The Black Birds of St. Giles By Lila Cain

Lila Cain is a pseudonym for Kate Griffin and Marcia Hutchinson, who teamed up to write this fascinating historical fiction novel. The story centers on Daniel and Pearl, who escape slavery from a Jamaican sugar plantation during a fearful slave uprising and the eventual burning of the main plantation house. Through several twists and turns in the story, Daniel finds himself serving in the British Navy during the American Revolutionary War for Independence. Besides the King’s promise to free all ex-slaves fighting for the crown, Daniel saves the life of a major who offers an inheritance. Neither promise comes to fruition, leaving Daniel and Pearl to navigate life through one of London’s underworlds, St. Giles. It is a heart-wrenching story of love, survival, and betrayal. It was hard to put down. This is a great read for all lovers of historical fiction. Happy reading!

 

Devil Water by Anya Seton

This was not the first time I read Anya Seton. I read Katherine by this author years ago, and I loved it. This novel was completely different. There were many highs and lows. It turned out to be a good story, but it took a slow and winding road to get there. The novel is well researched and rich in detail, which accounts for the slowness of the prose. It is relatively a good read, but not my favorite. 

The Lost Queen by Signe Pike

This wasn’t what I expected. I was looking for historical fiction, but it read more like Irish Folklore than history. Although all the reviews I read were glowing, with many 5-star ratings, I didn’t have the same experience. I felt no affinity for the main character. For me, this was a slow read. There are many peaks and lulls, and the lulls were often long. In fact, I really had to push through it. 

Daughter of The Otherworld by Shauna Lawless

Ms. Lawless has once again created another compelling novel of Irish History and folklore. Many characters from the first trilogy live on in this new series. This being the first novel of a new trilogy, it is obviously the setup for a more intriquing story line to come, and I am excited to wait for the next novel. I recommend this novel without reservations. Happy Reading!

The Tudor Vendetta by Gortner, C.W.

Mysteries abound in Queen Mary's court. The Tudor Conspiracy continues the mystery, scandals, and intrigue amid Queen Mary’s court. Brendon Prescott becomes an unwitting investigator, determined to uncover the mysteries of the Tudor court while protecting Princess Elizabeth at all costs. As said in my review of The Tudor Secret, this is a delicious medieval mystery. I enjoyed every minute. Happy Reading.

The Tudor Conspiracy by C.W. Gortner

The Tudor Conspiracy continues the mystery, scandals, and intrigue amid Queen Mary’s court. Brendon Prescott becomes an unwitting investigator, determined to uncover the mysteries of the Tudor court while protecting Princess Elizabeth at all costs. As said in my review of The Tudor Secret, this is a delicious medieval mystery. I enjoyed every minute. Happy Reading.