« more discussions

What Are You Reading ~ August 2012

New Title

HI Friends

Let us know what historical fiction books you will be reading for the month of August.

Thanks

Admin Team

BookwormErin started this discussion 10 months ago. ( reply | permalink )

196

replies

expand replies

Sign in to participate in this discussion.

Chiaramc

New Title

Sister Queens, about Catherine of Aragon and her sister Queen Juana of Spain. Interesting perspective on the lives of two unusual women.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 2 replies
- KimBear
  
  New Title
  
  I want to read this one...
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  me too
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
Ms. McKellips

New Title

The Ghost Pirates
The Bell Witch Hauntings
The Treasure of the Incas
and a "few" others that won't fit in this catagory.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
Laurie G

New Title

Restarting AGE OF INNOCENCE by Edith Wharton. Got to pg 5 and another book from the library came in..finished that one.So now starting over.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 4 replies
- JudithG
  
  New Title
  
  Looks like shelfari had a bad case of hiccups! :) I wonder if my comment will duplicate itself.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- winterslights
  
  New Title
  
  Judith yours did not, but I think Shelfari needs to take a big gulp from the other side of a glass!!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Laurie G
  
  New Title
  
  Sorry everyone! I was at public library yesterday and they were having power or computer issues.They have some new computers and the screen would flash then bump you back to the sign on screen, and the power was flickering.
  I didn't intentionally post duplicates. I am goingback to using the old computers that remain.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  no problem Laurie it does happen :)
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
New Title

Laurie G's reply was removed by an admin 10 months ago.
New Title

Laurie G's reply was removed by an admin 10 months ago.
New Title

Laurie G's reply was removed by an admin 10 months ago.
~Nav~

New Title

I'm currently reading The Josephine B Trilogy by Sandra Gulland. I love these books! I'm on the third one right now and I've absolutely fallen in love with Josephine Bonaparte and Sandra Gulland's writing style. It's just so much more personal reading it in a diary form.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 3 replies
- Nicki m
  
  New Title
  
  Good to know!!! These have been on my list for some time. I am going to move them up!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- AvidReader
  
  New Title
  
  I absolutely love this trilogy. I recommend it to everyone I know who loves historical fiction.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Deborah B
  
  New Title
  
  I agree with Avid...I've read the trilogy twice!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
moonflower

New Title

It's not fiction, but historical it is. I'm reading The irish hunger. About the patato-famine in Ireland in 1845. It is very good, but also very heavy/severe (don't know how to say that). It is first time I have to put the book aside for that.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 1 reply
- Sabina E
  
  New Title
  
  Depressing? I can imagine there must be parts that are sad or difficult to read.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
jguidry

New Title

I finished Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin. It's a historical mystery about a medieval female doctor. Henry II was my favorite character. I totally imagined Peter O'Toole as I was reading his words.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 8 replies
- Deborah B
  
  New Title
  
  I just bought this a few weeks ago....I'm looking forward to reading it.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Bev
  
  New Title
  
  I remember this having mixed reviews.
  I believe it was a group read at one time.
  I definitely liked it.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- AvidReader
  
  New Title
  
  I loved this one. I think it's the strongest of the series.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Isabelle S
  
  New Title
  
  I disliked the numerous anachronisms. Adelia is a charter member of my "The Good Guys Always Know Germ Theory" club.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- KimBear
  
  New Title
  
  I keep meaning to go on to the second one in this series...hmmm.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- AvidReader
  
  New Title
  
  @Isabelle - I recently came across another historical character who understands modern medicine and I immediately thought of you :-)
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- jguidry
  
  New Title
  
  I finished The Queen's Fool by Philippa Gregory. She has a very repetitive writing style. When she latches on to a concept, she repeats it over and over and over and over...
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- sawcat
  
  New Title
  
  I really liked Mistresss. Its like Temperance Brennan (the book version) in the Medieval period. I still have the last one to read.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Nicki m

New Title

Death of Kings ...... going to Savor this last book in The Saxon tales series.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
winterslights

New Title

Since we are traveling, and my Kindle is sooo much easier to pack than actual books (and lighter, too) I decided to re-read my R.F. Delderfield's. We were talking about the time between WWI and WWII and To Serve Them All My Days came up, so I decided I needed a re-read and also the Swann Saga which is where I am now. So, God Is An Englishman. Sort of an appropriate title considering the Olympics are being held in London.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 4 replies
- d. mills
  
  New Title
  
  interesting life r.f. led......his biography reads like a novel. "to serve them all my days"....awesome.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- winterslights (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  d. mills, is there really a biography of delderfield?? oh, my, i am going to have to find it. do you know the title??
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- d. mills
  
  New Title
  
  sorry i misled you....should have written "biographic materials".....ive done some reading about him, lotsa information available on this fellow. He did write an autobiography....
  
