About the Book

Title: A Tapestry of Light

Author: Kimberly Duffy

Genre: Historical Fiction/Historical Romance

Publisher: Bethany House Publishing

Release Date: March 16, 2021

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Publisher's Book Description

“Calcutta, 1886.

Ottilie Russell is adrift between two cultures, British and Indian, belonging to both and neither. In order to support her little brother, Thaddeus, and her grandmother, she relies upon her skills in beetle-wing embroidery that have been passed down to her through generations of Indian women.

When a stranger appears with the news that Thaddeus is now Baron Sunderson and must travel to England to take his place as a nobleman, Ottilie is shattered by the secrets that come to light. Despite her growing friendship with Everett Scott, friend to Ottilie's English grandmother and aunt, she refuses to give up her brother. Then tragedy strikes, and she is forced to make a decision that will take Thaddeus far from death and herself far from home.

But betrayal and loss lurk in England, too, and soon Ottilie must fight to ensure Thaddeus doesn't forget who he is, as well as find a way to stitch a place for herself in this foreign land.”

My Review

A Tapestry of Light, by Kimberly Duffy, is a genuinely moving novel. Thoughtfully written, well-researched, and memorable, it beckons the reader to venture into a meaningful story that deftly spans two continents and cultures. Stunningly detailed and rich in history, this book is both touching and inspirational as it explores the significance of loss, rejection, family, faith, and purpose. With immersive settings, authentic characters, and a captivating plot, this novel is certainly worthy of being noticed.

A gifted writer, Ms. Duffy bolsters the historical genre with her keen insights and bold perspectives. In A Tapestry of Light, she successfully appeals to the reader’s senses and emotions through beautifully descriptive writing. Vivid sensory details ensure that sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures are deeply authentic. From the sparkle of a beetle’s wing, to sweet treats sticky with syrup, to warm air heavy with humidity and memories, this book fully envelops the reader in its fictional world.

Page after page this novel brings to life a story of loss, faith, courage, forgiveness, and love. Themes of hope, healing, and redemption are woven skillfully throughout the novel as the characters encounter significant challenges and difficult choices that profoundly shape their hearts and define their futures. Living under the shadows of colonialism, bound by the expectations of their social classes, and threatened by ignorance and prejudice, the characters endeavor to forge a life for themselves while grappling with fearful worries, unexpected grief, and surprising revelations. And in so doing, they face their fears, address their insecurities, pursue forgiveness, and nurture their faith even as their dreams and prospects are threatened.

From beginning to end, A Tapestry of Light offers the reader a genuinely gripping story of perseverance, resiliency, and faith while providing a fresh outlook on the complicated history of nineteenth century India and Victorian England. Strengthened by such important themes as compassion, generosity, human worth, and God's grace, this novel is compelling, relevant, and truly thought-provoking. I recommend it wholeheartedly.

*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

About the Author: Kimberly Duffy

“Kimberly Duffy is a Long Island native currently living in Southwest Ohio. When she's not homeschooling her four kids, she writes historical fiction that takes readers back in time and across oceans. Her books feature ahead-of-their-time heroines, evocative settings, and real-life faith. Kimberly loves trips that require a passport, recipe books, and practicing kissing scenes with her husband of 20 years. He doesn't mind.” --Biography from Kimberly Duffy’s author page on Amazon.com.