In the Palace of Flowers set in Iran – Victoria Princewill

Victoria Princewill has done some very clever research here. She weaves this into the novel, her story with such a light touch though, you don’t realise the exquisite detail and history you’re learning at the same time. Victoria’s surname is particularly apt given that this novel is set in a royal setting, the Persian court. I imagine she was one of the characters! Very vividly brought to life. This is a rich tapestry indeed!

I actually found the novel similar to a Shakespeare play with its tragedies and shadowy figures just off stage.  The story, just like the cover, is a jewel in the literary landscape. What lies behind the bejewelled facade though? Shadows and darkness, pain and intrigue. If you thought the court of Henry VIII was cruel, then this is something else. There are power struggles, painful realisations, emotional discoveries and a level of oppression that will have your crying.

Jamīla and Abimelech are two Abyssinian slaves navigating the complexities of the Shah’s royal court. That is the main story and from this, the author has woven a complex tale that takes you from one emotion to another. It’s visually stunning and I was fascinated to be in Iran at this time as I really feel I have been there at a very key moment in history.