The novel brings to light two extraordinary women: Evelyn Herbert who helped uncover Tutankhamun’s tomb, and Hatshepsut with her mysterious reign as tThe novel brings to light two extraordinary women: Evelyn Herbert who helped uncover Tutankhamun’s tomb, and Hatshepsut with her mysterious reign as the first woman Pharaoh of Egypt.
1919, England. The novel begins with the backstory of Evelyn Herbert who comes from privileged family. Her father, Lord Carnarvon, employed Howard Carter to lead excavations in Egypt. Howard Carter has been tutoring Eve in history and archeology of ancient Egypt every summer since her childhood. And that’s when her fascination with Hatshepsut began – why her successors tried to erase her from history. That’s the puzzle she’s been determined to solve.
The story portrays well the spirit of Eve and her fascination with Hatshepsut. While traveling to Egypt with her parents, she witnesses the excavations of the final layer at the site possibly tied to Tutankhamun and Hatshepsut. Her anticipation is contagious. She also experiences what she only heard of and never imagined that could happen to her until it did – collapsed tunnels and tombs, and archeologists and others not making it out alive. She stumbles upon other challenges that make her question others’ motives when she learns of Howard Carter procuring some artifacts for himself and not his patron. Thus, exposing her smarts, sophistication, and determination.
The story weaves in another timeline beginning in 1486 BC, Thebes, when Hatshepsut is a priestess. Her father Pharaoh Thutmose teaches her how to command and make decisions. After the death of her two brothers, she remains the sole highest-born royal child in the land, but no woman has ever ruled Egypt. Who succeeds and what happens next reveals the puzzle Eve has been searching for. Hatshepsut’s character reveals a strong woman who is highly-intelligent and creative in navigating the world she lives in.
The story has a rich historical background and weaves in Hatshepsut’s story interestingly – and the answer Eve is searching for. The narrative has a feel of telling rather than showing.
Eve’s voice has that distinct aristocratic tone. On the other hand, Hatshepsut’s voice lacks the authoritative tone and is missing the tension between her and her subordinates.
The novel brings to light two women who have not received enough credit for creating history as they lived in a male dominated world. Both are such fascinating characters that I wish there was even more to their character-development.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review....more
This historical novel, Rules of the Heart, weaves one woman’s quest for true love - based on her own letters - while bringing to light the lesser-knowThis historical novel, Rules of the Heart, weaves one woman’s quest for true love - based on her own letters - while bringing to light the lesser-known story of Henrietta “Harriet” Bessborough, sister of Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire.
Set in England, the story begins in 1794 when Lady Harriet Besssborough recounts her love affair with Lord Granville, twelve years her junior.
Harriet knew the rules of engagement - she had seen what happened to women who played their hand badly. She understood the steps she was supposed to take to stay within those rules, but she let her emotions lead her. She told herself she simply wanted to know Lord Granville better, to see if his character was as appealing as his looks. Her marriage had left her feeling lonely, needy and always craving affection. Once she truly came to know Lord Granville better, she saw in him an answer to her own wishes and desires – an answer that propelled her into their affair.
Born into privilege, Harriet was the subject of much speculation about whom she should marry, as was her sister Georgiana. At nineteen, Harriet accepted the hand of Lord Bessborough, cousin to the Duke of Devonshire – Georgiana’s husband. The match meant the sisters could remain close. Harriet saw other marriages survive on such slender foundation, but she soon discovered that behind her husband’s shyness lay a deep and frightening rage. She had never witnessed such anger before.
This drove her even closer to her sister, following Georgiana’s every step, and eventually, in the footsteps of many other miserable women trapped in loveless marriages, Harriet embarked on a series of affairs.
Once, she came close to divorce; another time, she faced a serious illness – an ordeal that made her vow never to go astray again. Her sickness prompted her to reflect on her life. During her convalescence, she noticed changes in her husband, making her question her past decisions. She was honest with herself, not looking for excuses for her wayward actions.
But life soon tested her resolve. When she met a man who turned her world upside down, she found herself struggling once more to keep her word. She told herself he would be nothing more than an entertaining diversion - one she could control.
The protagonist’s complexities and emotions are vividly drawn. Harriet is clever, yet flawed. Her relationship with her sister begins close, but a gap forms as Georgiana develops new friendships and fails to offer Harriet the same support during challenging times. Harriet’s self-proclaimed romantic nature is passionately expressed in her quest for true love, which remains the central focus of the story.
