The Blood of Flowers Audiobook By Anita Amirrezvani cover art

The Blood of Flowers

A Novel

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The Blood of Flowers

By: Anita Amirrezvani
Narrated by: Shohreh Aghdashloo
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A sensuous and richly-imagined historical novel that centers on a skilled young carpet weaver, her arranged marriage, and her quest for self-determination in 17th-century Persia.

In 17th-century Iran, a 14-year-old woman believes she will be married within the year. But when her beloved father dies, she and her mother find themselves alone and without a dowry. With nowhere else to go, they are forced to sell the brilliant turquoise rug the young woman has woven to pay for their journey to Isfahan, where they will work as servants for her uncle, a rich rug designer in the court of the legendary Shah Abbas the Great.

Despite her lowly station, the young woman blossoms as a brilliant designer of carpets, a rarity in a craft dominated by men. But while her talent flourishes, her prospects for a happy marriage grow dim. Forced into a secret marriage to a wealthy man, the young woman finds herself faced with a daunting decision: forsake her own dignity, or risk everything she has in an effort to create a new life. Fairy Tales Fantasy Genre Fiction Historical Fiction Literary Fiction World Literature Heartfelt

Editorial Review

I knew Iranian actress Shohreh Aghdashloo from her Oscar-nominated performance in The House of Sand and Fog, and hoped for another star turn in her narration of Anita Amirrezvani's debut novel—I wasn't disappointed. Aghdashloo's deep, raspy voice is absolutely haunting, whether describing the (surprisingly) fascinating intricacies of rug-making or re-telling the Iranian folktales that are woven into the story. A colorful, lush tale that remains on my all-time favorite list. —Diana D., Audible Editor
Rich Historical Detail • Vivid Cultural Descriptions • Mesmerizing Voice • Well-developed Protagonist • Layered Narrative

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When listening to audiobooks, I (being the picky person that I am) usually find that something is lacking either in narration, editing, or the story itself. However, this book is worthy of 5 stars. The story unfolds slowly and eloquently, with such beautiful detail that it feels like a rich dessert for the senses. Ever read a book that seemed to end before the actual story was over, as if the author lost the drive to continue and decided to leave the conclusion up to the readers' imagination? There were a couple points in the story where I expected that to happen- the author would simply end it and I'd be left wanting more. Luckily, this writer lovingly weaves the entire story together herself all the way through, leaving little left untold.

Wonderful story

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Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

The author's words skillfully and literally paint pictures while the narrator's voice/performance absolutely brings this story to life. This is one of the most beautiful and most luscious stories I have ever listed to. The turns of the main character's life are like one of the magnificent rugs she so admires and strives to achieve. Each colorful thread (or life experience) is a necessary contribution to her ultimate design. I highly recommend and will even go so far as to beg anyone and everyone who is looking for an exceptional story to listen/read The Blood of Flowers (Warning: contains sexually explicit passages, which may not be appropriate for children).

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Blood of Flowers?

As the main character's mother was known for her 'honeyed-voice' and story-telling skills, I too was captivated by the many short-stories, anecdotes, etc., which the author wove into her main story.

What does Shohreh Aghdashloo bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

THIS NARRATOR IS SPECTACULAR AND BEYOND WORDS! For me, listening to this book was pure magic as Shohreh's voice, her natural persian accent and her depth of emotion perfectly captured the characters and exotic elements in this book. I was transported and entranced!

Any additional comments?

As in any good book, there are aspects of this story which are devistating and heartbreaking but there is also hope. I fell in love with this audiobook. I loved the history, the culture, the saddness and the author's wonderous descriptions of Isfahan and its extreme opulence versus its poverty the main character encounters. Anita Amirrezvani is truely a gifted writer and I am definitely going to purchase EVERY audiobook narrated by Shohreh Aghdashloo.

WARNING: YOU CAN'T STOP LISTENING!!!

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English spoken in any accent has a rhythm of it's own, which when found in the reading of this book, adds depth and authenticity to the richly woven characters in this coming of age novel that women of any age will intuitivley recognize and know. A wonderful escape to a mysterious new world that is both exciting and hauntingly familiar. Worth every minute.

Phenomenal

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Learned about iranian culture and I have to label this a book after my own hart...

Very good book!

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There's some material that's Not Safe for Work. Might be good to know. Otherwise, the narration is masterful (probably the best I've heard), the story excellent.

Just fyi.

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