if you love historical romances, romances set in other geographic locations (not just the good ol' US of A), or soap opera-esque books. This book felt VERY soap opera-y (in a good way, of course).
On top of the amazing-ness of this book, the cover is absolutely stunning. If you were going to judge a book by it's cover, pick this one! All of Dinah's books have truly marvelous covers.
Four out of five stars.
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
I love historical romance novels, but I just have a hard time finding ones I enjoy. Lucky for me, Dinah Jefferie's book swept me off my feet after prancing into my life.
Eliza, a newly minted widow, is sent to India by the British government to take many lovely pictures of the Indian royal family. She's a photographer, so it is only fitting that she be one of the few to see inside the royal family's lives. She meets Jay, an Indian prince who takes her eye, and they begin a dramatic love affair. Along the way, there's an old (creepy) friend named Clifford who also sees Eliza as the apple of his eyes. Chaos then ensues. And to top it all off, somehow, because fate is cruel and interesting, she seems to know more people than she realizes.
This little book holds so much emotion in it. My heart went on a roller coaster as I tried to figure out how this book was going to end. I was connected to this book by the hip - I needed to know how it ended and I was totally obsessed with it. It's a medium-paced book but it's packed full of tears, heart ache, romance, and drama.
The plot does get predictable half way through the novel, but it's not a major con for me.
If I had a negative for this book, it would be the historical accuracy. I'm not a historian, but I feel like this love affair would have been a much bigger deal in the grand scheme of things. It was definitely a cause of strife in the book, but it seemed to go over pretty well at other times. It was... strange? Either way, the book was still a great romance/dramatic read. I would highly recommend it if you love historical romances, romances set in other geographic locations (not just the good ol' US of A), or soap opera-esque books. This book felt VERY soap opera-y (in a good way, of course).
On top of the amazing-ness of this book, the cover is absolutely stunning. If you were going to judge a book by it's cover, pick this one! All of Dinah's books have truly marvelous covers.
Four out of five stars.
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
January 6, 2019
O carte superba!! Daca va place cultura indiana si romantismul, chiar merita citita! Pe langa asta are si pasaje interesante. Un deliciu.
August 31, 2018
OK. This book was ridiculous.
Starting with the good. This book definitely evoked the setting really well. If you didn't already want to go to India, this will make you feel like you were there and also want to go. I also really enjoyed the prominent role photography played. As someone who loves travel photography, I enjoyed the details about cameras and setting up shots very much.
But.
SERIOUSLY?
This woman goes to India and happens to be in the same place (the same BUILDING, not even just the same REGION) as not only the son of the man who threw the bomb that killed her father but also her half-sister she never knew existed? Come on. That kind of coincidence is just unbelievable.
That, plus the main character's complete naivete that bordered on complete stupidity. It took the entire book for her to realize someone was forging documents to frame the prince. Really? HOW OBVIOUS DO YOU HAVE TO BE? She was THERE while the British guy (not sure what position he held - not governor because the region they were in was under indirect British control but maybe liaison?) was doing it? It never occurred to her that people might be out to get a reform-minded Indian prince who didn't like British rule?
It also apparently blew her mind that marriages, especially political marriages between the princely families of India, might not be for love. Which I was inclined to overlook the first couple of times because the British were ridiculously snotty and hideously disrespectful of anybody's customs but their own for entire age of imperialism and beyond, but by the time the book was nearly over I stopped buying that. The main character was perfectly willing to try to understand the beliefs of Hinduism and what would actually help the villages she encountered, but after multiple times of people explaining that marriage in India at that time was an arrangement between families and not for love (especially those between ruling families), she remained completely incapable of understanding that. How many times does something have to be explained before you grasp it?
Especially since political marriage wasn't and isn't something unique to the princely families of India. This main character was from 1930s Europe. Where pretty much every single country that still had a monarchy was ruled by either a child or grandchild of Queen Victoria?
Actually, out of the European countries that still have monarchies, think of the ones that aren't ruled by someone descended from Queen Victoria. I'll wait. There aren't many of them. How do you think that happened? Because ruling houses ally themselves through marriage and have since the Neolithic Age. This is not a hard concept and shouldn't be difficult for someone from a country that is famous for its monarchy to grasp.
Finally, the ending was saccharine to the point of being unbelievable. I'm supposed to believe that a prince who has a duty to become Maharajah on the death of his brother, after an entire book of going on about duty and tradition and a strong-willed mother who wants to follow the standard procedure, AND knowing that he'd actually be a decent ruler in a position that would allow him to put the reforms he wanted in place, is just going to be fine giving that up to marry someone? I KNOW Anglo-Indian marriages and relationships had to have happened, but I just find the ending to this one totally unbelievable. There is NO WAY that would happen.
Anyway, I enjoyed the setting and now I'd like to go take pictures of India but oh my God, the rest of it was too ridiculous to enjoy.
Starting with the good. This book definitely evoked the setting really well. If you didn't already want to go to India, this will make you feel like you were there and also want to go. I also really enjoyed the prominent role photography played. As someone who loves travel photography, I enjoyed the details about cameras and setting up shots very much.
But.
SERIOUSLY?
This woman goes to India and happens to be in the same place (the same BUILDING, not even just the same REGION) as not only the son of the man who threw the bomb that killed her father but also her half-sister she never knew existed? Come on. That kind of coincidence is just unbelievable.