Written in evocative prose and richly detailed, Rules of the Heart beautifully explores the human search for happiness and the shifting nature of emotions. The novel vividly portrays Harriet’s frankness, and skillfully blends her triumphs and struggles. It feels authentic and deeply human, giving a center stage to a fascinating woman who was an exceptional letter writer, yet has remained largely unknown until now.
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ...more
The Cardinal brings to life the true story of Thomas Wolsey – his meteoric rise and dramatic fall during Tudor England.
England, 1482. Wolsey’s story bThe Cardinal brings to life the true story of Thomas Wolsey – his meteoric rise and dramatic fall during Tudor England.
England, 1482. Wolsey’s story begins in childhood when, at the age of eleven, he is sent to Oxford.
The first half of the novel explores the deep inner world of its central character. Thomas, still a boy, finds himself subject to Oxford’s harsh rules, and he longs for the warmth of his parents’ inn. Despite the cold institution, his brilliant mind sets him apart as the youngest among a thousand scholars. Thought he misses home and the early thrill of Oxford life has worn off, he remains determine to make the best of his situation and fulfill not only his family’s hopes, but his own ambitions.
At fifteen, he earns his bachelor’s degree – an extraordinary feat at such young age. He continues his education at Oxford, eventually remaining at the university after graduation, waiting for the opportunity he has long dreamed of. Wolsey seeks high public office. He doesn’t want to take the vows of chastity, poverty and obedience; he doesn’t want to surrender his will to a superior. At eleven, he hadn’t fully grasped what priesthood would demand of him.
With no patron to support his ambitions, he is eventually ordained, believing it the only remaining path for advancement. Yet even that does not yield immediate results. He pleads for a modest ministry in hopes of future promotion.
He is finally appointed rector of a parish. After the death of his patron, more assignments follow, until at last, the opportunity he’s long awaited arrives: the chance to serve the monarch himself.
King Henry is impressed by Wolsey’s political savvy and diplomatic skills.
Appointments pour in. Suddenly, Wolsey is overwhelmed with responsibility, but he welcomes the workload. He craves power and is not afraid of hard work.
But then he meets Joan Larke - a beautiful, bold, intelligent twenty-year-old - and he cannot stop thinking about her. After working so hard to reach the pinnacle of his career, he now wonders if he’d choose love over power. Aware that envious rivals would exploit any weakness, he questions: is he letting emotion interfere with reason?
He wrestles with the dilemma. Other churchmen keep mistresses – why shouldn’t he? The king has granted him a house, so discretion would not be a problem.
Meanwhile, the king seeks to regain regions lost to France. Wolsey is against the war. After decades of civil strife. England is finally at peace and enjoying prosperity. Yet those who oppose war are falling rapidly from favor, and he must weigh his options carefully.
As the king’s trust in Wolsey deepens, Wolsey’s power and wealth increase - fueling jealousy and resentment among nobles and commoners alike. But what troubles him most are the growing accusations of lechery and fornication. The rumors spread rapidly, and he feels living on a knife-edge. In some regards, he dares not risk his secrets being discovered, and begins to feel he’s living on a knife’s edge. Now, a Cardinal, he is more unpopular than ever. Crowds boo him. The nobility despises and envy him.
The second half of the book plunges into the complex web of political and court intrigue, including wars and the Great Matter – King Henry’s pursuit of a divorce from Katherine of Aragon and his fixation on Anne Boleyn.
Poignantly written with a richly drawn and morally complex protagonist, The Cardinal offers a fresh and compelling perspective on Henry VIII’s reign. Told from Wolsey’s point of view, it sheds new light on well-known historical figures and events. The suspense builds steadily, and the final chapters - leading to Wolsey’s fall – are especially tense and gripping.
Personally, I like character-driven stories. Thus, the first half was very absorbing to me. With less character development and more of intrigues the story became slow in the second half; and seemed too drawn out in the second half.
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ...more
Set around 2500 BCE, Circle of Days explores the mysterious story of Stonehenge.
Seft comes from a family of flint miners. The work is grueling and hiSet around 2500 BCE, Circle of Days explores the mysterious story of Stonehenge.
Seft comes from a family of flint miners. The work is grueling and his father is harsh. When Seft meets Neen, a girl from a family of herders, he notices something different within her family - love and kindness.
