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The Nostradamus Prophecy
'Hark to the Beating Wings of the Angel of Death!'
When Nostradamus, wild-eyed and trembling, proclaims to the French court his prophecy of a great massacre, the young King Charles only laughs. His mother, Catherine de Medici, pays more heed to the soothsayer's words - she believes he can truly see the future.
But Nostradamus's prophecies are not only for those who rule: he also has a message for Melisande, the minstrel's daughter. For he is certain that Fate links him and Melisande together. And as the Angel of Death approaches, the soothsayer gives into her safekeeping some very special parchments - parchments that the titled heads of France would do anything to see.
A rich, dramatic adventure set in the tumultuous years of the alte sixteenth century in France - a time of assassination, poisons, seers and the sword.
A time when a king must be saved...
When Nostradamus, wild-eyed and trembling, proclaims to the French court his prophecy of a great massacre, the young King Charles only laughs. His mother, Catherine de Medici, pays more heed to the soothsayer's words - she believes he can truly see the future.
But Nostradamus's prophecies are not only for those who rule: he also has a message for Melisande, the minstrel's daughter. For he is certain that Fate links him and Melisande together. And as the Angel of Death approaches, the soothsayer gives into her safekeeping some very special parchments - parchments that the titled heads of France would do anything to see.
A rich, dramatic adventure set in the tumultuous years of the alte sixteenth century in France - a time of assassination, poisons, seers and the sword.
A time when a king must be saved...
480 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2008
7 people are currently reading
479 people want to read
About the author
Theresa Breslin
90 books96 followersTheresa Breslin is a Scottish author of over 50 books, known for her contributions to children's and young adult literature. She won the Carnegie Medal in 1994 for Whispers in the Graveyard, which tells the story of a dyslexic boy overcoming personal struggles. Born and raised in Kirkintilloch, Scotland, she started writing as a teenager and later worked as a librarian before becoming a full-time author.
Her works often explore historical and social themes, as seen in Divided City (2005), which addresses sectarianism in Glasgow, and The Medici Seal (2006), a historical novel featuring Leonardo da Vinci. Her book Prisoner of the Inquisition (2010) was shortlisted for another Carnegie Medal.
Breslin has received numerous accolades, including the Scottish Book Trust's Outstanding Achievement Award and an Honorary Fellowship from the Association for Scottish Literary Studies. In 2019, she was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her services to literature.
Her works often explore historical and social themes, as seen in Divided City (2005), which addresses sectarianism in Glasgow, and The Medici Seal (2006), a historical novel featuring Leonardo da Vinci. Her book Prisoner of the Inquisition (2010) was shortlisted for another Carnegie Medal.
Breslin has received numerous accolades, including the Scottish Book Trust's Outstanding Achievement Award and an Honorary Fellowship from the Association for Scottish Literary Studies. In 2019, she was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her services to literature.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 31, 2019
4,75 sterren - Nederlandse hardcover 😁🦋
Een historische roman over een historisch figuur. De schrijfster deed dit eerder en ik vind dat ze wonderwel is geslaagd in het creëren van een geloofwaardig verhaal. De hoofdrolspeelster wordt zo neergezet dat je haar zo nu en dan wilt schoppen en dan weer knuffelen. Er zijn herkenbare karaktertrekken in haar en zoals in elk leven hoogte en dieptepunten. Dat een koning of koningin, en ook de adel, niet echt wakker lag van de leven van de gewone man wordt in dit boek aangehaald zonder echt storend te zijn. Te lezen vanaf 14 jaar maar ook zeker voor degene die van een historische young adult houden. 🌝🦋
Een historische roman over een historisch figuur. De schrijfster deed dit eerder en ik vind dat ze wonderwel is geslaagd in het creëren van een geloofwaardig verhaal. De hoofdrolspeelster wordt zo neergezet dat je haar zo nu en dan wilt schoppen en dan weer knuffelen. Er zijn herkenbare karaktertrekken in haar en zoals in elk leven hoogte en dieptepunten. Dat een koning of koningin, en ook de adel, niet echt wakker lag van de leven van de gewone man wordt in dit boek aangehaald zonder echt storend te zijn. Te lezen vanaf 14 jaar maar ook zeker voor degene die van een historische young adult houden. 🌝🦋
March 16, 2024
If I had known this was a YA novel, I would not have picked it up. I don't (generally) get along with YA novels anymore. I also don't read a lot of historical fiction. But I enjoyed this novel a great deal, possibly because I'd read a history book that covered the historical events in this book fairly recently and anticipating how the fictional events would fit in was fun. The novel is set in the France of Nostradamus, King Charles IX, and his mother Catherine de Medici, culminating in the St. Bartholomew's Day massacre. The writing style is direct and expressive, the characters (especially Lord Thierry) were interesting if somewhat underdeveloped (in my experience this is a feature of YA novels?). The plot is fairly predictable, but there are some surprises. This is, however, an entertaining and competently written YA historical fiction novel.
March 1, 2015
Though The Nostradamus Prophecy was brilliantly done, I cannot claim to have enjoyed it anywhere near as much as Prisoner of the Inquisition or The Medici Seal, both of which were also written by Theresa Breslin. It would be going too far to say that this novel was a disappointment, but it did leave we with a vague sense of disquiet and dissatisfaction.