That, plus the main character's complete naivete that bordered on complete stupidity. It took the entire book for her to realize someone was forging documents to frame the prince. Really? HOW OBVIOUS DO YOU HAVE TO BE? She was THERE while the British guy (not sure what position he held - not governor because the region they were in was under indirect British control but maybe liaison?) was doing it? It never occurred to her that people might be out to get a reform-minded Indian prince who didn't like British rule?
It also apparently blew her mind that marriages, especially political marriages between the princely families of India, might not be for love. Which I was inclined to overlook the first couple of times because the British were ridiculously snotty and hideously disrespectful of anybody's customs but their own for entire age of imperialism and beyond, but by the time the book was nearly over I stopped buying that. The main character was perfectly willing to try to understand the beliefs of Hinduism and what would actually help the villages she encountered, but after multiple times of people explaining that marriage in India at that time was an arrangement between families and not for love (especially those between ruling families), she remained completely incapable of understanding that. How many times does something have to be explained before you grasp it?
Especially since political marriage wasn't and isn't something unique to the princely families of India. This main character was from 1930s Europe. Where pretty much every single country that still had a monarchy was ruled by either a child or grandchild of Queen Victoria?
Actually, out of the European countries that still have monarchies, think of the ones that aren't ruled by someone descended from Queen Victoria. I'll wait. There aren't many of them. How do you think that happened? Because ruling houses ally themselves through marriage and have since the Neolithic Age. This is not a hard concept and shouldn't be difficult for someone from a country that is famous for its monarchy to grasp.
Finally, the ending was saccharine to the point of being unbelievable. I'm supposed to believe that a prince who has a duty to become Maharajah on the death of his brother, after an entire book of going on about duty and tradition and a strong-willed mother who wants to follow the standard procedure, AND knowing that he'd actually be a decent ruler in a position that would allow him to put the reforms he wanted in place, is just going to be fine giving that up to marry someone? I KNOW Anglo-Indian marriages and relationships had to have happened, but I just find the ending to this one totally unbelievable. There is NO WAY that would happen.
Anyway, I enjoyed the setting and now I'd like to go take pictures of India but oh my God, the rest of it was too ridiculous to enjoy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2016
Before the Rains was a book that gripped me from the beginning. It is full of action, suspense, secrets, and romance. You are able to easily fall in love with the characters and begin to root for their happiness.
Eliza is a British photographer that has been sent to the palace in India to photograph the royal family. She is unaware of the underlying reason she is there, to report anything unusual to her British friend, Clinton. While she is in the palace, she meet the Prince, Jay, and they form a friendly relationship. That relationship deepens into a romance that finds both of them in love with one another. There are many obstacles that stand in the way of Eliza and Jay's relationship. One being the Queen herself. Things change when Jay and Eliza are out on a journey and they come across a ritualistic killing. As they struggle to cope with what they have seen they find themselves more vulnerable and open to each other. This only deepens their relationship.
Eliza is also on a personal journey to come to terms with her father's death and newly learned secrets that have been revealed. The book is full of castle secrets as well.
I love the glimpse into Indian culture and the picturesque descriptions of the different locations in the book. Before the Rains is incredibly well written. I absolutely loved the ending!
Eliza is a British photographer that has been sent to the palace in India to photograph the royal family. She is unaware of the underlying reason she is there, to report anything unusual to her British friend, Clinton. While she is in the palace, she meet the Prince, Jay, and they form a friendly relationship. That relationship deepens into a romance that finds both of them in love with one another. There are many obstacles that stand in the way of Eliza and Jay's relationship. One being the Queen herself. Things change when Jay and Eliza are out on a journey and they come across a ritualistic killing. As they struggle to cope with what they have seen they find themselves more vulnerable and open to each other. This only deepens their relationship.
Eliza is also on a personal journey to come to terms with her father's death and newly learned secrets that have been revealed. The book is full of castle secrets as well.
I love the glimpse into Indian culture and the picturesque descriptions of the different locations in the book. Before the Rains is incredibly well written. I absolutely loved the ending!
May 20, 2018
While this definitely is not my favorite genre, as a full challenging romance placed in a fairyland like country, the novel fulfills all the respective expectations. As always, Dinah manages to make us see the colors, smell the spices, feel the textures and hear the sounds. The story will satisfy the readers who still believe in love.
August 29, 2017
Beautiful, poignant, evocative. Loved it.
June 30, 2019
O poveste indiana usurica. Nici prea-prea, nici foarte-foarte-foarte. Un final asteptat. Nu de aruncat din mana, dar nici de retinut. O carte de vacanta faara pretentii.
November 17, 2019
2,5 stars. The story was ok but I found the writing dull and lifeless.
July 3, 2019
Actiunea cartii se desfasoara in Rajputana, India, un loc exotic, plin de culoare si parfum. Eroina noastra, Eliza, o tanara care are o mare pasiune pentru fotografie, isi pierde sotul intr-un accident de masina. Ca sa uite de incercarile pe care viata i le-a dat,Eliza accepta o propunere din partea guvernului britanic de a fotografia viata din statul princiar si cea regala la palatul din statul Juriapore , pentru o noua arhiva. La palat il intalneste le Jay, fratele chipes al printului.Dupa lungi calatorii in imprejurimile tinutului, alaturi de Jay, Eliza se indragosteste de el, dar din pacate tradita indiana nu permite casatoriile cu alti membri decat din neamul lor.Viata la palat nu se dovedeste a fi prea usoara si este "sapata" de cei care doresc puterea, numind-o spioana si facandu-i zilele grele.
