The Devil's Dust by James Lovegrove

The Devil's Dust

James Lovegrove

2018  

4/5 stars

The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Titan Books , book #14 

This is very much a niche book -- it was written for that (probably rare) reader who is a fan of both Sherlock Holmes and H. Rider Haggard's hunter/adventurer Allan Quatermain.

I AM that reader.

Quatermain is second only to Holmes in terms of favorite male characters*, so for me, the teaming up of these two is absolutely delightful.  

It's apparent that Lovegrove is familiar with Haggard's work, as he characterized Quatermain very much like the original.  The carry-over of certain characters was a pleasure, as well as surprising at one point.  I found this Quatermain's motivations to be believable, based on my reading of the Haggard series.

The rivalry-chemistry between Holmes and Quatermain was exactly what one would expect from that pair, and great fun.  I have read one of Lovegrove's pastiches before (Sherlock Holmes & the Christmas Demon, my review here) and was pleased then, as now, with the closeness to the personality and actions of the genuine Holmes and narration of Watson.  I will certainly continue to read Lovegrove's books.

I'll admit this is not going to be a book for everyone.  Only a lover of Victorian adventures is going to appreciate it -- and goodness, how much I did!  I can't give it five stars in all fairness, but I certainly got that much enjoyment out of it.

Note on the audiobook: At first, I didn't like Dennis Kleinman's voice for Holmes, but once I adjusted to that, I found him to be an excellent narrator.

(*I even have a pet named for him.)

October 2026 Wrap-Up

Books Read:

Wife or Death by Ellery Queen, ghost-written by Richard Deming (1963)  4/5 stars

I did not realize until I started this book that Frederic Dannay and Manfred Bennington Lee (co-authors/creators of the Ellery Queen books) had ghost-writers for some of the books written in the 1960s and '70s.  Previously, I had tried House of Brass and found it to be slimy, unlike the previous books of the series, and simply unreadable for me (my dnf review); I now know that it was ghost-written by Avram Davidson and will avoid any others by him.  

This one, however, by Richard Deming was quite good.  The story focuses on a man whose wife is known to be a serial adulterer.  When she is found murdered, he is the first and most likely suspect, so begins his own investigation to prove his innocence.  It was well-plotted, interesting, and engaging.  I figured out most of it, but still enjoyed it enough that I wouldn't hesitate to read another by Deming.

The Invention of Murder: How the Victorians Revelled in Death and Detection and Created Modern Crime by Judith Flanders (2011)  3/5 stars  (my review here)

Birds of Prey by Mary Elizabeth Braddon (1867) 3/5 stars

This is not Braddon's best, with very little thrills, suspense, or even melodrama.  It ends abruptly, setting the stage for its sequel Charlotte's Inheritance; I'm not sure I enjoyed it enough to continue to the next book. 

Evidence of Things Seen by Elizabeth Daly (1943)  4/5 stars

Henry Gamadge mysteries, book 6 

Gamadge's wife becomes a suspect in a murder case, and he must set things right.  This was a very enjoyable quick read with a satisfying conclusion.  I like Daly better with each one I read.

Audiobooks Completed:

The Crystal Stopper by Maurice Leblanc  (1912)  4/5 stars

Arsène Lupin, book 5 

This is a mystery/adventure about the likable gentleman thief and master of disguise, Arsène Lupin.  In it, Lupin nearly meets his match when he tries to save one of his gang from the guillotine.  This is a fun, enjoyable read that gradually becomes quite serious and tense as the execution nears and Lupin fails attempt after attempt.  I can't rate it five stars, but I did get that much pleasure from it.

A Short Bright Flash: Augustin Fresnel and the Birth of the Modern Lighthouse by Theresa Levitt (2013)  4/5 stars

This is a biography of the short life of Agustin Fresnel, inventor of the Fresnel lens which changed modern lighthouse technology.  After his biography, the author continues with the history of modern lighthouses in France, Great Britain, and the U.S., up through World War II.  While it is sometimes rather technical, the book is interesting and informative, and generally easy to follow.

The Secret Life of Miss Mary Bennet by Katherine Cowley (2021) 4/5 stars

The Secret Life of Mary Bennet, book one

This was a delightful tale of Austen's Mary Bennet, taking place after the death of her father.  Cowley stuck very closely to the original character -- not giving her glasses, unlike the movies and some other pastiches, and keeping her overly scholarly, prim, and sometimes annoying.  Mary made an excellent amateur detective, with her detailed mind, nosey nature, and plain exterior.  The changes to her personality were slow, slight, and believable.  I thoroughly enjoyed this and couldn't read it fast enough; I certainly plan on reading the other two the author wrote.  (Note: for those that want to know how it compared to The Other Bennet Sister,  I'll just point out that I did not care enough for the un-Austen-like Mary in that one to finish it (my dnf review), yet I loved Cowley's version of Mary.)