Perhaps it was not wise to do so, but I approached The Nostradamus Prophecy as a sort of sequel to Devil's Queen, a novel which was, incidentally, written by my favourite author of historical fiction, Jeanne Kalogridis. (The Nostradamus Prophecy is set over a time period that comprises perhaps the last third of Devil's Queen.) Devil's Queen has a story that revolves around the main character of Catherine de'Medici, and Kalogridis paints a decidedly more sympathetic picture of Catherine than Theresa Breslin. Needles to say, therefore, the extremely unsympathetic portrait given in this novel rather annoyed me. I haven't done enough personal research to definitively say which authoress presents a more accurate depiction of the woman. But - perhaps because I have a little bit of a soft spot for the Medici family - I simply did not enjoy Theresa Breslin's take as much as Jeanne Kalogridis' version.
That being said, it appeared to me that Theresa Breslin managed to paint swift and vivid portraits of all her other historical characters; portraits that to me seemed pretty much spot on. King Charles was - quite rightly, in my view - depicted as a weak, vicious, sadistic little bastard, and King Henri of Navarre was, by contrast an honourable, clever and kind man. And frankly, far more deserving of the word "King" than Charles ever was.
On that note... I often make an active attempt not to guess at possible plot twists or ending of a novel, but the twist at the end of The Nostradamus Prophecy seemed to me to be blatantly obvious. Which is an impressive feat, seeing as I'm usually on the receiving end of comments like: "How did you not see that coming?" ... *sigh*
Aside from the impressively obvious plot twist, Theresa Breslin's writing style was deeply impressive, as per usual. She has the talent of shocking the reader with extraordinary ease, and at all time the expressive way she used her words makes the novel almost sing with intense emotion. Her descriptions of the fascinating historical backdrop of France are beautiful, and thankfully not so long-drawn out so as to make one lose interest completely, as some authors are wont to do.
The main character, Melisande (I love that name on paper, but someone please tell me how to pronounce it), is a lovely young thing, thankfully with the inability to lie with any sort of success whatsoever. Heroines can be all too devious in certain novels nowadays. It was both a pleasure and a sadness to watch Melisande's character grow up throughout the novel. She had the usually heroic qualities of bravery, loyalty, and intelligence, but her character was enhanced by her gift for prophecy and her extraordinary love of music. Though I can't pretend to share her skill, I certainly felt like I could identify with Melisande every time she spoke of her music, or her sorrow at being without it.
My favourite character in the novel, hands down, was Lord Thierry. He was exceedingly intelligent, and rather cunning in that way that just makes you want to laugh with delight when he outwits people. His character added excitement and inspired affection - at least in me. I found hi to be a vastly interesting character, simply because he seemed so trustworthy, but at the same time you had to maintain reservations to begin with because Melisande is so nervous of him. I found his love of music and the way it warmed his heart very, very sweet. Furthermore, I loved the way that his kindness and shyness were often juxtaposed with the qualities of a natural-born leader worthy of devotion. Yes, yes, I know, I'm very cliché and sickening, but you can all stop puking now.
In terms of the romance aspect of the novel, I did like Melchior, but I found that his being absent for a significant part of the novel meant that he had less character development than I would have liked. I mean, frankly I was often more interested in his pet leopard Paladin. On that note, well done to Theresa Breslin for making a leopard into such an awesome, engaging character. Anyway, Melchior... decent hero with good qualities, but with an underdeveloped character.
The historical setting of France is one that doesn't interest me quite so much as that of the Italian Renaissance. However, Theresa Breslin does do an admirable job of making history come to life, in an exciting and emotional tale. While I didn't enjoy it quite as much as some of her other works, The Nostradamus Prophecy is truly deserving of the four stars I decided to give to it. I would, however, very highly recommend her other novels, The Medici Seal and Prisoner of the Inquisition, both of which I gave five stars. (I would also recommend Jeanne Kalogridis work to anyone interested in the Italian Renaissance).
Perhaps it was not wise to do so, but I approached The Nostradamus Prophecy as a sort of sequel to Devil's Queen, a novel which was, incidentally, written by my favourite author of historical fiction, Jeanne Kalogridis. (The Nostradamus Prophecy is set over a time period that comprises perhaps the last third of Devil's Queen.) Devil's Queen has a story that revolves around the main character of Catherine de'Medici, and Kalogridis paints a decidedly more sympathetic picture of Catherine than Theresa Breslin. Needles to say, therefore, the extremely unsympathetic portrait given in this novel rather annoyed me. I haven't done enough personal research to definitively say which authoress presents a more accurate depiction of the woman. But - perhaps because I have a little bit of a soft spot for the Medici family - I simply did not enjoy Theresa Breslin's take as much as Jeanne Kalogridis' version.
That being said, it appeared to me that Theresa Breslin managed to paint swift and vivid portraits of all her other historical characters; portraits that to me seemed pretty much spot on. King Charles was - quite rightly, in my view - depicted as a weak, vicious, sadistic little bastard, and King Henri of Navarre was, by contrast an honourable, clever and kind man. And frankly, far more deserving of the word "King" than Charles ever was.
