Political Affairs of the Heart: A Beautiful Book Launch

Dr. Linda Van Netten Blimke had a glimmering book event at Concordia's own McGarth Mansion this past Friday, September 23, 2022. Linda was joined by several of her colleagues, family, and students as she celebrated the release of her novel Political Affairs of the Heart. As several children ran around excitedly, Linda read an excerpt from her book and answered various questions from the audience.

Political Affairs of the heart is a deeply researched novel that follows British women from 1774-1795 exploring sentimental travel writing, gender, and political writings. I had the honor to ask Dr. V a question during the event about how she manages to be so in control of her life; Linda is a successful professor, mother, and published author. Her answer was exactly what anyone could expect, she gets no sleep and runs on caffeine! Several other questions were asked by eager event goers ranging from if Linda could relate to any of the women she wrote about to more robust questions about these inspiring women's political affairs and social standing. Dr. V not only writes an incredible novel that brings light to these outstanding women, but Linda is an incredibly successful and inspiring woman to myself and many other students at Concordia. Thank you to Dr. Reginald Wiebe and other Concordia members for putting together this fantastic event for not only Linda but also us students, family, and friends!

By Rachel Hunka

Bolt Editor-in Chief