O carte plina de intrigi si secrete de famile care te face sa nu mai lasi cartea din mana. Mi-a placut Eliza si felul in care a luptat pentru ceea ce i-a apartinut. E o carte usoara care se citeste repede si are un final pe masura , pe care l-am banuit 😁
O carte plina de intrigi si secrete de famile care te face sa nu mai lasi cartea din mana. Mi-a placut Eliza si felul in care a luptat pentru ceea ce i-a apartinut. E o carte usoara care se citeste repede si are un final pe masura , pe care l-am banuit 😁
December 23, 2017
"...she took photographs of it all: the poor, the lost and the seemingly forgotten. And it entered her head that by recording the plight of the poor she might be able to find a way to give voice to the voiceless."
Up to the first 40% of the story I had a really good feeling about this book but...
I completely lost interest when Eliza and Jay get "sticky with sweat" (yeah...That's an actual quote used multiple times @_@) and ridiculous, unbelievable drama unfolds.
Unfortunately both plot and characters end up being predictable and utterly ridiculous.
The romance is very slow burning and the wait doesn't "pay off" when they get officially together.
Of course it's a very personal opinion... we all have a different taste and tolerance for drama, mine is fairly low.
I have to say the author is able to depict India's vibrancy and contrasts in 1930 superbly and that's one of the reason it saddens me to give such a low rating.
I tried to pick the book up again two times but I'm not enjoying the MCs and the plot anymore...
DNF at ~70% hence ⭐ 1 Star ⭐
Triggers: Violence. Remenber It is set in 1930 India...
Recommended to: Wouldn't recommend it but it might interest people fascinated with stories set in India.
Are you looking for a specific mix of ingredients for your next read?
February 7, 2017
Originally posted on: http://www.albainbookland.com/2017/01...
Dinah Jefferies is one of my favourite historical fiction authors. Her stories are always so rich in detail and so interesting and thanks to her I always discover so much. With Before the Rains she takes us to India in the twenties. With her generous and mesmerising descriptions, it's easy to picture that era, with its rich royal families contrasting with the extreme poverty of its people.
The story focuses on Eliza, a British photographer who is assigned by the British government to spend a year photographing one of the royal families for their archives. Eliza though is not new to India, she spent her childhood there until her father's death. So as soon as she arrives there, she instantly feels a connection to that land and tries to understand the people and its customs and traditions. Some of them are completely shocking and impossible to understand but it's difficult for her (and for us) not to fall in love with this place.
The love story between Eliza and Jay, the younger brother of the Indian prince, plays a big role in the book. It's obvious from the beginning that there's something special between them but their fate is already decided by their different backgrounds and cultures. Nevertheless, you can't help but root for them. They both, as the other characters in the story, are complex and layered characters that I enjoyed getting to know immensely. Theirs is definitely a story I won't forget in a long time.
Before the Rains is not only a story about love though. There are many emotions key to the story and secrets and betrayals have a very important role in the story. The author certainly keeps some surprises in the store for us.
As usual, I can only praise Dinah Jefferies' writing. The story unwraps at the right pace, giving us enough time to take all the little details in and keeps us wondering what is going to happen next. All in all, a very complete and mesmerising read.
Dinah Jefferies is one of my favourite historical fiction authors. Her stories are always so rich in detail and so interesting and thanks to her I always discover so much. With Before the Rains she takes us to India in the twenties. With her generous and mesmerising descriptions, it's easy to picture that era, with its rich royal families contrasting with the extreme poverty of its people.
The story focuses on Eliza, a British photographer who is assigned by the British government to spend a year photographing one of the royal families for their archives. Eliza though is not new to India, she spent her childhood there until her father's death. So as soon as she arrives there, she instantly feels a connection to that land and tries to understand the people and its customs and traditions. Some of them are completely shocking and impossible to understand but it's difficult for her (and for us) not to fall in love with this place.
The love story between Eliza and Jay, the younger brother of the Indian prince, plays a big role in the book. It's obvious from the beginning that there's something special between them but their fate is already decided by their different backgrounds and cultures. Nevertheless, you can't help but root for them. They both, as the other characters in the story, are complex and layered characters that I enjoyed getting to know immensely. Theirs is definitely a story I won't forget in a long time.
Before the Rains is not only a story about love though. There are many emotions key to the story and secrets and betrayals have a very important role in the story. The author certainly keeps some surprises in the store for us.
As usual, I can only praise Dinah Jefferies' writing. The story unwraps at the right pace, giving us enough time to take all the little details in and keeps us wondering what is going to happen next. All in all, a very complete and mesmerising read.
March 28, 2020
Super story!
By the second chapter, I knew I didn't want this book to end.
Dinah Jefferies is uniquely talented in immersing her readers in foreign cultures: in this case the culture of Rajputana. Set in colonial India, this story features an unusual romance between Eliza, a British photographer and Jayant, an Indian Prince.
When Eliza is given an opportunity to photograph the Indian royal family, little is she aware of how drastically her life would change. She is forced to navigate her way through complex palace politics and unfair societal constraints that befall her as a working woman in the 1930s. At the same time, she is entranced by a kind of love and connection she never thought was possible. Yet, despite all the challenges and losses she confronts, Eliza is destined for happiness.
What I love most about this story is Eliza's character and the truly romantic locations in Rajasthan.
I would recommend this book to absolutely anyone!
By the second chapter, I knew I didn't want this book to end.
Dinah Jefferies is uniquely talented in immersing her readers in foreign cultures: in this case the culture of Rajputana. Set in colonial India, this story features an unusual romance between Eliza, a British photographer and Jayant, an Indian Prince.
