Heather’s Bookshelf: Agustina de Aragon
Author: Gail Meath
Released: April 16, 2021
Genre: Historical Romance
“Raul wanted to go with them, but Juan convinced him otherwise, telling him that he must stay with the family in case the French soldiers returned. And as they said their goodbyes, the family struggled to remain positive and supportive without showing any outward sign of worry, just as Pedro had requested of them.”
“Agustina de Aragon” introduces the title character, Agustina Saragossa, in the early 1800s Barcelona, Spain. Agustina is a fierce and loyal young woman turning eighteen. Her sister’s getting married, but she’s not interested in such things. She’s focused on being a good daughter, living with her overbearing mother and adoring father, until she meets Juan Roca.
Juan’s a sergeant in the Spanish military. He’s confidant, intelligent, and absolutely smitten by Agustina. At first, she is not interested, but she soon comes to see the softer side of “Roca”. Their love quickly blossoms and they begin their life together. While they seem destined for wedded bliss, those around them have other ideas.
Napoleon of France declares war on Spain and invades Barcelona (where Agustina, Juan, and Agustina’s family live). They are forced to flea the city and seek shelter with her sister’s family. Eventually the war finds them in Zaragoza and they are forced to defend it against the onslaught of the French.
Trigger Warning: scenes of war/war violence, sexual situations, child death, insinuation of torture, depiction of imprisonment
Overall, I really enjoyed this novel based on the life of a real life heroine. It was just so romantic! The love between Juan and Agustina jumped off the pages and his little tokens for her were adorable. I also really enjoyed Agustina’s relationship with her father. It was much more subtle than the main love story, but also very sweet. Agustina’s love for her family and her country ultimately set the tone for this story, which is why what happens is so heart breaking. Events and decisions in their lives lead Agustina and Juan down a path destined for importance. The ending completely makes the story and ties it all together.
This is the second book by Gail Meath that I have read and reviewed. The author has a way with her writing that seems natural and a true knack for “writing romantic”. In case you also want to check out the review for Fire Blossom it can be found here:
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
OVERALL REVIEW:
A romantic and tragic story based on the life of a true heroine
Want to learn more about the author? Check out my interview with Gail Meath:
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