A bizarrely wonderful ride through 17th-century France The Hurlyburly's Husband (also published under the title: Monsieur Montespan) is a unique love story that takes the reader on a bizarrely wonderful ride through 17th-century France with a king, a mistress and a cuckold as the main attractions. Dark humor, tragic romance, interesting although vile details (concerning 17th-century hygiene habits and sanitary conditions) and raunchy passages (you may never want to wear a strand of pearls again) create this salacious romp, that the reader is certain to remember days later. The Hurlyburly's Husband is a love story about a cuckold (Louis Henri de Pardaillan de Gondrin, marquis de Montespan), who is humiliated by the King of France (King Louis XIV) when his lewd favor falls on Françoise-Athénaïs, marquise de Montespan and alters the marquis de Montespan's whole perception of France and the monarchy. His undying love and devotion to his wife becomes a central theme as the husband battles for the return of his wife and revenge against King Louis but when the glittering palace of Versailles weaves its wicked charms on Françoise will she want to return to her simple life? What else can the king possibly do to further ruin the marquis de Montespan's life? The answers and the steps Louis Henri follows in the fervent hope of being reunited with his beloved and show defiance to his sovereign are sure to shock the curious reader. So if the interested reader has a unique brand of humor, is interested in the crude parts of history that few references will note and enjoys a well crafted story about a bizarre love story- The Hurlyburly's Husband is your next read. * I would like to thank Gallic Books and Edelweiss for the opportunity to read and enjoy The Hurlyburly's Husband -EGP/May 2014 What happens in this house stays in this house... The disappearance of a small child and the traditional structure of upstairs and downstairs collide in this Neo-Gothic tale shrouded in mystery and hidden secrets. Tyringham Park takes the reader into the complicated hive of the fictional ancestral Irish estate of the Blackshaw family where the staff may charm guests with obedience and structure but conceals behind closed doors sinister thoughts, poisonous gossip and dark resentment. Immediately the novel opens with the disappearance of the Park's darling little miss, the confusion that follows leads the reader to be marched from each station introducing them to each member of personnel and their whereabouts at the time of the child's disappearance. The observer soon becomes privy to the complicated relationships of those who share the prominent walls of Tyringham Park, the facade of privilege and status quickly falls and the misery and pettiness is exposed that reveals that something is horribly wrong within this grand house. The mystery continues to deepen and July 1917 soon becomes the 1920's, 1930's and finally the 1940's as the story follows the lives of those left behind to pick up the scattered memories of the lost Blackshaw child and the story travels from Ireland to the Australian outback and back again with swatches of time lapses and flashbacks to the history and origins of certain characters. Tyringham Park confronts many different subjects and depending on the reader may enjoy this twisted dramatic story of what happens behind closed doors of those seen born with silver spoons in their mouths. In the end this reader was somewhat disappointed. I sorely wanted to love this Gothic inspired read but found this novel was a little overly seasoned with predictable and unrealistic drama. Although the novel shined at certain points and I loved the complicated relationships that dominated the characters and the daring venturing into certain taboo topics; there was just something that overall lacked in the delivery of the eras the reader was shown and the presence of foreshadowing revealed numerous major points too early in the novel. Still Tyringham Park provided an interesting experience that I would recommend for those readers who love a historical fiction novel that takes drama to another level and blends mystery and complex relationships with the magnetic aristocratic world of former eras. * I would like to thank Atria Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and enjoy Tyringham Park Also in this series: Return to Tyringham Park (Tyringham Park, #2) by Rosemary McLoughlin -EGP/May 2014 Confession is good for the soul and this narrator has much to reveal... This imaginative re-stitching of 13th-century historical events uses the fictional confessions of King Edward I's lead court jester and fool to sit the reader in a dark corner of a monastery and listen to a story of the making of a king and tale of a shrewd fool. Through the mists of time Hamo Pauncefoot reveals his involvement in historical events from 1253-1274 to a monk he has hired to document the story of his life. The narration takes on dark eloquent styling and magnificent character representation; characters are magnified by this narration and of course embellished for the sake of the story and the narrator's royal benefactors. If readers are familiar with The Lymond Chronicles by Dorothy Dunnett or Bernard Cornwell's Warlord Chronicles then you may find another antihero in Hamo Pauncefoot. The reader is taken to this fool's humble beginnings and then witnesses Hamo's all consuming obsession of advancement of life and status which he believes can be obtained by providing his distinct set of services to the young prince Edward. Set to the backdrop of England during the mid-13th century the reader is privy to the intimate complicated relationships and manipulations of the court of King Henry III. As the story progresses the locations thunder on from battle fields, to towns, to clandestine rooms of taverns, to the holy crusade and back again with always Hamo Pauncefoot under the table or in a corner collecting vital information for his advances. This narration takes on a delicious dark phrasing that leaves more of a convincing representation of the mid-13th century, characters are painted with flaws and very few are described as faultless. Piety and virtue serve little in this story, greed and lust for power reigns over this storyline. In the end, although a few anachronistic terms in the dialogue briefly pulled this reader from this striking narration and the middle sagged with the different excursions, these can be forgotten with the twists and surprises that leapt from the corners of The Chronicles of Pauncefoot and