Book Haul: Barnes & Noble

It is a travesty to man-kind that my last book haul was in 2011. 2011!

I am quite ashamed of myself. But alas, things get in the way (new job, uni, etc.). That, and my favorite bookstore that was a mere 5 minute drive from my house went out of business (*cough*BORDERS*cough*).

Anyway, I am proud to announce that as of May 18, my book famine has ended! Check out the sneak peeks of the titles I hauled home, courtesy of my (somewhat) local Barnes & Noble.

Vixen by Jillian Larkin

Every girl wants what she can't have. Seventeen-year-old Gloria Carmody wants the flapper lifestyle--and the bobbed hair, cigarettes, and music-filled nights that go with it. Now that she's engaged to Sebastian Grey, scion of one of Chicago's most powerful families, Gloria's party days are over before they've even begun ... or are they?

Clara Knowles, Gloria's goody-two-shoes cousin, has arrived to make sure the high-society wedding comes off without a hitch--but Clara isn't as lily-white as she appears. Seems she has some dirty little secrets of her own that she'll do anything to keep hidden...

Lorraine Dyer, Gloria's social-climbing best friend, is tired of living in Gloria's shadow. When Lorraine's envy spills over into desperate spite, no one is safe. And someone's going to be very sorry...

The Heretic Queen by Michelle Moran

The winds of change are blowing through Thebes. A devastating palace fire has killed the Eighteenth Dynasty's royal family--with the exception of Nefertari, the niece of the reviled former queen, Nefertiti. The girl's deceased family has been branded as heretical, and no one in Egypt will speak their names. Nefertari is pushed aside, an unimportant princess left to run wild in the palace. But this changes when she is taken under the wing of the Pharaoh's aunt, then brought to the Temple of Hathor, where she is educated in a manner befitting a future queen.

Soon Nefertari catches the eye of the Crown Prince, and despite her family's history, they fall in love and wish to marry. Yet all of Egypt opposes the union between the rising star of a new dynasty and the fading star of an old, heretical one. While political adversity sets the country on edge, Nefertari becomes the wife of Rameses the Great. Destined to be the most powerful Pharaoh in Egypt, he is also the man who must confront the most famous exodus in history. 

Madame Tussaud by Michelle Moran

Smart and ambitious, Marie Tussaud has learned the secrets of wax sculpting by working alongside her uncle in their celebrated was museum, the Salon de Cire. From her popular model of the American ambassador, Thomas Jefferson, to her tableu of the royal family at dinner, Marie's museum provides Parisians with the very latest news on fashion, gossip, and even politics. Though many people are starving and can no longer afford bread, Marie's business is booming. In salons and cafés across Paris, people like Maximilien Robespierre are lashing out against the monarchy. Soon, there's whispered talk of revolution.

Spanning five years, from the budding revolution to the Reign of Terror, Madame Tussaud brings us into the world of an incredible heroine whose talent for wax modeling saved her life and preserved the faces of a vanished kingdom.

Queen Defiant by Anne O'Brien

GENRE

Historical Fiction (412 pgs.)


SYNOPSIS

Orphaned at a young age, Eleanor, Duchess of Aquitaine, knows she needs a strong husband to hold on to the vast lands that have made her the most powerful heiress in Western Europe. She welcomes her arraigned marriage to Louis the Sixth, King of France, hopeful of forging an influential partnership with him. But when Louis's fanatical devotion to the Church and weakness of will thwart her wishes--leaving her isolated and powerless--she seeks another way. 

In her quest for freedom from Louis, and in search of a man worthy to stand beside her, Eleanor will defy her husband, ally herself with secret lovers, risk her life on an adventurous Crusade, and challenge the Pope himself. And in the end she will meet Henry, Count of Anjou, brilliant, mercurial, and as impatient as she is to build a dynasty. Finally, within sight of passionate fulfillment with Henry, Eleanor will take the biggest gamble of her life--always a courageous queen defiant.


MY REVIEW

Eleanor of Aquitaine, much to my own surprise, had escaped my historical curiosity up until the purchase of this novel. I knew very little about this historical era (the early Middle Ages), but to tell the truth, after reading this novel I feel like I have been reacquainted with a long lost friend. 

Let me explain a bit. 

Eleanor, as she is presented by Anne O'Brien, feels like an old friend, an old confidante. She comes to life in such a way on the pages that it's like meeting some long lost part of yourself. Her emotions are incredibly real and heart-wrenching, and her dialogue is provoking and powerful. Her passionate narration is truly a window into the real Eleanor of Aquitaine and the woman she was. 

This novel focuses mainly on Eleanor's early years, prior to her marriage to Henry II and her rise in becoming Queen of England. To tell the truth, for those readers looking for the re-imagining of the famous turbulent later years of her life, read this book. After you do, you will feel like you don't need to read about her later life, because you already know the woman who was Eleanor of Aquitaine so well.

I am amazed that O'Brien was able to craft such a page-turning plot line from such a dark, hazy period in history. Her historical research is impeccable, and it shows. O'Brien utilizes her research in such a way that makes the "fiction" part of the genre of historical fiction completely and utterly believable, which is the aim of any good historical fiction author. 

The characters of the novel are all very well crafted and all have something to contribute to the story. The character of Louis VI was very well done as well. His insurmountable devotion to the Church is maddening, but at the same time, you feel such sorrow and pity, for both him and Eleanor. 

Eleanor's fight against the political and societal limitations surrounding her show beautiful depth into her strong character. Page after page comes defeat for Eleanor, yet still she stays strong. It is truly amazing that someone with such a fire in her spirit survived such a dark period in history. 

All in all, this novel was really outstanding. The plot was turbulent and exciting, the historical research phenomenal, and Eleanor was one of the best historical re-imaginings I have ever read. For those who are skeptical about this novel because of its less-than-interesting historical setting, believe me, you will not regret reading this novel. I certainly didn't. 


MY RATING

4.5****/*



Book #3 in Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

O, Juliet by Robin Maxwell

GENRE

Adult Historical Fiction / Retelling (306 pgs.)