  In For My Own Amusement, 1972, Delderfield discusses the inspiration for the storylines and tells in anecdotes the origin of several of his characters. He believed that authors draw inspiration from the scenes of their youth, pointing out that Dickens's characters nearly always used the stagecoach when he was writing in the age of the train. Delderfield calls his sources "character farms", the main ones being his time in Addiscombe, schooldays, and his time at the Exmouth Chronicle. Of The Avenue and A Horseman Riding By he said, "I set out to tell a straightforward story of a group of undistinguished British people--the only kind of people I really know". Delderfield pointed out in this autobiography that he'd been criticized for his very conventional views of women's social roles.
  
  Several of Delderfield's historical novels and series involve young men who return from war and lead lives in England that allow the author to portray the sweep of English history and delve deeply into social history from the Edwardian era to the early 1960s.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- winterslights
  
  New Title
  
  I am happy to have the title of the book. I loved To Serve Them All My Days and I found myself in tears when Adam Swann died at the end of the three books of the Swann Saga. A lot of Delderfield's other books are not yet available on Kindle, but I guess they will be sooner or later. His Avenue series and A Horseman Riding By are only available as the real books.
  Because his Swann Saga goes just to the start of WWI, I included them as books for the War times. I don't know that anyone will take that recommendation for books that are between the 2 world wars, but they lead up to it.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Bev

New Title

Caleb's Crossing
by Geraldine Brooks
reread for Aug f2f book group
--------
--------
The Lady Queen: The Notorious Reign of Joanna I, Queen of Naples, Jerusalem, and Sicily
by Nancy Goldstone
e reader

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 6 replies
- Sabina E
  
  New Title
  
  I'll be waiting for your thoughts on the latter, Bev!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- KimBear
  
  New Title
  
  Definitely want to read Caleb's Crossing .
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Sabina E
  
  New Title
  
  Loved Caleb's Crossing!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Laurie G
  
  New Title
  
  I have the Lady Queen at home.How do you like it?
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Bev
  
  New Title
  
  Laurie,
  I couldn't follow it properly on the ereader.
  The lineage graphs were unreadable
  I ordered it from the library....I'll begin again soon.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Laurie G
  
  New Title
  
  Thanks for the heads up,Bev!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
Jencat

New Title

Swept Away With A Kiss, by Katherine Ashe. Hope its good, since I bought the series and this is book 1.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
Erica

New Title

I am reading Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks, halfway through and it is excellent. Torn between wanting the book to end to see the characters get through this horrible time but don't want the book to end because I will miss Anna!

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 2 replies
- Bev
  
  New Title
  
  I definitely liked this book also
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  loved it although the ending was weird
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
Mara B (edited)

New Title

I just started reading The Thing About Thugs by Tabish Khair--the title caught my eye and, since I always think about the Thuggee cult whenever I see the word "thug" (one of the many long-lasting effects of my stint as a Victorianist), I was then delighted to discover that the book actually does get its title from that and features a supposed member of the cult abroad in Victorian London. I'm only about 60 pages in but really enjoying the book so far...I can already tell that it's been incorrectly marketed as a thriller/mystery, though, which I think accounts for some negative reviews it's gotten.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 2 replies
- AvidReader
  
  New Title
  
  I'll be reading this one later this week, as I'm due to review it next week. I'm very glad you're enjoying it.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Mara B
  
  New Title
  
  I'll look forward to hearing your thoughts! I do have a soft spot for pretty much anything set in Victorian London...
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
Rochelle H (edited)

New Title

I just finished What Would Mr Darcy do? by Abigail Reynolds, it was cute! :)