When Eliza is given an opportunity to photograph the Indian royal family, little is she aware of how drastically her life would change. She is forced to navigate her way through complex palace politics and unfair societal constraints that befall her as a working woman in the 1930s. At the same time, she is entranced by a kind of love and connection she never thought was possible. Yet, despite all the challenges and losses she confronts, Eliza is destined for happiness.
What I love most about this story is Eliza's character and the truly romantic locations in Rajasthan.
I would recommend this book to absolutely anyone!
August 27, 2018
Όταν πήρα στα χέρια μου το "Πριν τους μουσώνες", και αφού διάβασα την περίληψη του, η πρώτη μου σκέψη ήταν πως θα έρθω αντιμέτωπη με μια παραλλαγή του "Η Άννα και ο Βασιλιάς", γεγονός που με ανησύχησε αρκετά. Όχι πως η δεύτερη ιστορία δεν μου αρέσει, αλλά την θεωρώ αρκετά παρωχημένη ως προς την προσέγγισή της, μα και αρκετά πολυχρησιμοποιημένη για να έχει να μου προσφέρει κάτι το καινούργιο. Βέβαια, από την άλλη, είχα πίστη στη Dinah Jefferies, που μέχρι σήμερα ποτέ της δεν με απογοήτευσε μα αντίθετα, αποτελεί μία από τις πλέον αγαπημένες μου συγγραφείς του είδους της. Και πραγματικά, για μία ακόμη φορά, κατάφερε να με ταξιδέψει, να με παρασύρει, μα και να κάνει την καρδιά μου να χτυπήσει σε ρυθμούς δυνατούς και έντονους.
Μόλις στα είκοσι οχτώ της χρόνια, η Ελάιζα, βρίσκεται αντιμέτωπη με τη μοναξιά της, έπειτα από τον ξαφνικό θάνατο του συζύγου της. Μοναδική της παρηγοριά, η φωτογραφική της μηχανή, που την βοηθάει να ξεφεύγει από την πραγματικότητά της. Όταν η βρετανική κυβέρνηση τής προτείνει να ταξιδέψει σ' ένα ινδικό πριγκιπάτο προκειμένου να φωτογραφίσει την εκεί βασιλική οικογένεια, η Ελάιζα δέχεται χωρίς να το σκεφτεί δεύτερη φορά. Λέγοντας, όμως, αυτό το "ναι", δεν γνωρίζει πως αυτό το ταξίδι πρόκειται ν' αλλάξει τη ζωή της. Γιατί, στο παλάτι, η Ελάιζα θα γνωρίσει τον Τζέι, τον αδερφό του μαχαραγιά, μια γνωριμία μοιραία και για τους δυο τους. Χάρη στην Ελάιζα, ο Τζέι θα συνειδητοποιήσει την πραγματική, δραματική κατάσταση που βιώνει ο λαός του, ενώ εκείνη, με τη σειρά της, θ' ανοίξει τα μάτια της απέναντι στην κατάφωρη αδικία της κυβέρνησης της χώρας της απέναντι στους Ινδούς. Άραγε, θα μπορέσουν να περπατήσουν μαζί σ' ένα κοινό μονοπάτι;
Το έχω πει κι άλλες φορές, αλλά αξίζει να το πω μία φορά ακόμα. Η Dinah Jefferies έχει μία μοναδική αφηγηματική ικανότητα. Μπορεί να σε ταξιδέψει σε όποιο μέρος του κόσμου επιθυμεί, σε οποιοδήποτε χρονικό σημείο μπορεί εκείνη να επιλέξει, και να πλάσει με τις λέξεις της εικόνες τόσο αληθινές και ρεαλιστικές που να σε κάνουν να πιστέψεις πως πράγματι έχει βρεθεί και η ίδια εκεί -πράγμα, φυσικά, αδύνατο. Αυτό, φίλοι μου, εκτός από συγγραφική αφοσίωση και αφιέρωση αρκετού χρόνου από μεριάς του συγγραφέα, προκειμένου να κάνει την σχετική με το θέμα του έρευνα και να συλλέξει τ' απαραίτητα στοιχεία γύρω απ' αυτό, απαιτεί και ταλέντο για να το πετύχει κανείς. Και όπως επιβεβαιώνει για πολλοστή φορά η Jefferies, εκείνη διαθέτει και υπομονή και αφοσίωση και ικανότητα, το πάντρεμα των οποίων οδηγεί κάθε φορά σε ένα νέο, μαγευτικό χωροχρονικό ταξίδι που μας πλημμυρίζει εικόνες, αρώματα, χρώματα, και μας μυεί σε άλλους κόσμους, σε ήθη, έθιμα, μας συστήνει κουλτούρες και πολιτισμούς, που με τον έναν ή τον άλλον τρόπο, έχουν πράγματα να μας διδάξουν.