When the farmers secretly take over land traditionally used for herding animals, Neen’s mother fears the outrage could spark a war between the two communities. Though she has never experienced war herself, she remembers the stories her parents told about a past conflict between the herders and the woodlanders.
Joia, Neen’s younger sister, is fascinated by the priestesses who guard the secrets of the sky. When the High Priestess teaches her a new way of counting - using discs instead of body parts - Joia becomes deeply intrigued and begins to understand her true calling.
At this time, the Great Plain is divided among three tribes: herders, farmers, and woodlanders. Mistrust among them is growing and acts of savage violence threaten to escalate the conflict. A devastating drought forces even the most generous to reconsider their willingness to share. Survival becomes the driving force.
When a wooden monument dedicated to the priestesses is destroyed, the High Priestess orders it rebuilt in stone. The necessary heavy stones lie far away, and fifteen of them are needed. Transporting them could take years. Yet, as heavy and impossible as the task may seem, one person is driven by greater force – a vision of the stone monument rising. The bloodshed, the loss, the arguments, and the violence all fuel the determination to bring it to life and to bring peace.
The story of Pia and Han – two young people from different tribes – unfolds during a time when inter-tribal relationships are forbidden. Despite the rules, they find a way to be together. The forbidden love and the suspenseful search that follows add twists that keep readers on edge.
The detailed depiction of how the stones are transported, and how the monument is built stone by stone, makes Circle of Days a captivating read. With its intriguing elements of ancient history, the story feels remarkably authentic to its time period. It’s an absorbing novel that turns pages quickly.
Ken Follett is a master storyteller; with fascinating characters he weaves a mesmerizing tale rooted in the mysteries of the past - authentic, engaging, and utterly captivating.
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review....more
The Blackbirds of St Giles brings a perilous journey of two siblings, Daniel and Pearl, who escape a slave rebellion in Jamaica in 1768.
Their journey The Blackbirds of St Giles brings a perilous journey of two siblings, Daniel and Pearl, who escape a slave rebellion in Jamaica in 1768.
Their journey takes them to New York where in 1776, Daniel answers king’s call to join His Majesty’s Troops during the struggles to retain America in exchange for freedom. While picking up the arms, Daniel saves a Major’s life in a battle. He is rewarded with the man’s inheritance. Thus, the journey takes him and his sister to London.
But promises are not always kept. What was supposed to be a rewarding life turns into a misery and another fight for survival. The siblings are thrown into the streets of dark parts of London brimming with poverty and cruelty.
This poignant story vividly paints the terrifying streets of 18th century London, the treacherous realities and persistence of two siblings exposing their hopes and despairs. It’s charged emotionally, and the bond between two siblings is deep and at times overprotective. It’s the story of resilience against prejudice.
This story exposes the lesser-known period in history, with captivating characters that can aw but also frustrate at times. It is a reminder of human nature to fight for freedom and dignity. Even with the gripping journey, the story has a slower pace.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book 3 of trilogy, which can be read as a stand-alone, is based on the leader of a notorious gang of shoplifters, Alice Diamond of the Forty ThieThis book 3 of trilogy, which can be read as a stand-alone, is based on the leader of a notorious gang of shoplifters, Alice Diamond of the Forty Thieves. She was inspired by the first Queen of Thieves, a daring girl from the London slums of the 1880s, called Mary Carr.
London, 1900. The story begins with Lady Harcourt venturing into the dangerous alleyways of Seven Dials, despite the warnings to avoid the area. As an artist, her curiosity wins out, leading her to explore the lives of ordinary people, which she captures in her sketches.
In Seven Dials, while watching her brother play at the fountain, Mary notices a lady in a fancy dress. The woman offers Mary a coin and asks her to show her around. The encounter sets Mary on a new path. She begins to pose in ragged clothes for Lady Harcourt and later, secretly, for her husband. Mary is a quick learner and observes how people look at her differently when she wears fine clothing. This realization sparks an idea.
Alice grew up in Seven Dials, where stealing comes naturally as a means of survival. She has no interest in toiling in a factory. Instead, she prefers to ‘liberate’ fine things from people’s pockets or counters at posh shops. It’s there that she meets another accomplice, Kate Felix. With her refined accent and her own gang of the Forty Thieves, Alice is exceptionally Skilled at what she does. But it only takes one man to distract one of them, leading to dire consequences.
