Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance
Author: August Šenoa
Translator: Neven Divjakinja
Year Published: 1871
TWs: alcoholism, violence, death
Rating: 3.5/5
Do you like Romeo and Juliet? Well, if you do, I’m pretty sure I’ve found your next read. If I were to describe ‘this book by August Šenoa in a few words, I would say it is the ‘Croatian Romeo and Juliet’. Although I didn’t get to spend a lot of time in the Croatian capital when I visited, this book definitely showed me what I missed out on with its setting in 16th-century Zagreb. So, let’s get into the gripping world of ‘The Goldsmith’s Treasure’ by August Šenoa.
Synopsis (spoiler-free, always)
Set in 16th-century Zagreb, this novel follows Dora, the gorgeous daughter of a goldsmith, and Pavao, the son of a powerful nobleman who fall in love. But, their relationship is forbidden not just because of their different social classes but because Pavao’s father hates the people of Zagreb. Meanwhile, after a peasant uprising, Zagreb is caught up in corruption and chaos, with scheming aristocrats and commoners alike fighting for power and revenge.
“There have always been forbidden loves, but there has never been one that could be stopped“
My Thoughts
When I started this book, I was expecting an angsty love story, and it delivered. Dora and Pavao’s relationship was so adorable and I was rooting for them throughout. I also loved the other characters like Grga Conklin, the barber in love with Dora and Klara, the widow who was in love with Pavao. They kept the plot going and added so much more tension to the story.
But besides the romance, it’s also filled with historical drama. I really liked how the commoners weren’t just background characters but took charge of their lives and stood up to the wealthy nobles. I also loved all the historical details and facts that were packed into this book, explaining old customs and traditions.
Šenoa’s descriptions were also really beautiful. I could see the historical sites of Zagreb so clearly, I was (almost) convinced me to pack my bags and visit the Dalmatian coast again. But, I will say that the combination of historical facts and lengthy descriptions can make it a bit slow at times but overall, the book has a good pace.
So, if you like historical fiction with romance and political intrigue, I would definitely recommend giving this book a shot.
Happy Reading!
About the Author
Born in 1938, August Šenoa was a writer, editor and critic from Zagreb. He is widely credited for ‘bringing the historical novel’ to Croatia. He studied law in Prague and even lived in Viena for a while before eventually returning to Zagreb. Unfortunately, he died when he was just 43 years old when helping victims of the Great Zagreb Earthquake.
You can find more on his Goodreads page!
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As always nicely summarised