Title: The Emerald Talisman
Author: Brenda Pandos
First published March 23, 2010
288 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780578053394 (ISBN10: 057805339X)
Rating: 3.68
Overview
Arabella Tallant, a charming and virtuous daughter of a poor country clergyman, receives an invitation to stay with her godmother in London. Her hopes are high as she believes this could be her chance to find a wealthy husband.
However, her journey takes an unexpected turn when her carriage breaks down in front of the hunting lodge of the wealthy and influential Robert Beaumaris. After an unfortunate encounter, Arabella decides to pretend to be an heiress to teach Beaumaris a lesson.
Her plan backfires when she becomes the talk of the town and is pursued by eligible bachelors. Only one man catches her eye: Beaumaris himself.
As Arabella’s feelings for him deepen, she struggles to keep up with her charade. The situation becomes even more complicated when Arabella rescues a mistreated chimney sweep and a mixed-breed mongrel and entrusts them to Beaumaris’s care.
Will Arabella’s deceitful game destroy her chances of finding true love? Find out in Georgette Heyer’s charming novel, Arabella.
About the Author
Brenda Pandos resides in sunny California with her beloved spouse and two wonderful sons. Her days are filled with a juggling act of writing, motherhood, wifely duties, and cherished moments with loved ones.
Editoral Review
Brenda Pandos The Emerald Talisman follows the story of Julia Parker, an ordinary teenage girl whose life takes a thrilling and unexpected turn when she discovers she has the power to time travel. First published in March 23, 2010, Pandos novel is a young adult fantasy novel that has captivated readers with its fast-paced plot, relatable characters, and interesting take on time travel.
Set in the present day, The Emerald Talisman begins with Julia visiting her grandmothers house in Oregon for the summer. While exploring her grandmothers attic, she discovers an emerald talisman that transports her back to the 1800s where she meets a handsome and brooding man named Nicholas.
Together, they must navigate the dangers of his world while attempting to stop a powerful curse from being unleashed. Pandos writing style is engaging, with a quick pace and an excellent balance of romance, adventure, and magic.
The characters are well-developed, particularly Julia, who undergoes a significant transformation throughout the course of the novel. Her duel with reality and overcoming her struggles are explored, making her a relatable character to younger readers.
Pandos masterfully weaves the fantasy elements within a modern narrative, making it a page-turner. Historical significance and cultural events are also addressed in the book.
The historical elements serve as a backdrop to Julias adventure, highlighting the societal differences of the 1800s compared to the modern times she comes from. Pandos addresses issue of slavery and equality with ease and uses it to add depth to the challenges the characters face.
Despite these strengths, the book has some weaknesses. The plot is predictable at times, and some of the supporting characters are underdeveloped.
Additionally, the books tendency to favor a romantic subplot takes away from the sense of adventure and the characters’ growth, hindering the pacing. Overall, The Emerald Talisman is an entertaining and enchanting read that is perfect for young-adult readers who enjoy a mix of adventure and romance.
Pandos unique take on time travel sets it apart from other young adult fantasy novels, whilst challenging the ideal of a teenage girl’s journey into the past. Though it has some flaws, it is still an enjoyable read.
Thus, with a rating of 3.5 out of 5, I would recommend it to anyone who wants a light read or who loves young adult fiction with a dash of fantasy.
