11 Sept 2013

DANCE THE MOON DOWN.



DANCE THE MOON DOWN by R.L. BARTRAM

SOURCE: Received for review from the author.

In 1910, no one believed there would ever be a war with Germany. Safe in her affluent middle-class life, the rumours held no significance for Victoria either. It was her father's decision to enrol her at university that began to change all that. There she befriends the rebellious and outspoken Beryl Whittaker, an emergent suffragette, but it is her love for Gerald Avery, a talented young poet from a neighbouring university that sets the seal on her future.

After a clandestine romance, they marry in January 1914, but with the outbreak of the First World War, Gerald volunteers but within months has gone missing in France. Convinced that he is still alive, Victoria's initial attempts to discover what has become of him, implicate her in a murderous assault on Lord Kitchener resulting in her being interrogated as a spy, and later tempted to adultery.

Now virtually destitute, Victoria is reduced to finding work as a common labourer on a run down farm, where she discovers a world of unimaginable ignorance and poverty. It is only her conviction that Gerald will some day return that sustains her through the dark days of hardship and privation as her life becomes a battle of faith against adversity.
....... Outer back cover.

FIRST SENTENCE (Chapter 1): It was during the spring of 1910 that it became the subject of heated debate between Victoria's parents as to whether or not she should attend university and continue her education.

MEMORABLE MOMENT (Page 40): She had one last gift for him - a bracelet of plaited hair, her hair. Something of herself, so that she might always be with him. It was a symbol, long before poppies had any significance. It was her candle in the window to guide the traveller home. It was a token of her faith, her prayer to God for her husband's safe return.

MY THOUGHTS: One of the best historical romances I've read in a long while. Though less than 300 pages Dance The Moon Down is a story of epic proportions.

Well, I say romance but just as much as it is the moving love story of Victoria and her poet-come-soldier husband, Gerald, it is just as much a fascinating portrayal of life lived during the 'war to end all wars'.

Beautifully written by an author who obviously knows his subject, Robert L. Bartram's words really bring to life this story of a changing society in which hope prevails. And what's more, a book largely about women, as a male author he does an exceptional job in creating some really fantastic female characters.

A novel bound to appeal to those who love romances, a must-read story for those who adore historical fiction and definitely a read for those who value good storytelling, I can recommend this as a book you won't want to put down.


Disclaimer:  Read and reviewed on behalf of the author, I was merely asked for my honest opinion, no financial compensation was asked for nor given.
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13 comments:

Lindsay said...

Lovely review Tracy, glad you liked this one so much. I have it to read too and must get to it soon. I hope your computer is better soon.

Cherie Reich said...

Great review! And that memorable moment teaser is so special! Loved it! Sounds like a great book!

So many books, so little time said...

Great review lovey, not an author I have crossed paths with yet. I saw your saying about instagram on the other blog, it is a photo app where you upload pics and can change their look with some features. Popular with celebs too.

I didn't realise you where any where near me, would be good if you made it to one of the book events. Pending how far you are. We are going to the one in Stirling on Friday

Lainy http://www.alwaysreading.net

The Bookworm said...

Wow Tracy. After your glowing review I want to read this one.

Kelly said...

While not a great fan of romance, I imagine the historical fiction aspect of this would win me over. I'll put it on my wish list. Thanks!

Arti said...

Looks like a wonderful book to read! Seems like a real heart warming read.
Lovely review as always Tracy :)

Suko said...

Wonderful review of what sounds like a wonderful book. I can picture the bracelet that symbolizes their connection. I shall look for Dance the Moon Down.

Barbara said...

I Have to read this it sounds wonderful. The title alone was enough to grab my interest, but your excellent review made up my mind.

Shooting Stars Mag said...

Wow, great review. Sounds like something my sister would like - she loves history.

-Lauren

Melissa (Books and Things) said...

Love the sound of this one. Love a good historical romance so I am so going to add this one to the wishlist.

Yvonne @ Fiction Books Reviews said...

Hi Tracy,

Good to have you back on line. I hope that most of your technical difficulties have been resolved, although your page header does appear to have changed shape and size.

I have this book in my review pile, so I am grateful for the glowing review you have given it, without needing to include any spoilers.

It looks as though I certainly didn't need to question the concept of the male romance author, so I am definitely looking forward to this book getting to the top of my reading pile.

Yvonne

Stephanie@Fairday's Blog said...

I love HF and this one sounds fabulous. I like that it is one of the best HF romance books you have read in a while. Plus- I love the title. I have marked this one down to read! Thanks for sharing. :)

Gina said...

Not a huge historical fiction fan by any means, it DOES sound like this one could still sweep most off their feet. Great share!