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.

Mount Alexander Shire Council is proud to announce the finalists for the 2025 Mount Alexander Business Awards.
This year’s awards received more than 120 nominations across seven categories.
Each category highlights the people and enterprises that help build a thriving local economy – one that values innovation, care for people and place, environmental sustainability, and strong community connections.
The winners will be announced at the Business Awards Presentation Evening on Wednesday November 19 at Boomtown Winery & Bistro at The Mill Castlemaine.
Finalists have now been selected across the following categories:
Community Impact
Rhythm First Aid
Tarrangower Times
The Castlemaine Community Investment Co-operative
Local Food Excellence
Golden Nugget Restaurant
Long Paddock Cheese & The Cheese School
Superhero Bánh Mì
Innovation and Technology
EnviroShop Newstead
Like Butter
Warral Maldon
Accessibility Champion
Big4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park
Maldon Bakery
Theatre Royal Castlemaine
Outstanding Workplace
Big4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park
Golden Nugget Restaurant
PJ’s Discount Tyre Service
NextGen Champion
Castlemaine Circus
Castlemaine Mowers & Ag
Shedshaker Brewing
People’s Choice
The Castlemaine Community Investment Co–operative
Shedshaker Brewing
Theatre Royal Castlemaine
Council’s Manager Economy and Culture Merryn Tinkler said we are lucky to have such exceptional businesses here in Mount Alexander Shire.
“They’re not just creating jobs, they’re helping build a thriving economy that looks after local people, our towns and landscapes, and the future of our region.
“The stories we’ve heard this year have been truly inspiring, and the judges had an incredibly tough job choosing finalists.
“Congratulations to our finalists as well as everyone who contributes to our thriving local business community.”
The Business Awards Presentation Evening is a chance to recognise and celebrate the remarkable contributions of our local businesses – from creating supportive workplaces and accessible spaces, to championing local food, sustainability and new ideas.

Tickets are now on sale and expected to sell quickly.
To book, visit www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Business-Awards
For further information, contact Economic Development Coordinator Daniel Bone on 5471 1700 or email d.bone@mountalexander.vic.gov.au