Prolific local author Carmel Bird has written an enthralling story about the life of Princess Marie-Adélaïde of Savoy.
Set in 17th-century France, Crimson Velvet Heart is narrated in part by the young princess’s childhood friend, Sister Clare.
Carmel’s mastery of language and her rich understanding of history bring to life the strange and enthralling story of Adélaïde’s life at the court of Louis XIV.
“Some of the most lively conversations at court, I must say, are driven by the serpent tongues of malice. Dark whispers scurry around the apartments like joyful mice in a barn full of grain.”
With her unique ability to capture the spirit and mystery of love and loss, and her understanding that human nature is unchanged across time, Carmel tells the story of the mother of the child who will become Louis XV.
“Events in the life of one person today trace their origins back through time and place in an intricate web, a vast lace cloth woven by fate, a tapestry that hangs from the stars. One piece of the pattern shifts to become entwined with another, and the picture changes slightly, then the thread moves off in another direction.”
Launching at the Castlemaine Library at 5.30 pm on Thursday November 20. Stoneman’s Bookroom will be selling copies at the launch.
Visit goldfieldslibraries.com for more details.
