ALINA: A SONG FOR THE TELLING by Malve von Hassell Explores 12th Century Female Troubadours

LIVONIA, Mich. - Aug. 20, 2020 - PRLog -- Alina: A Song For the Telling is a coming-of-age story of a young woman from Provence in the 12th century who dreams of becoming a musician. Although written for middle grade/young adult, this historical fictional account will also appeal to a wide range of readers as author Malve von Hassell introduces the vibrant, short-lived period of trobairitz, women troubadours in the 12th century, and to the complex historical times of Jerusalem during the age of the crusades. The novel is woven around an intriguing vacuum in historical knowledge of Count Stephen de Sancerre, while in all other respects staying true to historical details.

"Throughout history there have been women who rebelled and fought to forge their own path despite enormous restrictions," says author Malve von Hassell when asked about the inspiration behind the novel. "I wanted to create a young woman who felt the strictures of her upbringing but was determined to move beyond them. For Alina, music and lyrics allow her a voice at a time when women generally were expected to remain in the background."

Fourteen-year-old Alina refuses to accept the oppressing life her strict aunt wants to impose upon her. When the perfect opportunity comes along for her to escape, she and her brother embark on a journey through the Byzantine Empire all the way to Jerusalem. Alina soon finds herself embroiled in the political intrigue of noble courts as she fights to realize her dream of becoming a female troubadour.

Alina: A Song for the Telling (BHC Press) is available to preorder in hardcover, trade softcover, and ebook at fine book retailers everywhere. Booksellers, librarians, and retailers can purchase copies though Ingram, Baker & Taylor, Gardners, Overdrive, Perma-Bound, and Hoopla. For more information, visit https://www.bhcpress.com/

Advance Praise

"…an excellent middle grade historical fiction [that will also] interest a wider readership."  — Nengath, Goodreads Reviewer

About the author: Malve von Hassell is a writer, researcher, and translator. She lives in Southampton, New York.

About  BHC Press: BHC Press is an award-winning independent publisher of fiction and nonfiction for the adult, teen, and children's market. Based in southeast Michigan, their books are published in hardcover, trade softcover, and ebook, and have been favorably reviewed and featured in Kirkus Reviews, Publishers Weekly, Booklist, Library Journal, Parade Magazine, and many others. To learn more, visit www.bhcpress.com.

On-sale: 8/27/2020
Hardcover:  978-1-64397-072-1, 232 pages, $23.95
Softcover:   978-1-64397-104-9, 232 pages, $12.95
Ebook:        978-1-64397-105-6, $7.99
LCCN: 2020933340