Spirited by Julie Cohen - A Deep Dive Review and Blog Tour Contribution

It is rather fitting that today, 14th July, is my birthday, and I am celebrating by taking part in the Blog Tour for the new novel by Julie Cohen – Spirited. This book is a real celebratory treat in itself. Having already read and enjoyed a couple of contemporary women’s fiction novels by this author, I was delighted when I heard that she has diversified into my favourite genre of historical fiction for her latest book.

Plot Summary: Victorian England’s Hidden Lives

Spirited transports readers to the atmospheric setting of Victorian England, a world where societal expectations and hidden desires collide. The narrative focuses on three distinct women, each carrying their own burdens and secrets.

The main protagonist is Viola, a young woman navigating the profound grief of her father’s recent death. She is also grappling with her new role as a wife to Josiah, her childhood companion. Their marriage, while seemingly a stable union, lacks the warmth and passion Viola craves, leaving her feeling adrift. Viola possesses a nascent talent as an amateur photographer, a skill that unexpectedly reveals spectral presences in her images.

Her path crosses with Henriette, a woman of renowned skill and notoriety as a spirit medium. Henriette is a fiercely independent character, passionate about her craft and life itself. As Viola’s photographic abilities come to the attention of Henriette, a deep connection and powerful attraction sparks between them.

The narrative also introduces a third woman, whose life is shrouded in even greater secrecy, her identity revealed only well into the story. The plot weaves together the intersecting lives of these women, exploring their individual struggles and the consequences of their secrets. Mysteries surrounding Henriette’s true nature, Josiah’s past in India, and the motivations of the third woman propel the story forward.

Overall Thoughts and Feelings: A Magical and Entralling Read

Spirited wove its magical spell around me and had me deeply enthralled. I am an abiding enthusiast for historical fiction, and this novel ticked all my boxes. The author effortlessly slides into historical fiction like a consummate professional, immersing the reader in the lives of these compelling women. The novel is clever, featuring several mysteries, with a love story (or two) at its very heart. There’s a subtle hint of the supernatural amidst the beautiful literary tones and richly descriptive writing, creating a truly captivating experience.

Writing Style and Character Development: A Rich Tapestry

Julie Cohen’s writing style in Spirited is exquisite. The prose is both beautiful and evocative, painting vivid pictures of Victorian life. The author’s ability to craft richly descriptive language immerses the reader in the era, from the societal constraints to the tangible atmosphere of the settings.

Character development is a significant strength of this novel. Viola is a complex and relatable protagonist, her vulnerability and burgeoning independence making her journey compelling. Henriette is a force of nature, her passion and enigmatic persona drawing the reader in. The author expertly portrays the internal struggles and evolving relationships of these women, allowing their personalities to unfold organically. The gradual revelation of the third woman’s identity and her story adds further depth to the ensemble.

Literary Themes and Motifs

Several literary themes and motifs are explored throughout Spirited:

  • Sexuality and Desire: The novel delicately explores burgeoning same-sex attraction and the societal taboos surrounding it in Victorian England.
  • Gender Roles and Independence: It highlights the limitations placed upon women in this era and their often-unseen struggles for autonomy and self-expression.
  • Grief and Loss: Viola’s journey is deeply intertwined with her father’s death, examining how grief shapes identity and relationships.
  • Secrets and Truth: The narrative is driven by the unspoken truths carried by the characters, and the eventual revelation of these secrets often leads to transformation.
  • The Supernatural and Perception: The ghostly images captured by Viola’s camera introduce a layer of the supernatural, blurring the lines between the seen and unseen, and questioning what is real.

Pacing and Structure: A Well-Crafted Narrative

The pacing of Spirited is generally well-managed. The story unfolds at a deliberate pace, allowing for the rich historical detail and atmospheric descriptions to be fully absorbed. The introduction of multiple mysteries and the gradual unveiling of secrets keeps the plot engaging without feeling rushed. There were no parts that I found particularly slow, and the structure, which interweaves the perspectives and narratives of the three women, effectively builds suspense and intrigue. The story held my interest throughout.

Author’s Use of Language and Vivid Imagery: A Sensory Experience

The author’s use of language is a standout feature of Spirited. Cohen possesses a remarkable ability to create vivid imagery that appeals to all the senses. Descriptions of the gaslight glow, the textures of clothing, the hushed interiors of homes, and the bustling streets of Victorian England are all rendered with exquisite detail. This rich tapestry of language draws the reader deeply into the period and the emotional landscape of the characters.

While no specific quotes were provided in the source material to highlight, the overall quality of the writing suggests that passages conveying emotional resonance and atmospheric depth would be abundant.

Emotional Impact: Evocative and Thought-Provoking

Spirited evokes a range of emotions, from a sense of melancholy and longing to burgeoning hope and defiance. The portrayal of Viola’s internal struggles and her developing feelings for Henriette is particularly moving. The novel prompts deep thought about societal pressures, personal desires, and the courage it takes to embrace one’s true self. The exploration of forbidden love and the sacrifices made for freedom is undoubtedly thought-provoking.

Themes and Messages: Unveiling Truth and Finding Freedom

The overarching message of Spirited seems to be about the power of female resilience, the pursuit of truth, and the liberation that comes with confronting societal constraints and personal secrets. Julie Cohen appears to be conveying that even in the most restrictive of environments, women can find ways to carve out their own destinies and experience love and fulfillment. The author succeeds admirably in delivering this message through compelling character arcs and a gripping narrative.

Social and Cultural Commentary

The novel offers subtle yet insightful social and cultural commentary on Victorian England. It sheds light on:

  • The limitations imposed on women: Their lack of agency in marriage, their exclusion from professional spheres, and the societal expectations placed upon them are all subtly highlighted.
  • The rigidity of class structures: While not explicitly central, the subtle nuances of social standing are present.
  • The prevailing attitudes towards sexuality: The societal fear and condemnation of non-normative desires are a crucial undercurrent.
  • The fascination with the spiritual and the occult: The popularity of spirit mediums reflects a societal interest in exploring the unknown and perhaps finding solace or answers beyond the material world.

Strengths:

  • Exceptional Writing and Atmosphere: The prose is beautiful, and the historical atmosphere is masterfully crafted.
  • Compelling Characters: Viola and Henriette are complex, well-developed, and memorable.
  • Intriguing Plot: The blend of mystery, romance, and a hint of the supernatural keeps the reader engaged.
  • Exploration of Themes: The novel tackles important themes of sexuality, gender, and prejudice with nuance.
  • Historical Accuracy (Implied): The author’s transition into historical fiction is seamless, suggesting thorough research.

Weaknesses:

  • The source material provided did not offer any specific weaknesses to identify. Based on the enthusiastic tone of the review, it appears to be a well-executed novel.

Recommendation

I would wholeheartedly recommend Spirited to readers who enjoy historical fiction with a strong focus on character development and atmosphere. Fans of authors like Sarah Waters (Affinity), Sarah Perry (The Essex Serpent), or Laura Purcell (The Corset) will find much to love in this novel, as it shares a similar sensibility and thematic depth. Anyone interested in stories about female empowerment, hidden desires, and the allure of the Victorian era will find Spirited a truly rewarding read.

Where to Get It

  • Buy: My Ebook
  • Buy: Orion Books
  • Buy: Amazon
  • Buy: Waterstones

Overall Impression and Rating

Spirited by Julie Cohen is a triumph. It’s a novel that is both beautifully written and emotionally resonant, offering a captivating glimpse into the lives of three remarkable women in Victorian England. The author’s skillful storytelling, rich prose, and engaging plot make this a truly unforgettable read.

Rating: 5/5 Stars