The Invention of Murder by Judith Flanders

 

The Invention of Murder: How the Victorians Revelled in Death and Detection and Created Modern Crime 
Judith Flanders
2011 
3/5 stars

The author gives the account of many highly-publicized Victorian murders and her reasons for why these crimes caught the public's attention when other equally disturbing ones did not. She shows the newspaper articles, plays, and novels each crime inspired.  The book is highly (at times painfully) detailed, and was obviously well-researched.  

Unfortunately, the book is also formulaic, with Flanders treating each crime the same way (description, trial, public reaction), and then jumping right into the next one -- for more than 400 pages.  It is easy to read and understand, with lots of interesting facts, but overall it's presented in a dull manner that makes it hard to persevere.   

I do want to point out that given  the nature of the crimes, there are some gruesome descriptions and Flanders does not stint on the particulars.  This may be a problem for some readers; I was certainly uncomfortable many times.  True crime is not my interest -- Victorian history is.

The most problematic issue for me, though, was her treatment of the novels mentioned in her book.  

It seems obvious that the author should expect her audience to be those interested in Victorian history and literature. Those readers would most likely be familiar with the novels that are mentioned and may be a regular reader of this genre.  Despite this, Flanders spoils the plots of all the melodramas and sensational fiction she discusses.  

I have already read many of the books mentioned, but she still managed to ruin the sequel to the melodrama I'm currently reading (Charlotte's Inheritance by M.E. Braddon).   Two others that are on my to-be-read list were also spoiled before I could skim over the paragraph.  I'm not sure why the author felt the need to give all the plot details but it was a huge problem for me.

(On a side note, the author also appears to feel that Dickens was the only Victorian author of sensational fiction/melodrama that could be considered "literature", which bothered me as well, given it's so highly untrue.  )

I'm rating the book three stars for the obvious amount of work and research that went into it, but can't strongly recommend it as I didn't feel it left me enlightened about the era or that it proved the subtitle ("How the Victorians Revelled in Death and Detection and Created Modern Crime") as promised.

September 2026 Wrap-Up

James Burke

Books Read:

Twin Tracks: The Unexpected Origins of the Modern World by James Burke (2003)  4/5 stars

In this, science historian Burke takes one idea or event (for example, the 1770 Falklans War) and shows how, by two different tracks starting from the same origin, it led to an important invention in the modern world (in this case, television).  Delivered with Burke's usual wit, irreverence and levity, it's fun to read, even though, at times the connections seemed tenuous and the humor forced.  (Disclaimer: I have a crush on Mr. Burke.)

Songs of Stone by Celeste Baxendell (2022) 4/5 stars

Bewitching Fairy Tales book #5

This is a well-written and compelling spice-free fantasy that follows one of the characters from the previous book as he encounters and falls in love with a young female criminal.  The story is often serious, as it deals with themes of repentance, justice, and how far one would go to save a loved one.  It's not an exact retelling, but contains references to the stories of The Pied Piper and the Sandman, wrapped up in Baxendell's original convincing world. At over 600 pages, it is detailed and full of character development, but does require a committed reader.

Gilded in Ice by Sarah Pennington (2021)  4/5 stars

Bastian Dennel PI, book 2 

This mystery involving two missing people is set in a fantasy world similar to a US city during the Jazz Age, and lightly follows the stories of "Snow White and Rose Red", "East of the Sun, West of the Moon", and Cupid and Psyche. The concept is unique, fun, and engaging, but even in this second book of the series, the world, magic system, and characters aren't fully developed. Despite that, I enjoyed it and will most likely read another by the author.

Blood on the Tracks: Railway Mysteries edited by Martin Edwards (2018)  4/5 stars

This is a short story collection from the British Library Crime Classics.  The variety of authors from still popular to now obscure is excellent, worth five stars as always, but the quality of the work varies, bringing it down to 4 stars.  Some of them are particularly memorable, though, and introduced me to authors I will definitely be looking up in the future.

Audio Books:

The House of Dudley: A New History of Tudor England by Joanne Paul (2022)  4/5 stars

This is a nonfiction account of the rise and fall of the Dudley family, from the reign of King Edward VIII through to Queen Elizabeth I.  I listened to the audio version, so I don't know what kind of references Paul used, but I would like to know her sources for some of the vivid descriptions of feelings and actions she included.  Other than that, it's generally well written and held my attention; it would be a good fit for anyone interested in that era.

