Brandon Books 2009
A dazzling psychological portrait of a woman who seeks fame at any price
Set against the turbulent beginnings of the nineteenth century, An Invitation to Dance recounts the astonishing life of Lola Montez, a daring young Irish woman who reinvented herself as a Spanish dancer and scandalised the world.
As she dances her way across Europe Lola leaves a string of admirers and scandals in her wake – from the composer, Franz Liszt to King Ludwig 1 of Bavaria. In beautifully written, almost hypnotic prose Marion Urch ushers us backstage and behind the headlines, to a cruel and sensual world of high stakes and shattered dreams.
‘The concern with identity –both cultural and national – feels very contemporary.’
Irish Times
‘Urch’s novel is a page-turner. Full of hot passion and blissfully ridiculous drama, An Invitation to Dance is spectacular fun.‘
Evening Herald
‘Engrossing stuff.’
Angel Magazine
‘Marvellous read.’
Sunday Tribune
‘The urgency, violence and sensuality of her life is found in beautiful and evocative prose.’
Totally Dublin
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A limited number of signed first editions are available.
Hardback copies: 10.99
Paperback copies: 8.99
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