SYNOPSIS

Before Juliet Capelletti lie two futures: a traditionally loveless marriage to her father's business partner or the fulfillment of her poetic dreams, inspired by the great Dante. Unlike her beloved friend Lucrezia, who looks forward to her arranged marriage into the Medici dynasty, Juliet has a wild, romantic imagination that takes flight in the privacy of her bedchamber and on her garden balcony. 

Her life and destiny are forever changed when Juliet meets Romeo Monticecco, a soulful young man seeking peace between their warring families. A dreamer himself, Romeo is unstoppable once he determines to capture the heart if the remarkable woman foretold in his stars.

The rich tale of passion, revenge, and tragedy on the cusp of the Italian Renaissance: a fresh twist on the Bard's beloved Romeo and Juliet. 


MY REVIEW


I will start off this review by saying that this novel has earned the honor of making me cry for at least a good five minutes after I finished the book. Not quite sure if that is an honor, but there it is. Not many books have really made me genuinely cry, rather than just tear up and sniffle. I can assure you there were many tears, a runny nose, and many tissues involved. It was a good cry.

That being said, I immensely enjoyed this book. The main reason I enjoyed it so much was that as an aspiring author, this is the genre that is dearest to my heart. It is something of a sub-genre to traditional Historical Fiction. This genre takes a well known story/legend (Romeo and Juliet, King Arthur, etc.) and retells it, kind of in a "What really happened," sort of way that makes the legend/story historically accurate and real, if that makes sense. I think this genre is just so instrumental in really bringing the legend to life. 

Robin Maxwell did a fantastic job of integrating the famous story of Romeo and Juliet into the historical time period of the Italian Renaissance. Throughout the story she was able to maintain the delicate balance between the famous tragedy we all know and a new, historically-accurate twist. 

Both halves of the tragic couple were very well written. Juliet was a strong, fierce character who I was instantly drawn to. I could really relate to her love of writing poetry, and her strength in continuing to write it no matter how badly  it was frowned upon at that time in history. Romeo was just as well written, and possessed such a great depth of character. Rather than being the swoony-heartthrob romancy-cliched Romeo, he was full of life; vibrant, soulful, and most definitely intriguing. 

The historical setting of this novel was truly breathtaking. Robin Maxewell's decision to set her novel in Florence rather than in the traditional Verona was an extremely good choice on her part. Since Florence was really the epicenter of the Italian Renaissaince, it just added so much more depth to the story. 

The way Robin Maxwell reinvented the plot of this story was absolutely amazing. I really could not put this book down. The way Maxwell is able to draw you into the story and make you completely absorbed in the plot was alarmingly good. I found myself (when Juliet is in trouble) yelling at my book, which to me, is a sign I am completely and irrevocably in the story.

All in all, this was a fantastic read. Robin Maxewell's historical re-imagining of Romeo and Juliet was truly breathtaking, in every sense of the word. It was absolutely moving and beautifully written. I definitely think Shakespeare would be proud.


MY RATING

5*****




Appropriateness Factors

There are a couple of bedroom scenes, not to graphic, but they are there. As always, take it for what it's worth.


Book #1 in Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

Historical Fiction Reading Challenge 2012

Alright so here's the lowdown. I missed the 2011 challenge by one book. One!

So this year, I am completely determined exact my revenge and have my 20 books in before the holiday season consumes me, as it did last year. Oh yes, I'm still going for the Severe Bookaholism here. 

So, without further ado, here's to a great year full of amazing historical fiction! Happy reading!

Ransom My Heart by Meg Cabot

GENRE

Adult Historical Fiction / Romance (396 pgs.)

SYNOPSIS

He's a tall, handsome knight with a secret. She's an adventurous neauty with more than a few secrets of her own. 

Finnula needs money for her sister's dowry, and fast. Hugo Fitzstephen, Earl of Stephensgate, is returning home to England from the Crusades, has money, saddlebags of gold and jewels, and lots of it. What could be simpler than to kidnap him and hold him for ransom? Especially when he's more than willing to allow himself to be caught by such a winsome captor. 

Well, for starters, Finnula could make the terrible mistake of falling in love with her hostage, only to realize he's been lying about his identity all along... But then, so has she. 

Now their lives--and the lives of everyone they know and love--could be in mortal danger. Is Finnula Crais in hell? Or in heaven?


MY REVIEW

This book had really good promise for me. I've only read a couple of the Princess Diaries books (I'm more familiar with the movies), but the ones I read were really enjoyable. When I first saw this book on the shelf, I thought it would be a great combination of Meg Cabot's signature humor and some good historical fiction.

This book just really missed the mark for me, and on every level... plot, characters, setting. I think with a bit more effort on Meg Cabot's part, it could have been much better written. 

Let's start off with the characters. I really loved the character of Finnula Crais, our leading lady. She is strong, tradition-defying sassy wench, but as soon as her love interest is introduced, she loses it. She's so hell-bent on not conforming to the constraints of medieval society, yet she ends up becoming everything she is not... the quiet, sub-servient wife of a nobleman, who is completely won over every time she's taken for a tumble in bed, to be frank.

Hugo Fitzstephen, our protagonist male, starts off the book with promise, but doesn't really grow out of his "lusty" stage. I really couldn't see him coming to love Finnula any deeper than the lust he has for her sexually. 

The villains of the story were totally cliched, with really nothing redemptive about them. In a novel, I like a villain to have something more... something that makes it a bit harder to really hate them. Not in this story. It was just cut-and-dry cliche.

Speaking of cliche, the whole plot of the story was completely unoriginal. It really read like a cheesy, Harlequin romance novel. I thought the beginning of the novel really had some promise, but by the end of the story, I was really left disappointed. It was like all of the hard work Meg Cabot put in to the beginning of the book was for nothing. 

The historical setting was passable at best. I'm pretty sure medieval women who went around in men's pants (as our leading lady did) were either disgraced or burned for witchcraft in those days. The narrator also adds that kidnapping and ransoming noble gentlemen was common practice for those medieval maids strapped for cash. It was just completely unbelievable.

The only thing I got a good laugh over was how Meg Cabot managed to include some of the medieval vernacular into her dialogue. She made some medieval "thees" & "thous" sound a bit more modern, which was fun. 

