Agustina de Aragón

Another beautiful historical novel. So well written. It captures perfectly, courage and resilience.
I couldn’t find better words to describe it, than Gail’s words: “A dynamic and heartfelt story based upon true events that takes place during one of the most devastating wars in Europe. It captures the strength of unity and family and is known as one of the most powerful love stories in history.”
And the end is a lovely addition not to be missed. Read and discover Agustina, this great lady!

Thank you NetGalley for the eARC. This book was just wonderful. I enjoyed the heck out of this book. I loved so much about it but mostly the love between Rami and Roca. I cant wait until this is released and I can buy it for my shelf!

An intriguing biographical novel about a young woman I'd knew nothing about until I read this book. A real treasure, appropriate for young as well as "old" adults. Agustina is an inspiring spitfire and the end of her story was as delightful as the beginning. Recommended!

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with the copy of this book.

Agustina de Aragon by Gail Meath tells the story of a young heroine who fought fiercely during the Napoleon invasion in Spain. Agustina, or Rami, is a fiery and courageous spirit of Spain who refused to let a foreign invader take away her home and freedom.
This is a story poorly known in history, but it's one of the greatest ones. The courage, the passion, the love, the sacrifice all culminate in a great victory and even greater legend.
Meath's version of the story let's a mother narrate to her daughter a tale of a barefoot old lady that carries brooches and necklaces on her with the greatest pride while strolling around town. This way of narration made the whole story more nostalgic and heartwarming with the end being so unexpected to young Lucia who was listening to this story together with us. I say together with us because that's precisely how it felt to read this book. Like you're seated next to that mother listening to the story first-hand, all while watching Rami walk past your window.
It was such a pleasure and a joy to read this book and I would love to recommend it to others. Any fan of historical fiction and biographies that is especially fascinated with Spanish history will absolutely enjoy this book.

This historical fiction is based on a true story. It's well recounted, poignant and romantic.

Juan is a soldier, based in Barcelona where he meets Agustina. He is taken by her, but her opinion of her country's soldiers is not favourable. She tries to push him away, but he is relentless in his persuit. When, she finally gives in and they get together, it's the romance of all ages.

France is invading Spain. Some of their tactics are underhanded. Juan is a brave soldier, loyal to his country. He fights hard to preserve their freedom. When he is injured,Agustina takes over to protect her fellow citizens and thus becomes a hero.

It's a well written story. The war is brutal and bloody and throughout it all Juan and Agustina remain true to Spain and themselves. Her family is supportive right through. It's a very good recount of the war between Spain and France. It's very touching and Agustina and Juan are true heroes. There is a heartbreaking occurence,but overall it's a worthy read which I would recommend to history lovers.

I received an eARC from Netgalley and the views expressed are my personal opinion.

“While it breaks my heart to know what he went through, it also assures me that he will always protect you just as fearlessly.”
“I would die for him, Papá,” she whispered.
“I know, Rami. God chose the perfect mate for you both.”

✮✮✮✮✮

Based on a true story. Set in Barcelona in 1803, Agustina, a mere 17-year-old girl spends her time sneaking around the military barracks. Most assume she is trying to find a husband, but in fact she is eavesdropping on conversation surrounding the British and French, and their ensuing war. She is a dedicated Spaniard, and so is Juan Roca, a military officer transferred to Barcelona. He instantly falls for Agustina and her fiery nature, but she rejects him over and over. This is the story of them, and of war between France and Spain, where they both take the frontline together.

I’m not usually a massive fan of the war stories, but this is something different altogether. Agustina is the most courageous woman I think I have ever read about. She was strong-spirited, fiery and everything in between. She made decisions that no teenager should ever have to make, but the love story between her and Roca just added to the fact she was the most untouchable and invincible woman in Spain. The loss, heartbreak and destruction she went through was one she should never have had to do, but she was so dedicated to her country, she would never have done anything differently.

I think this is a book that will stay with me, and I will be buying a hard copy. It’s one of those stories that reminds you that you are so lucky in life, and that despite what may be going on around us, there is always light in the dark.

Thank you to BooksGoSocial, Gail Meath and NetGalley for providing me with a copy!

Thank you NetGalley and Gail Meath for an advanced copy.

A beautifully written historical love story of war, heartbreak and perseverance.

Agustina de Aragon was a true warrior in 1808. She ran forward, loaded a cannon and lit the fuse, shredding a wave of attackers at point blank range. Agustina, became a Spanish heroine who defended Spain during the Peninsular War, first as a civilian and later as a professional officer in the Spanish Army. She was known as "the Spanish Joan of Arc". She was well loved and respected by all.

Gail Meath, does an amazing job by bringing Agustina back to life in the pages of her novel. She shows the true passion, commitment, and love not only to her beloved Spain, but to her family. Agustina's life was not an easy one, during heartbreak, she found the courage to fight not only her own demons but the French invaders.

A truly remarkable woman that made history!

Agustina Saragossa is a Spanish legend. Agustina bravely fought during Napoleon Bonaparte’s invasion of Spain. Gail Meath manages to blend this chapter in Spanish history with romance. The story focuses on Agustina Saragossa. Juan Roca is a young sergeant stationed at Barcelona barracks. The first time he meets Agustina, also called Rami by her father and later Juan, he falls in love with her. The first few chapters of the story tell us about the beginning of this beautiful relationship between Rami and Juan.
Agustina is extremely loyal to her country and keeps a close eye on the political situation. Spain is caught somewhere in the middle of the struggle between Great Britain and France. Eventually, being invaded by the French army. The story follows the characters of Rami and Juan through war, separation, and loss. The characters have a beautiful relationship and the basis of their bond is that they share similar values and beliefs. There is no conflict between them about what needs to be done, even when they suffer immense loss. As a reader, you see their relationship grow and become stronger.
The ending is slightly bittersweet. I know what the ending is for me, but it can be open for interpretation, in a way. Agustina De Aragòn by Gail Meath is a beautiful historical romance. It is difficult to put the book down because you want to know what happens next. It flows well, only a little quicker than I had anticipated. Overall, it is an engaging and emotional story with incredibly brave characters. I loved reading it.

4 stars

A book telling the story of love and courage within the peninsular war of 1800s. Interesting read

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Agustina de Aragón is a historical novel based on an episode in the history of Spain, specifically the Napoleonic Wars.
It tells the story of Agustina Raimunda Maria Saragossa i Domènech, a Spanish hero who defended Spain during the Peninsular War, first as a civilian and later as a professional officer in the Spanish Army. Known as "the Spanish Joan of Arc," Agustina de Aragón or La Artillera, Agustina was a true patriot who, at the age of 22, helped defend the city of Zaragoza.
The book is beautifully written and although the author has taken some liberties regarding Agustina's true story, these liberties do not detract from the story, but rather enhance it.
The main characters, such as Pedro and María, Agustina's parents, Juan Roca, her husband and her little son, are real, as are other easily recognizable names such as King Ferdinand, Wellington, Napoleon and Joseph Bonaparte and some Spanish military.
It is a wonderful story, especially for those who are interested in History. It is full of action, adventure and romance and the fact that makes it even more interesting is that it is based on real events and people. I highly recommend her.
I thank the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
The opinion I have expressed above is based solely on what I think and feel about this book.