An enthralling story of secrets and discovering love where you least expect it, in The Tenth Gift the art of embroidery uncannily links two fascinating women of different eras and their equally passionate love storiesIn an expensive London restaurant, Julia Lovat receives a gift that changes her life. At first glance it is a book of exquisite seventeenth-century embroidery patterns belonging to a … embroidery patterns belonging to a woman named Catherine Ann Tregenna. Yet in its margins are the faintest diary entries; they reveal that “Cat” and others were stolen from their Cornish church in 1625 by Muslim pirates and taken on a brutal voyage to Morocco to be auctioned off as slaves. Captivated by this dramatic discovery, Julia sets off to North Africa to determine the authenticity of the book and to uncover more of Cat’s mesmerizing story. There, in the company of a charismatic Moroccan guide, amid the sultry heat, the spice markets, and exotic ruins, Julia will discover secrets long buried. And in Morocco—just as Cat did before her—she will lose her heart.
Though they live almost 400 years apart, the stories of these two women converge in an extraordinary and haunting manner that begs the question, is history fated to repeat itself?
“The Tenth Gift is wildly yet convincingly romantic—a rare combo . . . both a sensitive portrayal of Muslim culture and a delectable adventure of the heart.”—USA Today
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I loved this book!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I don’t know exactly what I was expecting, but it wasn’t this!! This was like two stories in one but with a whole new twist. I couldn’t put it down and I was not mad at the hours of sleep I lost reading this wonderful novel!
Fantastic story, very interesting and intriguing.
As an embroiderer, this story’s description caught my attention. I was not disappointed. While the stitchery wasn’t the main theme, it wove the centuries together seamlessly. Interesting on several levels. Very enjoyable read.
I learned about a historical period in an interesting format, but beware of the romantic plot…..it’s not necessary and unbelievable.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book, even though I don’t normally read historical novels.
This book seemed to be well researched. It takes place in the 1600’s and also in the present. It was interesting finding out more about the Muslim religion.
Interesting characters and interesting history.
This book flowed nicely. I am not one to take in a lot of description so I skipped a bit of that but was really good read.
Really enjoyed the book. I think there is the distinct possibility that it involves bits and pieces of a true personal love story.
i like books about a times of long ago, the story was very good, i loved cat, she was strong and new what she wanted, thanks for a good read, sandie
Yes!!!
I usually do not like stories of connected people separated by centuries in the same story. I was certainly hesitant to read this book. However, it was very good, not anything like I was afraid it would be. It was GREAT!!!
Amazing convoluted story that was colourful and exciting. A really outstanding unusual read.
This novel is well researched and beautifully written, similar to the style of Diana Gabaldon!
Not my style.
Loved it!
Interesting for everyone but a must for history buffs!
It surely held my attention. I didn’t want to put it down. The two story lines made it more interesting.
Very enjoyable, a good read.
A lovely book. Wonderful characters – the historical and contemporary ones – whose lives are complex and real. Their fears, their joys, their love, their prejudices play out in a realistic manner. Interesting, compelling interplay of the then and the now, with a warm, rich conclusion. Extra special that a book and an artistic craft formed the foundation for and glue of the story. Nice!