Two Campions by Allingham

The Beckoning Lady by Margery Allingham (1955)  4/5 stars

Albert Campion series, Book 15

Campion returns to his wife's old home to attend a funeral and, later, a party, only to becomes involved in a murder investigation while he is there.

Unlike a good many of the Campion tales, The Beckoning Lady is a true mystery and not an adventure or thriller.  There are plenty of suspects, red herrings, and false scents.  The plot is engrossing, with many well-drawn characters (both old and new).  I found the solution to be most satisfying, and the build-up nicely done.  

(This one could be read without reading the previous Campion stories, but it may be confusing at times due to the recurring and returning characters)   

Hide my Eyes by Margery Allingham (1958)  5/5 stars

Albert Campion series, Book 16

An unsolved murder has gotten under the skin of Detective Superintendent Charlie Luke, to the concern of both his superiors and his friend Albert Campion.  When a surprise bit of evidence appears, it gives Luke the spark he needs to start another investigation, this time with the encouragement and help of Campion.  

In this psychological thriller, the reader knows who the murderer is early on, and waits in agony and suspense as he prepares to kill again, all the while watching Campion and Detective Superintendent Luke play a game of "hot and cold" trying to identify him.  This is one of Allingham's finest, to my mind.  It's extremely well written, deeply explores some of the characters, is emotional without being sentimental, and is quite memorable.  I had read it before, but was as impressed and moved as I was the first time.

(I generally advise reading these books in order, as many of the characters are recurring, but I think this one could stand alone.)    

Baby, It's Cold Outside by Susan May Warren

Baby, It's Cold Outside

Susan May Warren

2011

5/5 Stars

It's December 22, 1949 in the small Midwest town of Frost where Dottie, the reclusive town librarian, finds the holiday season too much of a trigger for her grief. She plans to hunker down in her oversized house and not emerge until Christmas is over. A severe snowstorm drives four people into her home, however, and ruins her plans.  

Gordy is her lifelong neighbor, with whom Dottie shares an emotional past. Violet is Dottie's assistant at the library yet still a virtual stranger, who is still dealing with the reactions of her family and the town to her service during the war. Jake is a stranger to all three, and has come to Frost to give Violet some information that he dreads to share. Arnie is a local elementary school student, lost in the snow, who brings them all together into a sort of family as they wait out the storm.

The title and cover of this novel do it a disservice, making the book appear to be a light-hearted rom-com. This is far from the truth. Baby It's Cold Outside is a serious, Christian-based story of grieving, lost, and broken people, some of whom need to re-find Christ, and all of whom need to give and receive godly love.

I was surprised at just how good this book is. I cried often, and cared intensely for the characters and the outcome. Though Warren writes well, I did have to reread the first two chapters before I started the third, to make certain I knew everyone and their motives, as she revealed their pasts in such small, cryptic bits in the beginning. After that, it flowed smoothly, into a plot that was engrossing and moving. 

 In addition, Warren had obviously researched the World War II era, and was able to drop in details here and there that really added to the book, as well as giving it a realistic feel.  

Despite loving it as much as I do, I can't refer it universally, as I think  those readers not interested in historical fiction might find it hard to connect with the characters or time period.  To the rest though, I can't recommend this one enough!  I'm already looking forward to rereading it next Christmas.

November 2024 Wrap Up

Books Read:

Killing with Confetti by Peter Lovesey (2019)  4/5 stars (my review here)

Passionate Nomad: The Life of Freya Stark by Jane Fletcher Geniesse (1999)  4/5 stars

Freya Stark (31 January 1893 – 9 May 1993) was a self-taught explorer and adventurer, who became a respected Arabist and a renowned author and letter writer. Geniesse tells Freya's story in entertaining, interesting, and accessible prose, showing the many facets of her life, including her formative years, her motives, and her dreams.  Freya Stark was a fascinating, if flawed, woman, and I learned a good deal both about her, and about the world around her during her long life.

The Finisher by Peter Lovesey (2020)  4/5 stars (my review here)

Singapore Sapphire by  A.M. Stuart (2019)  4/5 stars

Harriet Gordon series, Book 1

This was an interesting, well-written, and mostly satisfying mystery taking place among the Europeans living in Singapore in 1910.  I cared for the characters and look forward to the rest of the series. 

Behold, Here's Poison by Georgette Heyer (1936)  4/5 stars

This is a solidly good Golden Age mystery with some nice twists.  While it lacks Heyer's signature witty banter, it was still quite enjoyable and satisfying.

Diamond and the Eye  by Peter Lovesey (2021)  3/5 stars (my review here)

Showstopper  by Peter Lovesey (2022)  4/5 stars (my review here)

The Letter from Briarton Park by Sarah E. Ladd (2022)  3/5 stars

This was a very light Regency romantic suspense novel.  The blurbs describe it as Charlotte Bronte meets Jane Austen, but the only similarities were superficial.  I didn't dislike it, but I feel it could have been much better with more substance, as the idea of the plot was intriguing. 

Her Fae Secret by Eliza Prokopovits (2023)  4/5 stars (my review here)

The Beast's Magician by Eliza Prokopovits (2023)  4/5 stars (my review here)

  

Her Forgotten Sea by Eliza Prokopovits (2023)  4/5 stars (my review here)

    

Her Cursed Apple by Eliza Prokopovits (2024)  4/5 stars (my review here)

Her Enchanted Tower  by Eliza Prokopovits (2024)  4/5 stars (my review here)

Her Accidental Frog  by Eliza Prokopovits (2024)  4/5 stars (my review here)

Audiobooks Completed:

Toward Zero by Agatha Christie (1944)  5/5 stars

This was a reread of this twisty, layered, excellent example of Christie's craft.  Definitely worth five stars.

Ordeal by Innocence by Agatha Christie (1958)  4/5 stars

This was a reread; here is my review from 2018:

In this stand-alone mystery, Jack Argyle is found guilty of the murder of his mother, but two years later his alibi is verified. Now the rest of his family are under suspicion, and the true killer will not hesitate to kill again to remain unidentified. This is one of my favorite Christie mysteries: it is intelligent, well-written, and believable. I highly recommend it.

The Hollow by Agatha Christie (1946)  5/5 stars

Poirot comes to a country house for a Sunday luncheon, only to find a woman, holding a gun, standing over a dying man.  That she is the killer seems so obvious, until the evidence comes to light.

Poirot is only a minor part of this mystery; the main focus of the plot is the inter-relations between the house party members and how those relationships led to murder.  This is one of my favorites by Christie, despite the fact that I dislike most of the characters, because the study of the personalities is so well-done.  It's a slow, leisurely story, which may be a drawback for some readers, but I was completely immersed in this intriguing and gripping tale.  

