Shadow on the Crown by Patricia Bracewell

This medieval historical novel focuses on a little-known period in English history. The story begins in the year 1002. It is a fascinating story. Emma becomes queen at the age of fifteen, married to a much older king who appears to be unstable. Through the constant threat of Viking invasion, a husband that does not love her, and the unexpected love for a man she can never have, this novel sizzles with adventure, intrigue, and betrayal. With a little research, I learned that Queen Emma was a real person, which made the story more pleasurable. I enjoyed every minute of this novel and eagerly await its sequel. Happy reading.

The Poet Empress by Shen Tao

This is a wonderful novel. It was recommended to me by my sister, along with several video reviews praising the book. I will admit that I was not enthusiastic about this read simply because fantasy is not my preferred genre. However, as I read, I was first struck by the author’s characterization. Her prose painted a vivid picture of each character. As I read and came to know Wei Yin, the peasant girl turned concubine. I understood her. I felt her mission and eagerly followed the path she traveled. It is mysterious, emotional, and haunting. The last thirty pages of this novel were shocking but completely satisfying. I recommend this novel without reservation. Happy Reading!!

 

Lady of the Tower (Lydiard Chronicles Book 1) by Elizabeth St. John

This was a fascinating novel based on the life of the author’s ancestor, Lucy St. John. She and her sisters were orphaned and raised by a loving uncle and an aunt who was less than kind. The novel explores the intrigue and political upheaval of the Court of King James I of Scotland. Lucy, who is wholly interested in apothecary science, has an innocent liaison with the Earl of Sufolk. She is betrayed by her jealous older sister, and others at the court use the untrue rumor to ruin her reputation. However, Lucy St. John was stronger than anyone anticipated. She survived and made a life for herself, her new husband, and her children. His appointment as the jailer of the tower. made Lucy the Lady of the Tower. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and look forward to the next novel in the Lydiard Chronicles.

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 my. There are many peaks and lulls, and the lulls were often long. In fact, I really had to push through it.