Longshanks: The Making of a King. The footnotes at the end were a creative touch that leant more validity to the beginning claim that this story is true and recently discovered in 2007; all research and implantation was explained and (to this reader) showed superb attention to detail. Finally the sometimes awkward formation and execution of showing time and births to the reader were seamless in this narration (a very hard thing to accomplish). Overall this was gem of a read, an original story that I highly recommend for those readers who enjoy a more realistic view of this time period, those who enjoy reading about the machinations of a mind born into misery and desperation and another game for the control of England. The ending clearly indicates a sequel and this reader eagerly awaits the next installment about this shrewd narrator. * I would like to thank Troubador Publishing Ltd and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and enjoy The Chronicles of Pauncefoot and Longshanks: The Making of a King -EGP/May 2014 The Knight Who Saved England: William Marshal and the French Invasion, 1217 by Richard Brooks8/27/2017
The Knight Who Saved England: William Marshal and the French Invasion, 1217 is a balanced, factual and comprehensive reference to the life and times of a man who was said to embody prowess, loyalty and wisdom. Opening with a pivotal scene that captures The Second Battle of Lincoln that then launches into a broad scope of the maelstrom of politics and key opponents of England and France during the 12th century and early 13th century, the historical enthusiast is sure to learn something from this work. Whether the reader is more interested in the politics, hierarchy of battle and knights, major points illustrated from the height of the jousting tournament circuit, or just has a desire to learn about the knight named William Marshal; there is a portion dedicated to your interest. The Knight Who Saved England: William Marshal and the French Invasion, 1217, removes the romantic notions of William Marshal and concentrates on the battle prowess and prudent loyalty toward four kings and demonstrates these for the reader with a collection of battles, sieges and exploits in a detailed manner that breaks momentarily with fascinating photographs and ends with a useful glossary of terms. Although the facts can overwhelm, become a little dry and this collection may not be necessarily suited toward a novice of this time period (it may help those interested to please explore some historical fiction titles/series such as: Sharon Kay Penman's Plantagenet Series or even Elizabeth Chadwick's William Marshall series (if the reader desires more of the romanticized version of the chivalrous knight) to spark an interest for these complicated centuries, acquaint themselves with the key players of the strive and politics of the era, build a character and mental image for a name before attempting more detailed examinations with nonfiction titles such as this one). A wonderful journey of discovery awaits the reader if they wish to start with this small and incomplete list of reads (there are so many to explore), and then the trove of trivia will continue if the reader comes back to this title. Still from front to back this reference is a wonderful addition for those interested in the history of combat and strategy (concentrated on the 12th century to the early 13th century), medieval enthusiasts or those who wish to learn more details about a man who went from a child hostage who entertained a king with playing jackstraws who then grew into a young knight who dominated the tournament circuit for 18 years who finally became a legendary figure who saved England (by intelligence, courage and character) and helped shape futures and liberties of generations; this is your next read. * I would like to thank Osprey Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and enjoy The Knight Who Saved England: William Marshal and the French Invasion, 1217 -EGP/April 2014 This is the story of the Titanic's final days and her ultimate voyage into history. You know the famous names associated with her, you know or heard of the myths and legends about her and her passengers, you even know her fate, now hear the haunting voices from the Titanic with a true classic. Whether the reader has a causal interest sparked by silver screen dramatizations, a morbid curiosity of history or is a long time armchair enthusiast of the story, facts and myths all surrounding the Titanic- A Night to Remember is an unforgettable classic that appeals to every type of reader. A Night to Remember is told in a riveting fashion that first captures the atmosphere of that cold April night and continues to build a detailed account of the ship and her passenger's fates between April 10 to 19 1912. Written in 1955, Walter Lord has left a stunning piece of meticulous fiction that melds magnetic storytelling with harrowing accounts from the survivors of history's most famous and recognized maritime disaster. Well known and little known facts are abound in this work and the reader is sure to learn something new with each flip of the page. Beautifully executed with haunting accounts and thought-provoking this novel even ends with the final pages paying a somber tribute with the listed names of the survivors and those who perished. An appropriate ending to a story of the Titanic's final days and her ultimate voyage into history. -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/April 2014 Have a little faith and take a journey with The Miracle Thief The Miracle Thief is an elegant read that interweaves the tales of a penitent, a pilgrim and a princess into a beautiful story of hope and faith. Set in 10th-century France, The Miracle Thief takes the reader on a somber journey of revelation with three separate narrators as the voices of an era plunged into the darkest of times. In the heart of the story is the search for an individual miracle from Saint Catherine of Alexandria and as the story continues the reader may realize that there is so much more hidden in the pages than just this simple observation. History and Religion intertwine to create some fascinating details, conditions and depending on the reader you may be awed by the execution of such a daring novel and just enjoy the experience. So have a little faith and take a journey with The Miracle Thief. -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/April 2014 The Poisoned Crown (The Accursed Kings, Book 3) is another literary gem in the crown of author