After the Funeral by Agatha Christie (1953)  4/5 stars

A most intriguing, entertaining, and engrossing mystery.  The solution was surprising and satisfying.

The Tiger in the Smoke by Margery Allingham (1952)  5/5 stars  (my review here)

Regency Magic Faerie Tales Series by Eliza Prokopovits

Eliza Prokopovits

Her Fae Secret by Eliza Prokopovits (2023)  4/5 stars 
Regency Magic Faerie Tales, Book 1 

Eleanor and her two sisters, Anne and Sophie, have been secretly going to Faerie for years, dancing weekly at the Faerie Queen's ball.  Now, they are being introduced to Society, and the difficulty of visiting Faerie while in London attending other social events is adding stress to Eleanor -- most particularly when it forces her to deceive former Naval magician James Weston, the man who is quickly becoming important to her.

This was a delightful fantasy taking place during the Regency period in an alternate reality in which magic is practiced, and even acceptable as an accomplishment for young ladies alongside music and drawing. The romance is light and gentle, the world intriguing, and the Regency feel generally well done. Prokopovits has blended strains of "The Twelve Dancing Princesses" and the Regency romance genre into her original plot and made an enjoyable and charming story.  I look forward to reading more in the series. 

The Beast's Magician by Eliza Prokopovits (2023)  4/5 stars 

Regency Magic Faerie Tales, Book 2

Eight years ago, the Duke of Harborough was magically transformed into a beast and has lived as a recluse ever since.  Isabelle, a young woman with skill in magic, is planning for her future by looking for work as a governess, though she's not keen on children.  Harborough hires Isabelle to perform household magic to help his staff and to catalog his library.  They become friends and despite his frightening appearance, Isabelle finds herself falling in love with the man inside the fur.

In this alternate Regency England, magic is a skill that is acceptable for young women, and I love how Prokopovits explains it and utilizes it in her plot.  The characters were delightful and the plot charming.  I wasn't fully satisfied with how Isabelle was hired, it felt rushed and not fully explained, but once past that small hiccup, I thoroughly enjoyed the rest of the book.

  

Her Forgotten Sea by Eliza Prokopovits (2023)  4/5 stars 

Regency Magic Faerie Tales, Book 3

Arielle is a mermaid who has become fascinated by land and humans.  She is given a chance to become a human, at a sacrifice, for a year and a day -- permanently if she marries her true love before that time.  Arielle is found and "adopted" by the elderly Lady Priscilla Farley and her niece, who proceed to introduce her to Brighton society, where she hopes to find true love.

This sweet retelling of "The Little Mermaid" happens in an alternate Regency England where fairies and mermaids exist, though unbeknownst to most of the humans, and where magic is practiced in the drawing rooms and universities.  Arielle is a likable character and I enjoyed her history as a mermaid, her life as a human, and her gentle romance.  I did feel her acceptance by the Farleys happened unreasonably quickly; I would have liked to see them grow to love and accept her, instead of the instant way it happened. There is very little magic in this one, which I missed, but Arielle's love of books in general and Jane Austen in particular was such fun that it almost made up for it.  Overall, though, I definitely enjoying novel and look forward to reading more of the series.  

    

Her Cursed Apple by Eliza Prokopovits (2024)  4/5 stars 

Regency Magic Faerie Tales, Book 4

Bianca and Winston live on adjoining estates and have been friends since childhood.  As their friendship grows into more, Bianca's life becomes endangered and she must disappear from the world she knows before she falls victim to a fatal curse.

This is an engaging retelling of "Snow White", taking place in a magical Regency England.  I love the alternate universe that Prokipovits has created, and enjoyed the characters and plot of this story immensely.  Like the previous books of the series, it's fun, sweet, and entertaining.  Bianca's story is a bit more complex that the others, and as such, is my favorite so far.

Her Enchanted Tower  by Eliza Prokopovits (2024)  4/5 stars 

Regency Magic Faerie Tales, Book 5

Kate has spent her life in a Norman tower, living with Mama and, since the age of twelve, seeing no others people at all, living magically sealed within the confines of her home and garden.  When Henry stumbles upon her, he becomes intrigued, then attracted, then deeply in love.  Kate reciprocates his feelings, but when Mama discovers what she views as Kate's betrayal, Kate is magically kept captive.  Henry and his sister are determined to rescue Kate, but at a loss as to how to do so.

This is a retelling of "Rapunzel", taking place in an alternate Regency England where magic, curses, and Faeries are as real as the Season in London.  It's not as deep as some of the other books in this series, but is is sweet, fun, and still enjoyable.  Prokopovits has created an engaging and interesting magical world which makes a strong backdrop for retold fairy tales.  I am finding this series delightful.

Her Accidental Frog  by Eliza Prokopovits (2024)  4/5 stars 

Regency Magic Faerie Tales, Book 6

Hannah finds a frog who tells her he's a cursed human.  The magic prevents him from telling her who he is, so little does she know that he's her brother's best friend, Nathaniel -- the man she's loved since she was a child.  

Like the others in this series, it is set in an alternate Regency England where magic is practiced and acceptable.  The main characters are so likable and their friendship so sweet, that I found this book an absolute delight.  Prokopovits writes well, and the plot is fun and enjoyable, if light.  I enjoyed it -- and the rest -- a good deal and look forward to the publication of another of these Regency fairy tales.

The Tiger in the Smoke

The Tiger in the Smoke 

Albert Campion series, book 14 

Margery Allingham 

1952 

5/5 stars

Meg Elginbrodde is a war widow, recently engaged to be remarried.  She begins receiving recent snapshots of a man that looks the husband that was presumed dead so turns to her cousin, Albert Campion, for help.

Jack Havoc has escaped from prison and is leaving a trail of death in his wake, narrowly escaping the pursuing police, as he tries to locate a treasure he learned about during the War.

Their paths begin to crisscross, with Meg and her family becoming more and more at risk as Jack's desperation increases.  

This is not a mystery story -- most of the Campion novels are not -- but is rather a crime novel/psychological thriller.  Allingham expertly explores Havoc's mind and motives, leaving the reader on seat-edge waiting for what will happen next.  Meg's father, Canon Averill, is nearly as major a character as Havoc, and Allingham's treatment of him and his reasons for his actions is masterly and moving.  

Campion is only a minor character, so while I usually advise reading this series in order, I think this one could be safely read with no prior knowledge of the established characters; there will be a bit of confusion here and there, but the meat of the story will be unaffected.