For those of you who don't know what the literary term "suspension of disbelief" is, look it up. You will become quite familiar with the term if you decide to read this novel.


MY RATING

1.5*/*


Appropriateness Factors

Please do not think that this novel is appropriate for tween girls just because it is written by Meg Cabot! There are quite a few (surprisingly) graphic bedroom scenes. Please proceed with caution, especially younger readers!


Book #18 in Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

Phantom by Susan Kay

GENRE

Adult Historical Fiction / Mystery (468 pgs.)

SYNOPSIS

A child is born... his mother's only gift is a mask. Precocious and gifted, he will live friendless and alone. Taunted and abused, he will flee, only to find himself caged again--as a freak in a Gypsy carnival.

A brilliant outcast... the world is his home. Filled with bitter rage, he will kill to escape, becoming a stonemason's apprentice in Rome... a dark magician at the treacherous Persian court... and finally the genius behind the construction of the Paris Opera House and the labyrinthine world below.

Lacking one thing only: a woman's love. Cloaked in secrets, his power complete, he will see the exquisite Christine and for the first time know what it means to love. Obsessed, he will bring her to his eerie subterranean world, driven to possess her heart and soul.

A haunting story of power and darkness, of magic and murder, of sensuality and betrayal, and ultimately, the unforgettable story of a man and woman and the eternal quality of love.

MY REVIEW

The story of the Phantom of the Opera has held a special place in my heart since I was first introduced to the Andrew Lloyd Weber musical way back. I was very excited on my discovery of this book, as I really don't think there are many retellings of the original Gaston Leroux novel out there. I had to read it.

This novel is an absolute feast for the senses in every meaning of the phrase. The way Susan Kay re-tells Erik's (The Phantom's) story is absolutely incredible. It invokes every single human emotion... fear, hate, love, disgust, sadness. It connects with a reader on an entirely different level, but remains faithful to complete human fragility.

The characters are all stunningly written. I especially appreciated Susan Kay's treatment of Erik and Christine. Instead of making Christine a zombiefied puppet always in the Phantom's trance, Susan Kay delves deep into the world of psychology to explain her complicated relationship with the Phantom. Because when you think about it, what would draw someone to a creepy stalker with the face of a corpse? Yet the ALWeber musical is the longest running stage musical, ever. There is something very deep that draws us to the Phantom, and Susan Kay does an excellent job of explaining that strange relationship.

And Erik's story... wow. Absolutely heart-wrenching. It really shows the Phantom in a new light, and explains the "method behind the madness," if you will. Like I mentioned before, when you are reading this interpretation of Erik's story, every imaginable emotion is brought out in you.

The setting of this novel, from Paris to Persia, was very well written and superbly described. The history was also very well researched. I went into the story expecting more focus to be on the story, but Susan Kay managed to include well-researched history, which made the story come to life.

Gaston Leroux's novel was a bit dry on the actual "story" side, because it was written as more of a Mystery/Thriller. But this novel keeps the reader absolutely engrossed with every turn of the page. The story is never dull. It is all too easy, in fact, to get lost in the Phantom's world.

This novel was really, really excellent. Not only did this book interrupt me from reading another book, it kept me up till around 5am on more than one occasion. Any "phans" of the story of the Phantom of the Opera must read this book. Please believe me when I will say you will not be disappointed by this masterpiece.

MY RATING

5*****

Book #17 in Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

The Scarlet Contessa by Jeanne Kalogridis

GENRE

Adult Historical Fiction (454 pgs.)

SYNOPSIS

Daughter of the Duke of Milan and wife of the conniving Count Girolamo Riario, Caterina Sforza was the bravest warrior Renaissance Italy ever knew. She ruled her own lands, fought her own battles, and openly took lovers when she pleased.

Her remarkable story is told by her lady-in-waiting, Dea, a woman knowledgeable in reading the "triumph cards," the predecessor of modern-day tarot cards. As Dea tries to unravel the truth about her husband's murder, Caterina single-handedly holds off invaders who would steal her title and lands. However, Dea's reading of the cards reveals that Caterina cannot withstand a third and final invader--none other than Cesare Borgia, son of the corrupt Pope Alexander VI, who has an old score to settle with Caterina. Trapped inside the fortress at Ravaldino as Borgia's cannons pound the walls, Dea reviews Caterina's scandalous past and struggles to understand their joint destiny, while Caterina valiantly tries to fight off Borgia's unconquerable army.

MY REVIEW

I am completely obsessed with the Borgias. It's definitely official. I went through my Tudor phase when the Showtime series was still on, and now I'm completely devoted to the Borgias. After reading Jeanne Kalogridis' last novel on the famous Italian family, I knew I had to pick this one up.

I think the thing that most impressed me about this book was its main character, Caterina Sforza. Pardon my language, but she was definitely the bad ass of Renaissance Italy. I thoroughly enjoyed how Jeanne Kalogridis portrayed her, both as a powerful ruler and as a broken human being. It really brought a nice depth to the story.

The historical setting was very well done. It most definitely accounted for all of the scandals and intrigue surrounding that time period in Italy. Not only that, but all of the politics that went along with it. Caterina, at some times in the novel, wasn't even sure if she could trust her own family. I think as a woman, I most definitely wouldn't have wanted to live in a world like that.

Something I wasn't too fond of was the pacing of this novel. The beginning and end were very well written, but the middle felt like I was reading a history book. Basically the middle of the novel consisted of the narrator, Dea, recounting what was going on, with a few genuine plot points happening in between. Sure, those historical events went on to affect Caterina, but I think it could have been written better. Like I said, it felt like all of a sudden someone had taken a few pages of a very well-written history book and stuck them in the middle.

The other thing I had a slight problem with was this whole neo-Christian mysticism that Jeanne Kalogridis added to the book. It was really only effective in the beginning and the end, and was very much forgotten about in the middle. And when it was effective, I didn't much care for it, but that's my personal taste. But to tell the truth, a lot was forgotten about in the middle. It was kind of like Purgatory for a bit there, just emptiness.

