Carmela A. Martino

***ARC provided by Netgalley and Publisher.

Even though this in an arc all opinions are my own. This was a sweet historical romance that had me crying from the start. Our main character Emilia wants to do nothing more than to fall in love and carry on with her music. But as the 2nd child this is not possible and she seems to be headed to become a nun. She then loses someone close and writes a piece of music that turns everyone’s head and they sit and finally notice her talent. She falls in love and discovers herself. Would recommend for all those who love a good historical book with a side of romance.
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This is well-written and extensively researched historical fiction that promotes girl power, 18th-century style. Based on 2 sisters who lived in Milan in the 1700s, this story takes a departure into their inner lives and feelings and circumstances. Historically, Maria Gaetana Agnesi and her sister Maria Teresa Agnesi were math and music geniuses, respectively. Their father promoted and encouraged their education, but often for his own gain. Here, the story is a beautiful riff on this kernel of history: it is told from the viewpoint of Emilia (the younger sister) and mostly focuses on her musicianship and its obstacles -- being disregarded by her music instructor simply because she is female, being disregarded by her father initially because her sister Maria's talents were so dominant and evident. Emilia persists in part because of faith and in part because of love (her mother's and her heart's desire, another musician Antonio Bellini). All the characters are richly developed as is the conflict: whether Maria and Emilia will be allowed to pursue their passion -- for Maria it is the convent and the opportunity to help the poor; for Emilia it is marriage to Antonio and the opportunity to pursue composing music. Social mores of the time and their father's own prejudices and past history interfere, as well as some family drama and upheaval. While Signor Salvini is forward-thinking when it comes to his daughters' extraordinary education, he is also a little predatory about their talents, using them to secure a noble title and status for themselves. The story is unfolds expertly with additional characters and plot twists woven in -- not unlike a masterful musical composition with a crescendo at the end. Brava! A great read for the 11-14 age group, especially girls who will benefit from its message of determining their own destiny.… (más)

Emilia loves music, and she's worked hard to develop her skill. She hopes that by excelling her Father will finally recognize her use and not send her to a convent. Will she have to sacrifice her heart to save her sister?

I found it fascinating that Emilia and Maria are based on two sisters from history. Emilia seemed true to life, especially in her dealings with her sister. That sense of rivalry, in wanting to shine more than her older sister, was completely understandable. They behaved like sisters, and I really liked that. Emilia's drive to perfect her talent was fun to watch.

There are supernatural aspects to the story, which did lower how much I enjoyed the story. I also wasn't completely sold on the romance. The 'rivalry' between Emilia and Antonio was more like a footnote in the story and could have been removed completely without a change to the story. The happy ending came across as too coincidental.

For readers who enjoy sibling interactions and a strong female lead working for what she wants, they won't go wrong with this one.

I received a copy from NetGally for reviewing purposes.… (más)