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
Cindy R

New Title

I started The Pendant, by Mirella Sichirollo Patzer. Covers every cliche known in the world of historical romance/mystery. Gah! Not sure I can finish it. I got sucked in by an attractive cover :(

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 10 replies
- Mara B
  
  New Title
  
  Oh, I hate it when that happens!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Nicki m
  
  New Title
  
  I love covers!! At least you supported good artwork even though the book stinks.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- John W
  
  New Title
  
  I just purchased City of Women by David Gillham after first being drawn by its cover. I did read the blurb and the plot did interest me so I'm not too superficial. But, it is a poignant cover.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Mara B
  
  New Title
  
  I just saw an article a few days ago suggesting that book covers may be on their way out due to the rise in popularity of e-books...but I think it's still worth the publisher's investment to have an interesting or eye-catching image associated with their books!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Deborah O
  
  New Title
  
  I'll never get used to the covers on the kindle being black and white!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Nicki m
  
  New Title
  
  I waited until the e- readers came out in color, nook color was the first one so I snatched it up for that reason alone!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Cindy R
  
  New Title
  
  Unfortunately no cover can help The Pendant...I have set it aside. All I wanted was a little brain-candy and I get regurgitated speciousness! If that is a word...
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Jane L
  
  New Title
  
  I hope book covers don't go out! I have a Fire and, though it may seem a little shallow, I'm often attracted by book covers first!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- sawcat
  
  New Title
  
  I got her Blighted Troth on Library Thing for review, I had similar response to it. Concept was promising, but way too long, she had an obsession for super short chapters and the lead characters were maddening.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Cindy R
  
  New Title
  
  I actually have that one too...it was either free or 99cents. However, I need all of my brain cells and it's not worth it to me to lose any...even if the book is free. So I don't think I'll read this one, either.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Deborah B

New Title

It's recent history, but I'm reading The Septembers of Shiraz. It's about an Iranian family after the Ayatollah comes to power.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 4 replies
- Sonia
  
  New Title
  
  What did you think of the book? I haven't read it but it sounds interesting and different from my usual historical fiction novels.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Deborah B
  
  New Title
  
  Both my father and I really liked it. It's a fictionalized account of the actual escape of the author's family from Iran. It is told from the perspective of each member of her family. I felt she captured the viewpoint of herself as a child perfectly. Even though I remember the time, I knew nothing about the lives of the Iranian people. It was nice to get the view from the other side.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Deborah O
  
  New Title
  
  Deb B I read another book about a woman's escape from Iran, after the Ayatollah came to power.
  It was called Out of Iran , One woman's escape from the Ayatollah's. It was based on a true story and written by Sousan Azadi. You might be interested in looking it up. I enjoyed it and it gave me a totally different idea of what life was in Iran before and after the Ayatollah's came to power.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Deborah B
  
  New Title
  
  Thanks Deb O for the suggestion. I'm kind of on an Iran kick right now, so I'll check it out.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Lynda N

New Title

Slowly working my way through Sarum, by Edward Rutherfurd. Just started The Last Templar, by Michael Jecks. Meanwhile, picked up from the library: A Morbid Taste for Bones (Ellis Peters), The Crystal Cave (Mary Stewart), and The Skystone (Jack Whyte).

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 2 replies
- Isabelle S
  
  New Title
  
  I went on an Ellis Peters binge a couple of summers ago and enjoyed it very much. I've gotten Jecks' books from my library a couple of times but never gotten to them before the due date. What's your verdict on The Last Templar?
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Lynda N
  
  New Title
  
  It was...different. It seems like you have one mystery but then there's something else comes up and then you're off on that trail. Then another thing pops up and off you go and wait are they related or not. Trying to sort out precisely who the protagonist is supposed to be took a bit of time as well. I know it's the first book of a series but I'm a bit ambivalent about whether or not to go on to Book 2.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
Arya

New Title

Just started Days of Splendor, Days of Sorrow by Juliet Grey. It's the 2nd book in her Marie Antoinette trilogy.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 4 replies
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  oh how are you liking this one? I recently read the first and loved it. Hoping to read this one soon
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  Well I'm only 120 pages in, but I like it so far :)
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  I finished this a while ago... I liked the first book more. This one seemed to drag a bit.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  ok thanks Arya
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Deborah O

New Title

Hi all, back from my holidays in Spain were the sun shone everyday not like rain rain rain in Ireland for the whole of this summer.... I read the following books while on hols and enjoyed them very much.
Shadow on Night by Deborah Harkness. Couldnt really get into it as knew there was a third book so knew at the end of the book there would be no conclusion..
Satin Cinabar by Barbara Gaskell.
The Sealed Letter by Emma Donoghue
The Beautiful American by Marilyn Holdsworth
The 2nd Empress by Michelle Moran . Loved this.
and currently reading Anne O'Brien's The Kings Concubine. Cant put it down at the moment!

