A Love Divided by Elizabeth St. John (Book 2 of the Lydiard Chronicles)

In this second novel of the Lydiard Chronicles, St. John continues the story of her ancestor, Lucy St. John, who became Lucy Apsley after marriage. The court owes her a debt stemming from her husband’s service to the king. The court’s refusal to pay leaves Lucy and her children in financial trouble. To save herself and her children, Lucy agrees to a loveless marriage. As her children come of age, they take up the fight to get Lucy what she is owed. However, England is plunged into a civil war, which divides her family. This story shows the power of family love. I enjoyed this novel, although it was a little slow in the middle. 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.

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. 

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 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.

The Tudor Secret by C.W. Gortner

This was a delicious medieval mystery. We are introduced to familiar historical characters, intertwined with interesting fictional characters. The author expertly weaves fact and fiction into a gripping tale of wonder and intrigue. I could not put this novel down. If you love historical fiction set in the medieval era, you will love this novel. I am starting the second novel in the series. Happy Reading.

Land of the Living and the Dead by Shauna Lawless

This is the third novel in the Gael Song Series. This novel is full of Irish history, folklore, and mythology. The author has created unforgettable characters who are both good and evil. I hesitate to say more for fear of exposing spoilers. I find myself wishing that this would someday be a movie. Again, I was pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed this historical fantasy. I couldn't put the book down, and I anxiously await the fourth book in the series. Again, kudos to Shauna Lawless.

Silk Road by Colin Falconer

 This is a great historical fiction read. In 1260 CE, a knight and a cantankerous priest travel the treacherous Silk Road in an attempt to bring Christianity to the Mongol tribes of the East Asian steppes. The author vividly describes the differing landscapes, cultures, and customs of the Mongol people. The story centers on Josseran Sarrazini, a Frank Templar Knight charged with seeing the Priest on his mission. It is an epic adventure from start to finish. The characters struggle with duty, faith, and sin while enduring personality clashes with others and their host. I love reading about different cultures and religions. This novel was utterly engrossing, and I highly recommend it to all who enjoy historical fiction and adventure. Happy reading!

Forever Amber by Kathleen Winsor

 Forever Amber by Kathleen Winsor

This novel was originally published in 1944 and republished several times. It was once banned for its sheer decadence. Young Amber falls in love with a man she can never have. She is left pregnant and abandoned in London. She is beautiful and witty and uses her feminine wiles to charm and sleep her way from farm girl to mistress of the king, gaining a fortune and titles all the way, all in the pursuit of Lord Bruce Carlton. The novel is often described as a timeless romance; however, this description is somewhat misleading. I would classify the relationship between Lord Carlton and Amber St. Clare as a seventeenth-century stalker novel.

The Children of Gods and Fighting Men By Shauna Lawless

Historical fiction is by far my favorite genre, and I am often drawn to Irish history. This novel is an Irish Historical Fantasy. This novel started slowly, made slower by the many difficult-to-pronounce character names and local. That being said, as I read further, a compelling story began to emerge with well-defined characters and an emotionally charged storyline. Even though fantasy is not my favorite genre, this was a good read, and I do plan to read the second in the series.

My Dear Hamilton by Stephanie Dray & Laura Kamoie

This is a wonderfully written and well-researched novel of the life of Eliza Schuyler Hamilton. The authors could not tell Eliza’s story without telling the story of Alexander Hamilton, the love of her life, a brilliant but flawed man. He was a military officer, a statesman, and our nation's first treasurer. I thought I knew the history of our founding fathers but besides being a breathtaking page-turner, this novel was a retelling of history with all the ups and downs, losses and victories. It is also the story of the birth of our nation and all those who made the idea of a United States of America come into existence. All the players are there, from Washington to Monroe. If you like historical fiction, this novel will not disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed this read.

The Lost Apothocary by Sarah Penner

As usual, I read this book's reviews before choosing this novel. Some of the reviews were so bad that I was almost discouraged. One review changed my mind and I ordered the book. This novel is a little different from the books I usually read because it is a mystery. I found this book to be a delightful read. Anticipation moved me forward through the pages with uncommon speed. At times I thought it was predictable, but the author surprised me each time. I enjoyed this short novel and happily recommend it. Happy reading.

New York by Edward Rutherfurd

This is a comprehensive history of New York, from the landing of the Dutch to the attack on the World Trade Center. This fascinating historical record follows fictional families of diverse cultures and ethnicities, American-born and immigrant that are all part of the fabric that is New York. Along with these fictional families the history moves between the ages from agriculture and merchant through the industrial age and, ultimately the digital age. This is a tremendous work. It is heavy and long but also enjoyable. Happy Reading!

A Respectable Trade by Philippa Gregory

This novel is far from what I’ve come to expect from Philippa Gregory. It was different and a surprisingly emotional read from beginning to end. Great characterization. I felt as if I knew these people and all of them touched me in one way or another. These are characters that I won’t soon forget. I enjoyed this novel and highly recommend it to historical fiction lovers.

The Wild Hunt by Elizabeth Chadwick

Medieval Britain, set in the Welsh border marches in 1098, a tantalizing love story emerges amid warring kingdoms. Ruthless land barons fight for dominance, while a young girl comes of age. This is a time when marriages are arranged and couples may not even know each other before vows are made before God. This novel was short and sweet and I loved every word. 

Amour of Light by Ken Follett

With every Follett novel, I keep looking for the same thrill and excitement I got with reading The Pillars of the Earth. I have read several Follett novels and loved most of his books. Unfortunately, this novel did not meet that expectation. It is basically about how the Industrial Age changed life in Britain. There is an unexpected heroine and more than one nemesis. Nonetheless, it was a satisfying read.

This is the story of Queen Juana of Spain, the second daughter of Queen Isabell I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon. She was known as the Mad Queen. Whether there was real mental illness or not, this novel gives some insight into a life that is full of tragedy and heartbreak. Queen Juana is stronger than her foes anticipate. From the beginning of her arranged marriage to a Flanders Prince, she is manipulated and betrayed by the very men who promised to love and cherish her. When Queen Isabell dies, Juana holds the prize that the men in her life are determined to have, her crown. She is used, abused, and manipulated, to assuage the power struggle for the men in her life, however, she refuses to abdicate her throne in the face of grave consequences.

Elizabeth I by Margaret George

The enigmatic Elizabeth I is my favorite Monarch. In this novel, the author focuses on the last thirty years of the life of Elizabeth I. Margret George and the late Sharon K. Penman write historical fiction in a way that makes one feel as if they are watching history unfold before their eyes. Both authors can make the reader feel as if they have been given a unique and personal view into the lives and characters of very famous people. I knew that there was a rivalry between Lettice Knollys and Elizabeth and in this work, the author details the reasons for such a contention between the cousins. Other relations are explained as well. This is an enjoyable read for anyone who enjoys medieval historical fiction.

The Midwife by Tricia Cresswell

This novel had me on the first page. It is a deliciously intriguing Victorian Age mystery. The author skillfully pulls the reader into the story. I could not help but begin to feel an affinity for many of the characters while at the same time trying to figure out the unsaid mystery. The main character is likable and compassionate, even while she deals with her own pain and sometimes shame. Midway through the novel, I was sure that I had it all figured out. However, I was wrong, which made this read even more special. I highly recommend this novel. The author’s sources, which are as interesting as the novel, are revealed at the end of the book. Happy Reading!