JASMINE's THOUGHTS on The Secrets of Life and Death by Rebecca Alexander

Genre:

Adult Supernatural/Fantasy Mystery

Historical Fiction

Publish Date:

October 7, 2014

Publisher:

Broadway Books

Synopsis:

In modern day England,Professor Felix Guichard is called in to identify occult symbols found on the corpse of a young girl. His investigation brings him in contact with a mysterious woman, Jackdaw Hammond, who guards a monumental secret--She's Dead. Or she would be, were it not for magic which has artificially extended her life. But someone else knows her secret. Someone very old and very powerful, who won't rest until they've taken the magic that keeps her alive...

In Krakow in 1585, Dr. John Dee, the Elizabethan Alchemist and Occultist, and his assistant Edward Kelley have been summoned by the King of Poland to save the life of his niece, the infamous Countess Elisabeth Bathory. But they soon realize that the only thing worse than the Countess' malady, is the magic that might be able to save her.

As Jackdaw and Felix race to uncover the truth about the person hunting her, it becomes clear that the answers they seek can only be found in the ancient diary of John Dee's assistant, Edward Kelley. Together they must solve a mystery centuries in the making, or die  trying.

    

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**About the Author**

Rebecca Alexander is a psychotherapist, spin instructor, volunteer, and an extreme athlete who is almost completely blind and deaf. Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, she currently lives in New York City with her goldendoodle Olive.

Rebecca is known for her sense of humor, and she is also an attentive listener. Consistently upbeat, Rebecca gives encouragement and inspiration to others who are facing their own challenges, whether physical or emotional, and whether in interpersonal relationships or in the workplace.

Not Fade Away is Rebecca's first book.

Stay connected with Rebecca Alexander

   

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*My Thoughts*

Note: This review contains NO spoilers

**I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review**

The Secrets of Life and Death was definitely an interesting read. With the interweaving of a present day and a historical setting, it ties the characters and events together. I found it fascinating how Rebecca Alexander created this supernatural and compelling mystery surrounding the stories of an infamous historical figure, namely the Countess Elizabeth Bathory.

Although the story progressed slowly, it was interesting enough to keep me reading. This is in no way a quick read. With the immense amount of complex details, I felt like I was transported to both timelines and witnessing it all. With the chapters alternating from the present to the past, it allows readers to see the connections between the events that occur in both timelines. Rebecca's ability to bring to life these characters created an atmosphere of realism...plus, a glance at historical magic....be it fictional. That's the appeal of this book, the realism of the characters and setting...in particular the appeal with the supernatural and sorcery.

However, one thing bothered me, the romance between Felix and Jackdaw fell short. It seemed forced. The romance seemed like it was just thrown in there, like the book needed it. Quite frankly, I didn't think it did. The mystery, suspense, and the allure of the supernatural kept the story going.

Altogether, The Secrets Life and Death is book that historical fiction buffs may enjoy, especially with its twist of the supernatural and magic.