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 4 replies
- Jane L
  
  New Title
  
  I just started reading The Queen's Vow about Queen Isabella of Spain and never having had much of an idea of what Spain is like (other than hot) , looked up some maps. What part of Spain did you stay in and what's the terrain like?
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  I'm looking forward to reading the new Moran book
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Deborah O
  
  New Title
  
  Forgot to say also read Four Sisters all Queens by Sherry Jones. Great book really enjoyed it.
  I finished The Kings Concubine by Anne O'Brien and loved it. Really recommend it, could'nt put it down!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- AvidReader
  
  New Title
  
  I read The King's Concubine recently, too, and thought it was excellent. Glad you also enjoyed it.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
Nicki m

New Title

Finished Death of Kings the last of the Saxon tales by Bernard Cornwell. What a great series! Brutal, realistic warfare. Interesting religious information from Christianity and saint relic worship to Danish sacrifice to Thor and Odin. The Yule and Christmas. Many mentions of the mysterious stones throughout England. Descriptions of old Roman ruins, it's like Cornwell was really there. Heart pounding battles. I think of all the battles in English history and lives lost- overwhelming!!

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 9 replies
- winterslights
  
  New Title
  
  Nicki, what's book one??
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Nicki m (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  The Last Kingdom.. I hope you love it!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- winterslights
  
  New Title
  
  O.K., I seem to have the first four, is Death of Kings number 5??
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Nicki m
  
  New Title
  
  I believe it's #6. It goes like this
  The last kingdom
  The pale horseman
  Lords of the north
  Sword song
  The burning land
  Death of kings
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- winterslights (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  Ah, I don't have the last two. To Amazon I go! Really hard to find both in paperback and at a reasonable price! I guess Death of Kings is his latest, and the pb release isn't til the end of August. Put them both on my wish list, eventually I'll get them. In the mean time, hubby is reading the first 4.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Nicki m
  
  New Title
  
  Yeah, I got the first e-book for $2.99! The rest were 12 bucks. Worth it though!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- winterslights
  
  New Title
  
  Well, my problem is I have the first 4 as actual books, so for a change I don't want books for my Kindle. Weird isn't it?
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Nicki m
  
  New Title
  
  Actually I do that too! Only hardcover though. If I started a series in paperback, I dont feel bad buying e-books after. Hardcover...nope...then they all have to be hardcover!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- winterslights
  
  New Title
  
  Don't have any room for any more hardcover books. My shelves are packed, 3 deep!!!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
Mara B

New Title

About to start Nefertiti by Michelle Moran...because at least occasionally I should actually read one of the things I'm always saying I should get around to reading!

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 7 replies
- Cafe Mom
  
  New Title
  
  My favorite Michelle Moran book. I am having my book club read it this month. Enjoy!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Ladyslott (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  I liked this one a lot. My favorite is Madame Tussaud.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Mara B
  
  New Title
  
  I'm enjoying it so far! It would take a lot to beat Madame Tussaud, though...
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  I enjoyed this book but loved Madame Tussaud.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- AvidReader
  
  New Title
  
  I think I liked this one just a little bit more than I did Madame Tussaud.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- ~Nav~
  
  New Title
  
  I liked Nerfertiti and the Heretic Queen a little bit more than Madame Tussaud too. I can't wait to read the Second Empress (esp b/c I just finished the Josphine Bonaparte Trilogy by Gulland). It's a good time to follow with a different perspective!
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Mara B
  
  New Title
  
  The Heretic Queen was the first book of hers I read, and I thought it was only so-so...I'm wondering now if I might have liked it more if I'd read Nefertiti first!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Cafe Mom