Και οδηγοί στο ταξίδι μας αυτό, δύο άνθρωποι τόσο διαφορετικοί μεταξύ τους που, όμως, το συναπάντημά τους μόνο τυχαίο δεν μπορεί να θεωρηθεί. Σαν η μοίρα να οδήγησε τα βήματά τους σε κοινά μονοπάτια προκειμένου ν' ανταμώσουν και να μάθουν ο ένας μέσα από τον άλλον. Να διδαχθούν αλήθειες που αγνοούσαν, είτε γιατί ήταν μπροστά στα μάτια τους και δεν τις έβλεπαν, είτε γιατί δεν γνώριζαν γι' αυτές. Να αναθεωρήσουν όσα πίστευαν για τη ζωή, τους ανθρώπους, την πολιτική -που πολλές φορές ορίζει και καθορίζει πεπρωμένα, ζωές, συνειδήσεις, επιλογές, χαρακτήρες-, ακόμα και για τον ίδιο τους τον εαυτό. Γιατί, μόνο όταν ο άνθρωπος απελευθερωθεί από τα δεσμά των προκαταλήψεών του και των ατομικών του ιδεών και πεποιθήσεων, μόνο όταν ανοίξει το μυαλό, μα κυρίως την καρδιά του, μπορεί να δει καθαρά και να κρίνει δίχως τίποτα το θολερό να σκιάζει το μυαλό του. Γιατί, όπως βλέπουν τα μάτια της ψυχής μας, δεν βλέπουν τα κανονικά μας μάτια.
Πολύ έξυπνη η επιλογή της Jefferies, η Ελάιζα, να έχει βρεθεί ξανά στην Ινδία, γιατί αυτό επιτρέπει μια πιο πολυδιάσταση προσέγγιση του θέματος, τόσο από πολιτικής απόψεως, όσο και σε πιο προσωπικό, ενδοσκοπικά αναλυτικό επίπεδο. Όπως πολύ έξυπνο είναι και το γεγονός πως δίνει στον έρωτα ανάμεσα σ' εκείνη και τον Τζέι, τον χρόνο που χρειάζεται για να γεννηθεί και να καλλιεργηθεί αυτός. Έτσι, το συναίσθημα έρχεται με τρόπο φυσικό, ρεαλιστικό και ανεπιτήδευτο, κάτι που βοηθάει κι εμάς ως αναγνώστες να πιστέψουμε πιο εύκολα σε αυτόν, και να εναποθέσουμε τις ελπίδες μας στη θεωρία πως όταν κάποιος θέλει κάτι πολύ, μπορεί να το πετύχει, αρκεί να προσπαθήσει, ακόμα και να κάνει θυσίες. Άραγε, οι δυο τους τα κατάφεραν; Αν θέλετε να το ανακαλύψετε, θα πρέπει να πορευθείτε μαζί τους. Και πιστέψτε με... δεν θα χάσετε.
Μόλις στα είκοσι οχτώ της χρόνια, η Ελάιζα, βρίσκεται αντιμέτωπη με τη μοναξιά της, έπειτα από τον ξαφνικό θάνατο του συζύγου της. Μοναδική της παρηγοριά, η φωτογραφική της μηχανή, που την βοηθάει να ξεφεύγει από την πραγματικότητά της. Όταν η βρετανική κυβέρνηση τής προτείνει να ταξιδέψει σ' ένα ινδικό πριγκιπάτο προκειμένου να φωτογραφίσει την εκεί βασιλική οικογένεια, η Ελάιζα δέχεται χωρίς να το σκεφτεί δεύτερη φορά. Λέγοντας, όμως, αυτό το "ναι", δεν γνωρίζει πως αυτό το ταξίδι πρόκειται ν' αλλάξει τη ζωή της. Γιατί, στο παλάτι, η Ελάιζα θα γνωρίσει τον Τζέι, τον αδερφό του μαχαραγιά, μια γνωριμία μοιραία και για τους δυο τους. Χάρη στην Ελάιζα, ο Τζέι θα συνειδητοποιήσει την πραγματική, δραματική κατάσταση που βιώνει ο λαός του, ενώ εκείνη, με τη σειρά της, θ' ανοίξει τα μάτια της απέναντι στην κατάφωρη αδικία της κυβέρνησης της χώρας της απέναντι στους Ινδούς. Άραγε, θα μπορέσουν να περπατήσουν μαζί σ' ένα κοινό μονοπάτι;
Το έχω πει κι άλλες φορές, αλλά αξίζει να το πω μία φορά ακόμα. Η Dinah Jefferies έχει μία μοναδική αφηγηματική ικανότητα. Μπορεί να σε ταξιδέψει σε όποιο μέρος του κόσμου επιθυμεί, σε οποιοδήποτε χρονικό σημείο μπορεί εκείνη να επιλέξει, και να πλάσει με τις λέξεις της εικόνες τόσο αληθινές και ρεαλιστικές που να σε κάνουν να πιστέψεις πως πράγματι έχει βρεθεί και η ίδια εκεί -πράγμα, φυσικά, αδύνατο. Αυτό, φίλοι μου, εκτός από συγγραφική αφοσίωση και αφιέρωση αρκετού χρόνου από μεριάς του συγγραφέα, προκειμένου να κάνει την σχετική με το θέμα του έρευνα και να συλλέξει τ' απαραίτητα στοιχεία γύρω απ' αυτό, απαιτεί και ταλέντο για να το πετύχει κανείς. Και όπως επιβεβαιώνει για πολλοστή φορά η Jefferies, εκείνη διαθέτει και υπομονή και αφοσίωση και ικανότητα, το πάντρεμα των οποίων οδηγεί κάθε φορά σε ένα νέο, μαγευτικό χωροχρονικό ταξίδι που μας πλημμυρίζει εικόνες, αρώματα, χρώματα, και μας μυεί σε άλλους κόσμους, σε ήθη, έθιμα, μας συστήνει κουλτούρες και πολιτισμούς, που με τον έναν ή τον άλλον τρόπο, έχουν πράγματα να μας διδάξουν.