Miss Pym Disposes by Josephine Tey (1946)  4/5 stars

This is not a typical mystery, suspense, or even crime novel.  It takes place at a girls' college, and Tey spends a good deal of time allowing the reader the know and like the characters.  When an accident happens, Miss Pym -- a visiting psychiatrist -- becomes emotionally involved and faces a tough decision.  This is a well-written and surprisingly compelling story, but the reader must not expect the usual Golden Age whodunnit.  

August 2026 Wrap Up

Books Read: 

Passenger to Tehran by Vita Sackville-West (1926) 4/5 stars

This short memoir tells of the spring 1926 journey Sackville-West made to Persia -- first visiting Egypt, then coming back to England through Russia, Poland, and Germany.  It is full of beautiful prose and vivid descriptions, but mostly shows the reader the author herself through her comments, reactions, and emotions.  It's laugh-out-loud funny at times, moving at others, and always thought-provoking.  I wouldn't recommend it as a reader's introduction to Sackville-West (I would suggest All Passion Spent, or her novellas "Seducers in Ecuador" and "The Heir"), but for those already familiar with her work, this is a must read.  Note: I read the version with the introduction by her son, Nigel Nicholson, and found that it added to tremendously to the experience.

 

Mr. Zero by Patricia Wentworth (1938)  3/5 stars

This is a light, though tense, novel of espionage and suspense with a dash of romance. Though it was easy to solve, it was still enjoyable.

John Marchmont's Legacy by Mary Elizabeth Braddon (1863)  4/5 stars

This was an entertaining Victorian melodrama and while it lacked the surprises and twists that her books usually have, it was still well-written and engrossing.

The Flight of the Shadow by George MacDonald (1891)  4/5 stars

This is a typical Victorian melodrama with strong Christian overtones.  It's well-written, interesting, with a few nice twists.  Definitely not MacDonald's finest work, but still an entertaining read if you enjoy that genre.

Come, Tell Me How You Live by Agatha Christie Mallowan (1946)  4/5 stars

As with her Autobiography, Christie's archeological memoirs are chatty, insightful, and fun to read.  There are bits that were amusing to the author that don't sit well with 21st-Century sensibility, but overall it's was an entertaining depiction of living in Syria for three seasons of excavation.  

Audiobooks Completed:
The Worcester Whisperers by Kerry Tombs (2008)  4/5 stars

Inspector Ravenscroft mysteries, book 2

This is a solid mystery with appealing characters and a satisfying solution.  I didn't like that the Inspector had information that the reader did not, but other than that, I enjoyed the book.

A Body at a Boarding School by Benedict Brown (2021)  3/5 stars

Lord Edgington Investigates, book 2

A retired Scotland Yard Inspector investigates a murder with his teenage grandson learning at his side.  This is a fun, light, cozy mystery and, while not deep, did have an entertaining plot.

No. 17 by J. Jefferson Farjeon (1926)  4/5 stars

This is a delightful crime novel/adventure starring Ben, presently out-of-work from the Merchant Navy, who discovers a dead body in an empty house.  It's funny, mostly well-written, and (though often predictable), still has a few twists. 

Did Not Finish

The Bullet-Catcher's Daughter by Rod Duncan 

This is the first in a steampunk-alternate history trilogy that I really wanted to like.  My problem was twofold: the author does more telling than showing, but despite all the info given, after seven chapters I was still unable to fully grasp the world of the novel.  

July 2026 Wrap Up

Books Read:

Fly Country by Anthony Lang (1928)  4/5 stars

This is a light mystery/crime story with a bit of romance.  It is well-written and engaging and, though I figured out a good deal, I was interested to the end.

HIH Grand Duke MIchael Alexandrovich

Michael and Natasha: The Life and Love of Michael II, the Last of the Romanov Tsars by Rosemary and Donald Crawford (1997)  4/5 stars

This is a biography of the Grand Duke Michael Aleksandrovich, brother of Tsar Nicholas II, who was made Tsar for a brief period during the Russian Revolution of 1917.  It focuses on his relationship with Nathalie Wulfert with whom he fell passionately in love -- enough so to defy his family to marry her.  It is well-written and very interesting, up until the Revolution.  At that point, the authors go into excruciating detail with a mind-boggling amount of minutia.  Overall, though, I was glad to learn about Michael, Natasha, and their life and would recommend the book with the understanding that the middle chapters may need to be skimmed due to the information overload.

Nothing Can Rescue Me by Elizabeth Daly (1943)  4/5 stars

Henry Gamadge, book 5

This is a solid mystery, well-written and entertaining, though a bit convoluted at the end.  