On that note... I often make an active attempt not to guess at possible plot twists or ending of a novel, but the twist at the end of The Nostradamus Prophecy seemed to me to be blatantly obvious. Which is an impressive feat, seeing as I'm usually on the receiving end of comments like: "How did you not see that coming?" ... *sigh*
Aside from the impressively obvious plot twist, Theresa Breslin's writing style was deeply impressive, as per usual. She has the talent of shocking the reader with extraordinary ease, and at all time the expressive way she used her words makes the novel almost sing with intense emotion. Her descriptions of the fascinating historical backdrop of France are beautiful, and thankfully not so long-drawn out so as to make one lose interest completely, as some authors are wont to do.
The main character, Melisande (I love that name on paper, but someone please tell me how to pronounce it), is a lovely young thing, thankfully with the inability to lie with any sort of success whatsoever. Heroines can be all too devious in certain novels nowadays. It was both a pleasure and a sadness to watch Melisande's character grow up throughout the novel. She had the usually heroic qualities of bravery, loyalty, and intelligence, but her character was enhanced by her gift for prophecy and her extraordinary love of music. Though I can't pretend to share her skill, I certainly felt like I could identify with Melisande every time she spoke of her music, or her sorrow at being without it.
My favourite character in the novel, hands down, was Lord Thierry. He was exceedingly intelligent, and rather cunning in that way that just makes you want to laugh with delight when he outwits people. His character added excitement and inspired affection - at least in me. I found hi to be a vastly interesting character, simply because he seemed so trustworthy, but at the same time you had to maintain reservations to begin with because Melisande is so nervous of him. I found his love of music and the way it warmed his heart very, very sweet. Furthermore, I loved the way that his kindness and shyness were often juxtaposed with the qualities of a natural-born leader worthy of devotion. Yes, yes, I know, I'm very cliché and sickening, but you can all stop puking now.
In terms of the romance aspect of the novel, I did like Melchior, but I found that his being absent for a significant part of the novel meant that he had less character development than I would have liked. I mean, frankly I was often more interested in his pet leopard Paladin. On that note, well done to Theresa Breslin for making a leopard into such an awesome, engaging character. Anyway, Melchior... decent hero with good qualities, but with an underdeveloped character.
The historical setting of France is one that doesn't interest me quite so much as that of the Italian Renaissance. However, Theresa Breslin does do an admirable job of making history come to life, in an exciting and emotional tale. While I didn't enjoy it quite as much as some of her other works, The Nostradamus Prophecy is truly deserving of the four stars I decided to give to it. I would, however, very highly recommend her other novels, The Medici Seal and Prisoner of the Inquisition, both of which I gave five stars. (I would also recommend Jeanne Kalogridis work to anyone interested in the Italian Renaissance).
June 22, 2022
4,5 stars - Dutch paperback
Mystery mied with history.
I will writte a better review when the book gets back from my neighbour who reads it now. My review-paper is in the book.
Mystery mied with history.
I will writte a better review when the book gets back from my neighbour who reads it now. My review-paper is in the book.
Read
August 21, 2024DNF’ed at 40% (ish). It started slow, went somewhere (I have no idea) and I kind of lost the will to care 😬🤦♀️
January 27, 2011
Theresa Breslin's 'The Nostradamus Prophecies' follows the turmoil of Melisande, Minstrel's daughter, after the death of her sister and the imprisonment of her sister. Thirteen year old Mesliande must escape the court of King Charles IX and his widowed Mother, he Regent Catherine de' Medici. In her terror, confusion and determination to see her sister avenged, Melisande knows only one man who can help her. Michel de Nostradamus. Unfortunately for Melisande, Nostradamus has seen more than just her Father's rescue in her future.
Breslin has set her novel in 1566-72 France during the Religious Wars that riddled the rule of young Prince Charles and towards the very end of the life of, the most famous soothsayer of all time, Nostradamus. Breslin immediately makes an effort to keep history in its place while creating her own set of events. By creating a series of unimportant characters, to history, Breslin has allowed the events in her novel to unfold as though they are fact. Mesliande, the daughter of a travelling Minstrel, her love interest, the wild Leopard tamer, Melchior and several other characters have been created to interact with the historical cast of King Charle's cast. As Melisande's story focuses on her mission on behalf of Nostradamus, it is accepted by the reader that the events could reflect fact as Nostradamus was a very mysterious figure.
Breslin has chosen well in Mesliande. Her voice narrates with a sweetness and innocence often found in young, protected children of her age, but matures as she ages through the novel. She is kind, without guile and dedicated; her stubbornness is a natural trait when compared to her love for her family and her music.
Breslin has few faults in the Nostradamus Prophecies. Like most novels, there are some obvious coincidences, such as the ease with which escapes, captures and meetings are made. Melisande is lucky to find people, in a mostly poverty stricken and war ridden country, who are able to care for her.
For those without knowledge of the events rule of King Charles IX, the massacre prophesied by Nostradamus in the first chapters is difficult to think out. But for those with some knowledge, Melisande's confusion can be frustrating. As she repeatedly describes the fighting, sieges and distrust between those of Protestant and Catholic faith, it is hard to know how she fails to recognise it for the massacre it will eventually become.
Melisande must face many trials, the least of which is knowing who can, and cannot, be trusted. Her naturally emotional personality, important to a Minstrel, leads her to share her story with more people than she ought; despite repeated warnings to tell no one anything. Breslin's other characters are not as complex as Mesliande and some, such as Giorgio and Lord Thierry, are quite predictable despite the ways she attempts to mask their motives.
