Song of the Sea Maid

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What to expect

A rich, evocative second novel from the author of THE VISITORS.

In the 18th century, Dawnay Price is an anomaly. An educated foundling, a woman of science in a time when such things are unheard-of, she overcomes her origins to become a natural philosopher.

Against the conventions of the day, and to the alarm of her male contemporaries, she sets sail to Portugal to develop her theories. There she makes some startling discoveries - not only in an ancient cave whose secrets hint at a previously undiscovered civilisation, but also in her own heart. The siren call of science is powerful, but as war approaches she finds herself pulled in another direction by feelings she cannot control.

'Beautifully written... wonderful stuff.' - Sarah Broadhurst, The Bookseller.

(P)2018 Hodder & Stoughton Limited

Critics Review

Captivating . . . With a plot rich in description, written in a straightforward style that reflects the no-nonsense attitude of its heroine, this is an inspiring read.
The Lady
An original and uplifting novel that beautifully captures a young woman's determination to succeed.
S D Sykes, author of Plague Land
Rebecca Mascull's second novel continues to showcase her talent for writing intelligent, impeccably researched, absorbing historical fiction. Dawnay Price - foundling, scientist, feminist - is a wondrous character and I was on the edge of my seat following her fortunes.
Louise Walters, author of MRS SINCLAIR'S SUITCASE
I adored this book. Dawnay Price is possibly one of my favourite characters I've ever read and I loved seeing her journey from ignorant (in the sweetest way possible) orphan girl to woman of science. Her story isn't always a happy one, but that's what makes it such a believable tale . . . I would recommend it to anyone looking for an amazing female character, loves stories set in the depths of nature, or suffers from a bit of wunderlust. You can almost feel the sun shining through the pages. Five stars from me!
Pixiecrop.com
It felt as if I was reading a work by a modern and accessible Dickens.Song of the Sea Maid is a highly intelligent novel - a feminist text, a scientific text, a philosophical text, a love story and an historical novel. However, above all else it is a fabulous blend of all these genres into a wonderful and hugely satisfying read. Song of the Sea Maid enriches the reader's life.
Linda's Book Bag
This is a beautifully written story, it speaks profoundly, and I know that I am going to go on thinking about it for a very long time . . . I was utterly captivated by Dawany, by her story, by her experiences. She was - they were - so utterly real, and I was infected by her life and her spirit . . . I loved the heart and soul of this book.
Fleur in Her World
From the heartbreaking days in the orphanage to the series of events which sees her boarding a ship to Portugal, I was with Dawnay all the way . . . The clever weaving of real life historical events, such as the Lisbon earthquake really added to the overall atmosphere and time of the novel.
Quite a discovery!
The Book Trail
This book is beautifully written. The words are lyrical and the plot is compelling . . . Dawnay, herself, is a brilliant lead. You can't help but love her from the moment she is introduced.
Lost in a Daydream
Terrific. A vindication of the pleasures of reading . . . a book which draws the reader in, deceptively making it an easy, page turning journey, and then pounces on the complacent, relaxed reader and swallows them up!
Lady Fancifull
Song of the Sea Maid is a beautiful book, with a heroine that I now definitely have a bit of a girly crush on. A must read!
The Welsh Librarian
Just like The Visitors, this novel is beautifully written. The descriptions of some of the places she experiences and the creatures she encounters are wonderful and often full of colour.
Typewritered
Firmly rooted in history, but not at all dense, this is an absorbing read. . . I can wholeheartedly recommend this book.
In the Nick of Time
This novel takes the reader into unfamiliar worlds - mid-18th century London, Lisbon, Minorca, but also the worlds of natural science and maritime warfare . . . I revelled in the well written prose and the upbeat, energetic movement of the narrative.
We Love This Book
From the opening chapter I was totally captivated and felt completely at ease in the company of a fine array of characters and by the storytelling skill of an author who clearly knows how to hold a reader in the palm of her hand.
Jaffa Reads Too
Rebecca Mascull's writing is brilliantly clever and completely engaging. Her compelling storytelling is fabulous . . . I loved this memorable story and Dawnay Price was a fantastic and endearing character.
David at OMG that Book Review, GoodReads
This book makes my heart sing.
Readingwritingandriesling.wordpress.com

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