New Title

Finished The True Story of Hansel and Gretel
I loved this story. It was a page turner for me and I had trouble putting it down at night. I was always interested to see what was going to happen next. Despite the grim subject, I found the book uplifting. The strong female characters were great. I am so glad I read this book and will be recommending it to others.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 3 replies
- bluestocking7
  
  New Title
  
  I liked it a lot too, although when I read it as part of a group read, it go a good amount of negative feedback, I was not with the majority. I gave it 5 stars.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Cafe Mom
  
  New Title
  
  I read all the group read questions and answers as well as reviews and I was surprised at the negative feedback. I guess book selections are so personal and how it affects the person.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
- Deborah B
  
  New Title
  
  I loved it too...I gave it five stars and a favorite.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
Tracey

New Title

I have started The Daughter of Time by Josephine Tey.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

show 1 reply
- Deborah B
  
  New Title
  
  I just finished the same book this morning! Tell me if it affects your views on the Princes in the Tower.
  
  posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )
Mara B

New Title

I just started The Wicked and the Just by Jillian Anderson Coats, a YA novel set in 13th century Wales--Cecily, our English protagonist, has had her life COMPLETELY ruined by her father's decision to move them to Wales following an unfavorable court decision (or so she says in dramatic teenage girl fashion). Once there she's appalled by what she perceives as the barbarity of the Welsh and glad for the many extremely restrictive laws the English have put into place to govern and control them. However, we also get the viewpoint of her Welsh servant Gwenhwyfar, who has a very different take on the situation...The book is a little darker than I expected but I'm enjoying it so far!

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Lady Grey

New Title

I´m still reading The Name of the Rose and started The Chinese Lake Murders from R.V. Gulik.

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Olga

New Title

Phew, finally finished Memoirs of Cleopatra by Margaret George! That's not to say that I didn't enjoy it (I thought it was fantastic), it's just that it was 1,000 pages long and the last 300 or so were incredibly emotionally draining. Am badly in need of something magical and fantastical, so just started The Night Circus, by Erin Morgenstern, which, at least so far (in the five pages I've read), takes place in the 1800's, so marginally passes for historical fiction?

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Mara B

New Title

I just started Crocodile on the Sandbank by Elizabeth Peters...I've been wanting to try the series for a while and was in the mood for something lighter in tone.

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 3 replies
- jguidry
  
  New Title
  
  I love Amelia Peabody.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Brittany S
  
  New Title
  
  This book is one of my favorites! Egypt, Radcliffe, Amelia, and some humor. I hope you enjoy it!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Mara B
  
  New Title
  
  It's been fun so far! Amelia is quite entertaining and her love interest (I assume he's her love interest, since they started bickering the moment they met ;) ) seems rather promising...
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Nicki m

New Title

Finished The Grapes Of Wrath Jeez!!!!!!! What an awful, horrible peice of American history. I almost wish I was ignorant of it. Starting Atonement

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 5 replies
- Isabelle S
  
  New Title
  
  Oh, yeah, THAT'LL cheer you up. ;-)
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- John W
  
  New Title
  
  Atonement isn't a feel good book...but it is a good, thought provoking, book.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Mara B
  
  New Title
  
  lol, Isabelle! I actually just passed up an ARC of McEwan's new book yesterday because I'm trying to take a break from depressing books for a while...Atonement was very good, though!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  Atonement is great! Sure, a bit depressing, but one that really makes you think.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Nicki m
  
  New Title
  
  Oy!!! Well sounds like I will need a seedy romance after all this!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Laurie G

New Title

Just finishing AGE OF INNOCENCE by Wharton and starting HANDMAID'S TALE by Margaret Atwood.

