Life As Carola

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Summary: Life as Carola
Review: Joan Grant has written a vivid account of her life as Carola, the illegitimate daughter of a Griffin in 16th century Italy. One in a series of her "past life" novels, this account is seen through the child Carola's eyes against the backdrop of pre-Renaissance Italy. As Carola faces major life challenges and matures into a young woman she grows both in strength of character and spirituality. Grant's style, as always, is seemingly effortless (as in Winged Pharaoh and Scarlet Feather) and it is as though she'd experienced this life herself. It's a masterly read which has parallels for today's society as it contrasts the harsh conditions of the very poor with the excessive privileges of the rich. The idea that we cast off our bodies at the end of each life (as an actor does his costume) and return again and again until we learn life's lessons provides an intriguing perspective. An unforgettable book.

Rating:
Summary: AN INTERESTING READ
Review: This was a very mystical read. It talked about things like withcraft, reincarnations, and sometimes Grant's descriptions of things were a little too grueling. However it was a good read and also a historical read that enlightended me about Renaissance Italy. I would recommend this book to anyone who has a good vocabulary and is ready for the breadth of emotions present in the book.

Rating:
Summary: Chilling yet Fascinating
Review: Wow, what an amazing piece of literature! I've explored so many aspects of humanity just through reading this book. Most importantly, I was able to explore the depths of the human psyche, and see the emotional levels of this powerful woman that the reader knows as Carola.
This is not your typical novel. For it isn't just a "good read." Instead, it is a commentary on the corruption of society during Renaissance Italy. Joan Grant, the author, shows how innocent women throughout medieval Italy are being persecuted for sorcery. However, the people who persecute these women aren't in any moral position to do so. Reminiscent of the scarlet letter?
I'd highly recommend this book to anyone with a stellar vocabulary and a tolerance for Gothicism and occasionally complex philosphy.