The Nostradamus Prophecy, by Theresa Breslin (Young Adult, 10E/10E0

2008, Doubleday (imprint Random House)

449 pages, hardback

Review copy, not up for grabs. Chained to my bookshelf. Cover laced with poison!

Book summary

When Nostradamus proclaims to the French court his prophecy of a great massacre, the young King Charles only laughs. His mother, Catherine de' Medici, pays more heed - she believes that Nostradamus can truly see the future.

But the great soothsayer's prophecies are not only for those who rule; he also has a message for Melisande, the minstrel's daughter, who he believes is linked with him by Fate. And as the Angel of Death approaches, Nostradamus entrusts to her safekeeping some very special parchments - parchments that the rulers of France would do anything to see . . .

Nayu's thoughts

*hugs book* I could read that again right now. Meliasand'es narration, from the fateful night when she and her sister danced before King Charles of France, to the end when her life, although happy, is forever marred by tragedy, kept me reading from cover to cover.

A story loosely based on historical events, I actually knew a little about the background of 16th century France. I enjoyed learning more about the rising tension between the Huguenots, Catholics and Protestants. It was a horrific time for Melisande to get by in. After several serious incidents which separated her from her family, she tries to make it alone. Fortunately, she gets taken in by Nostradamus, who'd created a prophecy for her in the beginning of the novel.

I have to say, the beginning had me labelling him as a madman. He's certainly portrayed as such. However, he had a gentle heart, for his wife loved him dearly and took care of his children while he was ill. Melisande came to him after fleeing the royal court, disguised as a boy so as not to arouse suspicion. Just before reaching his house she came under the notice of a distinguished noble, which was why Nostradamus' wife ordered to her be a girl again, but to forsake her mandolin that she revered and played beautifully. It was hard, but Melisande had no choice.

Her strength to carry on living, despite what she'd seen, saw her become an apprentice to Nostradamus' apothecary, Giorgio. During this time she was hunted not only by the distinguished noble, but also by the royal court. I can say she avoids death, but she gets betrayed, sees more death, and, thankfully, experiences love from her past that she didn't expect to see again.

Suspense and intrigue is placed in careful layers. There are clear points in Melisande's narrative where, as a reader, I knew the peace wouldn't last. Hints are dropped subtly with regard to the surprise twist near the end. I guessed correctly for one incident, but failed miserably at another, which proves how good a novelist Theresa is.

This isn't an overly violent book, there are scenes of violence, fighting and the like. The one paperclip rating is because there are a handful of incidents not suitable for younger readers, but they aren't graphic, merely suggestive.

This tale of familial love, friendship and betrayal has won a place in my heart, and on my bookshelf. I haven't said too much about the story, because I don't want to give anything away here. The main events had my gasping and smiling as I read it.

Theresa Breslin's website is here.

Liked this? Try The Lady in The Tower by Marie-Louise Jensen