Και οδηγοί στο ταξίδι μας αυτό, δύο άνθρωποι τόσο διαφορετικοί μεταξύ τους που, όμως, το συναπάντημά τους μόνο τυχαίο δεν μπορεί να θεωρηθεί. Σαν η μοίρα να οδήγησε τα βήματά τους σε κοινά μονοπάτια προκειμένου ν' ανταμώσουν και να μάθουν ο ένας μέσα από τον άλλον. Να διδαχθούν αλήθειες που αγνοούσαν, είτε γιατί ήταν μπροστά στα μάτια τους και δεν τις έβλεπαν, είτε γιατί δεν γνώριζαν γι' αυτές. Να αναθεωρήσουν όσα πίστευαν για τη ζωή, τους ανθρώπους, την πολιτική -που πολλές φορές ορίζει και καθορίζει πεπρωμένα, ζωές, συνειδήσεις, επιλογές, χαρακτήρες-, ακόμα και για τον ίδιο τους τον εαυτό. Γιατί, μόνο όταν ο άνθρωπος απελευθερωθεί από τα δεσμά των προκαταλήψεών του και των ατομικών του ιδεών και πεποιθήσεων, μόνο όταν ανοίξει το μυαλό, μα κυρίως την καρδιά του, μπορεί να δει καθαρά και να κρίνει δίχως τίποτα το θολερό να σκιάζει το μυαλό του. Γιατί, όπως βλέπουν τα μάτια της ψυχής μας, δεν βλέπουν τα κανονικά μας μάτια.
Πολύ έξυπνη η επιλογή της Jefferies, η Ελάιζα, να έχει βρεθεί ξανά στην Ινδία, γιατί αυτό επιτρέπει μια πιο πολυδιάσταση προσέγγιση του θέματος, τόσο από πολιτικής απόψεως, όσο και σε πιο προσωπικό, ενδοσκοπικά αναλυτικό επίπεδο. Όπως πολύ έξυπνο είναι και το γεγονός πως δίνει στον έρωτα ανάμεσα σ' εκείνη και τον Τζέι, τον χρόνο που χρειάζεται για να γεννηθεί και να καλλιεργηθεί αυτός. Έτσι, το συναίσθημα έρχεται με τρόπο φυσικό, ρεαλιστικό και ανεπιτήδευτο, κάτι που βοηθάει κι εμάς ως αναγνώστες να πιστέψουμε πιο εύκολα σε αυτόν, και να εναποθέσουμε τις ελπίδες μας στη θεωρία πως όταν κάποιος θέλει κάτι πολύ, μπορεί να το πετύχει, αρκεί να προσπαθήσει, ακόμα και να κάνει θυσίες. Άραγε, οι δυο τους τα κατάφεραν; Αν θέλετε να το ανακαλύψετε, θα πρέπει να πορευθείτε μαζί τους. Και πιστέψτε με... δεν θα χάσετε.
November 27, 2018
India anului 1930. Arome de nucșoară, chili și coriandru. Parfum de iasomie, tămâie și mosc. Miros simplu de pământ proaspăt și aroma nisipului din deșert. Chiparoși, palmieri și portocali. Rajputana, Delhi și Udaipore. Colonade, marmură albă și acoperișuri de la înălțimea cărora ți se dezvăluie o întreagă lume. Palate, rajahi, atmosferă de poveste. Bazaruri pline de culoare și de savoare. Exotism și natură luxuriantă. Un amestec de Orient și Occident.
Toate cele menționate creează fundalul pe care se construiește acțiunea romanului „Înainte de ploi” scris de Dinnah Jeffries. Atmosfera pe care autoarea reușește să o redea în opera sa este cea care face întreg deliciul. Prin intermediul acesteia, ți se induce o stare permanentă de visare. Poți vizualiza cu claritate toate locurile descrise în carte și parcă te și vezi făcându-ți bagajele și plecând să te descoperi la nivel spiritual și să îți găsești liniștea sufletească în îndepărtata Indie. Tocmai cadrul este cel care facilitează povestea de iubire care stă la baza acțiunii romanului, căci un asemenea loc te îndeamnă, parcă, să te îndrăgostești. Fără acesta, istoria de amor nu ar fi fost credibilă și încă mai cred că era potrivit finalul oferit înainte de adevărata finalitate a cărții, însă aceasta este o cu totul altă poveste.
https://sufletsicrampeie.blogspot.com...
Toate cele menționate creează fundalul pe care se construiește acțiunea romanului „Înainte de ploi” scris de Dinnah Jeffries. Atmosfera pe care autoarea reușește să o redea în opera sa este cea care face întreg deliciul. Prin intermediul acesteia, ți se induce o stare permanentă de visare. Poți vizualiza cu claritate toate locurile descrise în carte și parcă te și vezi făcându-ți bagajele și plecând să te descoperi la nivel spiritual și să îți găsești liniștea sufletească în îndepărtata Indie. Tocmai cadrul este cel care facilitează povestea de iubire care stă la baza acțiunii romanului, căci un asemenea loc te îndeamnă, parcă, să te îndrăgostești. Fără acesta, istoria de amor nu ar fi fost credibilă și încă mai cred că era potrivit finalul oferit înainte de adevărata finalitate a cărții, însă aceasta este o cu totul altă poveste.
https://sufletsicrampeie.blogspot.com...
September 17, 2021
4,5⭐️ Dinah Jeffries se pricepe sa creeze povesti de dragoste plasate intr-un cadru exotic, schițând personaje interesante si usor de îndrăgit.
