Zaremba: or Love and the Rule of Law
Michelle Granas
isbn: 9780988859203
language: English
format: paperback
categories: Contemporary, Literary, Fiction
Cordelia is a shy polio victim who lives a life of seclusion caring for her odd family in Warsaw until a chance encounter thrusts her into a struggle against political corruption and covert activities. Zaremba, a wealthy businessman, is fleeing arrest - unjust arrest, he says - when he pauses in his flight to save the life of Cordelia's father. Cordelia's reluctant decision to help Zaremba as he then schemes to turn the tables on the authorities plunges her into new realms of experience. But it is only when he disappears that she has to gather all her courage and pursue the truth.
Zaremba, or Love and the Rule of Law is both a love story and a topical description of the temptations faced by democracies. (The CIA had a black site in Poland.) It is also an upbeat book for people who enjoy language, conversation, and human relationships. In spite of the serious human rights motifs, the tone is light and humorous; the family relations are kind; and the heroine is very aware of the moral aspects of her situation. There is no graphic sex or violence.
From reviews:
'I hugely enjoyed reading this novel, I was constantly worried about the protagonists, I was anxious about their well-being, and I kept thinking: "oh, please, let this end well"…. perhaps this is already the post-post-postmodern era, and it’s possible again to write romantic-adventurous, let’s-fight-for-the-truth stories – seriously, and entertainingly.' - Beatrix Turán, Books, My Ego and Entropy
'At the heart of the novel is a beautifully crafted love story made all the more endearing for its seemingly mismatched protagonists…highly entertaining…very original' - Mary Bor, Curious Book Fans
'I would recommend making time for this book. Once you start it you will be lost in Poland…it will appeal to readers who love the more classic type of novel, where character development and location are a huge portion of the writing. Though this is a modern novel it reminded me of the feeling I had reading Jane Eyre and Emma. I highly recommend this book.' - Cristina Gutierrez, Alaskan Book Café
'Though essentially a story of politics played dirty, of corruption in high places, of the abuse of power, if like me you aren't a huge fan of this genre please don't dismiss this quirky novel out of hand as Zaremba has much more to offer…Cordelia is the most unusual action heroine ever…' - Tracy Terry, Pen and Paper