The sharp and engaging prose makes the story fast-paced, and there is a surprising moment when the connection between the two protagonists is revealed. The novel also vividly portrays the grim reality of London’s poor neighborhoods, evoking sympathy for the girls who long for a better life. It also highlights the attitudes of the privileged, who often look down on the less fortunate as if they were mere obstacles to be crushed.
At the forefront of the story is a gang of women who take charge of their lives, but behind this façade lie deeper issues, including incarceration - in both jails and mental institutions. The narrative delves into the psychological toll of separation, exploring how isolation can exacerbate anxiety and lead to further mental damage. The story touches on real and timeless themes with remarkable depth.
Queen of Diamonds is a must-read. It challenges readers to weigh two sides of ethics dilemmas: those who steal without remorse and those who dismiss others with cruelty and a lack of empathy. While the story may seem superficial on the surface, it delves deeply into societal issues, making it powerful and though-provoking read.
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ...more
The Queens of Crime bring five powerful women crime writers who demand recognition of their mystery genre. It is inspired by a true story of Dorothy SThe Queens of Crime bring five powerful women crime writers who demand recognition of their mystery genre. It is inspired by a true story of Dorothy Sayers’ own life.
London, 1931. The five great female writers come together and form Detection Club - an organization of mystery writers created due to lack of consideration for their work as literature. Dorothy L. Sayers leads the group which includes Agatha Christie, Ngaio Marsh, Margery Allingham and Baroness Emma Orczy. Their goal is to elevate the mystery genre so the detective novels are seen as good as literary fiction. But in the male dominated world, their club rather causes them to be even more ostracized. To prove their worth, they decide to solve a real-life murder.
Recently, the murder case of May Daniels, a young English nurse, resurfaced as her body was found in a park in France. Four months earlier, she disappeared into thin-air in France, after stepping into a bathroom at the train station before bounding for England. Police reported that there was only one way in and one way out, and her friend was waiting for her outside the bathroom.
Dorothy’s husband is a journalist who previously covered the story. Now, he’s heading back to France to cover the story again. This gives Dorothy an idea to tag along with her husband, and her four co-detectives would travel to France in secret and reconnect there to get a scoop on the details.
As the women uncover details, they follow in May’s footsteps in the order they occurred. There are perplexing clues but they are good at untangling them. But this private investigation turns against Dorothy when the killer targets her, threatening to expose a secret which she’d prefer to keep hidden.
This insightful story delves into a theme of the marginalized women and how they had to propel themselves to be taken seriously. There was a reluctance to investigate the murder of a woman, and the women became serous about solving it.
The narrative is original and each of five women has her distinct voice, but I wished there was more to character development. This is a plot-driven story which is different from this author’s previous books which are character-driven. This is an excellent read for those who enjoy plot-driven stories.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ...more
UK, May 1943: Alice Carmichael becomes homeless at seventeen when the house of her grandmother is bombed, losing her protector and safe space. As a chUK, May 1943: Alice Carmichael becomes homeless at seventeen when the house of her grandmother is bombed, losing her protector and safe space. As a child, she grew up surrounded by books and her natural instinct leads her to taking a few books she could carry with her.
As she finds new shelter, she finds new guardians, friendship and discovers a new purpose in life. She becomes a postwoman at Billingford who sets up a mobile library, which later extends to a village library and her secret war work.
Alice’s new location is close to an airbase housing American Airforce. She meets an American airman and tries to balance love with her secret mission, which leads to some tensions.
Alice is almost eighteen when she falls in love and receives her first advice about men. Throughout the story, she writes in her diary revealing her thoughts which also involve her feelings toward a man.
As devastating war is, this story demonstrates how one can still find purpose and love; and the resonating fact of the written word that has the power of transporting one to a different place bringing healing, solace, and hope. The story reveals the lost lives of the men who worked at the Norfolk airbase and pays honors to those young men who some of them left the airbase for a mission and never returned.
The story is written with simple prose and carrying a voice of a young person which may resonate with some readers. It has a slow start and there are parts that move faster than the others. Nevertheless, the story carries an engaging thread.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ...more
The Boy reimagines the story of Alexander Cooke who played the female roles of Shakespeare’s plays.
Alexander “Sander” Cooke is the most celebrated boyThe Boy reimagines the story of Alexander Cooke who played the female roles of Shakespeare’s plays.
