The Legacy

Written by Ellen Ekström

285 pages

Published by Trivium Publishing

Review by Thomas Scott

Receives:

Set in 14th century medieval Tuscany, The Legacy by Ellen Ekström is a realistic and well-researched look at life during that volatile time in history. The story centers around Francesco, a knight with troubles on his mind. He is the Count of Romena and his legacy is being contested and he is losing power. Francesco is an honorable man who must struggle with everyone—including his own family—to retain what is rightfully his. Francesco's world is one of grandeur, yet there is a great price to pay for such legacies.

In reading this book I felt I was swept into the world of medieval Tuscany. The sights, the sounds, the panorama of personalities, all had an immediately natural and engaging feel. Ekström has developed a narrative that is full of period detail as if medieval Tuscany is being painted with words before our eyes, yet the narrative never intrudes on the characters or the story. The characters are allowed to speak for themselves. The story is well paced, and I was fascinated as the alliances and treacheries began to unfold.

This is a fine effort from Ekström, and since she left the ending open I'd like to think that perhaps there will be a sequel one day. For anyone with an interest in medieval Tuscany, or for those who just love well-told stories, this book comes highly recommended. ______________________________________________________________

Thomas Scott is a freelance writer from Los Angeles, California. He lives with his wife and their three daughters.