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 3 replies
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  I liked both of those a lot :)
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Laurie G
  
  New Title
  
  I loved AGE OF INNOCENCE and HANDMAID is fast so far but makes me angry.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  Yeah I got angry too. It's a really messed up concept!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Arya

New Title

Started Black Ships by Jo Graham. I had to force myself to stop reading so I could get some work done haha

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 6 replies
- jguidry
  
  New Title
  
  I haven't gotten to this one yet, but I read Hand of Isis. I loved it so I added this to my TBR shelf.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  I've had these on my list for awhile. glad you are enjoying it
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Deborah O
  
  New Title
  
  I started Hand of Iris about two years ago but for some reason I never finished it.... I just could'nt get into it. Must pull it out again.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  Black Ships was so good, I really recommend it! I loved the characters, especially Aeneas :)
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- ~Nav~
  
  New Title
  
  I'm reading Lavinia by Ursula K. Le Guin and its actually a story about Aeneas too but from the point of view of the princess he marries in Latinum. And then goes on to settle Rome. I think I want to read Black ships afterwards just to see two different female perspectives.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  Sounds interesting, I'm going to have to look that book up now!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Janis A

New Title

I am reading 30 Pieces of Silver by Carolyn McCray

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Mara B

New Title

Still reading Crocodile on the Sandbank, but have also started The Hangman's Daughter for the group read and The House at Riverton as my book I read during lunch breaks at work. Enjoying all three thus far!

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 4 replies
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  I loved The House at Riverton!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Laurie G
  
  New Title
  
  I loved Riverton too!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  Every book Kate Morton writes is wonderful, I can't wait for her new one this Autumn!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Mara B (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  I'm really enjoying it, I love that type of book--big manor, family secrets, upstairs/downstairs intrigues...I actually checked it out because I've read her others and was all excited about putting myself first on the library hold list for the new one, then remembered I still hadn't read her first book!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
sawcat

New Title

Working on Wolf Hall for a read along, and fixin' to start The Chaperone on audio at work tomorrow.

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Bookwizard (edited)

New Title

Reading the Armanan Kings: Scarab- Horemheb, the 5th book in Max Overton's series about the 18th dynasty pharoahs of ancient Egypt. I love this whole series and recommend it for anyone who loves historical fiction of this era. The first book covers Akhenaten and Nefertiti, the second Smenkhare, third Tutankhamun, fourth Ay and last- Horemheb.

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 2 replies
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  thanks sounds really good. never heard of this author but will have a look
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Bookwizard
  
  New Title
  
  You are welcome BookwormErin. It looks like there is going to be a 6th a final book to this series. Not sure when it is coming out.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Cindy R

New Title

Just finished The Physician and highly recommend. Also read Austenland:A Novel and enjoyed it. The book has a snarky sense of humor and hit the spot ;). Will start the sequel Midnight in Austenland tonight.

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 5 replies
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  I enjoyed both Austenland books too, they're fun :)
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Cindy R
  
  New Title
  
  @Arya, I am almost done with the second book; just as snarky :)
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  Have you ever read Me and Mr. Darcy by Alexandra Potter? I liked that one too!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Cindy R
  
  New Title
  
  No, although it does sound fun...I've also thought about reading Death Comes to Pemberley.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- winterslights
  
  New Title
  
  Death Comes to Pemberley is a really good read. P.D. James created a world withing Austen's world and sorta sounded like Austen in the read.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Mara B (edited)

New Title

Just started The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman, about a lighthouse keeper and his wife in Australia...the hold list for it at the library is surprisingly long (it must be getting a lot of buzz somewhere!), so I'm trying to get it read quickly and returned.

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 4 replies
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  getting major buzz where I live. Holds list is outrageous. I'll be curious for your thoughts.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Tracey
  
  New Title
  
  Looks interesting! I too will be curious to see what you think.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Mara B
  
  New Title
  
  I just finished it (decided to reward myself for running all my errands early today by spending the rest of this gloomy and rainy morning reading!) and I thought it was quite good. I really liked the setting and thought the plot was emotionally compelling...there was something slightly off about the structure and pacing, but I'll still give it 4 stars.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- AvidReader
  
  New Title
  
  Very happy to hear that as I bought the book a couple of weeks ago.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Nicki m (edited)

New Title

Finished Atonement by Ian McEwan. Page turner! I liked the multiple narrators forming the story from all angles. What a crazy ending, left me with a few questions. The Atonement was not as satisfying as I would have liked, but it works. spoiler alert !!!!! beware of the replies!