Maurice Druon's legacy. Simply this is a brilliant series that illustrates sublime research, distinct writing mastery and should not be missed by those who love classic historical fiction. The Poisoned Crown is the third installment of The Accursed Kings series which follows the shattered reigns of the House of Capet. Each novel continues the saga of the previous installment and I would strongly encourage those interested to please read the previous two novels (The Iron King and The Strangled Queen) before attempting The Poisoned Crown. This novel's timeline is only 10 months, spanning from 1315 to 1316 and follows the chaotic reign of Louis X as he battles for his mark in history while being encircled by trials of authority, intelligence and faith. Past sins are revealed and repeated, while 14th-century France is being destroyed by famine, war, and impending revolt. Who will survive in this world of unbalance, where not even a unicorn's horn may be able to stop the wheel of fate? Which soul will be next to taste the relentless curse of the Templar? With galloping action filled chapters, brilliant execution of research and details, and all with even a touch of the darkest fairytale styling. This is history told by one the finest and it awaits the eager reader. * I would like to thank HarperCollins publisher and Edelweiss for the opportunity to read and enjoy The Poisoned Crown (The Accursed Kings, Book 3) Books in this series: The Iron King (The Accursed Kings, Book 1) by Maurice Druon The Strangled Queen (The Accursed Kings, Book 2) by Maurice Druon *The Poisoned Crown (The Accursed Kings, Book 3) by Maurice Druon The Royal Succession (The Accursed Kings, Book 4) by Maurice Druon The She-Wolf (The Accursed Kings, Book 5) by Maurice Druon The Lily and the Lion (The Accursed Kings, Book 6) by Maurice Druon The King Without a Kingdom (The Accursed Kings, Book 7) by Maurice Druon -EGP/April 2014 Straightforward nonfiction read about ear jewelry and an overall fascinating look into some of history's most famous jewelry boxes. This book tells the history of the world thru the ornamentation of many infamous and lesser recognized names of history whose portraits are spread throughout the pages all supporting one connecting feature; a stunning pair or single eye-catching ear jewel. As the pages turn the reader will see photographs of gorgeous ear jewelry from the understated to the ostentatious but all especial as the centuries change and the jewelry styles evolve. The reader may also be delighted with some intriguing trivia regarding different styles and unknown facts about historic individuals and their personal choice of ornaments. There are also some surprises for the interested reader toward the back that may introduce those to new artisans, ideas, and a glimpse into the possible future of the function and look of earrings. Although fascinating trivia, unique subject and gorgeous photographs there are a few flaws for this reviewer mainly the use of modern slang intermingled with the history and I found myself saying "Wait tell me more..." in a few portions pertaining to different eras and topics. Still an interesting reference to the history of the world told thru the evolution of ear adornment. I Love Those Earrings: A Popular History from Ancient to Modern would be a perfect gift for those who are looking for a unique bridesmaids gift, an early birthday gift to prepare a young lady to receive her first valuable pair of earrings or those who just love to read about jewels, evolution of fashion and that all glitters about history. * I would like to thank Schiffer Publishing Ltd. publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and enjoy I Love Those Earrings: A Popular History from Ancient to Modern -EGP/March 2014 The novel opens as the church bells of Amsterdam are ringing on the 31st of January 1632 and before the final midnight bells chime, the delicate balance between life and death will be examined by individuals who all have a connection to a lost soul. The reader will encounter several voices ranging from the learned and hardened to the desperate and impassioned all seeming to debate or represent religion, philosophy, professionalism or the fascination with the macabre. Narrations switch with each passing chapter and depending on the patient reader you may enjoy the fluctuations of personalities and views including a modern view of the craftsmanship of the painting The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp. Dialogue unfortunately takes on the modern style in a few passages that seems to clash with the fascinating philosophical approaches of the characters however this may be excused if the reader has a solid interest in the research and topic of the novel; the painting that was commissioned to represent the Amsterdam Guild of Surgeons, a golden age of medical discovery and an entertaining story revolving Amsterdam. Although not generally a light tale, one of the novel's central messages appeals to the search for humanity and redemption of the lost. There is also a key theme of soul searching that can be interpreted several ways but like the famous painting this novel is based on, the interpretation is up to viewer. * I would like to thank Doubleday Books publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and enjoy The Anatomy Lesson: A Novel -EGP/March 2014 Beware the monsters that lurk beneath the waves...and the monsters that walk on land. History is unfortunately full of tales of maritime disasters from the infamous Titanic to the controversial disappearance of the small crew aboard the Mary Celeste. The sea it seems is truly a cruel mistress but what happens when the destruction of a ship is not only remembered as a disaster but as an example of the ultimate deprivation of the human essence. What could happen when the limits of the human endurance is pushed to the edge? To Die a Dry Death: The True Story of the Batavia Shipwreck is a story that weaves that question into a dark tale based on the salvaged records of those who experienced the unimaginable. The story begins in an Amsterdam tavern a few years after the tragedy; a harmless question from a stranger then slips the reader into a sea tale that rapidly explains why the Batavia Shipwreck is such a horrific event. With imaginative writing that takes the reader on a macabre journey into the minds of those possessed by greed, lust and misplaced motives- never believe the pages will skip any details. Characters are enriched into commanding entities that will have the reader