This was a reread for me, and remains firmly my favorite of Allingham's work.  It is intelligent and well-written, completely engrossing, at times heart-rending, with an absolutely perfect ending.

Four by Lovesey

Peter Lovesey

Killing with Confetti by Peter Lovesey (2019)  4/5 stars

Peter Diamond series, Book 18

Detective Superintendent Peter Diamond, Bath CID, is given an unappealing assignment - - to watch the back of Joe Irving, newly released from prison as he enjoys the wedding of his only daughter.  The reason for the urgency being that Irving, one of Bath's prominent career criminals, is about to marry his daughter to the son of the Deputy Chief Constable -- and the DCC doesn't want his new in-law to be bumped off before the wedding is through.

I'm a huge fan of this series, even if I am a few books behind, so I pushed my way through the first few disconcerting chapters.  It was worth it.  Lovesey spends most of the book building characters and setting the scene, with the mystery taking only a small part of the book, but he pulled off a well-written impossible crime with a striking solution.  I'd not recommend this as one's first Peter Diamond book (I advise reading them in order, anyway), but it was still a solid entry in this great series.

The Finisher by Peter Lovesey (2020)  4/5 stars

Peter Diamond series, Book 19

This is a police procedure mystery that follows Detective Superintendent Peter Diamond as he follows his gut and tries to prove the existence of a crime.  Lovesey is one of my favorite crime writers, and this twisty, layered plot is a fine example of why.

Diamond and the Eye  by Peter Lovesey (2021)  3/5 stars

Peter Diamond series, Book 20

A private investigator, Johnny Getz, locks on to Detective Superintendent Peter Diamond as his in to an investigation of robbery and a missing person.  Totally against his will, Diamond becomes involved with Getz on the case after it turns to murder.  With this one, Lovesey moves away from his normal format and alternates Diamond's third person account with a first person narrative from Getz.  It's a love letter to classic gumshoe stories, with Getz trying to be a hardboiled sleuth in word and deed, but not always succeeding.  I enjoyed the actual plot, but the jarring switches between points-of-view lessened the novel as a whole.

Showstopper  by Peter Lovesey (2022)  4/5 stars

Peter Diamond series, Book 21

When a missing man case leads Detective Superintendent Peter Diamond to investigate a supposedly jinxed television show, he finds that there may be more going on than just bad luck.  This is a fun, twisty, and intelligent mystery.  Lovesey does a great job with the characters and their motives, and the slow reveal of information is believable and equally well-done.  I enjoyed this one from start to finish.

October 2024 Wrap-Up

You might have noticed that I've branched into genres not usual for me of late. That's due to a three month trial of Kindle Unlimited.  I was skeptical of KU at first, thinking that I wouldn't find enough to read, but I just keep being impressed.  Several authors I already love are available on KU and I've discovered a plethora of new ones as well. It's lovely not to have to be on a wait list like at the library, and there are so many great indie authors that my library system does not offer. On the whole, I'm really enjoying KU and would recommend the free trial if, like me, you are a book borrower and don't mind not owning everything you read.

Books Read

Disinheritance by Mary Kingswood (2024)  4/5 stars

Book One of The Chaplain's Legacy Series

This Regency-era novel begins with a murder and continues with layers of family drama and a gentle romance.  While I was somewhat disappointed with the outcome of the mystery, overall, I enjoyed the story immensely and look forward to reading more by this author.

Determination by Mary Kingswood (2024)  4/5 stars

Book Two of The Chaplain's Legacy Series

This book follows a side character from the first book, and while not as layered as Disinheritance, was still well-written, entertaining and engrossing.  I was disappointed that the mystery wasn't readdressed, however, and did feel that Kingswood wasn't always true to the time period, but that didn't lessen my enjoyment or weaken the novel.

Anger by Mary Kingswood (2024)  4/5 stars

Book Three of The Chaplain's Legacy Series

Anger also follows a side character from the first book of the series, and while I didn't enjoy it as much, it was certainly well-written and entertaining.  The development of the hard-to-love main character was nicely done, and I even found myself thinking about the book when I wasn't reading.  Some of the threads of mystery from Disinheritance were mentioned, so I still have hope that it will be revisited as the series continues.  I am looking forward to the release of book four in January.

The House on Foster Hill by Jaime Jo Wright (2017)  4/5 stars

This novel follows two women, generations apart, who are affected by evil events that occur in the house on Foster Hill.  The author writes well overall, but excels at creating a sense of suspense and unease.  The plot is intriguing, and I found it so engrossing that I read the over-300-page book in just over 24 hours.  Based on the strength of this, her debut, I'm excited to read Wright's more recent works.

John Eyre by Mimi Matthews (2021)  5/5 stars  (my review here)

Beauty and the Beast by K. M. Shea (2013)  4/5 stars

Timeless Fairy Tales Series, Book 1

Elle falls through the glass roof of the chateau of the cursed Prince Severin and, while she is recovering from the resulting broken leg, she becomes friends with his equally cursed staff, and later, with him.  As these friendships grow, Elle is always conscious of the fact that she is lying to them all, and that the truth could bring heartbreak.

This is a well-written retelling of the traditional fairy tale, Beauty and the Beast, that is charming, fun, and even moving, but, happily, lacking the Stockholm syndrome.  I enjoyed Shea's style, the gentle and even realistic romance, and the overall book experience.  I'm looking forward to reading more in this series.

A Noble Purpose by Laurie Lucking (2024)  3/5 stars

This is a sweet novella, based on the fairy tale "Hans, Who Made the Princess Laugh".  Due to it's brevity, it is not particularly involved and things happen a bit too quickly.  Despite that, it's generally well-written, and I would certainly be willing to try a full-length novel by this author.

By the Light of the Setting Sun by Laura Rollins (2023)  4/5 stars

A Gentleman's Heart Series, Book 1

In this Regency romance, Alex is concerned for the wellbeing of his stepsister, eight year old Lily and determined to remove her from the stepfather he detests.  Elizabeth has just finished her fourth unsuccessful season in London, and is visiting Bath with her family, in hopes of improving her father's health.  Alex and Elizabeth meet in a most interesting situation, and a friendship is quickly formed, which turns to something warmer.  Duty, however, is uppermost in his mind, and Alex worries that he can't have Elizabeth's heart and still have Lily's safety.

This is a charming and well-written novel, with characters that I cared for immediately.  There were funny moments alongside the more serious issues, and the plot was nicely paced.  I was startled and amused at Rollins' use of the word "updo" (first recorded in the 1930s), but otherwise the feel and atmosphere of the era was nicely done. The romance was sweet, the resolution satisfying, and the book a pleasure overall.  I will certainly read more by this author.