Alexander “Sander” Cooke is the most celebrated boy player in the Chamberlain’s Men, William Shakespeare’s theatre company. His portrayal of female roles made him the toast of London. But now at the cusp of adulthood his future is uncertain.
Sander’s theatrical triumphs catch the first attention of Francis Bacon – philosopher and one of the greatest minds of their time. But what catches his next attention is Sander’s original question, only to discover quickly the truth that Sander is not his would-be acolyte. It’s someone else.
Joan Buckler is Sander’s best friend. While Sander wishes for more than friendship, she craves knowledge. Something that is unattainable for a woman of her time. From childhood, she had interest in botany and using plants for medicinal purposes. She became an experimental botanist under a guide of two experts, who already recognized her early on as a precarious toddler. That’s why they supported her curiosity throughout her childhood, and have been her mentors of natural philosophy and botany.
Joan, as a woman, is not part of the philosophical conversations which she desires. She is fascinated by emerging philosophical thoughts but in order to get closer to those discussions, she needs to disguise herself.
The men talk about inductive logic, knowledge without the bias of old beliefs. Those conversations are fascinating but I can also see that not everyone might be engrossed by it. And at some points, it results in uneven pacing.
As both, Sander and Joan, triumph they draw attention of some influential figures, which also leads to their tragedies as they become snarled into political intrigues of the court.
The Boy is written with eloquence and is immersed with philosophical discussions and intrigues of the court, effortlessly drawing the reader into the story.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ...more
The Pretender imagines the story of Lambert Simnel, a pretender to the throne of England and a threat to the newly established reign of Henry VII. He The Pretender imagines the story of Lambert Simnel, a pretender to the throne of England and a threat to the newly established reign of Henry VII. He was the figurehead of a Yorkist rebellion against the House of Tudor.
The story begins in 1480s England with John growing up in a village, believing that his father is Will Collan, but everything changes when he is told that a rich man wants to pay for him to study.
When the rich man arrives, he’s accompanied by a younger man and introduced as Maister Richard Simons, a scholar and priest, who is to take over John’s education. Not only that, Maister Richard informs John that he was John Collan, and now, he is Lambert Simnel – something that, of course, makes no sense to John. It is then explained that he is actually the son of George, the Duke of Clarence. By title, he is the earl of Warwick, meaning next in line to the throne. Nothing makes sense to the boy who thinks of himself as a peasant.
Oxford becomes his new home, but it’s far from feeling like the house he knew and misses. In exchange for this new life, he is told that he has a larger purpose.
Maister Richard is responsible for teaching the boy about history and courtly manners. Alongside his studies, he learns about the current situation involving the Tudor pretender to the throne, Breton Henry, as the unpopular King Richard faces pressure from those who wish to replace him. The boy may not understand all the scheming, but he does understand that he doesn’t want to be the next in line to be struck down from the throne. So he prays for Richard to stay long on the throne.
As power shifts like the wind amid political machinations, Lambert struggles with his identity and destiny. Is he a peasant boy or son of a duke? The changes in his name to protect him only create further confusion.
Written poignantly with literary prose, The Pretender explores the struggle of a young man whose identity becomes a pawn in the hands of ambitious men. These men, driven by political intrigues, tensions, constant scheming, and chaos, make it even harder for Lambert to find his footing. When he finally finds love, giving him a sense of stability, it, too, is shaken. Thus, The Pretender portrays a man who constantly questions his own identity.
The Pretender masterfully captures the mysterious figure of a peasant boy who claimed to be an heir to the throne, weaving a narrative filled with heartache, humor, conflicting loyalties, and the struggle of self-identity.
The story is written with such style that it takes a moment to get into it. There is crass humor and sexual escapades. The story has some slow moments and some highly engaging.
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ...more
The Phoenix Bride unfolds the tale of two bereaved individuals, each grappling with feelings of powerlessness and a deep need to be heard.
Set in the The Phoenix Bride unfolds the tale of two bereaved individuals, each grappling with feelings of powerlessness and a deep need to be heard.
Set in the latter half of the 17th century England, the story opens with Cecilia recounting her her marriage to William Thorowgood and the brief joy it brought her. However, her happiness is swiftly extinguished by the plague that claims her husband, leaving her a bitter widow who harbors resentment towards her environment and, at times, even her sister Margaret.