applauding such a daring undertaking of recreating history. For those interested, there are a few passages of lust but these are strategically placed and do not abruptly intrude on the storyline but only enhance the ever circling psychological components of the characters. Although the story can be a little confusing in the beginning in regards to the placement of the characters (a map may have been helpful), symbolic messages are explained rather than hidden and the opening action measured that all quickly changes and creates one distinctive adventure that not only explores one of history's overlooked halls of maritime disasters but also delves the depths of human desperation and battles for survival. * I would like to thank Fingerpress publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and enjoy To Die a Dry Death: The True Story of the Batavia Shipwreck -EGP/March 2014 With a writing style that mixes moving lyrical passages with historical events and imaginative dialogue, Susan Kay's debut novel Legacy: The Acclaimed Novel of Elizabeth, England's Most Passionate Queen -- and the Three Men Who Loved Her is an excellent introduction to the life of Elizabeth Tudor (or better known as Elizabeth I). Ms. Kay has created a vivid reflection of "The Virgin Queen" with mirror shard-like sections entitled The Girl, The Woman, The Queen, The Goddess and the finally The Effigy that when placed together create for the reader an image of one of history's most legendary figures. The story follows the life of Elizabeth Tudor as she battles for survival and acknowledgement in a world that only sees her as an illegitimate creation that should be discarded and never have a crown grace her head. The patient reader will be taken into the cold realm of the 16th century and finish at the bedside of a woman who seemed to battle for self preservation all her life and yet only desired to distance herself from her tainted lineage and find a man her equal. Those interested to promenade across the complicated network of the political backdrop and controversial court that encircled but seemed to empower Elizabeth I should search no further for such a read. Although at times the novel can become repetitious, marred by anachronisms and unfortunately at times a little laughable in regards to the amour that is continually depicted as an ornament of power, Legacy: The Acclaimed Novel of Elizabeth, England's Most Passionate Queen -- and the Three Men Who Loved Her is still a worthwhile read. -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/March 2014 A Burnable Book is a richly textured read that like a savory pie needs to be enjoyed slowly. We have the crust that is the first gripping chapter that draws the eye of the reader and tempts the curious to sample more, then as the shell is broken the reader will be surprised to uncover an assortment of complex characters that all have a hand in touching a potentially dangerous book called "Book of The Deaths of English Kings". Set in 14th-century England and beyond the realm, the reader is submerged into the darker side of the lanes and liberties of human drudgery and misery that pervaded many lives of those of the period. Narrations and views switch between those of the genteel standing, the unfortunate who specialize in self preservation and the others who battle their principles and private demons. The meat of the story is the hunt across the divided four corners of London, Southswark and Westminster for a book that contains 13 prophecies of historical significance. The sauce thickens as time is of the essence because the surrounding church bells ring and the risk escalates for those already involved and yet another soul views the pages of the poisonous book, a deadly countdown has begun and it appears no one is exempt from the fickle wheel of fate. In the end, this was a difficult but a worthwhile read for this reader. I will the first to admit that at many times my mind strayed to the other books I had waiting for me but there was just something so unique and interesting about this one that I just stepped away for a time then returned. So glad I did this and I encourage any frustrated reader to do the same. Just step away and come back because Mr. Holsinger will reward you with a truly standout tale that has many multifaceted puzzles, historical details and pulls such a diverse characterization from the medieval class that will have the patient reader applauding such a daring debut. Although at times for this reader A Burnable Book could be a little salty with a few overly vivid images and scenes and the ending a little cluttered and sometimes confusing with so many multi-layered secrets and motives. That all aside, A Burnable Book is a rich historical detailed read that is simply a book to savor. -read and purchased on kindle Books in this series: *A Burnable Book (John Gower, #1) by Bruce Holsinger The Invention of Fire (John Gower, #2) by Bruce Holsinger -EGP/February 2014 Girl on the Golden Coin: A Novel of Frances Stuart is an interesting collaboration of historical fact and speculative fiction that centers around the 17th-century English court and follows the narration of Frances Teresa Stuart as she recalls her past conduct, pivotal role concerning the hearts of kings and her ultimate quest for freedom. When a poisoned whisper can herald the downfall of one's honor, one must step lightly and la Belle Stuart takes the reader into the bowels of the scandalous court of King Charles II and steps with silk shoes around the muck that threatens to sully. The reader is confronted time and again with the noble choices or forced obligations that are thrust at Frances as she straddles French, English and finally familial loyalty and is pressed by those only desiring power or a king's favor. Will she find the freedom and unconditional love she so desperately desires and leave a legacy of her quiet virtue and golden strength? The answers to these questions and lasting impression are inevitably up to the reader, so may I introduce Girl on the Golden Coin: A Novel of Frances Stuart. In the end, this novel unfortunately had too much and not enough for me. Girl on the Golden Coin sparkled in the beginning and created a lustrous pearl strand of delight and enjoyment as the novel continued to capture the sheer opulence of the 17th-century English Court while balancing important historical details, characterization and exceptional debut writing. That strand of happiness snapped though when chapter after chapter was pitted when drama and history