The Nostradamus Prophecies are an interesting insight into the world of 16th Century France, and I urge anyone with an interest to pick it up. I look forward to reading The Medici Seal.
Breslin has set her novel in 1566-72 France during the Religious Wars that riddled the rule of young Prince Charles and towards the very end of the life of, the most famous soothsayer of all time, Nostradamus. Breslin immediately makes an effort to keep history in its place while creating her own set of events. By creating a series of unimportant characters, to history, Breslin has allowed the events in her novel to unfold as though they are fact. Mesliande, the daughter of a travelling Minstrel, her love interest, the wild Leopard tamer, Melchior and several other characters have been created to interact with the historical cast of King Charle's cast. As Melisande's story focuses on her mission on behalf of Nostradamus, it is accepted by the reader that the events could reflect fact as Nostradamus was a very mysterious figure.
Breslin has chosen well in Mesliande. Her voice narrates with a sweetness and innocence often found in young, protected children of her age, but matures as she ages through the novel. She is kind, without guile and dedicated; her stubbornness is a natural trait when compared to her love for her family and her music.
Breslin has few faults in the Nostradamus Prophecies. Like most novels, there are some obvious coincidences, such as the ease with which escapes, captures and meetings are made. Melisande is lucky to find people, in a mostly poverty stricken and war ridden country, who are able to care for her.
For those without knowledge of the events rule of King Charles IX, the massacre prophesied by Nostradamus in the first chapters is difficult to think out. But for those with some knowledge, Melisande's confusion can be frustrating. As she repeatedly describes the fighting, sieges and distrust between those of Protestant and Catholic faith, it is hard to know how she fails to recognise it for the massacre it will eventually become.
Melisande must face many trials, the least of which is knowing who can, and cannot, be trusted. Her naturally emotional personality, important to a Minstrel, leads her to share her story with more people than she ought; despite repeated warnings to tell no one anything. Breslin's other characters are not as complex as Mesliande and some, such as Giorgio and Lord Thierry, are quite predictable despite the ways she attempts to mask their motives.
The Nostradamus Prophecies are an interesting insight into the world of 16th Century France, and I urge anyone with an interest to pick it up. I look forward to reading The Medici Seal.
October 1, 2020
Once i finished reading this i realised it was a competent run of the mill historical fiction. It combines known events as seen through the eyes of a minstrels daughter. There was the usual mix of dastardly men with a brave heroine at the centre of the story. Nostradamus was also at the centre of the story and the tension between Protestants and Catholics was very real. Religion and superstition creating havoc in innocent peoples' lives. Well written and easy to follow.
September 9, 2025
Wir schreiben das Jahr 1566: Melisandé und ihre Schwester Chantelle haben das Glück zusammen mit ihrem Vater am Hofe des jungen König Charles spielen zu können. Dort treffen sie auch auf Katharina von Medici und den berühmten Seher und Arzt Nostradamus. Sie werden Zeuge einer Vorhersagung von Nostradamus, doch außer Katharina von Medici, mag keiner Recht daran glauben. Doch ein Teil der Prophezeiung erfüllt sich und Chantelle wird mitsamt ihres Bräutigams ermordet. Melisandé muss fliehen und sucht nach Hilfe, um ihren Vater zu befreien und ihren Ruf reinzuwaschen. So flüchtet sie zu Nostradamus nach Salon. Doch der bürdet Melisandé drei weitere Prophezeiungen auf, welche sie noch weiter in Todesgefahr bringen...
Melisandé ist mit ihren 12 Jahren wirklich erwachsen geraten. So mag es sein, dass dies früher der Fall war, jedoch erscheint sie mir dennoch äußerst gescheit und auch empathisch zu sein. Ihren Gedanken und Handlungen kann man durchweg gut folgen, was auch dem Lesefluss Recht zuträglich war.
Die Charaktere sind generell sehr realistisch gestaltet. So gibt es liebe Charaktere, als auch die, denen man besser aus dem Weg geht. Wie zur damaligen Zeit üblich sind viele Menschen hinterrücks und man weiß nicht ganz, wem man wirklich trauen kann. Generell ist das Hieben und Stechen aus der Zeit, wo man vorsichtig sein muss, wem man was und generell, was man überhaupt sagt, sehr gut dargestellt. Besonderes Augenmerk bei den Charakteren ist der Konflikt, welcher durch die verschiedenen Religionen in der Politik heraufbeschworen wurde. Und es ist interessant zu lesen, wie Katharina von Medici total darin aufgeht, während anderen das eigentlich am Allerwertesten vorbeigeht. Es interessiert nur, als Mittel zum Zweck: Erhaltung von Mächten.
Auch das Setting ist gut beschrieben. Historisch gesehen hat sich die Autorin wohl sehr gut informiert und die Abläufe etc. sind genau beschrieben. Die Brutalität und Rauheit der Zeit der Spannungen mit den Hugenotten ist deutlich und in meinem Augen für Jugendliche schon fast zu ausführlich. Generell habe ich vorher ehrlicherweise nicht viel davon gehört und so war ich stellenweise mit den Gegebenheiten und den ganzen Personen etwas überfordert. Lediglich durch das Anlesen weiterer Informationen hatte ich gegen Mitte des Buches mal das Gefühl auch wirklich zu verstehen, was eigentlich Sache ist. Dennoch ist die Gräueltat hinsichtlich der Blutnacht von Paris, welche nicht an dem Abend endete, eine von langer Hand geplante Aktion gewesen, welche willkürlich eingeleitet wurde und zum Ende des Buches plastisch beschrieben wird.