Tempted by Folly by Christina Dudley (2022)  4/5 stars

The Ellsworth Assortment, Book One

Christina Dudley

This is a charming, witty, engaging, and well-written Regency romance.  It's closer in flavor to a Georgette Heyer novel than any other I have read.  I was immediately interested in the characters, felt invested in their story, and found the period atmosphere to be realistic.  The plot was complex enough to be absorbing, with moments both amusing and serious, and the believable family dynamic enhanced the overall experience, making me eager to continue with the series.  (I'd love to know if Mr. Ellsworth reminded anyone else of Jane Austin's Sir Walter Elliot.)

The Belle of Winchester by Christina Dudley  (2022)  4/5 stars

The Ellsworth Assortment, Book Two

This is another delightful and well-written Regency romance by Dudley.  Lily was introduced in the prior novel, and her story is similar to that of her sister, but with enough differences and detours to make it fresh and interesting.  It captured my attention immediately and I was thoroughly invested in the story, cared about the characters, and was curious as to how it would all work out in the long run.  The author has quickly become a favorite.

Minta in Spite of Herself  by Christina Dudley  (2023)  4/5 stars

The Ellsworth Assortment, Book Three

The third book of this series follows the likable hoyden Ellsworth, eighteen-yar-old Araminta, as she matures and discovers there is life to be found apart from archery and the freedom of the outdoors.  This appealing novel was a delight from beginning to end.  It was of the quality I now expect from the author: well-written, diverting, satisfying, and absorbing.  The series just gets better with each book!

A Scholarly Pursuit by Christina Dudley  (2023)  4/5 stars

The Ellsworth Assortment, Book Four

This follows the eldest Ellsworth brother, Tyrone, who has a secret business of writing love letters and speeches for less eloquent gentlemen.  When a customer wants to court Agatha, the best friend of Tyrone's twin, Tyrone begins to regret his involvement as he realizes he would like to woo her himself. 

While I didn't find this one as charming as the previous three, I still enjoyed it immensely.  It's well-written, fun, and engaging, with quite likable characters.  I did feel the ending was rushed, but that didn't affect the overall strength of the book. 

Miranda at Heart by Christina Dudley  (2024)  4/5 stars

The Ellsworth Assortment, Book Five

The fourth Mrs. Ellsworth was proposed to for practical reasons, and accepted for the same.  Now a widow at thirty-nine, she discovers romantic love for the first time, but must put her family's needs before her heart.

I loved this one so much!  It was wonderful to see Miranda, who did her duty so admirably in the previous books, find a happiness she never expected.  The writing was solid, the characters so easy to care for, and the plot delightful.  I highly recommend this series (read in order).

A Capital Arrangement by Christina Dudley  (2024)  4/5 stars

The Ellsworth Assortment, Book Six

The final installment of the series follows the youngest Ellsworth daughter, Beatrice, as she falls in love for the first time -- and suffers her first heartbreak as well.  This is as charming and delightful as the previous books, well-written and nicely plotted.  I have enjoyed the entire series tremendously, from the quotes at the start of the chapters, to the historical details, to the wonderful family dynamics.  I highly recommend the Ellsworth Assortment -- read in order -- for lovers of clean, intelligent, entertaining Regency romance.

The Phantom Hollow by Gerald Verner (1933)  3/5 stars

The Trevor Lowe series, book one

Verner borrowed a page from the Victorian melodrama with this mystery/thriller, giving the reader multiple murders, a threat painted in blood, ghost sightings, robbery, assassination attempts, kidnapping, secret identities, a quick romance, Scotland Yard, and a gentleman amateur detective.  Yes, it's a silly book, but it's also a great deal of fun.  I was interested and entertained from beginning to end, and will definitely continue the series. 

Praying with Mother Teresa: Prayers, Insights, and Wisdom of Saint Teresa of Calcutta by Susan Conroy (2016)  5/5 stars

Lovely book of the thoughts and prayers of Mother Teresa.

Audiobooks Completed

Anne of Avonlea by L.M. Montgomery (1909)  4/5 stars

Book Two of the Anne of Green Gables Series

This sweet book picks up where Anne of Green Gables stops.  While it doesn't have the full charm of the first, it is still a gentle, lovely, enjoyable book, and well worth reading.

Anne of the Island by L.M. Montgomery (1915)  4/5 stars

Book Three of the Anne of Green Gables Series

This lovely book follows Anne's four years at college, as she matures and finds love.  It is as well-written, gentle, and enjoyable as the previous two, and watching Anne grow up is both bittersweet and wonderful.

The Mystery of the Blue Train by Agatha Christie (1928)  3/5 stars

Entertaining and well-plotted story and, despite it being a reread, still surprising.  That said, there is a point that feels too contrived to make it entirely believable.

The Big Four by Agatha Christie (1927)  3/5 stars

This is a set of interconnected short stories that tell the story of Poirot battling against a gang of international criminals, known as The Big Four.  While not Christie's strongest work, it is charmingly narrated by Hastings, giving an extra dimension of fun to the improbable plot.

Cards on the Table by Agatha Christie (1937)  4/5 stars

Well-written, twisty, and completely entertaining.  This was a reread but I still immensely enjoyed seeing how Christie wove all the strands together to make such a complex plot.

Did Not Finish

The Pennington Perplexity by Natalie Brianne

I couldn't decide if this was supposed to be an alternate universe, or if the author was making mistakes with historical accuracy.  Then, when she used the word "fall" instead of "autumn" in a Victorian London setting,  I knew that I'd spend the whole book expecting more problems instead of enjoying the story, so I stopped. 

The Wild Swans by K. M. Shea 

Timeless Fairy Tales Series, Book 2

This didn't start off as fun or charming as the first in the series, and when I realized it was going to be a love triangle (a least-favorite trope), I decided to pass, at least for now. 

The Starling and the Hatter by Annette K. Larsen

This is advertised as "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland Reimagined" but after about 30%, the connection was so tenuous that I stopped looking for the character/plot tie-ins.  I made it a few more chapters, but the two POVs were not distinctive enough to be convincing, and then it became a love triangle, so I lost interest.

John Eyre by Mimi Matthews

John Eyre: A Tale of Darkness and Shadow  

Mimi Matthews  

2021

5/5 stars

This is a well-written retelling of Bronte's Jane Eyre, with the genders switched so that the governess is now a tutor, and the employer is Mrs. Bertha Rochester.  Matthews brings the original plot points and characters together in her own version skillfully, creating believable motives, emotions, and outcomes.