was interrupted by modish scenes and the pace of the story slowed to a dull finish that sadly left this reader shaking her head in disappointment. That all aside, readers who loved Dark Angels may find another historical romance favorite with Girl on the Golden Coin or those readers who just love a story about the famous or the notorious of history and enjoy a naughty twist to their fiction are sure to be enchanted by this debut. -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/February 2014 Who can be truly called a Villain or a Hero? Is history biased toward certain lasting legacies of historic figures? The Poisoned Cup by Edward Lanyon presents the reader with these questions and more as the novel weaves a rich tapestry of political intrigue with a fictional seasoned knight as the reader's guide to the madness that ensued from the death of one king and the debatable obligations of another. The reader will be confronted by the raw brutality of the war between England and Scotland during the late 13th century and close with the practices enforced as punishment in the early 14th century. While some characters are based from history and others are only fictional, the main are essentially fleshed out into complex individuals that are presented as battling for diverse motives. The writing is truly impressive and readers who are familiar with the brilliant works of Maurice Druon may find similar writing style with the use of dialogue, delivery of historical events and overall pacing of the story. In the end, The Poisoned Cup was an absolute gem of a find and I was stunned to discover that this was a debut novel. Although the portrayals of certain historical based characters seemed a little skewed and there were a few believability issues that appeared but mostly never were addressed, The Poisoned Cup was still an entertaining look at the deadly dance between England and Scotland during the late 13th and early 14th centuries and is sure to draw further interest from the reader to explore the history during that turmoil filled time and its leading opponents. -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/February 2014 and the mystery continues... The Ghost of the Mary Celeste is an entertaining interweaving of multiple viewpoints and narrations that are all tethered to the unsolved mystery of the fate of the small crew aboard the Mary Celeste. The novel dives right into a suspenseful introduction that then branches off into a narration regarding a family's entangled tragedies. The story then moves from feminine to masculine back to feminine viewpoints with presentations of characters and openings of chapters using portions of journal entries, news articles, novel excerpts, court documents and theological based poems. A little patience is asked of the potential reader, the beginning chapters may seem disorganized and the constant shifting viewpoints may cause excitement and interest to wane and wander over to another novel, but please do not give up. After the foundation is set, the viewpoints and narrations create a unique entertaining tale that involves the fascinating practices and fashion of spiritualism in the 19th century and the downfall of the mode. Chapters revolving around a celebrated author who has his own connection to the mystery of the Mary Celeste may interest the potential reader who enjoys a well arranged cameo appearance of historical individuals. There is also a charming tender romance that makes a small appearance and leads to additional empathy tied to the fate of the crew of the Mary Celeste. Above all, this is a mystery and the unknown is weaved expertly together and will keep the reader guessing until the end. -Reviewed in February 2014, review written February 2014/ copy of THE GHOST OF THE MARY CELESTE borrowed from local library "What is truth? What is lie?" Sinful Folk is a well crafted novel that grips the reader with its first emotionally charged chapter and continues to enlighten and entertain throughout the unique narration with an impressive attention to historical detail. Just like the medieval tales of yore, Mr. Hayes has created a story that is lyrical, captivating and includes strong messages of courage and lost love. The writing is superb and balances the tones of the daring narrator with a historically based mystery that involves the deaths of five children from the small village of Duns England in 1377. The arduous journey that ensues for the bereaved parents that demand an audience with their majesty is not a passage for the tenderhearted. With a kingdom that has already been plunged into the darkest depths by an unrelenting winter, the desperate surrounding counties may hold only further trials and unimaginable sorrow for the pitiable travelers. Secrets are abound in this work, and along with the narrator the reader is slowly exposed to the truth or is it all a lie? Based on historical records and elaborated upon to create an emotional tale that questions what is the truth and what is a lie, may I introduce the potential reader to Sinful Folk. In the end, this was a fine read that immediately captured my attention when I read the opening historical notes that explained the inspiration for this novel. The time devoted to the research that created the bones of this novel is clear and the fleshing out of the characters just added to my overall impression. The mystery and the explanation fit perfectly with the period, the side mysteries were equally built-in and created hours of enjoyment for this reader. Although some surprising negatives: an ending that took me on a completely unusual departure in regards to the narrator and side stepped other conclusions, the recurrence of the medieval style of profanity that added to the realism and urgency of events but unfortunately began to slightly irritate and bore me and finally a narration/tone that sadly over exaggerated the feminine and seemed sappy and overly dramatic in parts versus the masculine; Sinful Folk was still a gripping read and should not be missed by those who are looking for a well researched medieval mystery. -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/January 2014 The Kept is a striking melding of mystery, suspense, drama and faith set to the backdrop of 1897 rural New York state and heralds a debut voice that spins a tale just as unpredictable as the January weather outside the reader's window. With a multifaceted mystery in the heart of The Kept that probes the corners of the human conscience and gallops alongside a riveting story of repercussions