The Uskok a tale of love, betrayal and intrigue
by George Sand translated by Lynne Forest
In the elegant yet treacherous world of 17th century Venice, young nobleman Orio Soranzo has squandered his fortune and his reputation. Only by marrying the rich and beautiful heiress, Giovanna, can he regain both fortune and favour. Soranzo hurls himself into perilous ventures against the Turks — unaware that his quest for redemption will entangle him in a web of lies, shifting alliances, and dark deeds. As pirates stalk the seas, Giovanna dares to join Orio at the forbidding island fortress he commands. But with the arrival of an old friend, fate unleashes a terrible reckoning none could foresee. Award-winning Indie publisher Aurora Metro Books brings this long forgotten jewel of early nineteenth century historical fiction to English readers for the first time in over half a century. ‘L’Uscoque’ (The Uskok) written by George Sand in 1838 was praised by both Flaubert and Dostoevsky and its story inspired Byron’s ‘The Corsair’. Lynne Forest’s vivid new translation restores a tale of passion, intrigue, and conflict that pulses with the energy of a glittering Venice that was once at the centre of the world. Buy it here: ISBN 978-1-911501-28-2 PRICE £12.99
About the author George Sand (1804-1876) a French novelist, memoirist and journalist. Being more renowned than either Victor Hugo or Honoré de Balzac in Britain in the 1830s and 1840s, Sand is recognised as one of the most notable writers of the European Romantic era. She has more than 50 volumes of various works to her credit, including stories, plays and political texts, alongside her 70 novels. Like her great-grandmother, Louise Dupin, whom she admired, George Sand advocated for women’s rights and passion, criticized the institution of marriage, and fought against the prejudices of a conservative society. She was considered scandalous because of her turbulent love life, her adoption of masculine clothing, and her masculine pseudonym.
Lynne Forest, translator Lynne Forest studied French and German at Manchester University, before obtaining a Master’s in English Literature from the Nouvelle Sorbonne University, and later another in Translation Studies. She has translated several academic articles, and a novel, Daniel Rocher’s “Monsieur Raminet’s Long Voyage,” Éditions du Net, 2014. She is a teacher of English, course coordinator and former head of languages at the University of Technology of Compiègne (Alliance Sorbonne Université group) in Northern France, where she lives.
Reviews:
“…a lost gem by French literary icon George Sand which has remarkably modern characters and themes. Set in Venice at the height of its power, this gripping story keeps us guessing until the end.”
– Pascale Sardin, Professor, Bordeaux Montaigne University.
“… Sand astutely explores the darker side of human nature in this astonishing tale of greed and corruption. Another first-rate translation by Lynne Forest.” – Hervé Picton, author and translator
“This was a very entertaining read. I enjoyed the blend of romance, adventure, and political intrigue, which kept the story engaging from beginning to end. The historical setting added plenty of atmosphere, and the themes of love, loyalty, and redemption gave the story emotional depth. While some aspects of the writing feel very much of their time, the characters and dramatic twists kept me invested. Overall, this was a captivating classic that delivered both adventure and heart, making it a highly enjoyable read.” **** – netgalley reviewer
Media ContactCompany Name: Aurora Metro BooksContact Person: Cheryl RobsonEmail: Send EmailCountry: United KingdomWebsite: www.aurorametro.com