But that's not all there is to John Eyre.

In addition, the author has woven in another classic Victorian novel (and one of my top favorite books) to create a completely engrossing tale of horror and suspense.  (I'm omitting the name of said novel to avoid spoiling the reading experience.)  Matthews surprised me with her choice, but her excellent blending of the two was impressive. Overall, the unexpected duo made for a deliciously gothic, absolutely memorable story.

I wouldn't recommend it for every reader, and not even for all fans of Jane Eyre; however, those who enjoy a creepy Victorian melodrama will find this a pure delight.  I certainly did.

Mission Accomplished!

Today, I finished cataloging my personal library on LibraryThing, and it is such an accomplishment!  My total count came to 1346 physical books, 358 audiobooks, and 453 ebooks, not counting books that belonged to my husband alone.  

If you've not used LibraryThing, I highly recommend it.  I joined about a week after it launched in 2005, but had only piddled with it until lately, when I decided to catalog my library properly.  

Check it out and see if it's for you, and when you do, you can see what books we have in common as well!

September 2024 Wrap-Up

Books Read:

The Greek Coffin Mystery by Ellery Queen (1932)  3/5 stars

While the solution was convoluted, it was still a good mystery with a well-done surprise.

Death Reports to a Health Resort by P.J. Fitzsimmons (2024)  4/5 stars

This latest volume in the Anty Boisjoly series sees Anty out to save his Uncle Pim from being arrested for the murder of a health resort doctor.  It's fun, clever, and as delightful as the rest.

Princess of Shadows by A.G. Marshall (2016)  4/5 stars

original title: The Princess and the Pea

This is an enjoyable Sleeping Beauty retelling, with a fun use of tale of the princess and the pea, as well.  The world building was above average, it is generally well-written, and I found the plot to be engaging throughout.  I'm looking forward to continuing the series.

Poisoned: Snow White's Story by Mary Mecham (2022)  3/5 stars (my review here)

Juniper Bean Resorts to Murder by Gracie Ruth Mitchell (2023) 3/5 stars
This is a combo of rom-com, two mysteries, and a few serious themes.  It's not my usual genre, and there were loose ends and unanswered questions, but I still found it to be an enjoyable, light read that kept my attention throughout. 

The Love That Made Mother Teresa (Special Canonization Edition) by David Scott (2016)  4/5 stars

Scott explores the scant biographical details we have of Mother Teresa, explains her vision, and discusses her "dark night of the soul".

The Fall Back Plan by Melanie Jacobson (2023)  3/5 stars

When Jolie returns to her hometown with a chip on her shoulder and plans for revenge of sorts, she is shocked to find that her high school enemy, the delinquent punk Lucas, has reformed and is now the Sheriff.  This is a generally enjoyable rom-com, with Jolie coming to grips with the past and learning to forgive, and growing as a character.  Lucas was less than dynamic, and the plot was predictable, but it was still fun, light read that kept my attention.

Scarlett and the Dark Woods by Mary Mecham (2023)  3/5 stars

This is a retelling of Little Red Riding Hood that takes place in a dystopian world, with some humor and a light romance.  Mecham gives a good twist to the traditional tale, but there isn't a lot of depth to the story.  Despite that, it's still a fun read. 

The Vanishing at Loxby Manor by Abigail Wilson  (2021)  4/5 stars

This is a layered mystery with light romance set in Regency England.  It  generally kept to the feel of the times, had appealing characters with realistic motives, and an interesting story.  The plot twist was good, though I did guess the solution early on. (I blame that on 40+ years of reading mysteries, though, and not any fault of the author.)  Overall, it was compelling and enjoyable. 

Beauty and the Baron by Joanna Barker (2019)  3/5 stars
This novella is advertised as a Regency retelling of the Beauty and the Beast, but contained very little of that tale.  As it was so short, there was very little development of either character or plot.  It was still a sweet story, and I'd certainly be willing to read a full-length novel by the author.

Black Plumes by Margery Allingham (1940)  4/5 stars

Allingham, author of the Campion adventure-thrillers, kept me guessing in this stand-alone mystery.  There are many viable suspects, a good amount of false clues, and several possible motives.  The characters aren't fully developed, but the tension and the uneasy atmosphere is excellent.  Overall, it's engrossing, well-written, and entertaining.

Tuchman

Audiobooks Completed:

A Distant Mirror: The Calamitous 14th Century by Barbara W. Tuchman (1978)  5/5 stars

In this nonfiction classic, the two-time Pulitzer Prize winning author uses the life of a French nobleman, Enguerrand de Coucy VII, as a way to explain and discuss the high and low points, daily life, pivotal events, and important figures of Western Europe in the 14th Century.  Despite its length (over 700 pages), it is an excellent general overview of the topic, easy to read, coherent, interesting, attention-holding, and accessible to the layman.   (Counting towards The Classic's Club.)

Henry IV: The Righteous King by Ian Mortimer (2007)  4/5 stars    

According to the author, King Henry IV has been misrepresented throughout the ages, and Dr. Mortimer seeks to correct that view with this detailed biography.  It is interesting overall,  with only a few dry patches, and is generally easy to follow.  The arguments were logical and most often convincing.   I do like that Dr. Mortimer keeps the more "personal opinion" discussions of this book confined to the appendices to be read or ignored by choice.  While I didn't find it as engrossing as Mortimer's Henry V: The Warrior King of 1415 (my review here), I still would definitely recommend it to my fellow medieval armchair historians.

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery (1908)  5/5 stars

I love this sweet novel better every time I re-read it! It's well-written, tender, fun, full of emotion, and an overall joy. (The movie doesn't come close to the excellence of the book, by the way.)  I reread it for the feel-good gentleness and was rewarded with just the experience I wanted.  (Counting towards The Classic's Club.)

Did Not Finish

1939: The Last Season by Anne de Courcy (1989)

The interwar years are of great interest to me and I'm a social history junkie with Britain as my preference, so this should have been a home run.  It was not.   I listened to six chapters, but there didn't seem to be anything to tie it together; it was a string of society gossip, details from primary sources, and tidbits of social history, one after the other, with no cohesion.  Maybe if I stuck with it longer, the build up to the war would have become the thread to hold it together, but I just couldn't.  On a personal note, I wrote a paper similar in topic and nearly identical to style once, and my college professor gave me a C, remarked how disappointed she was with my effort, and said she had expected more from me.  I now know how she felt.