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 10 replies
- Arya (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  Completely agree, I couldn't put it down when I first read it. I loved the multiple narrators and the ending was sad. Did you cry when Briony was working in the hospital? It really affected me :(
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Dawn L
  
  New Title
  
  I've been wanting to read this ever since I saw the movie. I loved the movie and it just left me with a strange feeling when it was over.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Book Concierge
  
  New Title
  
  I really liked Atonement.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Nicki m
  
  New Title
  
  There were so many heart wrenching scenes. I felt horrible for the RAF officer being attacked by his own. I really liked Robbie. I don't understand why Fiona and Marshall would get married. Why she would want to marry him. unless it was consentual??
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  Was Marshall that guy who did something to Lola? Because I hated him and I have no idea why anyone would want to marry him. I seemed to have forgotten about that... maybe it's time for a re-read!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Nicki m
  
  New Title
  
  Oops! I meant Lola! Where did I get Fiona? Anyway, yes Marshall was the attacker. It makes me wonder if maybe it was a consentual second attack? The marriage confused me.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- AvidReader
  
  New Title
  
  Glad I've read the book - you guys have given a few things away regarding plot and this is not the type of book you want to be spoiled on.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  I think Lola liked Marshall even though he did that to her. It is hard to figure out why some women stay with abusers though so that was pretty upsetting.
  Well I hope that people who haven't read the book aren't clicking on these comments lol
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- AvidReader
  
  New Title
  
  Just in case you should probably take your discussion to your personal notes pages - especially since you haven't marked your discussion as containing spoilers.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Nicki m
  
  New Title
  
  Oh dear! Usually I do!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
BookwormErin

New Title

I have about only 100 pgs left of 11/22/63. I can't put this book down. Took about 300pgs for me to get into the book but now I don't want it to end.

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 2 replies
- AvidReader (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  Don't say that - your comments are going to have me picking it back up and trying to finish *LOL*
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Nicki m
  
  New Title
  
  pick it up!! :) It is one of his slower starting books, but you will be rewarded!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Nicki m

New Title

Starting Outlander

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 8 replies
- Cindy R
  
  New Title
  
  One down, five (or is it six?) to go! I thought Outlander was a little too introspective at times (Claire really thinks too much and for too many paragraphs) but I have re-read it a few times. Loved the series and can't wait for the miniseries on TV.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Nicki m
  
  New Title
  
  ooh! A miniseries! yay! Although I vowed I would not start another series....so much for that one!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  There's going to be a mini series? That's really exciting! I've only read the first 2 Outlander books.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- nina d
  
  New Title
  
  Loved the first book. Still need to read the rest of the series.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- winterslights
  
  New Title
  
  Oh, Nina, give them a chance, they grow on you.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- nina d
  
  New Title
  
  Rely on library. So need to reserve them and wait.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- bluestocking7
  
  New Title
  
  Oh Boy!!! You are in for a treat!! I'm waiting for book #8 too come out. I hope you enjoy the series as much as I am.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- winterslights
  
  New Title
  
  Waiting with you Dosha, but not tooooo patiently. She is still working on the final draft and I think she said either the coming Spring or Summer. I can hardly wait. Can't nag authors, they don't appreciate it!!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Laurie G (edited)

New Title

Just finished THE HANDMAID'S TALE by Margaret Atwood and now reading SOMEWHERE IN TIME BY Richard Matheson. SIT is one of my favorite movies,I hope I like the book.

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
BookwormErin

New Title

Starting The Witch's Daughter by Paula Brackston

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 5 replies
- John W
  
  New Title
  
  Erin, I have this book on my TBR list. Let me know how you like it (or don't.)
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  Will do
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- sawcat
  
  New Title
  
  I read this last year. I thought it was alright. I liked the historical fiction portions much more than the contemporary ones.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- BookwormErin (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  I'm liking the entire book, I think it is well done and different from most witch trial books I've read
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- winterslights
  
  New Title
  
  On my TBR, down the road a piece.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Trekgeekgirl

New Title

Now reading Hourglass by Myra McEntire
Synopsis: For seventeen-year-old Emerson Cole, life is about seeing what isn’t there: swooning Southern Belles; soldiers long forgotten; a haunting jazz trio that vanishes in an instant. Plagued by phantoms since her parents’ death, she just wants the apparitions to stop so she can be normal. She’s tried everything, but the visions keep coming back.
So when her well-meaning brother brings in a consultant from a secretive organization called the Hourglass, Emerson’s willing to try one last cure. But meeting Michael Weaver may not only change her future, it may change her past.
Who is this dark, mysterious, sympathetic guy, barely older than Emerson herself, who seems to believe every crazy word she says? Why does an electric charge seem to run through the room whenever he’s around? And why is he so insistent that he needs her help to prevent a death that never should have happened?

