Title: The Curse of Maide Scars
Author: Nicolette Croft
Genre: Fiction/General Fiction (including literary and historical)
Audience: Adult
Word Count: 96000
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: The Curse Of Maiden Scars finds Renna Covert, an 18th century workhouse orphan turned courtesan, struggling to understand her past, survive the machinations of people determined to use her, and hold onto a semblance of self in the midst of a challenging existence. None of these come easy, and before long, Renna faces danger from all directions as long-buried family secrets, from a past she can't remember, are finally unearthed.
Prose: Croft's prose is lovely—even when describing painful moments—and transforms the most gruesome parts of the story into lyrically beautiful scenes. She never shies away from the brutal reality of what women faced in 18th century England, showcasing Renna's quick mind and resilience amid a time in history when women were persecuted and abused.
Originality: The Curse of Maiden Scars is a noteworthy tale, reconstructing itself over time to much more than the story of a poverty-stricken orphan. The book becomes a commentary on society's ills: prostitution, mistreatment of the mentally ill, indifference toward the ravages of poverty, and more, with Croft ably using Renna's life to educate readers in a way that's neither overly obvious or heavy-handed.
Character/Execution: Renna is a sympathetic heroine who readers will root for from page one. She is scarred inside and out, and her headstrong naivete gets her into more trouble than anyone would wish—but that's precisely why she is so memorable. The supporting cast are, like Renna, fully drawn characters in their own right, from best friend Max to authority figure Mother Shipton to Renna's three suitors: Alistair, Henry, and Donovan, all of whom badly want Renna, but for very different reasons.
Score:
Plot/Idea: 8
Originality: 9
Prose: 9
Character/Execution: 9
Overall: 8.75
Report Submitted: October 8, 2024
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