 

Tell Me Something Tuesday: Comfort Reads

Tell Me Something Tuesday is a weekly discussion hosted by Jen at That's What I'm Talking About. 

I'm a couple of days late, but this week's discussion is "do you have a go-to comfort book?" and the answer to that is a definite yes!

I am a firm believer in rereading.  In fact, if I had to pick between never rereading and never reading a new-to-me book, I'd give up new books in a heartbeat.  I love the excitement of a new book, of course, but the comfort and certainty of an old favorite can't be beat.

Agatha Christie is a long-time comfort read for me, especially on audio with Hugh Frasier narrating.  Even when I remember the plot well, it's a pleasure to follow along and see what clues I've missed in previous readings. 

The Anne of Green Gables series is another I reread for comfort.  I'm currently rereading the first on audio now, and may continue through the whole series again.  The beautiful descriptions, the easy-to-love characters, and the sweet plots bring me such joy.

Jane Austen is my other comfort read.  There's no need to try to explain how wonderful an author she is, others have done it far better, but it was love at first read when I was introduced to her in high school.  (I'm currently in the middle of a leisurely reread of Emma, with lots of notetaking and highlighting.) 

How about you?  Do you reread for comfort?

Shelf Control: A Passage to India

Shelf Control is a weekly feature hosted by Literary Potpourri to discuss unread books sitting in our to-be-read piles.

I'm ashamed to admit this, but, as much as I love Room with a View and Howard's End, I have never read A Passage to India!  I own it, I've intended to read it, I even started the audio version once, but. . . . I'm intimidated by it.

According to Wikipedia:

A Passage to India is a 1924 novel by English author E. M. Forster set against the backdrop of the British Raj and the Indian independence movement in the 1920s

and includes a situation that 

brings to a boil common racial tensions and prejudices between Indians and the British during the colonial era.

If you've read it, let me know how it stacks up to my favorite Forster novels and if it's worth reading.  I feel like I'm probably missing out, but the subject matter just appears heavy and makes me hesitant to start!

Poisoned by Mary Mecham

Poisoned: Snow White's Story 

Mary Mecham 

2022  

3/5 stars

Mecham uses the familiar story of Snow White to introduce the reader to a character with  Severe Intellectual Disability.  Her message is clear and strong, with discussion questions at the end to aid the reader, but it overshadows the actual story, leaving very little room for  romance or fantasy or even plot.  That said, as one with extensive, intimate experience with preschoolers with a range of disabilities, I very much appreciate Mecham's effort and know that readers will benefit by learning how best to interact with people with disabilities and with their caregivers.  

She gives a further lesson, equally important, by showing what emotional abuse, gaslighting, and control can look like.  I applaud her for doing so, but felt that a book with two such strong themes was heavier than needed, and split the reader's focus.

It is still a sweet book with appealing characters, however, and I would not hesitate to read more by the author.

August 2024 Wrap Up

Books Read:

Foreboding Foretelling at Ficklehouse Felling by P.J. Fitzsimmons (2023)  4/5 stars

Anty makes friends with a duck, revels in Epicureanism, and solves yet another locked-room mystery in this fun, well-written, and highly entertaining seventh volume of the series.  

Mystery and Malice aboard RMS Ballast by P.J. Fitzsimmons (2024)  4/5 stars

In this eighth addition to the Anty Boisjoly series, Anty joins friends for a yachting pleasure cruise, only to find his plans interrupted by piracy, smuggling, treasure-hunting, mistaken romance, and a grammatically correct macaw. Oh, and murder.  It's another fun, locked-room mystery bringing together familiar characters and introducing an important new one.  Overall, I've enjoyed this series immensely and am eagerly looking forward to the next volume, to be published in a few weeks.

A Bride’s Guide to Marriage and Murder by Dianne Freeman (2022)  3/5 stars

While the murder was easy to solve, the main character is appealing and the writing engaging, making this another enjoyable (if not exceptional) cozy mystery.

Murder at Melrose Court by Karen Baugh Menuhin (2018)  3/5 stars

This is an interesting and generally well-written cozy mystery taking place in a county house at Christmas.  The culprit was rather obvious, but some of the evidence didn't stack up.  Nonetheless, I enjoyed Major Lennox's voice and will definitely try the second book of the series.

Queen Joanna I

Audiobooks Completed:

The Lady Queen: The Notorious Reign of Joanna I, Queen of Naples, Jerusalem, and Sicily by Nancy Goldstone (2009)  3/5 stars

This was full of interesting information about Queen Joanna and the current affairs going on around her, but was not as lively, engaging, or entertaining as the other two I've read by Ms. Goldstone, and was at times both dry and overly involved.  I most certainly learned a good deal, but not as easily or pleasantly as I expected from my previous experience with this author.

Did Not Finish 

A Botanist's Guide to Parties and Poisons by Kate Khavari (2022)

I decided to give this debut novel a try because of the decent reviews, despite the fact that the botanist heroine's twee name is Saffron.  When, on page one, her dress was "the precise color of her eyes", I rolled my eyes but pushed on.  I didn't make it through the first chapter.  (On a side note, the story is supposed to take place in 1920's London, but the American author didn't trouble to use any English spelling.)  

The Silk Roads: A New History of the World by Peter Frankopan (2015)

What a disappointment.  It started out interesting and informative, but then, after eight chapters, it was obvious that the author had no intention of discussing the actual Silk Roads, the trade routes, the systems, the goods, or the peoples involved.  His focus, this "new history of the world", was the rising conflicts of the Christian, Jews, and Muslims, with a Western based focus on historical context.  (On a side note, the author would benefit immensely from reading the fascinating Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World by Jack Weatherford.)

Chaucer's People: Everyday Lives in Medieval England  by Liza Picard (2017)

Picard's disdain for the beliefs of the times and her overall attitude of condescension made it impossible for me to read.

A Newlywed’s Guide to Fortune and Murder by Dianne Freeman (2023)

It felt like it was heading toward elder abuse, a triggery subject for me.  I could have been wrong, but decided not to finish.

July 2024 Wrap Up

Patricia Wentworth

Books Read

Kingdom Lost by Patricia Wentworth  (1931)  3/5 stars

Highly improbable tale of a young woman being found on a deserted island, but the characters are likable, the story is mostly well written, and the overall experience is enjoyable.  (Unlike most of Wentworth's novels, however, this is not a mystery or adventure.)

Beggar's Choice by Patricia Wentworth (1930)  4/5 stars

Car Fairfax has been down on his luck for three years, so is more than a little interested when he receives an advertisement offering £500 for an unknown job.  When following up, he discovers what might be a conspiracy against him and he decides to take the risk and find the truth.  The first half of the book is stressful, as the web tightens around Car, but as he and the reader begin to piece together the facts it moves quickly to a satisfying conclusion.