Hinsichtlich Nostradamus hätte ich mir irgendwie mehr gewünscht. Erst tritt er kurz als Seher und Prophet auf, dann als kranker alter Mann und schließlich sind es 'nur' noch seine Weissagungen, welche meiner Meinung nach dennoch zu wenig Raum hatten. Melisandé steht eindeutig im Vordergrund, aber die Nachrichten des Nostradamus sind eher zweitrangig. Das Buch zieht sich gezwungener Maßen über Jahre, in denen nicht immer besonders viel passiert, weshalb die Spannung auch mehr oder weniger ausblieb. Auch das politische Geplänkel, insbesondere zum Ende hin, fand ich nicht wirklich spannend.
Der Schreibstil ist in Ordnung und lässt sich gut lesen. Insgesamt würde ich recht gut unterhalten. Dennoch würde ich sagen, dass sich dieser Roman eher an geschichtlich interessierte Jugendliche oder Erwachsene richtet. Nimmt doch nicht jeder in der Schule die Zeit um die Hugenotten im vorrevolutionären Frankreich durch. Ich vergebe daher 3,5 Sterne 📜
Melisandé ist mit ihren 12 Jahren wirklich erwachsen geraten. So mag es sein, dass dies früher der Fall war, jedoch erscheint sie mir dennoch äußerst gescheit und auch empathisch zu sein. Ihren Gedanken und Handlungen kann man durchweg gut folgen, was auch dem Lesefluss Recht zuträglich war.
Die Charaktere sind generell sehr realistisch gestaltet. So gibt es liebe Charaktere, als auch die, denen man besser aus dem Weg geht. Wie zur damaligen Zeit üblich sind viele Menschen hinterrücks und man weiß nicht ganz, wem man wirklich trauen kann. Generell ist das Hieben und Stechen aus der Zeit, wo man vorsichtig sein muss, wem man was und generell, was man überhaupt sagt, sehr gut dargestellt. Besonderes Augenmerk bei den Charakteren ist der Konflikt, welcher durch die verschiedenen Religionen in der Politik heraufbeschworen wurde. Und es ist interessant zu lesen, wie Katharina von Medici total darin aufgeht, während anderen das eigentlich am Allerwertesten vorbeigeht. Es interessiert nur, als Mittel zum Zweck: Erhaltung von Mächten.
Auch das Setting ist gut beschrieben. Historisch gesehen hat sich die Autorin wohl sehr gut informiert und die Abläufe etc. sind genau beschrieben. Die Brutalität und Rauheit der Zeit der Spannungen mit den Hugenotten ist deutlich und in meinem Augen für Jugendliche schon fast zu ausführlich. Generell habe ich vorher ehrlicherweise nicht viel davon gehört und so war ich stellenweise mit den Gegebenheiten und den ganzen Personen etwas überfordert. Lediglich durch das Anlesen weiterer Informationen hatte ich gegen Mitte des Buches mal das Gefühl auch wirklich zu verstehen, was eigentlich Sache ist. Dennoch ist die Gräueltat hinsichtlich der Blutnacht von Paris, welche nicht an dem Abend endete, eine von langer Hand geplante Aktion gewesen, welche willkürlich eingeleitet wurde und zum Ende des Buches plastisch beschrieben wird.
Hinsichtlich Nostradamus hätte ich mir irgendwie mehr gewünscht. Erst tritt er kurz als Seher und Prophet auf, dann als kranker alter Mann und schließlich sind es 'nur' noch seine Weissagungen, welche meiner Meinung nach dennoch zu wenig Raum hatten. Melisandé steht eindeutig im Vordergrund, aber die Nachrichten des Nostradamus sind eher zweitrangig. Das Buch zieht sich gezwungener Maßen über Jahre, in denen nicht immer besonders viel passiert, weshalb die Spannung auch mehr oder weniger ausblieb. Auch das politische Geplänkel, insbesondere zum Ende hin, fand ich nicht wirklich spannend.
Der Schreibstil ist in Ordnung und lässt sich gut lesen. Insgesamt würde ich recht gut unterhalten. Dennoch würde ich sagen, dass sich dieser Roman eher an geschichtlich interessierte Jugendliche oder Erwachsene richtet. Nimmt doch nicht jeder in der Schule die Zeit um die Hugenotten im vorrevolutionären Frankreich durch. Ich vergebe daher 3,5 Sterne 📜
August 13, 2023
El libro está dividido en 4 partes, y siendo sincera hasta la segunda parte no me enganché.
En la primera parte siento que me sobraban algunos capítulos, pues repetía varias veces lo que estaba ocurriendo en la trama; punto positivo para quienes le guste el exceso de detalles.
A partir de la segunda parte me enamoré completamente de la valentía de Mélisande, de cómo tuvo que vagar por las ciudades francesas completamente sola y cómo amaba profundamente a su padre y su hermana, su única familia.
En esta parte se concreta la relación entre Nostradamus y Mélisande, mostrándole poco a poco cuál debía ser su destino y llenándola de coraje. Amé a Nostradamus y su mujer <3
En las dos siguientes partes abunda la acción, un romance inesperado y muchas pruebas que el destino mandará a la protagonista para que se de cuenta de cuál es su verdadero destino.