This narrative shifts between Cecilia and David Mendes, a Jewish physician who fled Portugal for England to freely practice his faith. In Portugal, the risks of being a surgeon – and a Jewish one at that – loom large, but England seems the safer option. David quickly becomes friends with Manuel and his family, only to mourn Manuel’s loss to the plague. Then, a letter arrives, summoning him to consult for the ailing Cecilia, whom Margaret has unsuccessfully tried to cure through numerous doctors.
During his second visit, while delivering medicine to Cecilia, Margaret informs David of Cecilia’s impending, yet unknown to her, marriage. Cecilia must recover before the autumn, or Margaret can no longer secure her husband’s support for her sister. David recalls his late friend’s advice to always do what feels right, which in his friend’s case, meant telling the truth. Yes David struggles with this, fearing the repercussions on his career from Cecilia’s family.
As a fire ravages wooden houses and bridges, altering its path with the wind and leaving many destitute, the lives of the two protagonists begin to shift with the changing circumstances.
Despite the somber backdrop, moments of humor emerge from the interactions between Cecilia, who detests nearly everything, and David, who strives to heal her bitterness.
The characters in the Phoenix Bride are richly developed. Following their period of mourning, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and hope, set against the historical context of the Jewish expulsion and their ongoing struggle to lead normal lives wherever they resettle.
This expertly narrated story is captivating and poignant, weaving together the lives of two people who dare to transcend societal norms. In an era where mingling of different religions was taboo, they uplift each other, finding a way to rise above their grief and discover a new perspective on life.
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ...more
The Painter’s Daughters brings the story behind so many paintings of Thomas Gainsborough, renowned 18th century English painter.
The story explores theThe Painter’s Daughters brings the story behind so many paintings of Thomas Gainsborough, renowned 18th century English painter.
The story explores the close bond between two sisters, Peggy and Molly Gainsborough. Molly is older, but Peggy knows she needs to protect her sister, who occasionally experiences mental confusion. They both enjoy roaming barefoot through the fields surrounding their home in Ipswich, but the mother stops it. She feels that the daughters need to be raised as proper ladies. Thus, the family moves to Bath, where Molly’s bouts progress and Peggy continues to cover it up as much as she can. When a man by the name Johann Fischer enters the scene, the sisters’ bond gets under fractured.
This story has a feel of a build up until the end, and the mystery aspect continues to linger to the very last pages. The story is told through the eyes of sisters and a young woman named Meg Grey. It is not clear what her connection is to the family, but Peggy questions the mystery behind her mother’s family. Those who are into mystery may have stronger connection to this lingering aspect.
The threads of the story are loose to the very end. I wished they were tied up much earlier. I’m more into straightforward storytelling rather than lingering mystery. That lingering aspect made me disengage with the story half-way through. For me tying the ends much earlier would make the read much more engaging, and understanding earlier on the direction of the story as half-way through I questioned the point of telling this story. I had to reread the synopsis to understand it.
Nevertheless, it is still a fascinating story of two sisters who are subject of their father’s many paintings. It always makes the experience much richer to be able to look at a painting and know a story behind it.
I enjoyed Peggy’s sharp tongue and honest observations without holding anything back. The sisters’ voices at the beginning of the story are very distinct, but as the story progresses I wished for more of character-development to make them distinct individuals with their traits besides devotion and protection.
This richly imagined story is written with outstanding prose which is the strong part of this story.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review....more
The Swan’s Nest brings a fascinating story of two 19th century poets, Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barrett.
In January 1845, Elizabeth has been confinThe Swan’s Nest brings a fascinating story of two 19th century poets, Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barrett.
In January 1845, Elizabeth has been confined to her room for the past four years by recurrent illness when she receives a letter from another poet she has secretly admired. Robert not only loves her poetry but also declares his love for her. This leads to an affectionate correspondence, but her insecurities delay their meeting in person.
Elizabeth’s stronger position, poetically and financially, has her family against Robert. Despite her health and the poetic love, Elizabeth has the strength to defy her family and follow her heart.
The story also involves a subplot which explains the financial status of Barrett family. They made their fortune on the backs of slaves at their sugar plantation in Jamaica.
