Cavanila’s Choices
Cavanila’s Choices creatively imagines the cataclysmic volcanic eruption on the Greek island of Thera (known today as Santorini) and its consequences over 3,500 years ago. As there is no written record the author has created the story from a few remnants of fact.
The main character is Cavanila, a high priestess and the daughter of Thera’s regent and the niece of Minos, the Minoan king in Knossos on Crete. She helps the inhabitants of Thera evacuate the island as the tremors, hot ash, and poisonous fumes worsen. Her father, however, is in denial of their dire situation almost until the end. Her uncle is only slightly more attuned to their terrible situation. Once evacuated to Crete, Cavanila faces further challenges, principally in the form of a jealous rival, the high priestess of Knossos, as well as a love interest.
The writing in the book often comes across as simplistic, but this heightens the sense that the story is taking place in prehistoric times. About half of the novel describes the impact the eruption had on the lives of those on Crete where ash clouds blotted out the sun for months, leading to crop failures and famine. The author explored the many political implications of what this situation did to the people involved during this terrible time.
This story would be suitable for YA readers as well as adults. One criticism would be the author telling more than showing, and the occasional jarring scene transition. Even so, it shines a light on a historic episode that has not yet been explored. The e-book edition was reviewed.
