I'm usually not a big fan of historical fiction, but Alessandra's story drew me in right from the beginning. Her story is one that fills story books. The girl who is trapped, and longs to be free. Who knows that she is destined for something better. However where Alessandra's story strays from the norm, is that she actually does it! She doesn't just dream about leaving, she doesn't just wish to be better, she does it.

As a character, I fell in love with Alessandra instantly. Her fiesty attitude, her love of learning, the way that she didn't care about the conventions of the times. She is truly one of those characters that will sear her way into your brain. Oh, and she's so smart too! I loved the times throughout the book when she simply wasn't satisfied with the answer that was given to her, and she set off to come up with her own that was more logical. Alessandra is the woman's liberation front, before that actually existed. The fact that she had to dress as a man to accomplish what she wanted didn't change that she was all woman. I truly admired her.

Of course woven in and out of her epic journey is a Cinderella story of sorts. Complete with the evil stepmother who wishes that she would just disappear as soon as possible. The romance aspect of the book was really sweet. I liked how realistic it was, and how it was based on a mutual respect of one another. Alessandra and her beau have my heart. Prepare to be emotionally involved in this story as well, the ending wrenched my heart from my chest, but I am still in love with this book.

A Golden Web is a perfect example of a well balanced, well executed and extremely well researched historical novel. If you are not yet a fan of historical fiction, you might want to start with this one! Alessandra's story is one that is easy to believe in, and although Barbara Quick mentions that we aren't entirely sure if she actually existed, if she did she is my hero. Thank you to Quick for sharing her with us! I eagerly await more.