Between the Acts by Virginia Woolf (1941)  3/5 stars

This is Woolf's final novel, published posthumously.  It spans about 24 hours: the night before, the day of, and the evening after the village play.  That play (and the play that was inside that play) is detailed line by excruciating line. I felt like some of the audience, wondering just what the play was about, what I was supposed to feel, and thinking it a bit of a time-waster. (Perhaps that was her point?)  Woolf's examination into the thoughts of the characters was as good as always, but the play felt contrived, almost a filler, and I came away disappointed.  Despite the fact that there are some gorgeous and amazing sentences, I wouldn't recommend this to new readers of Woolf, only to completist fans. 

The Master's Violin by Myrtle Reed (1904)  4/5 stars

This is a gentle novel of romance -- first love and second-chance -- with the overly lyrical prose and heavy emotions typical of the time.  As a fan of this genre and era, I found it enjoyable and entertaining, though I would only recommend it to those who also appreciate turn-of-the-20th-century melodramas.

Audiobooks Completed:

Powers and Thrones: A New History of the Middle Ages by Dan Jones (2021)  4/5 stars

This (long) nonfiction exploration of the Middle Ages is told by theme (such as monks, crusaders, merchants, and navigators) rather than by strict chronological order.  I found this to be a very effective arrangement and, though I didn't learn many new-to-me facts due to lots of previous studying of this time period, I enjoyed the writing, presentation, and style.  I definitely recommend this to those interested in, but relatively new to, the study of the Middle Ages.

Did Not Finish:

House of Brass by Ellery Queen

This was written in 1968 and it shows with its attitude toward sex and women, and overall slimy feel.  I enjoy the Queen novels of the 1940s, and even some later, but this one was just unreadable for me.  (Note: I found out after this review that was ghostwritten by Avram Davidson.)

 

Bonjour Agent by Fabergé Eastern 

It isn't a bad book -- I would give it 3 stars based on the 30% I read -- but it felt immature, both plot and prose.  Also, adding historical figures as characters in a book takes a good deal of convincing writing, and it just wasn't believable in this one. 

Ties of Dust by Deborah Grace White

It got too stressful for me due to the politics.

June 2026 Wrap Up

Books Read:

Beasts of Beauty by Celeste Baxendell (2021)  5/5 stars

Bewitching Fairy Tales, book 3 

This well-written no-spice fantasy is a gender-flipped version of Beauty and the Beast. This is a moving tale, full of danger, betrayal, guilt, redemption, and various forms of love. It is an engrossing and satisfying book that gutted me at times, but enchanted me throughout. (Do note that the villian and the male main character appear prominently in the second book of this series, and there is a cameo from the first book, so I recommend that the series be read in order. My review of book two can be found here and of book one, here.)

Reflections on the Psalms by C.S. Lewis (1958) 5/5 stars

This was a reread. My original review is found here.

Cinders of Glass by Celeste Baxendell (2022) 4/5 stars

Bewitching Fairy Tales, book 4

This is another well-written no-spice fantasy by an author that has become a favorite. Cinders of Glass is a retelling of "Cinderella", mixed with "The Little Match Girl", and follows Prince Cynrik, a character that appeared in the second book of this series. It is funny, exciting, and even moving a times, as it follows a plot of treason, betrayal, heartbreak, and redemption. The flawed characters make this a special book that shows that even the hardest heart can change.

Eight Faces at Three by Craig Rice (1939) 3/5 stars

John J. Malone series, book 1

This mystery is written in the screwball comedy style, with snappy dialogue and silly situations, a style I enjoy. Unfortunately, the author focused to much on drunken humor for my taste. The mystery itself was not particularly interesting, and I figured most of it out early on. This book is the start of a series, and I own several others, but I wasn't impressed enough to begin another any time soon. Rice was a popular Golden Age crime novelist, so I'm hoping the books improve as the series progresses.

Audiobooks:

Elf Prince by Tara Grayce (2020)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 7

This book tells the same story as Fierce Heart, only from Farrendel's point-of-view, instead of Essie's.  It was tender and emotional, watching first hand as he dealt with his anxiety, depression, and PTSD.  At first, I didn't think I'd read it, having read Fierce Heart just a few weeks prior, but I'm so glad I did.

Heart Bond by Tara Grayce (2023)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 8

This is a set of short stories and novellas that flesh out parts of the main story arc, or tell more about side characters.  While I was disappointed with a couple of the stories, wishing there had been more details, overall it was a wonderful collection and a great addition to the series.

Elf King by Tara Grayce (2023)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 9

Grayce finishes off this series by going far back in (series) time to tell the stories of the Elven Kings from Farrendel's grandfather up to his brother, the current King.  It was well-written,  often touching, and overall a fantastic way to wrap up The Elven Alliance. 