Personalmente el final me hubiera gustado que fuese más extenso, dando más detalles de qué pasaría ahora con la vida de Mélisande, su padre y Melchior. También qué tipo de relación entablarían los Medici con Enrique de Navarra, ese salseo me hubiese encantado que continuase en una segunda parte jejeje
En la primera parte siento que me sobraban algunos capítulos, pues repetía varias veces lo que estaba ocurriendo en la trama; punto positivo para quienes le guste el exceso de detalles.
A partir de la segunda parte me enamoré completamente de la valentía de Mélisande, de cómo tuvo que vagar por las ciudades francesas completamente sola y cómo amaba profundamente a su padre y su hermana, su única familia.
En esta parte se concreta la relación entre Nostradamus y Mélisande, mostrándole poco a poco cuál debía ser su destino y llenándola de coraje. Amé a Nostradamus y su mujer <3
En las dos siguientes partes abunda la acción, un romance inesperado y muchas pruebas que el destino mandará a la protagonista para que se de cuenta de cuál es su verdadero destino.
Personalmente el final me hubiera gustado que fuese más extenso, dando más detalles de qué pasaría ahora con la vida de Mélisande, su padre y Melchior. También qué tipo de relación entablarían los Medici con Enrique de Navarra, ese salseo me hubiese encantado que continuase en una segunda parte jejeje
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2018
Simple to read and kept me engaged until the end.
March 24, 2020
4.5stars
January 18, 2024
I've read this multiple times since I was 13 and I'll read it many more times.
March 3, 2024
first historical fiction i read! this kept me entertained but left me confused at some parts TT
March 24, 2024
Me encantó, lo compré hace años y apenas me di la oportunidad de leerlo. Eso sí, no me termines el libro con esa fraseeee D:
July 25, 2020
Sometimes it is lovely to read a massively popular book as its fun to experience the hype, but I also love reading books that I have heard absolutely zilch about!
Melisande is the daughter of the king's minstrel and lives among the French court. When Nostradamus, a soothsayer, proclaims a prophecy for a huge massacre King Charles just shrugs it off, but Melisande takes heed of his prophecying visions.
I went into this expecting a large element of fantasy, but it is primarily historical fiction. It was nice to read a YA historical fiction, as the writing style made it relatively easy to read without being too flowery or pretentious. Unfortunately, I'm not very clued up on the rule of King Charles IX, so a lot of the events went straight over my head, but having this knowledge definitely isn't a pre-requisite.
There were a few moments that felt a little too coincidental, but it still remained to be an interesting read.
Overall, I think that this provides a very interesting insight into this particular part of history. The writing is easy to read and would be suitable for a range of age groups. If you are interested in 16th century France, then give it a shot!
Melisande is the daughter of the king's minstrel and lives among the French court. When Nostradamus, a soothsayer, proclaims a prophecy for a huge massacre King Charles just shrugs it off, but Melisande takes heed of his prophecying visions.
I went into this expecting a large element of fantasy, but it is primarily historical fiction. It was nice to read a YA historical fiction, as the writing style made it relatively easy to read without being too flowery or pretentious. Unfortunately, I'm not very clued up on the rule of King Charles IX, so a lot of the events went straight over my head, but having this knowledge definitely isn't a pre-requisite.
There were a few moments that felt a little too coincidental, but it still remained to be an interesting read.
Overall, I think that this provides a very interesting insight into this particular part of history. The writing is easy to read and would be suitable for a range of age groups. If you are interested in 16th century France, then give it a shot!
Read
January 11, 2012"HARK to the BEATING WINGS of the ANGEL OF DEATH!
When Nostradamus, wild-eyed and trembling, proclaims to the French Court his prophecy of a great massacre, the young King Charles only laughs. His mother, Catherine de Medici, pays more heed to the soothsayer's words - she believes he can truely see the future.
But Nostradamus's prophecies are not only for those who rule; he also has a message for Melisande, the minstrel's daughter. For he is certain that Fate links him and Melisande together. And as the Angel of Death approaches, the soothsayer gives into her safekeeping some very special parchments - parchments that the titled heads of France would do anything to see."
I picked this up from the YA section of Stourbridge library out of an interest in the author's agent and curiosity about the kind of writing that appealed to her. I'm glad I did. Although the protagonist Melisande is but twelve years of age at the start of the story (that's how it's written, only in first person from Melisande's point of view - it was on to a winner with me just from this by the way), she is, in some respects, a girl of that age - a young lady rather than a child. In other respects, she is unlike many other girls would have been. Melisande is well-educated, strong-willed, outspoken, quick-witted and capable. Just the kind of girl I like.
This is the way I enjoy learning about history best: from reading fiction. Even given that some aspects of this story are entirely fictional, I'd far rather learn about sixteenth century France by reading this than by reading a factual account. And this is a time period I was not at all familiar with before reading this novel. There was a fair amount of explaining historical context and several instances where the author repeated information she'd already told us, but given that this is aimed at perhaps the younger end of the YA range, I overlooked it.
Full of betrayal, love, deceit, secret caverns and passageways and even a leopard, this book has a very innocent romance lightly threaded through it. There's a loose moral to the ending, but one that encourages the reader to make up their own mind.
