In the Roses of Pieria by Anna Burke

The details…

  • Title: In the Roses of Pieria
  • Author: Anna Burke
  • Publisher: BywarerBooks
  • Release date: 8/22/23
  • Available formats: ebook, paperback 
  • Print length: 388 pages 
  • Genre: romantic science fiction fantasy 
  • Themes: women loving women, vampires, dark academia

The blurb from the publisher…

When Clara Eden is offered a job as an archivist working for eccentric estate owner Agatha Montague, she thinks her prayers have been answered. Soon, she finds herself sucked into the world of her research, captivated by a romantic correspondence thousands of years old. But as her feelings for her employer’s assistant, Fiadh, deepen, so too does her suspicion that something about Agatha Montague isn’t quite right. Unfortunately for Clara, by the time her suspicions are confirmed, it is far too late to run.

My thoughts…

While anyone can tell a story, not all can do it with Anna Burke’s grace and skill. Her wordsmithing continually leaves readers awestruck and In the Roses of Pieria is her latest example of this. Burke’s boundless imagination and ability to think outside the box is on vivid display here. Glorious world building and original characters take this intricately layered plot places that are surprising and wonderful. Quite simply, the narrative is nothing short of captivating and impressive. This is one book you won’t soon forget.

It’s an Anna Burke novel, so no one should be surprised by its solid and cohesive story construction. However, what sets it apart is its emotional depth and intelligence. Burke gives her readers flawed, multidimensional characters that can access emotions and express vulnerability. Their struggles feel more personal and valid because of it. This is a story that really resonates. I can easily see Burke scooping up quite a few awards for this masterpiece.

Final remarks…

It takes a strong set of writing skills to produce a piece of fiction like this. However, Burke accomplishes it without struggle. Her masterful command of language paints lush and vivid imagery for readers, making In the Roses of Pieria an exciting and engaging read from start to finish. Simply put: This is exceptional storytelling and I highly recommend it. It will not disappoint.

Strengths…

  • Engaging characters 
  • Well-developed story structure 
  • Nicely paced and plotted
  • Original and imaginative storytelling 
  • Gorgeous prose and impressive use of language 
  • Cleaver world building 

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A bit about the author…

Anna Burke is the award-winning author of Compass Rose, Sea Wolf, Thorn, Nottingham, Spindrift, and Night Tide. She holds an MFA from and teaches Creative Writing at Emerson College. When she is not writing fiction, she is an overly ambitious gardener and teacher. She and her wife live with their spoiled pets in Massachusetts. For more information about Anna, check out the links below. 

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