Welcome to Litsy!

Fascinating, well-researched historical fiction about a tragic theater fire in Richmond, Virginia in 1811. Told from 4 points of view: a young white orphaned boy working as a stage hand, an enslaved woman who accompanied her mistress as her chaperone, an enslaved man who became a hero, and a well-to-do white woman who was sitting in a box seat. ⬇️

⭐️⭐️⭐️an engaging historical fiction using parts of actual people@who were there although took many liberties with their narratives.

Author Rachel Beanland has based this historical fiction novel on the true story of the Richmond Theater Fire. Dozens died that night as the crowd surge to escape the smoke and flames. Heroes (and cowards) were revealed that night, and Beanland takes us on a fictionalized account of some of those that were there. Not only does the author bring the disaster to life with her impeccable research, she draws you into the story as if you were there.

Thanks @AmyG for getting 2024 off to a cracking start. This is a real page turner. Amazing historical detail, characters who live off the page and a really compelling and compassionate story of survival, pain and hope. Loved it !

Oh @AmyG - love love love the sound of this one. Digging straight in tonight. Thank you honey. Happy Holidays to you all. 😘🎄😘

Not my typical historical fiction read but am so glad I read it! Well-paced and incredibly engaging… I didn‘t want it to end!

Just about everything in this book fascinates me—including the absurd legalities/sensibilities of the time & how ppl can strip one another of their humanity even as they recognize that humanity. Also, Mary Lumpkin is a mighty woman. Friggin‘ made of steel.

When the current book you are reading, mentions the chunkster you‘ve been buddy ready since January! 😊👍🏻 #clarissa

Historical fiction centered around a theater fire in 1811 Richmond VA, and four peoples decisions around that event. Not typically a historical fiction fan, but i enjoyed this. #botm

1. Loved this so much
2. Historical fiction at it's best - do read the authors note at the end as well.
3. A book that makes me want to travel there when reading it!
Thanks @eggs #wondrouswednesday @peaknit @Kshakal @BethM @RaeLovesToRead