When Nostradamus, wild-eyed and trembling, proclaims to the French Court his prophecy of a great massacre, the young King Charles only laughs. His mother, Catherine de Medici, pays more heed to the soothsayer's words - she believes he can truely see the future.
But Nostradamus's prophecies are not only for those who rule; he also has a message for Melisande, the minstrel's daughter. For he is certain that Fate links him and Melisande together. And as the Angel of Death approaches, the soothsayer gives into her safekeeping some very special parchments - parchments that the titled heads of France would do anything to see."
I picked this up from the YA section of Stourbridge library out of an interest in the author's agent and curiosity about the kind of writing that appealed to her. I'm glad I did. Although the protagonist Melisande is but twelve years of age at the start of the story (that's how it's written, only in first person from Melisande's point of view - it was on to a winner with me just from this by the way), she is, in some respects, a girl of that age - a young lady rather than a child. In other respects, she is unlike many other girls would have been. Melisande is well-educated, strong-willed, outspoken, quick-witted and capable. Just the kind of girl I like.
This is the way I enjoy learning about history best: from reading fiction. Even given that some aspects of this story are entirely fictional, I'd far rather learn about sixteenth century France by reading this than by reading a factual account. And this is a time period I was not at all familiar with before reading this novel. There was a fair amount of explaining historical context and several instances where the author repeated information she'd already told us, but given that this is aimed at perhaps the younger end of the YA range, I overlooked it.
Full of betrayal, love, deceit, secret caverns and passageways and even a leopard, this book has a very innocent romance lightly threaded through it. There's a loose moral to the ending, but one that encourages the reader to make up their own mind.
July 2, 2009
I picked this book up for $7 (AU) when I needed something to read for a few hours. And I'm really glad I did.
I'm recommending it for fans of Maria V. Snyder and Kristen Britain, because although it is historical fiction, it has more of an adventure/fantasy feel.
Melisande is part of family of minstrels travelling with the 16th century French court. Life is good for the young girl, until her family falls prey to the machinations of a ruthless nobleman and Melisande's older sister and her sister's fiancee are murdered. When the same nobleman accuses Melisande and her father of heresy and treason, she is forced to flee for her life, leaving her father imprisoned.
She turns to the prophet Nostradamus, in the last days of his life, hoping that his favour with the Queen regent will help her free her father. But Nostradamus sees something much more important in Melisande's destiny...
The book paints a vivid picture of the brutality of 16th century French politics and the vicious struggle between the emerging Protestant and Catholic religions.
I would have liked more detailed descriptions of some settings and situations in the book, such as Melisande's escape from the French court, but the book is already quite long as it spans several years.
I'm recommending it for fans of Maria V. Snyder and Kristen Britain, because although it is historical fiction, it has more of an adventure/fantasy feel.
Melisande is part of family of minstrels travelling with the 16th century French court. Life is good for the young girl, until her family falls prey to the machinations of a ruthless nobleman and Melisande's older sister and her sister's fiancee are murdered. When the same nobleman accuses Melisande and her father of heresy and treason, she is forced to flee for her life, leaving her father imprisoned.
She turns to the prophet Nostradamus, in the last days of his life, hoping that his favour with the Queen regent will help her free her father. But Nostradamus sees something much more important in Melisande's destiny...
The book paints a vivid picture of the brutality of 16th century French politics and the vicious struggle between the emerging Protestant and Catholic religions.
I would have liked more detailed descriptions of some settings and situations in the book, such as Melisande's escape from the French court, but the book is already quite long as it spans several years.
January 24, 2014
Tengo sentimientos encontrados con esta novela de ficción histórica. Creo que el tema daba para una historia más rica, con mayor desarrollo de los personajes. La historia narrada básicamente es todo lo que se llevó a cabo en la corte de Francia en los años previos a la masacre de San Bartolomé en 1572.
Melisande, un personaje ficticio, hija de un juglar de la corte Francesa conoce a Nostradamus en París. Después de una serie de eventos trágicos y desafortunados ella arriba a casa de Nostradamus y descubre que es la elegida. La elegida para custodiar las últimas profesáis de Nostradamus y asegurarse de que las cosas sucedan como él ha predicho.
Sin embargo, esta chica, Melisande me pareció demasiado ingenua e imprudente, para poder creer que fuera la elegida. En algunos eventos me desconcertaba lo estúpida que podía resultar. Y como le agarré antipatía a la protagonista, que es finalmente quien narra los hechos, francamente terminé de leer el libro por mera disciplina porque la mujer me sacaba de mis casillas tiro por viaje. No terminaba de meterse y salir de un lío cuando ya estaba metida en el que sigue. Pero la cuestión histórica me pareció interesante, aunque insisto, también creo que daba para más.
Melisande, un personaje ficticio, hija de un juglar de la corte Francesa conoce a Nostradamus en París. Después de una serie de eventos trágicos y desafortunados ella arriba a casa de Nostradamus y descubre que es la elegida. La elegida para custodiar las últimas profesáis de Nostradamus y asegurarse de que las cosas sucedan como él ha predicho.
