READ THIS: Order of Darkness: CHANGELING By Philippa Gregory
Books about teens seems to be really popular right now. So” Changeling”, by author Philippa Gregory is going to the next sensation. The first in the series, this book introduces you to the main characters Isolde and Luca. The year is 1453 and it seems to all that the world is coming to an end. Challenged by the times, religion, dark magic and more these character search for their true identities and their place in this mad world. I love the author's view and knowledge of history that weaves its way through the book giving it credibility. As a woman of that time, Isolde and her life would be dictated by her father and then any male in her family-good thing we are living in today's world. She is locked up in a nunnery so that she cannot inherit her father’s fortune and is thought to be satanic. Luca is sent by his order to investigate and sees her real beauty inside and out. So enjoy all the mythic tales and romance that follow these two teens and their companions all over Europe. Can’t wait to read what happens next!
Philippa Gregory is one of my favorite authors. That being said, I was very much looking forward to reading "Changeling- Order of Darkness, Book 1"! Set in 1453 Italy, "Changeling" tells the story of Luca and Isolde. Luca, a seventeen year old who is expelled from his monastery, accused of heresy is recruited by a stranger to travel the world documenting the fears of Christendom. His first mission is to investigate a Lady Abbess, seventeen year old Isolde, who is trapped in a nunnery in order to prevent her from receiving a rich inheritance. Isolde is facing accusations of witchcraft as nuns in her care are having strange visions, sleepwalking and showing bleeding wounds. What ensues is a tale of mystery, betrayal, danger and good vs. evil. A master of historical fiction, Ms. Gregory has crafted an intriguing, page-turning, fast read novel. The characters are well developed, the plot draws the reader right into the world of 15th century Italy (I read this in one day...I just couldn't put it down) and you find yourself wanting more. Told from alternating perspectives of Luca and Isolde, "Changeling" is a must read for any lover of historical fiction.
When I saw this novel from Philippa Gregory on my doorstep, I was so excited. The only other book I've read by her was The Other Boleyn Girl, and I loved it. Because of this, I knew I would enjoy this book as well. I was not disappointed. I love to read books set in Medieval times as well as books that have a historical fiction feel to them, and this book was perfect for me. I am usually found reading YA fiction and I am so glad that Ms. Gregory has added to the great novels already in circulation for young adults. Set in Italy in the 1400's, the main character Luca draws you in right away. I enjoyed the mission Luca goes on to help his love interest, Isolde. Without giving too much away, Ms. Gregory did an excellent job at telling a YA historical fiction love story with murder, mystery, and betrayal that makes you want to keep reading. I know I had a hard time putting this book down. I can't wait for the series to continue. I highly recommend reading Changeling.
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Introducing a brand new teen series
Order of Darkness:
CHANGELING
By Philippa Gregory
Italy, 1453. Seventeen-year-old Luca Vero is brilliant, gorgeous—and accused of heresy. Cast out of his religious order for using the new science to question old superstitious beliefs, Luca is recruited into a secret sect: The Order of the Dragon, commissioned by Pope Nicholas V to investigate evil and danger in its many forms, and strange occurrences across Europe, in this year—the end of days.
Isolde is a seventeen-year-old girl shut up in a nunnery so she can’t inherit any of her father’s estate. As the nuns walk in their sleep and see strange visions, Isolde is accused of witchcraft—and Luca is sent to investigate her, but finds himself plotting her escape.
Despite their vows, despite themselves, love grows between Luca and Isolde as they travel across Europe with their faithful companions, Freize and Ishraq. The four young people encounter werewolves, alchemists, witches, and death-dancers as they head toward a real-life historical figure who holds the boundaries of Christendom and the secrets of the Order of the Dragon.
The first in a four part series, this epic and richly detailed drama is grounded in historical communities and their mythic beliefs. It includes a medieval map of Europe that will track their journey; and the interior will include relevant decorative elements as well as an interior line illustration.
*And look for a QR code that links to a note from the author with additional, detailed information about the setting and the history that informed the writing. With Philippa Gregory’s trademark touch, this novel deftly brings the past—and its salacious scandals—vividly and disturbingly to life.
Philippa Gregory is the author of several bestselling novels, including The Other Boleyn Girl, and is a recognized authority on women’s history. She studied history at the University of Sussex and received a Ph.D. at the University of Edinburgh. Changeling is her first young adult novel. She welcomes visitors to her website, PhilippaGregory.com.
CHANGELING
By Philippa Gregory
Simon Pulse
Publication date: May 29, 2012
ISBN: 9781442453449; $18.99; Ages 14 & up