It is truly a captivating story written with lyrical prose. However, the style of writing has a distant feel. A reader is invited to witness the conversations but kept at bay. This distant feel didn’t let me get fully attached with the characters.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ...more
Egypt 1935. The story begins with sixteen-year-old Cleo Davenport being told that she needs to move to London. She was raised by her adoptive mother, Egypt 1935. The story begins with sixteen-year-old Cleo Davenport being told that she needs to move to London. She was raised by her adoptive mother, and her life is absorbed by finding out about her parentage.
In London, she has a chance to meet the Prince of Wales, now crowned as Edward VIII, as a debutante. In Paris, she is able to talk to a courtesan who tells her a story of meeting Prince of Wales during WWI and the consequences when she gets pregnant.
The story for most of the part is absorbed by personal matters. Thus, the plot is not the strong part of this story, which also has a slow progression.
Towards the end, there are some dimensions to the character. She has an ambition of designing jewelry but WWII changes her plans. She wants to be useful during the war, so she finds some duties. Despite this, I didn’t feel a strong connection with the main character.
It is an interesting premise of the known courtesan to be claiming to have a child with Prince of Wales and her creating a story what happened to that child. The parts of the story where there is some revealing presented are the most engaging.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This non-fiction book takes a closer look at mother and daughter. Anne Boleyn was a strong woman and a courageous mother, who might have been a great This non-fiction book takes a closer look at mother and daughter. Anne Boleyn was a strong woman and a courageous mother, who might have been a great queen if given a chance. “Her courage as she met her death was widely praised, even by her enemies.” During her brief tenure, less than three years, she sparked a religious and political revolution. And left a profound influence on her daughter, who became the most celebrated monarch.
Elizabeth, less than three, not knowing the fate of her mother, was deposed from succession and proclaimed a bastard. Young though she was, Elizabeth sensed that something was wrong with all the changes around her. Later, witnessing the succession of stepmothers. At ten, her mother’s cousin, Catherine Howard, was the second wife of Henry to be beheaded. Thus, Elizabeth at young age vowed never to marry.
During Mary’s turbulent reign, when Elizabeth was under house arrest, Elizabeth had a chance to connect with men from her mother’s past. It was a time when she started building her allies. At the same time, Mary earned a new name ‘Bloody Mary’ for burning Protestants at the stake.
Elizabeth learned a good lesson from her sister’s bloody reign not to force her subject to conform to the religion of her choice. She created a tightly knit court for most part related by ties of blood, marriage or friendship.
For most of the part, it’s the story of Elizabeth and her rise to power and how she had to be smart in securing her position not to be overthrown. Through her different traits, there are glimpses of Anne’s traits. Anne’s spark to religious reformation aligned with Elizabeth’s. Another trait that they shared was being patrons of learning. Both women refused to subordinate to men.
Elizabeth was a strong willed child and a courageous woman who pushed the boundaries. She wasn’t without flaws. She had some despotic traits. Above all, like her mother, she was hungry for knowledge. She thrived in intellectual atmosphere.
This is a very enlightening and enjoyable read that is not overwhelmed with historical details. It’s fascinating to have a closer look at two captivating women who stood tall in the world ruled by men.
Source: Book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review....more
Set in England, during the Great War, this story involves two twin sisters. After the death of the mother, Peggy promises to take care of her sister MSet in England, during the Great War, this story involves two twin sisters. After the death of the mother, Peggy promises to take care of her sister Maude. Because of that Peggy feels many restrictions which she feels limit her own life. Another one is the social standing. She comes from the working class, called “town.” The Oxford’s Somerville College, she dreams about and sees every day across from the University Press where she works, is for the upper class, called “gown.”
The story is driven by the voice of Peggy and her self-discovery. Both sisters work at bindery, but Peggy dreams about the world beyond binding. She craves the knowledge in the books she binds. A life changing opportunity comes when the tragic Great War sends Belgian refugees to parts of England.
The voice of Peggy represents voice of many women who were limited to certain things just because they were women. The war in in itself is a sad event, but in that tragedy an opportunity presents for some women.
The work of bookbinding is interestingly presented. The Belgian refugees fleeing their country and seeking refuge in England is a lesser known subject brought to light in this story.
As with the previous book The Dictionary of Lost Words, the writing is beautiful. It’s kind of a story that is composed of sub stories, not strongly driven by plot. The strong part of this story is the female camaraderie and the warm writing.
