Learned by Heart, by Emma Donoghue - Sian
I feel so blessed to have snapped up a pre-published copy of Learned By Heart - it is one of my favourite pieces of historical fiction I’ve ever read. And I have a lovely long backlog of books by Emma Donoghue to soak up now!
In 1805, Eliza Raine is orphaned by her Indian mother and English father, and when she and her sister return to England and attend the Manor School in York, Eliza couldn’t feel more alone. Determined to be as amiable as possible in a sea of white students, she has fallen into a routine of abiding by rules and doing what’s expected of her.
Then comes Anne Lister: intelligent, daring, exciting, and different. And despite her best efforts to despise this new and difficult young lady, Eliza can’t help but be swept up in Anne’s joyous tornado.
This is a largely fictionalised story, but is based on the letters between the real Eliza and Anne, and the time they spent together at the age of 14.
Of course we know Anne goes on to become the famously known Gentleman Jack, whose life has also been told through TV and film. There was a deep, melancholy sadness that I felt for Eliza whilst reading this book, knowing that Anne was to move on from this phase of her life and fall in love a dozen times over. But even through this destined-to-end relationship, they shared a dazzling bond that gave me butterflies throughout; a real connection to those feelings of first loves, self-discovery, and finding that life’s boundaries can be pushed, if you’re just brave enough.
I’m now itching to read The Secret Diaries of Anne Lister, and to gobble down anything I can learn about Eliza Raine - if anyone has any recommendations, drop them into the shop!
Honestly, this book is destined to be a classic example of thoroughly-researched and bewitching historical storytelling. I’ve been just a little bit empty ever since finishing this book, but there’s a warm and fuzzy sentiment of feeling a little bit closer to queer history and the individuals who pierced through propriety to be their authentic selves.
Genuinely wonderful, and one I’ll be recommending to anyone and everyone!
Sian