There were some plot decisions made that I didn't agree with as well. For example, when turmoil finds Caterina in her land of Forlí (I won't elaborate for the sake of spoilers), the narrator Dea's husband, the scribe Luca, decides to up and leave his love. Here's his quote:

'"I only know," he said, "that I am needed elsewhere. Just where, I do not yet know. But my heart leads me"' (364).

I thought that was a bit of a cop-out on his part. It was just little things like this that really took away from the story for me.

All in all, I think the negatives outweighed the positives in this book, but not by much. I definitely think that Jeanne Kalogridis' other novel, The Borgia Bride, was much better, and is a better read for those who are just getting into the Borgias.

MY RATING

3.5***/*

Appropriateness Factors

There are a handful of bedroom scenes, some more explicitly described than others, so proceed with caution.

Book #16 in Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

Nefertiti by Michelle Moran

GENRE

Adult Historical Fiction (457 pgs.)

SYNOPSIS

Nefertiti and her younger sister, Mutnodjmet, have been raised in a powerful family that has provided wives to the rulers of Egypt for centuries. Ambitious, charismatic, and beautiful, Nefertiti is destined to marry Amunhotep, an unstable young pharaoh. It is hoped that her strong personality will temper the young ruler's heretical desire to forsake Egypt's ancient gods.

From the moment of her arrival in Thebes, Nefertiti is beloved by the people, but she fails to see that powerful forces are plotting against her husband's reign. The only person brave enough to warn the queen is her younger sister, yet remaining loyal to Nefertiti will force Mutnodjmet into a dangerous political game--one that could cost her everything she holds dear.

MY REVIEW

After reading Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran, and being thoroughly impressed, I couldn't resist this next read. Ancient Egypt has held my absolute adoration since I was a young child, so any historical fiction on the subject I am instantly drawn to.

With this second book of Michelle Moran's, she has rightfully earned a place in my favorite historical fiction author list. Her writing is absolutely fantastic. She is outstanding at balancing the emotion of a good fiction while keeping intricate historical research in play. Let me tell you, for the duration of this novel, I lived and breathed Ancient Egypt. It is so easy to slip into the history the way Michelle Moran writes it!

I will say that at first I was a bit put off by the fact that this novel is actually narrated by Nefertiti's sister, Mutnodjmet, rather than Nefertiti herself. But in the end, I thought this choice in narrator made the story all the more potent. It was really a testament to the kind of power Nefertiti held as Queen of Egypt, and how that power affected her family. Mutnodjmet was a completely reliable narrator, which I think Nefertiti wouldn't have been, just given her character.

Speaking of the characters, they were all very well written. Wow, was Nefertiti absolutely ruthless! I think sometimes it's very hard for authors not to take more of a modern stance on re-interpreting some of these historical figures. I don't know how Michelle Moran does it. She makes each character so touching to the reader, but still retains their historical characteristics.

The plot was gripping and never dull. Since many events in Ancient Egypt are really open to historical interpretation, I think some authors make their plot a little too grandiose and unbelievable. But Michelle Moran connected the dots, so to speak, in a way that is completely believable.

This was an excellent read. I really did have a hard time putting this one down. Every aspect was engrossing, from the characters to the plot. The world of Ancient Egypt Michelle Moran created was absolutely stunning. This, my friends, really is historical fiction at its best.

MY RATING

5*****

Book #15 in Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

Teaser Tuesdays (17)

Happy Tuesday everyone! This week's teasers come once again from Jeanne Kalogridis's The Scarlet Contessa, a historical drama set in the Borgias era of Italy.

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My Teasers:

"When she finally composed herself, she said darkly, 'I will do what I must. But he has nothing but contempt for me, and I only hatred for him. I will bear him children--for my purposes, not his." (154)

--The Scarlet Contessa by Jeanne Kalogridis

Teaser Tuesdays (16)

Happy Tuesday everyone! This week's teasers come from Jeanne Kalogridis's The Scarlet Contessa, a historical drama set in the Borgias era of Italy.

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My Teasers:

"Caterina nodded; a cascade of diamonds and rubies sparkled at her ears. She was truly magnificent to behold that day, a porcelain beauty with gleaming golden hair, dressed in shimmering white, the dark red trim serving to accentuate her pale glory." (82)

--The Scarlet Contessa by Jeanne Kalogridis

Guinevere by Sharan Newman

SYNOPSIS

Sharan Newman tells the story of the golden child whose dearest friend is a saint who hears spirits singing; of the gentle-hearted woman who begins to dream of love, glory, and the fierce, proud king who will become her husband; of the passionate beauty whose name will be remembered and hated for centuries.

MY REVIEW

Of course this was an instant read for me, being the Arthurian legend junkie I am. There are really more series on Guinevere than I realize, and this is just the tip of the iceberg, so to speak.

I can't say I liked this book. But I can't say I absolutely cursed it to damnation either. I don't know, maybe it's that Arthurian legend junkie inside of me keeping me from being too harsh.

Let's start with this book's namesake, Guinevere. Sharan Newman's aim, I think, is to have Guinevere come across to the reader as "otherworldly" and "different," somehow like the "chosen one." But really, she came across to me as spoiled and just kind of "out there." And not in a good way. It was like she was always in some other world that everyone else, and it was a bit annoying.

I was really quite mad at Guinevere towards the end of the novel, when she first meets Arthur. Arthur goes completely gaga over her, of course, but Guinevere remains completely ignorant. I mean, Arthur is willing to go so far as to change the person he is for her, and Guinevere acts surprised when Arthur tells her he loves her? I mean, come on. Like I said, it's like Guinevere's existing in some other dimension throughout the novel.

I also didn't like the fantasy aspect of this novel. Guinevere talks to a unicorn. Really. And she sees invisible spirits. It was just too weird for me, and in my opinion, it really didn't add anything substantial to the book.

I will say I did like Sharan Newman's interpretations of all of the other Arthurian characters. But it seems kind of silly to me that I came away from this book liking everyone else except Guinevere. Kind of defeats the point I guess.

The writing was pretty well done, although it really took me a while to get through it. I definitely didn't get that magical feeling I get when I read Arthurian legend. (Except at the end when Sharan Newman introduces Lancelot ;D).

