Malve von Hassell
Author of Alina: A Song for the Telling
About the Author
Malve Von Hassell is Adjunct Instructor, Department of Behavioral Sciences, Suffolk County Community College, NY.
Works by Malve von Hassell
Associated Works
Tagged
Common Knowledge
- Gender
- female
Members
Reviews
Awards
Statistics
- Works
- 6
- Also by
- 1
- Members
- 31
- Popularity
- #440,253
- Rating
- 4.1
- Reviews
- 11
- ISBNs
- 11
I don’t typically read historical fiction set in the distant past but von Hassell’s eye for detail gives life to those times. Also, considering her background, I'm confidentI that her details are as accurate as can be. I quickly related to smart, spirited, determined Alina through her simple recognizable gestures, and enjoyed the relatability of the characters as well as the accessibility of the story and themes.
I liked how von Hassell touches on social issues of those times that resonate today, particularly the descriptions of the restrictions of class and sex. Alina questions the morality of her fellow traveler Templar knights who are anything but chivalrous and seem to be taking advantage of the status allowed them by the church. I also appreciated the reference to the Muslim influence in Europe, through some of the musical lyrics. Above all I’m pleased that von Hassell gave a woman’s voice to a time long silent about daily 12th century domesticity.… (more)