The Malvern Murders by Kerry Tombs (2006)  3/5 stars

Inspector Ravenscroft, book 1

This mystery takes place in Victorian England, and follows Inspector Ravenscroft, who has been sent to a health resort in Malvern after failing to capture a criminal.  While there, he becomes involved in a murder investigation involving important people of the town.  It's an interesting mystery, mostly well-written, with engaging characters, however, it wasn't particularly gripping.  Despite that, I will certainly continue the series to see what happens to Ravenscroft.

May 2026 Wrap Up

Books Read:

Night of the Letter by Dorothy Eden (1955)  4/5 stars

This is a domestic suspense with gothic vibes.  And if melodramatic, was still entertaining and engrossing, with a satisfying ending.

Blood & Roses: The Paston Family and the Wars of the Roses by Helen Castor (2004)  5/5 stars

Drawing from the the oldest surviving family correspondence written in English, the author/historian tells the story of three generations of the Paston family as they survived the upheavals of the Wars of the Roses. This book is intelligently written while still being easy-to-read.  It is a fascinating glimpse into the ordinary lives of an upwardly-moving family who were living through tumultuous times. 

Cargo of Eagles by Margery Allingham (1968)  3/5 stars

Albert Campion mysteries, book 19

This is the final Campion novel that was written by Allingham, and it was completed after her death by her husband, Pip Youngman Carter, from the notes she left.  It suffers from having too much going on in too few pages.  Despite being convoluted and confusing at times, the adventure was generally entertaining, and it's always fun to revisit Campion and Lugg.

The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis (1942)  5/5 stars

This was a reread for me, and I was even more impressed this time.  Lewis holds a mirror up and I saw myself in so many ways.  Simply a fantastic read for Christians who are willing to see themselves from outside, and who desire to change for the better.

The Captain of the Vulture by Mary Elizabeth Braddon (1863)  4/5 stars

This melodrama/mystery takes place in Georgian England, in the mid 18th century.  I went into it blind, only knowing I love the author, and I'm glad I did because all the plot was a surprise for me. I figured out some elements, but it still had me guessing in parts.  It was quite entertaining, and those that love the genre like I do will most likely enjoy it, too.  

Pride and Preston Lin by Christina Hwang Dudley (2024)  4/5 stars 

This is a contemporary Pride and Prejudice retelling that takes place in the San Francisco Bay Area among the Asian American community.  The characters are mainly college and grad students, learning to know themselves as they mature over the course of the novel.  I enjoyed how the author used the classic plot as a template for her modern story, giving it new twists yet staying faithful to the original.     Overall, I found it charming, often funny, and well-written.   As a fan of Dudley's Regency romances, I had great hopes for this one and was not disappointed.  (note: While it is no-spice, I'd place it in the New Adult category rather than YA.)

Audiobooks Completed:

War Bound by Tara Grayce (2020)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 2

War Bound picks up immediately after the end of the first book, Fierce Heart (my review here), and follows Essie and her elf husband Farrendel to her home country as they try to negotiate a further treaty to ally humans and elves against the aggression of the trolls. The sweet (no-spice) romance between the two continues as their marriage of alliance grows into love.  The plot is one of traitors, danger, and betrayal; it is exciting and engaging, and even had me in tears toward the end.  I enjoyed it tremendously and began the third book immediately after finishing this one.

Death Wind by Tara Grayce (2020)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 3

As previously, Death Wind picks up immediately after the end of War Bound, and tells of the war between the Trolls and the Human/Elf alliance.  It does include a lot of off-the-page torture, which is mentioned without  graphic details after the event.  It is well-written with a tense, gripping, and exciting plot which made me eager to begin the fourth book.

Troll Queen by Tara Grayce (2021)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 4

Like the others, this one picks up exactly where the last one ended.  I don't want to give spoilers, but a treaty is made between the Trolls and the Human/Elf alliance, leading to another marriage to seal the peace -- this time between Elf and Troll.  This book is well-written with lots of action, emotion, and drama, and with sweet and swoony no-spice romance thrown in for good measure. In addition, the author deals with topics like how to love in such a beautiful and healthy way.  I absolutely loved this book!  It's definitely my favorite of the series so far.

Pretense by Tara Grayce (2021)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 5

Assassination attempts, scandal, spying, secrets, and broken hearts fill this fifth installment of the Elven Alliance series.  It focuses on the human Prince Edmund and the elven Princess Jalissa as they navigate a budding relationship initially built on lies.  It's another well-written, no-spice fantasy, with action, emotion, and drama.  While Troll Queen remains my favorite, this one was a great read as well.