All in all, if you're super duper into Arthurian legend like I am, I'd say why not, give it a try. But if you are just getting into the magic that is King Arthur, pick another series. I might read the rest of the series just to see what she does with Lancelot + Gwen, but we'll see.

MY RATING

2.5**/*

Book #14 in Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

Bright Young Things by Anna Godbersen

GENRE

Y.A. Historical Fiction (389 pgs.)

SYNOPSIS

The year is 1929. New York is ruled by the Bright Young Things: flappers and socialites seeking thrills and chasing dreams in the anything-goes era of the Roaring Twenties.

Letty Larkspur and Cordelia Grey escaped their small Midwestern town for New York's glittering metropolis. All Letty wants is to see her name in lights, but she quickly discovers Manhattan is filled with pretty girls who will do anything to be a star…

Cordelia is searching for the father she's never known, a man as infamous for his wild parties as he is for his shadowy schemes. Overnight, she enters a world more thrilling and glamorous than she ever could have imagined—and more dangerous. It's a life anyone would kill for . . . and someone will.

The only person Cordelia can trust is Astrid Donal, a flapper who seems to have it all: money, looks, and the love of Cordelia's brother, Charlie. But Astrid's perfect veneer hides a score of family secrets.

Across the vast lawns of Long Island, in the illicit speakeasies of Manhattan, and on the blindingly lit stages of Broadway, the three girls' fortunes will rise and fall—together and apart.

MY REVIEW

This novel was an instant buy, and had been on my wishlist for quite some time, for 2 reasons. 1, I absolutely loved Anna Godbersen's last series, The Luxe. 2, This novel is set in the Roaring 20's, which is one of my favorite modern decades.

For those two reasons alone, I really, really, really wanted to like this novel. But unfortunately for me, it fell a bit flat.

Let's start with the characters. They were all really well-written and engaging, but in the end, I just found myself really not caring about them. Sure, I liked them, but I just didn't care a lick about them. They didn't possess qualities that I could personally relate to, and therefore, I felt quite disengaged from them.

But the worst part of this novel was the plot. It was pretty bad. But before I delve into that too much, I'd like to clarify an opinion I have.

This novel was obviously written for a series. You can actually go out and buy book #2 right now. In my opinion, when writers write a novel with a sequel/series in mind, their story really suffers. This was definitely the case with Bright Young Things. I felt like this book was a giant prologue for the series. Really. Not exciting, not engaging. Whatsoever.

Moving on from that, I definitely felt I had to read this novel whilst "suspending my belief," if you will. Anna Godbersen definitely got the polish and glamour of New York in the Jazz Age right, but where was the grit? Where was the strife? Fast living isn't all smiles and happiness. Granted, Anna Godbersen wrote in some "down" moments, but it hardly affected the characters or the plot.

Not only that, but the whole bit about Cordelia's long-lost father being one of New York's wealthiest bootleggers was just outrageous. How she meets him was really outrageous too. She manages to sneak past his armed guards, run right into the guy and he accepts her as his daughter, no questions asked. Come on, what kind of fairytale are these people living in? Like I said, lots of smiles, but hardly any grit.

I will say that I do like Anna Godebrsen's writing, however. She comes up with the coolest metaphors, so I have to give her her props for that.

All in all, this was a pretty big letdown for me. Definitely far below my expectations, which were pretty high coming off of Anna's last series. So if you want to see Anna Godbersen at her finest, please read The Luxe series. It is absolutely fantastic.

MY RATING

2.5**/*

Book #13 in Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

GENRE

Classic Literature (236 pgs.)

SYNOPSIS

A wonderfully entertaining coming-of-age story, Northanger Abbey is often referred to as Jane Austen's "Gothic parody." Decrepit castles, locked rooms, mysterious chests, cryptic notes, and tyrannical fathers give the story an uncanny air, but one with a decidedly satirical twist.

The story's unlikely heroine is Catherine Morland, a remarkably innocent seventeen-year-old woman from a country parsonage. While spending a few weeks in Bath with a family friend, Catherine meets and falls in love with Henry Tilney, who invites her to visit his family estate, Northanger Abbey. Once there, Catherine, a great reader of gothic thrillers, lets the shadowy

atmosphere of the old mansion fill her mind with terrible suspicions. What is the mystery surrounding the death of Henry's mother? Is the family concealing a terrible secret within the elegant rooms of the Abbey? Can she trust Henry, or is he part of an evil conspiracy? Catherine finds dreadful portents in the most prosaic events, until Henry persuades her to see the peril in confusing life with art.

MY REVIEW

Aside from Pride and Prejudice, this has to be my next favorite of Jane Austen's novels. I think Jane Austen was really trying to get in touch with her Gothic darker side when writing this novel, and I heartily applaud her for that.

There is just something about the protagonist, Catherine Morland, that continually draws me to this story. I think it's maybe the way Catherine has a problem with separating the fact from the fiction, or the story from real life, which I can definitely relate to. She is undoubtedly a hopeless romantic, which I knowingly acknowledge myself to be. And she has such a vivacious passion for reading! Alright, I admit it... I see very much of myself in her. She is definitely one of my favorite literary heroines.

I also admire that Catherine lends a certain vulnerability to the story. She is certainly not the perfect heroine... she doesn't answer every question perfectly, she makes mistakes, and she has yet to be crossed in love. Definitely easier to relate to the shy, unassuming character in her.

I absolutely love Catherine's love interest, Henry Tilney! He is such the charmer, but still manages to maintain his sincerity towards Catherine. Definitely a step away from the likes of Mr. Darcy, but still absolutely wonderful in his own right. My favorite Henry quote:

"'Now I must give one smirk, and then we may be rational again.'"

Not only are the characters engaging, the story is very well written. Once again, more of a step away from the traditional Austen novel, but definitely not short on the intrigue. Lots more of the Gothic-ness that was becoming increasingly popular during that literary time period. But I think it adds a nice excitement to the story.

All in all, one of Jane Austen's finest, in my humble opinion. But then again, which one of her works isn't great?

MY RATING

5*****

P.S. The Masterpiece Theater version of Northanger Abbey is absolutely terrific. Felicity Jones is outstanding as Catherine Morland, as is JJ Field as Henry Tilney. Watch the trailer here!