Character of Peggy seems to have some issues of her own creation. I didn’t fully connect with her.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review....more
This is book six in the series, which can stand alone. Once again, Cat Hakesby (previously Lovett) and James Marwood are united in their effort to resThis is book six in the series, which can stand alone. Once again, Cat Hakesby (previously Lovett) and James Marwood are united in their effort to resolve a murder case.
London, 1671. An architect, Cat Hakesby, is forced to stop her restoration project after the Great Fire due to man’s body found in the ruins. Delayed work means financial strain on her business. Thus, she tries to help in solving the case.
She knows James Marwood who is ordered to investigate. And they had some tangled moments previously. Marwood is good at extracting information, but the trail where it leads gets complicated.
The author continues to created fascinating characters and complex plot that intrigues. The story is alive with historical figures and events. With the fast pace, the reader is set on a fascinating mystery journey.
I found book five, The Royal Secret, as character driven. This book is more plot driven.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ...more
I, Julian reimagines biography of Julian of Norwich, an English mystic and anchoress.
Mid 14th century, Norwich, England. Julian (1343 – after 1416), I, Julian reimagines biography of Julian of Norwich, an English mystic and anchoress.
Mid 14th century, Norwich, England. Julian (1343 – after 1416), at seven, loses her father to pestilence. She is in pain over his death. She doesn’t know how to process it and how to heal from it. That’s when the seed of her visions start.
At ten, her mother teaches her to read. Later, Julian counts it as her greatest gift from her mother.
At nineteen, her mother wants her to marry, but Julian doesn’t want to obey a man and bear children. She prefers solitude. Her mother insists on her meeting Martin, a wool merchant. Julian does and realizes that beneath his strong appearance there is tenderness. She thinks the city will be bearable when she is with him.
Later, she is introduced to the lay sisters who transformed her mother. She also learns of such calling as anchoress. Upon some contemplations she picks a path that she feels is right for her.
Once, she gets sick and being close to death, her visions start. Visions that lead her to the service, to help a grieving world.
The story is revealed through stunning prose. Julian’s feelings are beautifully breathed into this story. I found some visions and contemplations a bit too long. Overall, the story is very well-crafted and authentic. The voice of Julian is very believable.
P.S. This story reminded me of Margery Kempe, an English Christian mystic. If you enjoy stories of women’s lives in Middle Ages, I also highly recommend Revelations by Mary Sharratt.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review....more
The Mitford Affair reimagines the lives of the Mitford sisters who dominated the English political and social scenes between the World Wars. The familThe Mitford Affair reimagines the lives of the Mitford sisters who dominated the English political and social scenes between the World Wars. The family starts struggling to keep up the good image when one marries a fascist leader and another is rumored to be Hitler’s mistress.
Due to the worldwide economic crisis, the family loses the money that would give the six sisters some cushion. Now, they have to find their own way in the world.
The story is driven mainly by three sisters. Nancy is a novelist who tries to mend the bridge with Diana and Unity who fall out of grace with the family. Diana makes a scandal with her divorce to a Guinness tycoon, whom she leaves for a leader of the British Union of Fascists. Diana, with her sister Unity, shares the same vision of joining the BUF. They see it as the bright future for Britain with so many unemployed people. Diana is ambitious in her dreams of building up the BUF to becoming the prominent governing political body in Great Britain; and uniting Great Britain with Germany in this common political cause.
Unity is an ardent Nazi and obsessed with Hitler. She moves to Munich to study the German language and its culture. After cozying up to Hitler, she receives a flat that is procured by the Nazis from a Jewish family who most likely is sent to a concentration camp.
There is a believable presentation of how people are lured into believing Hitler’s ideology. And the decision Unity makes after Hitler invades Poland begs a question - was she fooled as many others?
Decca is a drastic contrast. She chooses to serve in the press corps in the Spanish Civil War. She stands with the people who are being oppressed and violently attacked by the fascists only because they have communist inclinations.
The story of the Mitford sisters weaves two clashing ideologies of fascism and communism, which further create fractions within the family. Not only that the personal interests and fears drive some of their decisions. There is one who is not afraid to point to the hypocrisy within the family, and stands for what she believes is right, but the others strongly believe in their good cause, too. It is a fascinating and sad example of family who falls into the dismay because of politics. It is an example that is relevant to present time.
As with previous books by Marie Benedict, this story is character-driven and told with crisp prose. It is intriguing and engaging. It involves a view of two sides and a subject that brings a conversation to the table.
Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ...more
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