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A Roman Singer   By: (1854-1909)

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A Roman Singer by F. Marion Crawford is a captivating historical novel set in the ancient city of Rome. Taking place during the reign of Emperor Nero, the story follows the life of Berenice, a gifted and passionate singer who navigates the complex web of Roman society.

From the very beginning, Crawford paints a vivid and immersive picture of ancient Rome, bringing the reader right into the heart of the city. The rich and intricate details, combined with the author's extensive research, create a setting that feels incredibly authentic and alive. The reader is transported through the bustling streets of Rome, the grand amphitheaters, and the lavish villas of the elite.

The character development in this novel is truly exceptional. Berenice, the protagonist, is a complex and multi-dimensional character who undergoes a profound transformation throughout the story. She starts as a naive and ambitious young singer, but as the plot unfolds, she grapples with love, betrayal, and the harsh realities of Roman society. Her growth is gradual and believable, making her an incredibly relatable and intriguing character.

Crawford's writing style is both elegant and accessible. The narrative flows smoothly, effortlessly drawing the reader into the story. The author's attention to detail is remarkable, as he weaves together historical facts with his own imaginative storytelling to create a compelling and realistic portrayal of ancient Rome. The dialogue between characters is another standout aspect of this book, as it adds depth and authenticity to the relationships and interactions between the various individuals.

Furthermore, A Roman Singer is not solely a historical account. It delves into themes of love, ambition, and sacrifice, exploring the intricacies of human nature and the choices we make. Through the struggles and triumphs of the characters, the novel raises thought-provoking questions about the values and morality of Roman society.

If there is any criticism to be made, it would be that at times, the pacing of the story feels uneven. Some chapters move swiftly, progressing the plot with exciting developments, while others linger on details that may not be as essential to the overall narrative. However, this is a minor drawback that does not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.

In conclusion, A Roman Singer is a captivating historical novel that brings ancient Rome to life. Filled with vibrant and realistic characters, exquisite descriptions, and a thought-provoking exploration of human nature, this book is sure to captivate lovers of historical fiction. Whether you are a fan of ancient Rome or simply enjoy a well-crafted story, A Roman Singer is a must-read.

First Page:

A ROMAN SINGER

F. MARION CRAWFORD

1909

[Illustration: "Shut the door and double turned the lock." Chap. XXI.]

CHAPTER I

I, Cornelio Grandi, who tell you these things, have a story of my own, of which some of you are not ignorant. You know, for one thing, that I was not always poor, nor always a professor of philosophy, nor a scribbler of pedantic articles for a living. Many of you can remember why I was driven to sell my patrimony, the dear castello in the Sabines, with the good corn land and the vineyards in the valley, and the olives, too. For I am not old yet; at least, Mariuccia is older, as I often tell her. These are queer times. It was not any fault of mine. But now that Nino is growing to be a famous man in the world, and people are saying good things and bad about him, and many say that he did wrong in this matter, I think it best to tell you all the whole truth and what I think of it. For Nino is just like a son to me; I brought him up from a little child, and taught him Latin, and would have made a philosopher of him. What could I do? He had so much voice that he did not know what to do with it.

His mother used to sing. What a piece of a woman she was! She had a voice like a man's, and when De Pretis brought his singers to the festa once upon a time, when I was young, he heard her far down below, as we walked on the terrace of the palazzo, and asked me if I would not let him educate that young tenor... Continue reading book >>




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