Actiunea se petrece in India, interbelica, unde Eliza o tanara văduva este trimisa de catre guvernul britanic sa fotografieze familia regală.
Aceasta se îndrăgostește iremediabil de Jay, fratele misterios al printului si astfel intre cei doi se naste o poveste de dragoste imposibila.
Actiunea se petrece in India, interbelica, unde Eliza o tanara văduva este trimisa de catre guvernul britanic sa fotografieze familia regală.
Aceasta se îndrăgostește iremediabil de Jay, fratele misterios al printului si astfel intre cei doi se naste o poveste de dragoste imposibila.
July 27, 2018
No me ha decepcionado, una bella historia muy bien ambientada
November 6, 2017
Es la primera vez que leo algo de Dinah Jefferies y no será la última. A pesar de no acabar de conectar con la protagonista (Eliza) eso no me impidió seguir enganchada, el contexto exótico y tan bien descrito mantiene en vilo al lector de principio a fin.
El estilo es envidiable, hace fácil algo muy difícil como es explicar una cultura totalmente distinta a la nuestra en pequeñas dosis. Pocos autores consiguen entrelazar el marco escénico con la propia trama sin que quede como un parche o un simple copia-pega. Por poneros un ejemplo, en la página 197 viviremos en primera mano el festival Holi en muchos sitios de España celebramos la Holi party , esta idea viene de la India y en esta novela lo viviréis de primera mano:
«Pero lo que empezó a latirle en las venas fue el tamborileo hipnótico, el ritmo que se entrelazaba con la gente, que baila sin dejar de arrojar polvo de colores. Nubes de todas las tonalidades iluminaban el aire (rojo, azul, verde y amarillo), se arremolinaban, volaban en grandes bocanadas y flotaban sobre sus cabezas. Era como si el cielo hubiese decidido abrir su caja de pinturas y vaciar los colores sobre el mundo, a sus pies.»
En cuanto a la trama, en el prólogo viviremos junto a una joven Eliza la muerte de su padre. Un trágico asesinato que la muchacha nunca podrá borrar de su memoria. Tras ese suceso, tanto Eliza como su madre deciden abandonar la India y volver a tierras británicas, aquí nuestra protagonista intenta integrarse pero ni en la escuela ni en su matrimonio con Oliver lo consigue.
Cuando Clifford Salter contacta con ella para volver a la India y trabajar de fotógrafa sus dos pasiones se unen, no duda aceptar la propuesta y volver a esa tierra que tanto añoraba. Su oficio es fotografiar a las mujeres de palacio. Desde un principio no será bienvenida, los ingleses no están bien vistos pero tendrá un aliado: Jay, maharajá de Rapjután.
El núcleo de esta historia está en la relación imposible- prohibida entre Eliza y Ray, no solo porque ella es europea y el maharajá debe casarse con alguien de su tierra, sino que además nuestra protagonista es viuda. Cuando la gente se entera de este hecho, todos huyen de la muchacha por temor a que les «contamine». Si queréis saber por qué están mal vistas os recomiendo leer el libro y sino buscad el ritual satí aunque en ese momento era ilegal, se seguía practicando de forma clandestina.
«El problema no es solo que seas inglesa. Antiguamente se celebraban muchos matrimonios entre la realeza india y la aristocracia europea; a veces, con personas que ni siquiera eran aristócratas. A las mujeres se las reconocía como esposas legítimas, y a sus hijos, como herederos legítimos. Pero entonces Lord Cruzan aprobó una ley para prohibir que el hijo de un gobernante hand´y y su esposa europea pudiese acceder al trono.»
No solo nos veremos envueltos en una tortuosa historia de amor, también hay una parte importante de intriga, el palacio no es seguro y las paredes tienen oídos. Jay se verá inmerso en una red de mentiras y traiciones, tan solo podrá confiar en Eliza y su madre.
Lo peor de la historia -y por eso no se lleva el sobresaliente- es la protagonista, a pesar de todos los conflictos que vive me ha sido imposible empalizar con ella. Es difícil acceder a ella y en algunos momentos resulta egoísta. Quizás hubiese sido mejor usar la primera persona parece que esta autora en tercera no dota a sus personajes de personalidades fuertes, es una pena con el gran trabajo que ha hecho con la contextualización y la trama.
Si queréis conocer más sobre la India del siglo XX este es vuestro libro
http://alasombradelromancecriticas.bl...
El estilo es envidiable, hace fácil algo muy difícil como es explicar una cultura totalmente distinta a la nuestra en pequeñas dosis. Pocos autores consiguen entrelazar el marco escénico con la propia trama sin que quede como un parche o un simple copia-pega. Por poneros un ejemplo, en la página 197 viviremos en primera mano el festival Holi en muchos sitios de España celebramos la Holi party , esta idea viene de la India y en esta novela lo viviréis de primera mano:
«Pero lo que empezó a latirle en las venas fue el tamborileo hipnótico, el ritmo que se entrelazaba con la gente, que baila sin dejar de arrojar polvo de colores. Nubes de todas las tonalidades iluminaban el aire (rojo, azul, verde y amarillo), se arremolinaban, volaban en grandes bocanadas y flotaban sobre sus cabezas. Era como si el cielo hubiese decidido abrir su caja de pinturas y vaciar los colores sobre el mundo, a sus pies.»
