Review of Amora
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Princewill Uchenna
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Review of Amora
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Amora" by Grant Hallstrom.]
From history lessons and reliable encyclopedias, we've all come to understand that social class in ancient Rome was hierarchical. A born child could be lucky or unlucky, depending on who they were born to. A child of a slave was a slave, and a child of a member of the noble class was a noble citizen. This was a period where equal human rights were vehemently opposed. The Christians were one of the major groups that advocated for equal rights, but, as expected, they were heavily persecuted and repelled. "Amora," which was masterfully written by Grant J. Hallstrom, highlights the disparity in privileges between certain members of society due to their birth.
Born in ancient Rome, where classism was the norm, Amora initially conformed to Roman elitism but very quickly realized how corrupt and unfair the system was. This realization was heightened when her daughter was murdered in a heart-shattering turn of events. Her son, Esteban, was systematically segregated due to his physical deformity, as Amora had refused to abandon him at birth despite the pressure to do so. Her love and determination were a ray of hope in a society that was governed by cruelty and status. Leo, her husband, subtly distanced himself from his son to maintain his social standing with his Senate friends and those who rigidly followed customs, regardless of whether these customs were rational or not. As the family navigates the dangerous landscape of Roman politics and religion, they must confront their own beliefs and values, making choices that will forever alter their lives.
One major theme that takes center stage in this literary masterpiece is the theme of social status and privilege. The novel critiques the social hierarchy of ancient Rome, where wealth and status often determined one's fate. Amora and Leo's privileged position affects their experiences and choices, while characters like Camilia, a slave, face limitations and hardships due to their lower social standing. The story highlights the injustices and inequalities of this system. The author also persistently educates her audience through the themes of religion, persecution, and the virtue of forgiveness. Christianity plays a significant role in the novel, as characters face persecution and struggle to maintain their faith in a hostile environment. The story showcases the courage and resilience of early Christians, like Justin and Amora, who risk everything for their beliefs. It also explores the concepts of mercy and loving one's enemies, which are central to Christian teachings. Also, the author explores the themes of revenge and justice. Antonio's quest for revenge against Quintus and Leo's showcase the struggle for justice in a corrupt system. The novel explores the consequences of seeking revenge and the moral implications of taking justice into one's own hands.
The plot is firmly set in ancient Rome. Germania is also mentioned, as this was the place where the fight between the Romans and the Quadi warriors occurred. I'd recommend this book to fans of historical fiction, readers who are interested in family dramas, those who enjoy redemption stories, and anyone looking for a gripping and emotional read. I'd rate this book 5 out of 5. It was exclusively edited. There was nothing to dislike about the book, making me give it the perfect score.
******
Amora
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
From history lessons and reliable encyclopedias, we've all come to understand that social class in ancient Rome was hierarchical. A born child could be lucky or unlucky, depending on who they were born to. A child of a slave was a slave, and a child of a member of the noble class was a noble citizen. This was a period where equal human rights were vehemently opposed. The Christians were one of the major groups that advocated for equal rights, but, as expected, they were heavily persecuted and repelled. "Amora," which was masterfully written by Grant J. Hallstrom, highlights the disparity in privileges between certain members of society due to their birth.
Born in ancient Rome, where classism was the norm, Amora initially conformed to Roman elitism but very quickly realized how corrupt and unfair the system was. This realization was heightened when her daughter was murdered in a heart-shattering turn of events. Her son, Esteban, was systematically segregated due to his physical deformity, as Amora had refused to abandon him at birth despite the pressure to do so. Her love and determination were a ray of hope in a society that was governed by cruelty and status. Leo, her husband, subtly distanced himself from his son to maintain his social standing with his Senate friends and those who rigidly followed customs, regardless of whether these customs were rational or not. As the family navigates the dangerous landscape of Roman politics and religion, they must confront their own beliefs and values, making choices that will forever alter their lives.
One major theme that takes center stage in this literary masterpiece is the theme of social status and privilege. The novel critiques the social hierarchy of ancient Rome, where wealth and status often determined one's fate. Amora and Leo's privileged position affects their experiences and choices, while characters like Camilia, a slave, face limitations and hardships due to their lower social standing. The story highlights the injustices and inequalities of this system. The author also persistently educates her audience through the themes of religion, persecution, and the virtue of forgiveness. Christianity plays a significant role in the novel, as characters face persecution and struggle to maintain their faith in a hostile environment. The story showcases the courage and resilience of early Christians, like Justin and Amora, who risk everything for their beliefs. It also explores the concepts of mercy and loving one's enemies, which are central to Christian teachings. Also, the author explores the themes of revenge and justice. Antonio's quest for revenge against Quintus and Leo's showcase the struggle for justice in a corrupt system. The novel explores the consequences of seeking revenge and the moral implications of taking justice into one's own hands.
The plot is firmly set in ancient Rome. Germania is also mentioned, as this was the place where the fight between the Romans and the Quadi warriors occurred. I'd recommend this book to fans of historical fiction, readers who are interested in family dramas, those who enjoy redemption stories, and anyone looking for a gripping and emotional read. I'd rate this book 5 out of 5. It was exclusively edited. There was nothing to dislike about the book, making me give it the perfect score.
******
Amora
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids by Jemima Paul, Arvind Paul
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Ama Al Lycia
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Great review made me to read the story.
The story follows Amora, who, after personal tragedies, recognizes the system's corruption and challenges it. Themes of social status, religion, and justice are central, with early Christians portrayed as brave in the face of persecution. Characters like Antonio illustrate the moral complexities of seeking revenge in a corrupt society. Set in ancient Rome, the novel is praised for its compelling narrative and impeccable editing, making it a highly recommended read for historical fiction fans.
The story follows Amora, who, after personal tragedies, recognizes the system's corruption and challenges it. Themes of social status, religion, and justice are central, with early Christians portrayed as brave in the face of persecution. Characters like Antonio illustrate the moral complexities of seeking revenge in a corrupt society. Set in ancient Rome, the novel is praised for its compelling narrative and impeccable editing, making it a highly recommended read for historical fiction fans.
Latest Review: Purpose by Gina Bianchini