Shield Band by Tara Grayce (2022)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 6

To make a stronger alliance between the human kingdom and the Trolls, the Prince Julian searches for a bride among the Troll warriors.  Picking her was the easiest part -- wooing her was a test of Julian's courage and humility.  They become closer through tragedy and adventure, learning to stand side-by-side and back-to-back to face all difficulties.  This is the final book of the story arc (though three more books remain that deal with side characters and other points-of-view) and it wrapped everything up nicely.  It was well-written, engaging, exciting, and even moving at times, with swoon-worthy no-spice romance.  It quite nearly edged out Troll Queen as my favorite of the series.  

Did Not Finish:

Maid in Waiting by John Galsworthy

End of the Chapter, book 1; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 7

This book begins the final trilogy of The Forsyte Chronicles, but follows cousins-by-marriage to Fleur Forsyte Mont instead of the actual Forsyte family.  I read about half of it, but didn't find it as compelling as the prior two trilogies and eventually lost interest entirely.

Top Five Tuesday: Mysterious Houses

  Top 5 Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by Meeghan Reads 

I'm a day late, but yesterday's prompt of "mysterious houses" was too fun to pass up.  Here are five books that I have enjoyed where the houses are mysterious in a variety of ways. 

1. and 2.  Howl's Moving Castle (not pictured) and House of Many Ways by Diana Wynne Jones

In Howl, the house has legs and moves about and is a character in it's own right.  In one of the sequels, House of Many Ways, the house has doors that are portals, and is also a most important part of the story.

3. Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier

In this book, the house, Manderley, is full of unsettling secrets and people, an uneasy place that the new Mrs. de Winter learns to dread.

4. Dracula by Bram Stoker

Count Dracula's castle is terrifying place, menacing and deadly.

 

5. Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

Poor Catherine Morland!  She goes to Northanger Abbey expecting a gothic thrill but the mysterious oud house doesn't give exactly what she was wanting.

Have you read any of these?  Dracula and Rebecca are among my top favorite books of all times, but I recommend any of these five.

April 2026 Wrap-Up

Books Read:

The Silver Spoon by John Galsworthy (1926)  4/5 stars

A Modern Comedy, book 2; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 5

This novel combines politics, modern morality, and the reflections of those born "with a silver spoon" to make an engrossing, immersive continuation of the Forsyte family story.  As is usual with this series, there are beautiful passages of prose, thought-provoking instances, and a strongly believable story.  While it may not be as all-consuming as those of the first trilogy (The Forsyte Saga), The Silver Spoon is a worthy addition to the Chronicles.

Swan Song by John Galsworthy (1928)  4/5 stars

A Modern Comedy, book 3; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 6

I didn't enjoy this book as much as I did the previous five.  I did not like the direction it took nor did I care for Fleur, the main focus of the story.  Despite that, it was engrossing and I had to continue to see what would happen. Galsworthy was a master storyteller, making a gripping, thought-provoking story about flawed, believable people.  I came away not "liking" Swan Song, but still glad that I had read it.

Mirrors of Ice by Celeste Baxendell  (2021)  4/5 stars

Bewitching Fairy Tales, book 2

This no-spice fantasy is a blending of the tales of "Snow White" and "The Snow Queen", and carries over some of the characters from Stalks of Gold (my review here). At over 350 pages, the author took the time to build the world well and create believable, nuanced characters. It is both tense and sweet, with plenty of action. I definitely enjoyed it and will be continuing the series.

Audiobooks Completed:
Root of All Evil by E.X. Ferrars (1984)  4/5 stars

Andrew Basnett series, book 2 

This is a fun, well-written, and clever mystery.   

The Curse of Misty Wayfair by Jaime Jo Wright (2019)  4/5 stars

This is an engrossing Christian-themed, dual-timeline gothic mystery novel.  It's well-written and both time periods felt believable.  It kept me guessing and involved throughout.   

Fierce Heart by Tara Grayce (2019)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book one

This was a fun and often exciting story of a human princess marrying an elf prince to secure peace between their countries.  It's narrated through the thoughts of the princess, Essie, and if her continual introspection was annoying at times, it was age-appropriate and felt natural.  Watching the (no-spice) romance between Essie and her PTSD-suffering warrior husband unfold was sweet and satisfying.  I enjoyed the book a good deal, especially the mix of magic and steam, and look forward to continuing the series.  

March 2026 Wrap Up

Books Read: 

Pink Sugar by O. Douglas (1924)  4/5 stars

The Priorsford Trilogy, book 2

While this is the second book of the Priorsford trilogy, it is not a sequel to Penny Plain (my review here), but only takes place in the same general area of Scotland.  It is a wonderful story -- part slice-of-life, part character study -- and is full of gentle humor, charm, emotion, and life.  I enjoyed this well-written, absorbing book even more than Penny Plain, and was sad when it ended. 