En cuanto a la trama, en el prólogo viviremos junto a una joven Eliza la muerte de su padre. Un trágico asesinato que la muchacha nunca podrá borrar de su memoria. Tras ese suceso, tanto Eliza como su madre deciden abandonar la India y volver a tierras británicas, aquí nuestra protagonista intenta integrarse pero ni en la escuela ni en su matrimonio con Oliver lo consigue.
Cuando Clifford Salter contacta con ella para volver a la India y trabajar de fotógrafa sus dos pasiones se unen, no duda aceptar la propuesta y volver a esa tierra que tanto añoraba. Su oficio es fotografiar a las mujeres de palacio. Desde un principio no será bienvenida, los ingleses no están bien vistos pero tendrá un aliado: Jay, maharajá de Rapjután.
El núcleo de esta historia está en la relación imposible- prohibida entre Eliza y Ray, no solo porque ella es europea y el maharajá debe casarse con alguien de su tierra, sino que además nuestra protagonista es viuda. Cuando la gente se entera de este hecho, todos huyen de la muchacha por temor a que les «contamine». Si queréis saber por qué están mal vistas os recomiendo leer el libro y sino buscad el ritual satí aunque en ese momento era ilegal, se seguía practicando de forma clandestina.
«El problema no es solo que seas inglesa. Antiguamente se celebraban muchos matrimonios entre la realeza india y la aristocracia europea; a veces, con personas que ni siquiera eran aristócratas. A las mujeres se las reconocía como esposas legítimas, y a sus hijos, como herederos legítimos. Pero entonces Lord Cruzan aprobó una ley para prohibir que el hijo de un gobernante hand´y y su esposa europea pudiese acceder al trono.»
No solo nos veremos envueltos en una tortuosa historia de amor, también hay una parte importante de intriga, el palacio no es seguro y las paredes tienen oídos. Jay se verá inmerso en una red de mentiras y traiciones, tan solo podrá confiar en Eliza y su madre.
Lo peor de la historia -y por eso no se lleva el sobresaliente- es la protagonista, a pesar de todos los conflictos que vive me ha sido imposible empalizar con ella. Es difícil acceder a ella y en algunos momentos resulta egoísta. Quizás hubiese sido mejor usar la primera persona parece que esta autora en tercera no dota a sus personajes de personalidades fuertes, es una pena con el gran trabajo que ha hecho con la contextualización y la trama.
Si queréis conocer más sobre la India del siglo XX este es vuestro libro
http://alasombradelromancecriticas.bl...
November 12, 2017
Lo stile di Dinah Jefferies non cambia e non delude mai. In ogni romanzo trasporta il lettore in posti sempre più belli, cercando di far conoscere culture sempre un po' sconosciute.
Non possiamo capire profondamente l'India, per esempio, se non l'abbiamo mai visitata. Viverci, poi, sarebbe perfetto per capire nel profondo tutte le usanze.
Con "Il silenzio della pioggia d'estate" ci sembra quasi di vivere in India, di visitare tutti i posti visitati dalla protagonista Eliza e di avere davanti agli occhi le sue fotografie.
Oltre ai bellissimi paesaggi, l'autrice ci insegna anche le tradizioni indiane e quanto esse siano radicate. Tra le tante: una vedova può essere bruciata viva come una strega del passato e un sovrano indiano non potrà mai sposare una donna inglese.
La cosa che mi colpisce sempre tanto dei libri di Dinah Jefferies è lo studio che si nasconde dietro le pagine. Ogni volta nelle note dell'autrice troviamo una lista di libri che le sono serviti per documentarsi e non possiamo fare a meno di apprezzare tutto il suo impegno, accorgendoci anche che forse è proprio quest'ultimo a rendere i suoi romanzi dei piccoli capolavori.
Lo stile di scrittura dell'autrice, inoltre, non è mai frivolo. Stiamo parlando di un romance, perciò non è facile nasconderci all'interno dei messaggi importanti. Eppure l'autrice ci riesce.
Il personaggio di Eliza mi è sicuramente piaciuto tantissimo, ma per tutto il romanzo la persona che apprezziamo di più è sicuramente Jay.
Quando lasci tutto per amore puoi solo essere amato.
Non possiamo capire profondamente l'India, per esempio, se non l'abbiamo mai visitata. Viverci, poi, sarebbe perfetto per capire nel profondo tutte le usanze.
Con "Il silenzio della pioggia d'estate" ci sembra quasi di vivere in India, di visitare tutti i posti visitati dalla protagonista Eliza e di avere davanti agli occhi le sue fotografie.
Oltre ai bellissimi paesaggi, l'autrice ci insegna anche le tradizioni indiane e quanto esse siano radicate. Tra le tante: una vedova può essere bruciata viva come una strega del passato e un sovrano indiano non potrà mai sposare una donna inglese.
La cosa che mi colpisce sempre tanto dei libri di Dinah Jefferies è lo studio che si nasconde dietro le pagine. Ogni volta nelle note dell'autrice troviamo una lista di libri che le sono serviti per documentarsi e non possiamo fare a meno di apprezzare tutto il suo impegno, accorgendoci anche che forse è proprio quest'ultimo a rendere i suoi romanzi dei piccoli capolavori.
Lo stile di scrittura dell'autrice, inoltre, non è mai frivolo. Stiamo parlando di un romance, perciò non è facile nasconderci all'interno dei messaggi importanti. Eppure l'autrice ci riesce.
Il personaggio di Eliza mi è sicuramente piaciuto tantissimo, ma per tutto il romanzo la persona che apprezziamo di più è sicuramente Jay.
Quando lasci tutto per amore puoi solo essere amato.
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