Part of Jane Austen week, hosted by Historical Tapestry.

Be sure to check out my "For the Love of Jane!" Giveaway!

Prada and Prejudice by Mandy Hubbard

GENRE

YA Historical Fiction / General Fiction (238 pgs.)

SYNOPSIS

To impress the popular girls on a high school trip to London, klutzy Callie buys real Prada heels. But trying them on, she trips...conks her head...and wakes up in the year 1815!

There Callie meets Emily, who takes her in, mistaking her for a long-lost friend. As she spends time with Emily's family, Callie warms to them - particularly to Emily's cousin Alex, a hottie and a duke, if a tad arrogant.

But can Callie save Emily from a dire engagement, and win Alex's heart, before her time in the past is up?

MY REVIEW

I was a little hesitant when picking up this novel. I didn't exactly know how far I was willing to stray from Jane Austen. I guess it was the "purist" in me that wasn't immediately drawn to this book.

But I have to say, it was really very charming! It was well (if simply) written, the characters were likable, and the story was well done.

I wouldn't count on too much Jane Austen influence here, though. The "Prejudice" side of the title really refers to the time period, the Regency, rather than the story. The main similarities were that Callie's love interest, Alex, was of course the Mr. Darcy of her world, and that Callie reminded me a bit of Emma with her matchmaker (or in her case, breaker) qualities.

That being said, it was still a very enjoyable story. Callie was definitely likable and relatable as the girl who just wants to fit in with the "it" crowd and save herself from embarrassment. She has a very human teenage girl quality that I think young readers will very much enjoy.

I also have to commend Mandy Hubbard for her outstanding character development. You can really see at the end of the novel how far Callie has come from that shy, people-pleasing girl to being so much more sure of herself. I think maybe we could all learn a thing or two if we time-traveled back to Regency England!

The plot was well done, with a big twist at the end that stayed true to the Pride & Prejudice story (Mr. Darcy's side of the story, anyway). It was never boring or dull, and Callie's vivaciousness really kept the story moving.

All in all, this was a great, quick read that was very well done. I think it is a great read for those younger readers who are just being introduced into the world of Jane Austen.

MY RATING

4****

Part of Jane Austen Week, Hosted by Historical Tapestry

Be sure to check out my "For the Love of Jane!" Giveaway!

The Widow of the South by Robert Hicks

GENRE

Historical Fiction (418 pgs.)

SYNOPSIS

Based on an extraordinary true story, this brilliant, meticulously researched novel flashed back to 1864 and the afternoon of the Battle of Franklin, five of the bloodiest hours of the Civil War. While the fierce fighting rages on Carrie McGavock's land, her plantation turns into a Confederate army hospital; four generals lie dead on her back porch; the pile of amputated limbs rises as tall as the smoke house. But when a wounded soldier named Zachariah Cashwell arrives at her house, he awakens feelings she had thought long dead--and inspires a passion as powerful and unforgettable as the war that consumes a nation.

MY REVIEW

I admit I started reading this book with an equation in mind: death, love, passion, all plainly spelled out and all totally expected. But this novel was definitely a refreshing change from the "typical" sweeping, epic historical fictions about the Civil War.

Firstly, this novel is an absolute masterpiece of storytelling. I really can't stress that enough. I lost more than a few hours of sleep due to not being able to set this book down. This story truly moves the reader, in every sense of the word. For those of my readers who are American, you will look at the Civil War differently after reading this novel. It was so much more than an absolute bloodbath. It wasn't as simple as 600,000 men dying, albeit seems simple enough.

I very much appreciated the fact that the actual, historical Civil War took more of a backseat in this novel, and that Robert Hicks focused more on the after-effects of the war that literally changed the fabric of America. Not just the changes in population count, but the changes in how people thought and lived.

I really enjoyed how Robert Hicks composed his novel. Each chapter was usually narrated by a different person, and all of the character's stories were somehow intertwined with one another. It really brought the novel to life, looking through the eyes of so many different people on all sides of the war. It was easy to see how Carrie's plight really became the defining soul of the Civil War.

Robert Hick's writing is exquisite, albeit plain. But his words really need no flowering. His characters are true and strong in their own ways. His story needs no help from overly-padded descriptions. It will move you all the same.

Don't start this novel expecting a meticulous history: the history was there, but the story was what counted. Carrie's story is what counted, and what will count for generations to come. This novel was breathtaking, heart wrenching, and enthralling all at the same time. I am quite serious when I say this is one of the best books I have ever read.

MY RATING

5*****

Book #12 in Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

I, Elizabeth by Rosalind Miles

GENRE

Historical Fiction (618 pgs.)

SYNOPSIS

Publicly declared a bastard at the age of three, daughter of a disgraced and executed mother, last in the line of succession to the throne of England, Elizabeth I inherited an England ravaged by bloody religious conflict, at war with Spain and France, and badly in debt. When she died in 1603, after a forty-five year reign, her empire spanned two continents and was united under one church, victorious in war, and blessed with an overflowing treasury. What's more, her favorites--William Shakespeare, Sir Francis Drake, and Sir Walter Raleigh--had made the Elizabethan era a cultural golden age still remembered today.

But for Elizabeth the woman, tragedy went hand in hand with triumph. Politics and scandal forced the passionate queen to reject her true love, Robert Dudley, and to execute his stepson, her much-adored Lord Essex. By turns imperious, brilliant, calculating, vain, and witty, this is the Elizabeth the world never knew. From the days of her brutal father, Henry VIII, to her final dying moments, Elizabeth tells her story in her own words.

MY REVIEW

Elizabeth I is quite possibly my favorite historical figure of English history. I adore and respect this powerful woman who brought the world to her feet in a time when women were extremely undervalued. If there was ever a school project to do on a famous historical person, I always chose Queen Elizabeth I.

Because she is such the famous Queen of England, there are many interpretations of her that exist today. Rosalind Miles did an excellent job of blending all of these different personas to create a person out of all of the history; a living, breathing human being.

