Tag: Gemma Lawrence

  • Evelyn Reads Child of Water

    Rating: 5 out of 5.

    Child of Water, a biographical historical fiction written by independent author Gemma Lawrence. The first instalment in The Heirs of Anarchy series, is a compelling narrative on the early life of Matilda, daughter of Henry I, who became Empress of the Holy Empire.

    Cover Image for Child of Water by Gemma Lawrence.
    Child of Water by Gemma Lawrence

    Lawrence skillfully weaves historical facts with plausible inferences, bridging gaps in the historical record to bring these larger-than-life characters to life. By incorporating intricate details on various aspects of the era, such as culinary practices, herbal medicine, and the daily lives of both servants and nobility, Lawrence creates immersive scenes that transports readers to a bygone age.

    What sets Child of Water apart is its focus on strong female figures in history. This novel is notable for its exploration of the challenges faced by trailblazing women like Matilda, who paved the way for future queens of England. The complex political climate of the time is vividly portrayed, offering readers a deeper understanding of the numerous obstacles Matilda had to overcome to mark her place in history.

    Child of Water is a book filled with rich historical detail that breathes life into the early life of Matilda, once Empress, Queen and Countess. Readers will find themselves immersed in the complex political climate of the day as a notable woman in history finds her footing. Highly recommended!


  • Evelyn Reads The Red Riding Hood

    Rating: 4 out of 5.

    Stories have a life of their own, and as they are retold, they take on the personality of the storyteller. The tale of The Red Riding Hood is no exception, and indie author Gemma Lawrence does a fantastic job of breathing life into a fairy tale that we all know and love.

    The Red Riding Hood by Gemma Lawrence

    The life of this story is infused through the narrator, a wise (cracking) entity who never fails to pass on their pearls of wisdom. The reader is introduced to the reality that this particular story has been simplified over the generations, distilled and distorted until it became a perversion of the truth.

    This variant is more of an epic fantasy, filled with mythical creatures, battles, revenge, wolves, grandmothers, and chosen ones. Despite the grand scale, the narrator never loses that fairy tale voice.

    Effectively, this story reminds me of a bunch of drunken fishermen challenged to come up with the best fishing story. In truth, this works beautifully for this story.

    If you are looking for yet another rendition of the tried and true Little Red Riding Hood, then steer away. If you seek a new creation that borrows from elements but marches to the beat of its own drum, then seek and ye shall find.

    Well worth the price of admission!


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