Sin embargo, esta chica, Melisande me pareció demasiado ingenua e imprudente, para poder creer que fuera la elegida. En algunos eventos me desconcertaba lo estúpida que podía resultar. Y como le agarré antipatía a la protagonista, que es finalmente quien narra los hechos, francamente terminé de leer el libro por mera disciplina porque la mujer me sacaba de mis casillas tiro por viaje. No terminaba de meterse y salir de un lío cuando ya estaba metida en el que sigue. Pero la cuestión histórica me pareció interesante, aunque insisto, también creo que daba para más.
October 28, 2014
I loved this book I thought it was amazing. The Nostraudamus Prophecies is a fanastic read. The story centres Melisande, a young girl in 16th century Paris, who is caught up in a plot to murder all the protestants in the city. Her sister is killed, her father imprisoned, and she is forced to flee. When she meets the famous Nostraudamus, her life is changed.
The writer of the novel Theresa Breslin, has really captured the facts of Nostraudamus and 16th century Paris. The novel goes at a fast pace. It's continually flowing with action, adventure, betrayal, murder and romance.
This is quite possibly the best book I have ever read. It has a great storyline and wonderfully written characters. I highly recommend this book to anyone.
The writer of the novel Theresa Breslin, has really captured the facts of Nostraudamus and 16th century Paris. The novel goes at a fast pace. It's continually flowing with action, adventure, betrayal, murder and romance.
This is quite possibly the best book I have ever read. It has a great storyline and wonderfully written characters. I highly recommend this book to anyone.
January 30, 2010
A good children's book reminiscent of The Red Necklace and The Silver Blade from Sally Gardner. I am fascinated by anything connected with Nostradamus and although not completely factually accurate, the books gives you a taste of France in the late 16th century, the various machinations of Catherine de Medicis, the religious struggle between Catholics and Huguenots, court conspiracies as well as the more personal story of Melisande, the heroine of the piece, who eventually learns her role in Nostradamus' prophecy. Plenty of thrills and spills and a vibrant way to introduce yourself to this historical era.
June 20, 2012
This book was just fall-off-the-couch, slap-me-in-the-face amazingly epic and awesome. I'm sorry, I can't come up with better words. It's just so...
Well firstly, it's well-written and very engaging. Even in the dull parts, I devoured every word. Very vivid imagery, very intriguing, orignal (and swoon worthy) characters as well as a strong heroine and a story steeped in truth and fact. What more could you ask from a historical novel?
A downfall would be how long and wordy it is...it could put people off but it truly is an amazing read!
Well firstly, it's well-written and very engaging. Even in the dull parts, I devoured every word. Very vivid imagery, very intriguing, orignal (and swoon worthy) characters as well as a strong heroine and a story steeped in truth and fact. What more could you ask from a historical novel?
A downfall would be how long and wordy it is...it could put people off but it truly is an amazing read!
March 29, 2019
The Nostradamus prophecy is based on a historical event but also is fictional at the same time, to tell a tale of 2 people melisande and melichior the author added characters and prophecies.
I love the way the author made a gigantic hint at part 1 of the book that melisande and melchior are attracted to each other and I especially love that during the story she kept on think about Melchior and at the last part of the book the author mentioned the dish that melisande gave to Melchior a very long time ago
I love the way the author made a gigantic hint at part 1 of the book that melisande and melchior are attracted to each other and I especially love that during the story she kept on think about Melchior and at the last part of the book the author mentioned the dish that melisande gave to Melchior a very long time ago
October 7, 2016
This book was really good!
An historical-fiction novel involving Nostradamus, our young menestrel heroine who is destined (?) to save the King and traveling all around France with the religious struggles between Catholics and Protestants that teared Europe apart as background.
I admit I wasn't expecting to enjoy it that much. It's a read full of adventure and danger in 16th century's France that I think younger readers who love history will enjoy a lot - older readers too ;)
An historical-fiction novel involving Nostradamus, our young menestrel heroine who is destined (?) to save the King and traveling all around France with the religious struggles between Catholics and Protestants that teared Europe apart as background.
I admit I wasn't expecting to enjoy it that much. It's a read full of adventure and danger in 16th century's France that I think younger readers who love history will enjoy a lot - older readers too ;)
January 4, 2010
A very interesting fictional account of how Nostradamus prophesied the Massacre de la Saint-Barthélemy of 1572.
The story follows a young minstrel, Melisande, and her role in "saving the king who must be saved".
A very good read for tweens/YA.
The story follows a young minstrel, Melisande, and her role in "saving the king who must be saved".
A very good read for tweens/YA.
November 11, 2010
I really enjoyed this book. It wasn't my usual choice to read, but I found it by chance in a second-hand book store and I'm jolly glad I did. It was very entertaining and thought provoking. A well paced adventure.
May 8, 2014
Es una novela que se lleva a cabo en la Francia del siglo XVI en la época de Nostradamus. La protagonista principal debe de cumplir con una de las últimas profecías de Nostradamus mientras es perseguida y debe de salvar su vida. Es una novela de fácil lectura.
April 27, 2016
3,5 Aunque el tema de Nostradamus me echaba un poco hacia atrás, el libro me ha gustado. Es ameno, está bien escrito y Melisandre es un buen personaje principal. No es una obra maestra, pero está bien para pasar unas horas entretenido.
March 2, 2010
An uncomplicated but enjoyable page-turner. I would say it's most suited to teen or casual readers.
March 24, 2010
This book is really good, it was one of my favourite Christmas presents this year, i've re=read it several times already.
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