Dead or Alive by Patricia Wentworth (1936)

Quite engrossing, despite the improbability of parts.

Rolling Stone by Patricia Wentworth (1940)

Another engrossing, if improbable, thriller.

The Draycott Murder Mystery by Molly Thynne (1928)  4/5 stars

Nearly perfect Golden Age mystery by a long-lost author.

Calamity at Harwood by George Bellairs (1945)  4/5 stars

Highly improbable but twisty and entertaining.

The Dower House Mystery by Patricia Wentworth (1925)  4/5

Just unsettling enough to make it intriguing and hard to put down.

Outrageous Fortune by Patricia Wentworth (1933)  4/5

A thriller about a man who has lost his memory, but is certain he can't be the criminal it appears he is.  Well-plotted and attention-holding.

A Simple Path by Mother Teresa, complied by Lucinda Vardey (1995)

Quotes and explanations by Mother Teresa and members of her Order, compiled prior to her death.

The Case of the Canterfell Codicil by P.J. Fitzsimmons (2020)  4/5 stars
This is a very fun book that is worth four stars for enjoyment, but the "how" of the murder was too unbelievable and there was a yucky romance in the past.  These combined to bring it down a star for me, unfortunately.  I'm still looking forward to reading more in the series, though!

The Case of the Ghost of Christmas Morning by P.J. Fitzsimmons (2021)  4/5 stars

More of Anty's thoroughly enjoyable antics, as he proves his Aunt did not murder her neighbor, irritates Scotland Yard's able representative, and falls shamelessly for a tiny cow. It's well-written, humorous, and extremely read-out-loud worthy.  

The Tale of the Tenpenny Tontine by P.J. Fitzsimmons (2022)  4/5 stars

The third in the Anty Boisjoly series finds him summoned to help his friend, Lager, discover which of Lager's relatives died first in a duel, so as to settle who will inherit the large profits of an ancient tontine.  Again, it's laugh-out-loud funny, well-written, and enjoyable from start to finish.

The Case of the Carnaby Castle Curse by P.J. Fitzsimmons (2022)  4/5 stars

More fun with Anty as he attempts to prevent his club's steward from being arrested for murder.  It's a well-written, twisty, and humorous tale that is absorbing from start to finish.

Reckoning at the Riviera Royale by P.J. Fitzsimmons (2022)  4/5 stars

Another fun Anty mystery, though, I'll confess I was a bit stressed over the fate of the elephant.  Otherwise, it's well-written, as well as completely engaging and entertaining.

The Case of the Case of Kilcladdich by P.J. Fitzsimmons (2023)  4/5 stars

More well-written and laugh-out-loud fun with Anty as, while in Scotland to judge a whisky competition, he encounters two locked-room murders, feuding families, an impossible golf course, and a lot of sheep.   

Audiobooks Completed:

Barrow's Boys: The Original Extreme Adventurers: A Stirring Story of Daring Fortitude and Outright Lunacy by Fergus Fleming (1998)  4/5 stars

An extremely interesting and highly entertaining history of the explorations set in motion by Sir John Barrow, Second Secretary to the Admiralty from 1804 until 1845.

Daughters of the Winter Queen: Four Remarkable Sisters, the Crown of Bohemia, and the Enduring Legacy of Mary, Queen of Scots by Nancy Goldstone (2018)  5/5 stars

Absolutely fantastic history -- well-written, easy to follow, at times humorous, and always engrossing.  Highly recommend.

Four Queens: The Provençal Sisters Who Ruled Europe by Nancy Goldstone (2007)  4/5 stars

An easy to read and very interesting joint biography of four sisters who (with their husbands) affected politics in England, France, Germany, and Sicily during the thirteenth century.

May and June 2024 Wrap Up

For the past several months, I've not felt like writing too much about what I've read, but here's May and June's list.

Queen Emma

May Books Read:
Two Flights Up by Mary Roberts Rinehart  (1928)  3/5 stars
Not her best.

Queen Emma and the Vikings: Power, Love, and Greed in 11th-Century England  by Harriet O'Brien  4/5 stars
Informative nonfiction, if a bit dry at times.

May Audiobooks Completed:
George VI and Elizabeth: The Marriage That Saved the Monarchy by Sally Bedell Smith  (2023)  4/5 stars
Smith gives detailed information that creates an intimate and personal picture of this couple, as well as filling out the history that surrounded them.  I truly enjoyed it's thorough examination, and highly recommend it, though with the understanding that it's extremely comprehensive and minute nature might be hard going for some.

Scourge of Henry VIII: The Life of Marie de Guise by Melanie Clegg (2016)  4/5 stars
Misleading title, but good biography of Marie de Guise.

June Books Read:

Nothing Venture by Patricia Wentworth  (1932)  4/5 stars

Death in the Night Watches by George Bellairs  (1946)  4/5 stars

Fool Errant by Patricia Wentworth (1929)   4/5 stars

Death on the Aisle by Frances and Richard Lockhart (1942)  3/5 stars

Danger Calling by Patricia Wentworth (1931)

The Layton Court Mystery by Anthony Berkeley (1925)  4/5 stars
Good story!

The Wychford Poisoning Case by Anthony Berkeley (1926)  3/5 stars

Roger Sheringham and The Vane Mystery by Anthony Berkeley (1927)  4/5 stars

June Audiobooks Completed:
Matriarch: Queen Mary and the House of Windsor by Anne Edwards (1984)  3/5 stars

The author's obvious biases really detracted from the facts.

Wrap Up: March and April 2024

Haven't had the energy or inspiration to write reviews of late, but here's what I've read recently.

March 2024:

Books Read:
The Lantern's Dance by Laurie R. King (2024)  3/5 stars

If it hadn't been a Russell/Holmes novel, I wouldn't have rated it this high as there really isn't much to it.  Loving the series, though, I'm generous.

Audiobooks Completed:

Young Queens: Three Renaissance Women and the Price of Power by Leah Redmond Chang (2023) 5/5 stars 

Excellent read. 

Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World by Jack Weatherford (2005) 4/5 stars

Fascinating!

April 2024:

Audiobooks Completed:

Color: A Natural History of the Palette by Victoria Finlay (2003) 4/5 stars 

Loved, loved, loved! 

Jewels: A Secret History by Victoria Finlay (2006)  4/5 stars  
Really enjoyed this one; maybe even more than Color.

