Review of Falkenberg

[Barbie_sidhu]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Falkenberg" by Didi Lawson.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Falkenberg by Didi Lawson is a historical fiction set in 1881. The book reflects the state of women in those times when their only destiny was to get married to a reputed husband with a rank and bear children. The plight of females and the dominance of males is what this book is all about. The author has beautifully executed this theme through the story of a young girl who has high ambitions and wants to break free from the clutches of the unfair rules of society.

Sybilla is eighteen years old, which means she should soon find a suitable suitor and get married. Sybilla and her family are invited to Falkenberg, the summer palace of the Duke of Wolfburg, where their eldest son of the Duke, Georg, will choose a bride out of many beautiful girls. Sybilla is confident that her looks, especially her flaming red hair, will guard her against being shackled to a man for the rest of her life. Unlike other girls, Sybilla has ambitions and is eager to hold the reins of her destiny in her own hands. She has no plans of getting married; she wants to leave this society of unfair traditions and become independent. Everything seems to be on the right path until she is selected to be the bride of the future Duke of Wolfburg. What will happen to Sybilla’s ambitions? Will she succeed in fulfilling her dreams? Will she be able to find a way to get out of this loveless arrangement?

As mentioned above, the story sets out the plight of women in a society where patriarchy rules. The main character, Sybilla, is a rebellious spirit whose thoughts are often accused to be radical and unconventional. The story is very entertaining and genuinely authentic. The writing style of the author is commendable as well. It gives way to a vivid imagination. Moreover, the book has plenty of humor. The characters of the book and their roles are just perfect, and their timing is satisfactory as well.

The best thing about the book is its theme. It is not just an entertaining story about a girl fighting through the norms of society; it is more than that. I believe that being a woman of courage and rebellious thoughts is still sometimes judged in our society. It is changing, but the problems women face are not eradicating any time soon. This story celebrates womanhood in a way, and that is what I love about it. Honestly, there is nothing to dislike about the book.

I spotted only a few errors, which are not worth the bother, as they did not interfere with my reading experience. I will say the book is finely edited. It is around three hundred pages long, which means its a fast paced read. Although, I took my time with this book and enjoyed every page. There is no profanity or vulgarity in the book.

On the whole, I will rate it a 4 out of 4 stars read. The plot is wonderful. It has humor, is entertaining, and delivers a very bold message. Also, I did not find anything worth disliking in the book. Hence, the perfect rating.

I will recommend this book to an audience who likes to read period pieces. As it is set in the 1880s, historical fiction lovers looking for an entertaining read must go for it. Fans of Jane Austen or Louisa May Alcott will definitely enjoy this book. It is a very pleasant story, so the readers who like thrillers or action fiction might not like to read it. I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did.

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Falkenberg
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Shivansh_007]

Sybilla's story seems fascinating to me and the way the reviewer has portrayed it is pretty neat. Thanks for the review.

[Apple 7]

A very twisted turn of events, she believed her hair would deter the duke from choosing her, and she's now faced with what steps to take, reminds me of an animation "brave"....nice review.

[Lynda Howard]

I look forward to reading this book. I love that the main character has a rebellious spirit and whose thoughts are often accused to be radical and unconventional. The story sounds very entertaining, and I love that it has plenty of humour. Thanks for the review!

[19blueofficial]

Sybilla seems like a very cool and tutu person. I really admire her spirit.

[19blueofficial]

I see myself in her.

[Chisom oguejiofor]

I like historical fiction, especially those set so far back. I also like books that feature strong female characters, and I like the humor in this book; this is certainly my kind of book.

[Shilisia]

This book really speaks to me, a woman in the 1800s was determined to live her life the right way and not be dictated by societal norms. Such a strong-willed character. Well done.