The historical accuracy of this novel is very good. So good, in fact, that I found myself scrambling to keep track of all of the characters! I enjoyed the fact that Rosalind Miles managed to give the reader a great sense of historical presence without having to slap on paragraphs and paragraphs of lengthy description, which can really become too overwhelming at times.

Rosalind Miles succeeded in capturing the art of historical fiction: crafting a driving, engaging story out of pre-determined events. Some authors err on the side of history, and make their stories too textbooky; others err on the side of fiction, making their story too unbelievable. But Rosalind Miles managed to capture the best of both worlds.

I also enjoyed the fact that Miles was able to blend two distinct personas of Elizabeth I: the Queen, and the woman. Even though Elizabeth I is famed for her wise and powerful rule of England, history tends to turn a blind eye to the woman behind the Queen. Because like any other woman, or human for that matter, she would have had her faults. This novel was a refreshing reminder of the person that Elizabeth I truly was... and even she could not escape her biggest downfall: her own heart.

This novel, albeit a very hefty 600+ pages, was a journey; a journey with Queen Elizabeth I. It is truly a window into her mind, her heart, and her soul, and I am glad to have read it.

MY RATING

4.5****/*

Book #11 in Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

Book Haul: Borders

Alright, so I lied. I've been to my local Border's twice since my tragic post a few weeks ago ("what is probably my last time at Border's"... yeah right! I'll probably be there the last day until they kick me out). I just couldn't pass up the deals... at my store they're up to 70% off fiction. I made out of there like a bandit! 5 books for $20! Yes, $20! Really, I felt like I was stealing.

Anyways, here's my fantasticly-cheap haul. Enjoy!

Dearest Cousin Jane by Jill Pitkeathley

Drawing on historical fact, Jill Pitkeathley paints a luminous portrait of Jane Austen's free-spirited and seductive cousin, Countess Eliza de Feuillide - from her flirtatious younger years to her great influence on one of the world's favourite authors. Speculated to have been born from a love affair between her mother and the great Warren Hastings, founder of the East India Company and the British Raj, Eliza was a precocious young woman and well-known flirt. Educated in England and France, she went on to marry a French count, Jean de Feuillide, and bear one son with him, who died before reaching adulthood. She later suffered the loss of her husband when Madame la Guillotine claimed him during the early days of the French Revolution. Eliza was close to the Austen family throughout her days, and flirted with both of Jane's brothers profusely, encouraging both men to propose to her upon the death of her husband. She eventually accepted Jane's favourite brother Henry, bringing glamour and excitement on her visits to the Austen's country parsonage in England. With chapters in the voices of Jane, Jane's sister Cassandra, and other family members including Jane's love-sick brothers, Pitkeathley reveals Countess Eliza's influence on one of the world's best loved novelists - and that it is indeed high time her story is told.

Charlotte and Emily: A Novel of the Brontës by Jude Morgan

From an obscure country parsonage came the most extraordinary family of the nineteenth century. The Brontë sisters created a world in which we still live - the intense, passionate world of Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights; and the phenomenon of this strange explosion of genius remains as baffling now as it was to their Victorian contemporaries. In this panoramic novel we see with new insight the members of a uniquely close-knit family whose tight bonds are the instruments of both triumph and tragedy. Emily, the solitary who turns from the world to the greater temptations of the imagination: Anne, gentle and loyal, under whose quietude lies the harshest perception of the stifling life forced upon her: Branwell, the mercurial and self-destructive brother, meant to be king, unable to be a prince: and the brilliant, uncompromising, tormented Charlotte, longing for both love and independence, who establishes the family's name and learns its price.

O, Juliet by Robin Maxwell

Before Juliet Capelletti lie two futures: a traditionally loveless marriage to her father's business partner, or the fulfillment of her poetic dreams, inspired by the great Dante. Unlike her beloved friend Lucrezia, who looks forward to her arranged marriage, Juliet has a wild, romantic imagination that knows not the bounds of her great family's stalwart keep.
The latter path is hers for the taking when Juliet meets Romeo Monticecco, a soulful young man seeking peace between their warring families. A dreamer himself, Romeo is unstoppable, once he determines to capture the heart of the remarkable woman foretold in his stars. The breathless intrigue that ensues is the stuff of beloved legend. But those familiar with Shakespeare's muse know only half the story...

Ransom My Heart by Meg Cabot

He's a tall, handsome knight with a secret. She's an adventurous beauty with more than a few secrets of her own. Finnula needs money for her sister's dowry, and fast. Hugo Fitzstephen, returning home to England from the Crusades with saddlebags of jewels, has money, and lots of it. What could be simpler than to kidnap him and hold him for ransom?

Well, for starters, Finnula could make the terrible mistake of falling in love with her hostage.

Queen Defiant by Anne O'Brien

Orphaned at a young age, Eleanor, Duchess of Aquitaine, seeks a strong husband to keep her hold on the vast lands that have made her the most powerful heiress in Europe. But her arranged marriage to Louis VII, King of France, is made disastrous by Louis's weakness of will and fanatical devotion to the Church. Eleanor defies her husband by risking her life on an adventurous Crusade, and even challenges the Pope himself. And in young, brilliant, mercurial Henry d'Anjou, she finds her soul mate-the one man who is audacious enough to claim her for his own and make her Queen of England.

The Borgia Bride by Jeanne Kalogridis

GENRE

Adult Historical Fiction (506 pgs.)

SYNOPSIS

Vivacious Sancha of Aragon arrives in Rome newly wed to a member of the notorious Borgia dynasty. Surrounded by the city's opulence and political corruption, she befriends her glamorous and deceitful sister-in-law, Lucrezia, whose jealousy is as legendary as her beauty. Some say Lucrezia has poisoned her rivals, particularly those to whom her handsome brother, Cesare, has given his heart. So when Sancha falls under Cesare's irresistible spell, she must hide her secret or lose her life. Caught in the Borgias' sinister web, she summons her courage and uses her cunning to outwit them at their own game.

MY REVIEW

After watching Showtime's new series, The Borgias (which I loved), I knew I had to try this book out. For those of you who are Tudor junkies, behold... their Italian counterparts; just as intriguing, just as scandalous.