February 2024 Wrap-Up

Books Read:
Death of a Bookseller by Bernard J. Farmer (1956)  3/5 stars
This had a promising start with strong writing, interesting characters and an intriguing plot certain to appeal to the bibliophile.  Unfortunately, there was little detecting by the lead character, and I found both the solution and the wrap-up to be disappointing.

The Night She Died by Dorothy Simpson  (1980)  3/5 stars

This mystery had an interesting and well-written start, but was bogged down by unconvincing speculation and tenuous connections.  

Six Feet Under by Dorothy Simpson (1982)  3/5 stars

This is a generally well-written and engaging mystery, but the solution wasn't fully satisfying or convincing.

Puppet for a Corpse by Dorothy Simpson (1982)  3/5 stars

Simpson writes well, but ultimately the solution was a disappointment.  I own more in this series, but am undecided as to whether I'll read them.

Rogue's Holiday by (Margery Allingham writing as) Maxwell March (1935)  3/5 stars

This mystery/thriller is  melodramatic, implausible, and probably written as a potboiler, but is nonetheless still highly entertaining for those readers who appreciate the less high-brow fringe of the Golden Age of Mystery.

Where There's a Will by Mary Roberts Rinehart (1912)  3/5 stars

In this precursor to the screwball comedy, Minnie tells what happens when her employer, the owner of a health spa, dies and leaves it all to his grandson -- provided he arrive on a certain date and make a go of the enterprise.  It's laugh-out-loud funny, well-written and, though not as fantastic as Rinehart's 1909 novel, When a Man Marries (my review here), it's still vastly entertaining.

Another One Goes Tonight by Peter Lovesey (2016)  4/5 stars
Diamond saves a life, only to become convinced that the man he has saved is a killer.  This is another strong book in a solid series, well-written, engrossing, and entertaining. Lovesey and his Diamond are among my top favorites. 

Audio Books Completed:

The Husband Hunters: American Heiresses Who Married into the British Aristocracy by Anne de Courcy (2017)  4/5 stars

Generally well-written and always interesting, this nonfiction account of social climbing in America's Gilded Age gives a basic understand of the times as well as biographies of some of society's most important persons.  

Henry V: The Warrior King of 1415 by Ian Mortimer (2009)  4/5 stars

This gives a day-by-day account of the King's life in the year 1415, building up to the great battle of Agincourt, and then winding down with the aftermath of this victory.  It's a fascinating account with a great deal of information provided, and gives a rounded picture of Henry as well as a feel for Medieval England.  I also appreciated that Dr. Mortimer kept much of his personal opinions and discussions for the chapters afterwards.  Overall, I certainly enjoyed it and would be interested to read more biographies by this historian.

January 2024 Wrap Up

Books Read:

The Stretton Darknesse Mystery by Moray Dalton (1927)  4/5 stars

This generally well-written,  and quite enjoyable book begins as a gothic tale, then turns into a satisfying and engrossing mystery.  

I Thought It Was Just Me (But It Isn't): Making the Journey from "What Will People Think?" to "I Am Enough" by Brené Brown, Ph.D. (2007)  5/5 stars

I didn't realize that shame was an issue for me until I began this book at my therapist's recommendation.  Dr, Brown's research has changed my outlook, and has given me healing, encouragement, and resilience techniques.  I feel strongly that every woman should read this, regardless of whether or not she feels it's applicable to her. 

The Rising Tide by Ann Cleeves  (2022)  4/5 stars
The mystery was intelligent and interesting, with believable characters and mostly believable motives.  Overall, it's another strong book in this generally excellent series. 

Death in the Cup by Moray Dalton  (1932)  3/5 stars

This was a less twisty, easier to solve mystery than what I've come to expect from Dalton's work, but it was still enjoyable, well-written, and entertaining.  I'm so glad that Dalton's books are being republished, and while this isn't one I would suggest as an introduction to her, I do recommend her for lovers of crime novels of this era.

Lie Beside Me by Gytha Lodge (2021)  4/5 stars

This is a complex, twisty, and generally well-written mystery-thriller that kept me engrossed. The personal drama of some of the detectives, however, detracts from the main plot, and the book was overloaded with what felt like too many storylines.  Despite this, it was an above average book in a series that I recommend.

St. Thérèse

Stronger than Steel: Soldiers of the Great War Write to Thérèse of Lisieux forward by Fr. Dwight Longenecker (2021)   4/5 stars  

These letters are written by WWI soldiers, explaining how St. Thérèse helped them through the dangers of trench warfare.  As such, this isn't really a book one can rate, as it's only letters without prose, and is an emotional read rather than an informative one.   It would have been better, I think, had the author given information and details about the War and/or St. Thérèse . Otherwise, it's a moving read, especially for those like myself with a strong interest in both Catholicism and the First World War.

Audiobooks:

Brothers York by Thomas Penn (2019)   5/5 stars

This is an excellent joint biography of King Edward IV and his two younger brothers, George, Duke of Clarence, and Richard, Duke of Gloucester (later King Richard III).  Penn discusses their family relationships as much as their politics, while filling in historical background through interesting contemporary sources.  It's easy to follow, well-written, and (for this British history fan) extremely entertaining and engaging. 

Blood Sisters: The Women Behind The Wars Of The Roses by Sarah Gristwood (2012)  4/5 stars

This is a history of the Wars of the Roses with the focus on seven women who had important roles during this conflict.  Due to the lack of records available (as is true with most women's history), Ms. Gristwood does make inferences, as well as sharing her theories about certain incidents, but is upfront about doing so and gives her sources.   The prose is not the most lively, but the subject is interesting enough to keep the reader engrossed. While I would suggest having a basic understanding of the era and the war to enjoy the book to the fullest, I otherwise definitely recommend it.

Super-Infinite: The Transformations of John Donne by Katherine Rundell (2022)  5/5 stars  (my review here)

Tulipomania: The Story of the World's Most Coveted Flower & the Extraordinary Passions It Aroused by Mike Dash (2000)  3/5 stars

This gives an account of history of the tulip, it's early days of popularity in the Ottoman Empire, the mania caused by a combination of love of tulips and pure greed in the Netherlands during the 1630s, and it's decline as a flower of fame.  Though the never-very-lively-to begin-with narrative is too dry at times, as it was all new to me, I still found the book to be fascinating.

Did Not Finish:

How the Scots Invented the Modern World: The True Story of How Western Europe’s Poorest Nation Created our World & Everything In It by Arthur Herman

I loved Herman's book about the British Navy (my review here), so was excited to read this one.  Unfortunately, I found it so dull that I stopped after a few chapters.