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 1 reply
- Nicki m
  
  New Title
  
  Sounds good!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Dawn L

New Title

Will start listening to "Honolulu" tomorrow on my way to work. And just picked up "Rules of Civility". Cracking that open in a few minutes.

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 3 replies
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  I just put in a request for Rules of Civility so I'll be interested in your thoughts. It gets good reviews
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Ladyslott (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  One go my favorite books from last year. (Rules)
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Dawn L
  
  New Title
  
  BookwormErin-I will let you know. So far slow start but then I was distracted while reading.
  Ladyslott-good to know.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
KimBear

New Title

I am currently reading The Flight of Gemma Hardy by Margot Livesey. Iam am also listening to Interview With the Vampire by Anne Rice.

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 1 reply
- Nicki m
  
  New Title
  
  I loved interview, great movie too.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Olga

New Title

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford. After reading and thoroughly enjoying Julie Otsuka's When the Emperor Was Divine, I was looking for other good historical fiction (or non-fiction) about the Japanese relocation and internment during WWII, and Hotel came up recommended. Does anyone else have any recommendations for books on this topic?

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 6 replies
- John W
  
  New Title
  
  Have you read Snow Falling on Cedars by David Guterson?
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Arya
  
  New Title
  
  I finished Bridge of Scarlet Leaves by Kristina McMorris a short while ago and that was pretty good, though very sad.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Olga
  
  New Title
  
  Oh goodness, I read Snow Falling on Cedars so long ago that I didn't even remember what it was about! It was summer reading for one of those high school English classes where they make you read so many books that they all start to blur together (Snow Falling on Cedars blurred together with Cold Mountain for me, for no apparent reason). I may have to go back and re-read it! Thanks for the reminder!
  And thank you for the recommendation on Bridge of Scarlet Leaves - I'm adding it to my wish list!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Bev
  
  New Title
  
  Perhaps a bit off topic but I loved Honolulu (Korean picture brides circa 1914)
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Olga
  
  New Title
  
  I loved Honolulu too! Even more than Moloka'i, I think. I can't wait until Alan Brennert writes another book!
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- Book Concierge
  
  New Title
  
  Tallgrass by Sandra Dallas. Tells a story of a young girl living on family farm, and the Japanese internment camp that is built just down the road from their farm.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Bev

New Title

My Dear I Wanted to Tell You
by
Louisa Young
World War I epic of love and war

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
Trekgeekgirl

New Title

Gave up on Hourglass by Myra McEntire.
Now reading Birds of a Feather by Jacqueline Winspear for my Historical Mysteries group.

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
John W

New Title

I am currently reading The Winter Ghosts by Kate Mosse and Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell.

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

show 3 replies
- AvidReader
  
  New Title
  
  I'll be curious for your thoughts on The Winter Ghosts. It's yet another book that has been sitting on my TBR for a few years.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- John W
  
  New Title
  
  I have only read a few chapters in this short book, but I'm enjoying it thus far. Definitely, a novel with atmosphere. You can definitely feel the weight of grief in the opening pages.
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  I'm going to have to take a look at this one as I'm intrigued
  
  posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
KimBear

New Title

Currently I am in Vermont with a Baptist minister who may be a murderer, and an author who loves angels...

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
KimBear

New Title

Oops...wrong thread.

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )
New Title

Lasse M removed this reply 8 months ago.
To reply to this discussion, please sign in.

The Historical Fiction Group

What Are You Reading ~ August 2012

BookwormErin started this discussion 10 months ago. ( reply | permalink )

196

replies

Sign in to participate in this discussion.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

Laurie G's reply was removed by an admin 10 months ago.

Laurie G's reply was removed by an admin 10 months ago.

Laurie G's reply was removed by an admin 10 months ago.

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

winterslights (edited)

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

Mara B (edited)

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

Rochelle H (edited)

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 9 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )

posted 10 months ago. ( permalink )