Anita Amirrezvani is a talented writer with a strong passion for her Persian ancestry. In her newest novel, The Blood of Flowers, she exquisitely knots together a unique tapestry filled colors, patterns, schemes inherent only to human nature. Knot by knot, the tapestry meshes into a design of loss and love, selfishness and betrayal, beauty and purity, betrayal and forgiveness, and redemption.
Amirrezvani sets her tale in seventeenth century, Persia. An eighteen-year old young woman is forced to leave her home when her father unexpectedly dies. Immediately, she is swept away from any dreams of marrying well and having good fortunes. Her life is uprooted. She and her mother travel to Isfahan and ask for whatever charity her family (aunt and uncle) can possibly offer.
Her uncle is one of the finest carpet makers in Isfahan for the Shah’s court. The girl takes a keen interest in his business, the craft, and the sheer design of making carpets. However, she is a girl. This factor alone mystifies her uncles as to any possible rationale for her ability to design carpets. However, she convinces him to help her learn the craft. Her talent and passion flourishes under his guidance. But, she runs into several obstacles which threaten her potential success as a carpet designer.
Then, one determined act nearly leads to disaster for both her and her mother. Since she is from modest means, marrying well is no longer an option. Her father’s untimely death, homely looks, ill fortune, and an ungenerous family necessitate creativity. When she of marrying age, left without a proper dowry, her uncle and aunt suggest that she sigheh (temporarily marry which is legal in Iran to this day). Accepting a sigheh from a wealthy client of her uncle’s may financially secure her and her mother, and may bring other fortunes if he renews the marriage contract.
She is pulled between forces of tradition, ritual, and creative beauty. She must choose which life is right for herself. In Persia, the world comes alive in the Great Bazaar; spices swirl, radiant rugs hang from stand to stand, scents flow, and music plays in the background.
The storyline engages the readers through poetic prose. Her tale is a tapestry of dazzling delights while readers remain captivated until the end. As many complicated twists and turns as there are in a Persian rug, Amirrezvani carefully ties her words leaving a tale. Her novel is gracious, hopeful, and speaks to the human spirit.