all stemming from the wicked need of "want", the potential reader may find themselves reflecting on this novel days after finishing. Main and minor characters are equally fleshed out and aim to capture the reader's complete attention and sympathy while the stunning writing perfectly balances the stark setting, conflicting psychological suffering and tragedy with moments of endearing relationships. Historical details are shared with the reader so that an easy distinction can be made to the time period with well researched descriptions and the author may fascinate the curious reader with some new knowledge regarding unfamiliar labor occupations surrounding the use of Lake Erie during this era. That all being said, this novel is not a light read The Kept is an emotional story with details and descriptions of the most heinous acts and the worst of human suffering. If the potential reader is looking for a read that conveys brutal realism-you found it. The only real negatives this reviewer found with The Kept were at times these oddly arranged rushed action scenes that caused distraction to stop and reread chapters to figure out what just happened to a character and the ending was somewhat disappointing. I understand that essentially the allure of The Kept is the bleakness of the setting and the terrible events that propel the beginning and this may not be a read for everyone but still the potential reader should not shy away from this striking debut novel. -Reviewed in January 2014, review written January 2014/ copy of THE KEPT borrowed from local library The cutting of a single lock of hair after the passing of someone may represent and bring various things to different people. It could be seen as a final sentimental token of a loved one. It could be seen as unusual way to grieve or the most precious procession one is left. It could be a simple comfort knowing tucked away in a drawer is one's final attempt to hold onto the familiarity of a life lost or it could even be placed in jewelry and worn with the intent of always having a dearly departed one close at all times. And finally could a single lock of hair be the means the dead need to give them a voice and reveal their true final story? Blending fact and fiction comes The Mysterious Death of Miss Jane Austen, an intriguing read that will leave the reader wondering just what caused the untimely death of one of history's most celebrated authors. The life of the Rector's daughter who wrote 3 complete novels and beginning of a 4th before the age of 30 is unfortunately vague and leaves many unanswered questions and in The Mysterious Death of Miss Jane Austen the reader is confronted with the most perplexing of all. With a narrator who has the ultimate keyhole view of Miss Austen's world long buried secrets of the Austen family will be revealed. No family is perfect and Ms. Ashford tackles the little known kin of Jane Austen and recreates and magnifies their personalities from years of chronicled research (that is explained in the end). The central mystery is slowly revealed to the reader by breadcrumbs of clues that are sprinkled throughout the chapters and interlaced with a narration of a governess, the lives of those who populated Jane Austen's life and the inspiration of her novels. With such interesting little known facts shared about Jane Austen's most famous novels the reader may find the compulsion to reread all their favorites. Above all, The Mysterious Death of Miss Jane Austen is an entertaining reexamination of one of history's literary mysteries with a single lock of hair as the perfect catalyst. In the end, I'm sorry to say this was a mere disappointing read for this reviewer. I found the narrator to lack subtlety and to be the main cause of my distraction where I would be pulled from the fascinating growing mystery by uninteresting repetitive musings, fixations and outbursts. There was also the unfortunate appearance of anachronistic terms used in the narration and the overall depiction of the servants. A few plot holes were introduced and left unsatisfying unclosed questions and the pacing of discoveries toward the end seemed rushed and expected. Still The Mysterious Death of Miss Jane Austen was a decent read to ring in the New Year with for this reviewer and this may just be the read the potential booklover has been searching for who is interested in a historical mystery that is based on some true details or those who would like to reacquaint themselves with a woman who in the 19th century was said to publish under "a lady" but had a name and history will remember her as Jane Austen, brilliant author. -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/January 2014 It seems this year's primary selections in Historical Fiction were centered around 1900-1940 (with a sprinkling of: 19th, 18th, 16th and 14th centuries) for this reviewer and to continue with this surprising fashion I decided to close this year out with a novel about "The Lost Generation". Only being vaguely familiar with the side stories and the history of the Fitzgeralds, I thought the premise for Call Me Zelda to be the perfect introduction to the accounts about this fascinating era and its equally magnetic famous individuals. Also the promise of a narration from a fictionalized psychiatric nurse immediately became a must read for this reviewer. Unfortunately, I finished reading Call Me Zelda late last night wishing I had chosen another novel or requested this from my local library. The main problems I found with this novel were the seemingly lack of clear distinction of the era the novel was set; finding anachronistic terminology and modern dialogue was very disappointing. Adding to this, the misplaced information on a few historical details and theories on mental illness and a very oddly placed carcinogenic idea voiced by one of the characters. There was also this odd crack in personality in this novel where it abruptly changes tone and races down a dull cliché journey of romance. The lack of enthusiasm or build up in storytelling and bloated chapters left me bored at times and let unwelcome reality seep in and thoughts of what tasks needed finished or started the next day. And finally in regards to the portrayal of the Fitzgeralds they seemed sadly like caricatures center staging their worst and rumored faults. In the end, Call Me Zelda sounded like the perfect read for this reviewer. It seemed to have all the ingredients that would be an instant favorite read for the end of this year. However, what disappoints this reviewer may be exactly what another reader is seeking. The negatives I found could be seen as positives if the potential reader is just looking for a fictionalized story centered around the end of the Fitzgeralds lives (after the party) and told by a devoted nurse who starts with a cautious approach of trying to connect with her patient but by the end forges a complicated powerful friendship; this may be the story for you. -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/December 2013 "Our world was not a world for weakness. It was a world for strength and survival." 