The Midnight Show by Sarah Pennington (2020)  3/5 stars

Bastian Dennel PI, book 1

This mystery is a retelling of "the Twelve Dancing Princesses" set in a fantasy world similar to a US city during the Jazz Age.  The concept is unique, fun, and engaging, but (at under 200 pages), the book is too short to really develop the world, magic system, or characters.  Despite that, I enjoyed it and would definitely read more of the series.

The Broken Halo by Florence L. Barclay (1913)  4/5 stars

Barclay is the author of my favorite Edwardian romance (The Rosary), so I expected a typical-of-her romantic love story.  Instead, it's the tale of a new doctor who lost his faith in God at the age of seven, and spent the next twenty years developing a hardened resistance to anything to do with Christianity and an overwhelming desire to succeed regardless of the cost.  He becomes the physician to an older heart patient, whose faith is strong and alive -- and who prays determinedly for his soul.  This is a moving and surprisingly riveting book, which shows the beauty of a Christ-like love. 

Priorsford by O. Douglas (1932)  3/5 stars

The Priorsford Trilogy, book 3

Priorsford takes place about four years after the events of Pink Sugar, and ten after Penny Plain, bringing back and blending the stories of characters from both.  It was a bit uneven to me, with some dull places that weren't quite outweighed by the good parts of the story.  It's obvious that the author was quite concerned with the state of Britain at the time, as she inserted discussions of issues here and there, but in a way that didn't feel natural.   Priorsford also finished in an unfinished way, for lack of a better term, seeming to be setting the scene for a fourth book that never came. I still enjoyed reading it, but it wasn't on par with the previous two of the series. 

The White Monkey by John Galsworthy (1924)  4/5 stars

A Modern Comedy, book 1; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 4

This is the first novel of the second trilogy following the Forsyte family, and takes place almost immediately after To Let.  While not as excellent as the previous three*, it's still compelling, engrossing, and immersive.  Galsworthy was a magnificent writer. (*see audiobook section for reviews)

Interlude: The Silent Wooing by John Galsworthy (1924)  3/5 stars

A Modern Comedy, book 1.5; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 4.5

This short story is not a good example of Galsworthy's talent, but does set the scene for the following novel.

Audiobooks Completed:

Galsworthy

In Chancery by John Galsworthy (1920)  5/5 stars

The Forsyte Saga, book 2; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 2

This continues the story of the Forsytes, Soames and Young Jolyon in particular, 12 years after the events of A Man of Property.  The family is still focused on property, human and material alike, and their relationships reflect this.  It is a beautifully written and masterful character study, an excellent picture of the death of the Victorian era, and a gripping, engrossing story.  

Interlude: Awakening by John Galsworthy (1920)  5/5 stars

The Forsyte Saga, book 2.5; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 2.5

This short story takes place eight years after In Chancery and tells of the discovery of beauty by a young Forsyte.  It's a moving story which illuminates one familiar character and sets the stage for the adulthood of a new one.

To Let by John Galsworthy (1921)  5/5 stars

The Forsyte Saga, book 3; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 3

This is stellar conclusion to the first trilogy of The Forsyte Chronicles (i.e. The Forsyte Saga).  It follows two of the youngest Forsyte generation, as the actions of their parents affect the outcome of their own lives.  In addition, it's a character study of the early Jazz Age, which it's change or priorities, so contrary to the Victorian raised Forsytes.  It's a brilliant finish, unsettling and moving, that leaves the reader wanting more.  

 A Certain Justice by P.D. James (1997)  5/5 stars

Adam Dalgliesh series, book 10

James is a master story teller, and the disconcerting ending of this character-driven mystery makes this one of her best.  This was a reread and I still found it incredibly moving and enthralling.

February 2026 Wrap-Up

Books Read:

Stalks of Gold by Celeste Baxendell (2021)  3/5 stars

Bewitching Fairy Tales, book 1 

This no-spice fantasy is a combined retelling of Rumpelstiltskin and Rapunzel.  It is one of the author's earliest published novels and is not as good as her later books, mainly because nearly all the characters wallow in anger, despair, angst, or self-pity (if not all at once).  However, it is imaginative, well-written, has an intriguing plot and, for the most part, was an entertaining story. I will certainly read more of the Bewitching Fairy Tales series, but in the meantime, I highly recommend Ties of Starlight (my review) or This Rotting Heart (my review), both of which were five star reads for me.