This period in time, the late 15th to early 16th century, has become one of my favorites as far as history is concerned. I so wish I could have lived during this time period, and yet at the same time, I am really glad I didn't. Life--especially court life--was just so volatile. You had to play the cards you were given perfectly, or else you were dead. Quite literally, dead.

Jeanne Kalogridis did an excellent job of capturing the capriciousness of life in Pope Alexander VI's court. The setting really draws you in, and at the same time, repels you. There's nothing candy-coated about it, and I'm glad Jeanne Kalogridis kept her story true to the time period.

I very much enjoyed Kalogridis' portrayal of Sancha of Aragon. The constant turmoil she faces inside herself was really refreshing, and really human. Just because she was the heroine of our story doesn't mean she was exempt from being sucked into the Borgias' mad world. It was really enthralling to read just how such a life full of intrigue and betrayal can affect a human being, both mentally and physically.

Sancha's relationship with her brother Alfonso was really well-written. It was all the more powerful coming from a world where love and caring came second after power. I really think her love for her brother Alfonso was what kept Sancha alive.

And then there's the Borgias. It just doesn't get more corrupted and evil than that. Incest, murder, conspiracy... it's all there; and it's so interesting to read! Their lives were so twisted and corrupt, but they're so intriguing to read about. I enjoyed Jeanne's assessment of the incestuous relationships between Lucrezia, her brother Cesare, and her father the Pope. It's so sickening, but it makes you wonder... what would drive a person to do something like that?

All in all, this was a really great read. Jeanne Kalogridis' style is easy to read, but doesn't lose any of its power. The story really draws you in and keeps you itching to turn the page. What Phillipa Gregory did to the Tudors, Jeanne Kalogridis is doing to the Borgias, and let me tell you, I can't wait to read more!

MY RATING

4.5****/*

Appropriateness Factors

Definitely some semi-graphic sexual matter in this one folks. With a good bit of incest and rape as well. Take it for what it's worth.

Book #10 in Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway

GENRE

Classic Literature / Historical Fiction (127 pgs.)

SYNOPSIS

The Old Man and the Sea is one of Hemingway's most enduring works. Told in language of great simplicity and power, it is the story of an old Cuban fisherman, down on his luck, and his supreme ordeal--a relentless, agonizing battle with a giant marlin far out in the Gulf Stream. Here Hemingway recasts, in strikingly contemporary style, the classic theme of courage in the face of defeat, of personal triumph won from loss.

MY REVIEW

I picked up this title at my local bookstore because it was a required read; not for me, but for my younger brother. Let's just say he is quite the opposite of me when it comes to reading... he will rarely read a book, and if he does, it's almost always required. So, I told him we would tag-team read this, making it much less painful for him.

I was very surprised by this little book. And believe me, it is little. If it were just me reading it, I probably would have finished in a few hours. But I am glad I got to tag-team this read; it gave me just a bit more time to savor Hemingway's classic work.

I think the beauty of this novel resides in its simplicity: the prose is plain, unadorned, and very easy to read. But this contemporary prose holds so much power over the reader. It makes you really focus on the story, which is a masterpiece in its own right.

The old man's story is one full of triumph and loss, elation and sadness. He is such a simple fisherman struggling against something so much bigger than himself. It is the classic "man vs. nature" story. The old man realizes what it is to be human, and in turn, so does the reader.

So many lessons can be learned from this little novel... patience, humility, perseverance. It was really quite a good story, and beautifully written. And it's so short, you'll be done in no time.

MY RATING

4.5****/*

Book #9 in Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

Sphinx's Queen by Esther Friesner

GENRE

YA Historical Fiction (347 pgs.)

SYNOPSIS

Hunted... Overnight, every aspect of Nefertiti's life has changed. She is no longer living at the royal palace as the intended bride of the crown prince. Instead, she is being chased by the prince and his soldiers for a crime she did not commit.

Hidden... Traveling with two of her dearest friends, including the crown prince's brother, who helped her escape, Nefertiti takes shelter in the wild hills along the Nile's west bank. She must rely on her own resourcefulness and skills (all those secret archery lessons prove very useful) as the fugitives fight to survive.

Haunted... But the need for justice gnaws at Nefertiti. She is determined to plead her case to the Pharaoh and set things right. As she begins to question long-held sacred beliefs--a questioning that could alter the fabric of Egyptian society--her extraordinary journey from commoner to royalty brings adventure, intrigue, and romance.

MY REVIEW

Esther Friesner has to be one of my favorite YA Hist. Fic. authors. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book, Sphinx's Princess, and this sequel was no exception to Esther Friesner's standard of literary gold.

Nefertiti is such a complex, robust heroine, you can't help but root for her to win. Definitely one of the best female leads I've ever read. She possesses such a passion for life, it's infectious! It really helps her come alive in the story and on the pages in front of you; she's not just a face in a history book anymore, she is a living and breathing human being, with a wonderful spirit.

Ms. Friesner has such an incredible talent when it comes to plot. She writes such an incredible story... I literally could not put this one down! As soon as you think you're sure of what's going to happen next, something incredibly unexpected happens, and you'll be dying to turn the next page.

The historical setting was fantastic, as usual. It feels like you're standing in Ancient Egypt, following Nefertiti around as her story unfolds.

One of the things I really enjoyed about this novel was how Ms. Friesner built her story on the rock that is the power of forgiveness. Even after all the horrible things that Nefertiti has been put through, she learns to forgive those who have done wrong against her (and trust me, if I were in her shoes, I don't know if I could be as forgiving as she turned out to be). Nefertiti's forgiveness made the story all the more special and touching to the reader.

Ms. Friesner also knows how to play up the part of being a human being... that is, we are all human, and we all make mistakes. We can be manipulated, cheated, framed... but it is all part of life, and the key is, we have to learn from those mistakes. That fact alone made the story all the more relevant and believable in the 21st century.

All in all, this was a wonderful book. Esther Friesner really has a talent for breathing life into historical figures we don't know much about. I think if the real Nefertiti read this book, she would be proud of the work Ms. Friesner put forth.

MY RATING

5*****

Book #8 in Historical Fiction Reading Challenge