1930. In the remote forests of the Ukraine the people live in fear. They fear the closed in dark forests and its nightmare inducing inhabitants. They fear the cold and the looming hunger. And finally they fear outsiders because a knock on their doors in the dead of night could mean the end of families or lives. This is an age of terror that is consumed by paranoia and madness that has been incited by the new regime. In this world Luka Mikhailovich Sidorov tries to escape the suffocating emotions and poisoned whispers from the small village of Vyriv and also seek refuge from the negative thoughts that threaten to seep from the corners of his mind by traveling onto the punishing snowy steppes and hunt for small game. It is during one of these excursions an outsider is sighted walking toward the village but is this stranger a possible ally or the beginning of the end for Luka and his family? The cross-hairs of Luka's rifle are centered on the stranger and he must make a decision that will ultimately change his life and his family's... The Child Thief is an excellent Historical thriller that immediately pulls the reader in and conveys the raw emotion of the time period. Details of the era are shared with the reader and lead to seamless distinction of what historical period the novel is set. In a vintage fashion that is reminiscent of Jack London the descriptions of the frozen landscape and character portrayal is something not to be missed. Characters are built with flaws, and lead to a real potential connection with the reader. The use of one of the most prominent fables of the setting of the novel may be a surprise and delight any reader who is familiar with the tale of Baba Yaga. The only possible negatives I can report are that at times a few major points in the novel could be easily predicted and sadly the ending was disappointing for this reviewer. Negatives aside, above all The Child Thief is a suspenseful journey that has many dark twists and turns that will have readers enjoying long into the winter nights so the interested reader may want to pull out their favorite blanket. -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/December 2013 Now that I have finished reading The Blind Assassin, I can now understand the novel's front artwork. I will admit it, the artwork had me puzzled at first because wasn't this novel supposed to be a story within a story within a story all surrounding the 1920's-1950's and beyond with a cameo appearance of the Science Fiction genre? What an odd choice but it all makes sense now. Tucked inside toward the end of this novel there is a passage concerning the narrator and her wish to stare at herself in the mirror and try to see how others perceive her. This passage continues and finally describes a woman looking over her shoulder. When I closed The Blind Assassin in the late hours of the morning, I could not help but think of that passage, the woman on the cover and the connection to make your own opinion about appearances. Certainly The Blind Assassin could be studied and debated in many different ways. Was this a book about sisters and a unique bond that could be forged from tragedy and tradition? Was this a story of evolution but inevitable demise of one's life because of unsaid words (or forced words?) Or was this just a recollection of painful memories set to the backdrop of a hodgepodge of literary genres that seamlessly branched from one story in several? The Blind Assassin may be all of these; it is all how the reader wishes to perceive the narrator. But at the end all the narrator asks is for a listener and I hope any potential reader who has the patience is ready to read something I can only describe and leaves the impression as being truly unique. In the end, The Blind Assassin certainly stands out as something unique. The writing was beautiful and captured this reader right from "Ten days after the war ended, my sister Laura drove a car off a bridge." After stating this, the story spread out and split from one story into several and dropped this reviewer into so many worlds and brought so many entities to life. The application of similes could be seen as Ms. Atwood's signature, there are so many carefully crafted descriptions and comparisons that just added an authentic vintage flare to the story. The only negative I can report are at times the wanderings of the narrator's mind and her personal "walks" seemed endless. Still The Blind Assassin is worth reading and should find its way on the shelves of the collectors of unique reads or those who are curious to read something that cannot be narrowed down to one classification. -Reviewed in November 2013, review written November 2013/ copy of THE BLIND ASSASSIN borrowed from local library Sometimes you finish a book and have absolutely no idea how to rate it and that is how I felt this morning. Bellman & Black was an odd read, but then again I would not expect anything less from the author of The Thirteenth Tale. Having read the authors previous work fairly recent I can see the connection of theme and in some ways I enjoyed Bellman & Black a little more than The Thirteenth Tale (but that is just my personal preference). Ms. Setterfield is a master of her craft and her writing is still powerfully magnetic and lyrical but I have this odd sense, that there are secret messages or veiled concepts buried just beneath but somehow out of reach of my comprehension that only other certain readers are supposed to understand. Bellman & Black starts with an introduction of the main character's life and builds and grows to a pitched crescendo all relating back to the sorted concepts of death, sorrow and a life lost to the misplaced pursuit of distraction. The reader is never given the opportunity to care about the main character; the story early on defines an invisible line of apathy that is almost expected of the reader. As the story unfolds and the main character lives one scene to the next, the pace breaks any possible or remaining connection the reader may have made with the main character. There is an opportunity to reestablish that bond with 2 other characters (one the main character's tragic daughter and the other a grieving seamstress) but at the end the narrator clearly explains why this is not possible; because this is William Bellman's story. Although a simple but at the same time multifaceted story, this was also not exactly an easy read and I could see where this is either one of the reads you absolutely love and could not wait to finish or fidget with and decide to stop in the middle or just finish and have no idea how to finally rate. -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/November 2013 A White Room is a different type of debut novel that touches on many controversial topics of the era and perhaps this is where my fascination dwindled and dissolved into uncomfortable fidgeting with my kindle. The novel starts with such ease and captivating writing but then morphs into a completely different type of story. Such a pity because I loved the first part and kept finding myself pulled from reality into the main character's narrative. The author shows an absolute natural finesse with a real command of her main character's voice and historical scenes but at the same time takes a few liberties with medical details. Although, I completely understand the creative allowance to expand and pull details to suit one's story, I am sorry to say the liberties were noticed. The other positives were clearly showcased in the beginning and were mainly attributed to the fantastic story building and absorbing story telling. A few things though, with a setting and notion so abstract and characters that personify the inhabitants of a typical town where every person knows everyone's business this caused a few believability issues and distractions as the story rapidly progressed and the total conclusion of events unfortunately just equaled to an unsatisfactory mood. On the other side, a few other positives I can relate are the descriptive writing and the symbolism of rooms and objects. In the end, I'm sorry to say this was a mere disappointing read for this reviewer. However, others should not avoid such a different kind of debut that sparkles with its writing style and has in store so many unforeseen surprises. -read and purchased on kindle -EGP/November 2013 An impressive homage to a beloved classic. Tucked in the final pages of The Other Typist is a single line that reveals that one of the author's major inspirations was The Great Gatsby and it is very easy to recognize the connection in terms of imagery, understated messages, motifs and not to mention both being great reads. However alike, The Other Typist sets itself apart from its inspiration by offering the reader the opportunity to experience and discover the more celebratory and seeder side of the 1920's with a police precinct office typist as their guide. The tone is set early that a darker theme will reveal itself and once that apparent tone is exposed the book morphs into a puzzling mind bending narrative that ends with more questions than answers, but please do not let this aspect scare away any curious readers. The perplexing fixated nature of the narrator is only half of the allure you will uncover in The Other Typist and although the line of obsession is clearly crossed and the severity of crimes escalates with the chapters they are never described in gruesome detail. Overall The Other Typist is a multifaceted historical thriller that should not be missed or given up on after the first complex chapter. In the end, I very thankful I did not give up on the first couple chapters. Once I began to understand the narrator's voice and flow of description the book then became quite enjoyable. The Other Typist had its own stand alone moments and I enjoyed finding the symbolism that attached itself to: jewelry, physical characteristics, names, structures and even the humble typewriter. Ms. Rindell certainly did her research and shared some fascinating trivia and details with her audience, not to mention has an extensive vocabulary. The potential reader may be surprised how many times they press the dictionary function on their Kindles to learn some new terminology. Crimes to be solved, enveloped mysteries and perpetrators to be unveiled and a lingering question of will we see a sequel? These are just a few delights the potential reader will find to look forward to with The Other Typist. -read and purchased on my kindle -EGP/October 2013 Just in time for Halloween, I stumbled onto this gem of a read. Like many others, I was transfixed with the idea of a marriage between history and fantasy that would lead to the fun question of "what would happen if a medieval plague turned those inflicted into the undead?" Combining three fascinating topics for this reviewer into one read but imagining only a gory romp through the 14th-century English countryside, I am sad to say I was not expecting much. Mr. Calas has surpassed my expectations though and The Scourge was an astonishing read and the potential reader may be surprised how much they may find themselves thinking about this novel days after they finish. The writing was polished and the details were vivid and added sinister yet striking imagery to the whole narrative. Add to this, the apparent meticulous collection, division of history and topics that were clarified and shared with the reader in an engaging voice and it all equaled a surprising read that should not be written-off as "just another zombie inspired book". True on the surface, The Scourge presents itself as a gory concept of the flesh craving undead invading the already superstitious inhabitants of 14th-century England, but it is about so much more than this. The author melds religion, broiling politics, unforeseen closing messages and dark topics into a galloping journey with three knights in the center of a world plunged into the most corrupt pathetic setting. Although there are a few anachronistic terms used in the narrative and the use of repetitive forced tension became at times predictable these only intrude on the observer briefly before jerking the reader back to the grisly world and heart pounding epic Mr. Calas has created for his readers that is The Scourge. -read and purchased on kindle Books in this series: *The Scourge (The Scourge #1) by Roberto Calas Nostrum (The Scourge #2) by Roberto Calas Emaculum (The Scourge #3) by Roberto Calas -EGP/October 2013 |
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