The Belton Estate by Anthony Trollope (1866)  5/5 stars (my review here)

Fair Warning by Mignon G. Eberhart (1936)  4/5 stars

Marcia has been married for three miserable years to Ivan, an emotionally abusive manipulator.  Her neighbor, Rob, confesses that he loves Marcia and begs her to leave Ivan, but in her fragile mental state, she simply can't.  That night, Ivan is found murdered and Marcia is the most likely suspect.  

Eberhart creates a sense of dread from the very beginning, gradually increasing it until the tense atmosphere is nearly smothering.  The clues and false clues are clever -- every time I was certain I had the answer, I had to start over again.  While it's not a five star book, it was certainly entertaining and gripping.

Nathaniel's Nutmeg by Giles Milton (1999)  4/5 stars (my review here)

The Case Of The Blind Barber by John Dickson Carr (1934)  4/5 stars

Dr. Gideon Fell mysteries, book 4

A group of friends crossing the Atlantic from New York are robbed, rob someone themselves, find and lose an injured person, and become embroiled in one laugh-out-loud situation after another.  It reads  like a slapstick comedy, yet is a clever, skillfully-planned, rather grisly murder mystery. I found it to be highly entertaining  overall, and with a satisfying conclusion.  This is my first time reading any from the Dr. Fell series, so I don't know if they are all humorous stories, but I will certainly read another to see. 

Penny Plain by O. Douglas (1920)  4/5 stars 

The Priorsford Trilogy, book 1

This gentle book is a character study of both people and place, a slice-of-life story, a celebration of sibling love, and a light romance.  It's full of engaging characters and lovely descriptions, and includes strong Christian and moral undertones. Though like a fairy-tale in parts, Penny Plain felt alive and believable in many other ways.  I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written novel and look forward to reading the rest of the trilogy.     

Audiobooks Completed:

These Happy Golden Years by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1943)  4/5 stars

Little House series, book 8; Newbury Medal Nominee

This book finds the Ingalls family doing well in their homestead and becoming a part of the town.  It follows Laura as she becomes a young woman, begins earning money to assist her family, and experiences romance.  It's sweet, funny, and delightful, and a pleasure to watch her grow and mature.  

The Man of Property by John Galsworthy (1906)  5/5 stars

The Forsyte Chronicles, book 1 

This is the story of family obsessed with property of all sorts, and their relationships with each other. It's a character study, a novel of manners, and an examination of Victorian life.  Excellently written and completely engrossing, The Man of Property is a memorable experience.

Indian Summer of a Forsyte by John Galsworthy (1918)  5/5 stars

The Forsyte Chronicles, book 1.5 

This novella begins a three years after the end of The Man of Property and is a wonderful, moving, and well-written footnote to the story.   

The Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper (1826) 4/5 stars  (my review) 

Did Not Finish:

Farmer Boy by Laura Ingalls Wilder

This is not so much a "did not finish" as a "did not start".  I didn't want to interrupt the flow of Laura's stories with Almanzo's tale, so my intention was to read it last, after I finished the rest of the Little House series.  I listened to less than one chapter, but got interested in the Galsworthy book and switched to audio with it.  I still intend to return to Farmer Boy, though, as it's one of my favorites of the series.

Orchid Muse by Erica Hannickel

This is subtitled "a history of obsession in fifteen flowers" and I was intrigued.  I love a history tied around one object or person. Unfortunately, the author starts the introduction by saying that there is "nothing quite like the raw sexuality" of an orchid, and she continued with an agenda to sexualize the orchid, which isn't what I was looking to read. 

The Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper

The Last of the Mohicans
James Fenimore Cooper
1826 
4/5 stars

I'm not particularly interested in American history nor American literature, so while I enjoy British books from the mid-to-late 19th Century, I've read very little by Americans. This is one of those classics that I've "always meant to read" but never thought would be interesting enough. I was wrong.

The Last of the Mohicans is exactly what one would expect if a Victorian melodrama/adventure was uprooted from Britain and placed in the wilds of North American -- a rugged tale, full of war and daring deeds, shaped by the wildness of the land.  There is an obvious love story, and one that is hidden, but the real focus of relationships is that of father-to-son and friend-to-friend.

Yes, it's dated, and at times cringe-worthy.  However, Cooper saves the word "savage" for the enemies of his hero Native Americans, the Mohicans and the Delaware, and shows a sensitivity to the Native American culture that I didn't expect. 

While I wouldn't say that The Last of the Mohicans changed my point-of-view about American literature, I will say that I was quite impressed.  I was engrossed in this adventure, was moved to tears on a few occasions, and loved it much more than I expected.  I wouldn't hesitate to read more of Cooper's novels.

Nathaniel's Nutmeg by Giles Milton

Nathaniel's Nutmeg: Or the True and Incredible Adventures of the Spice Trader Who Changed the Course of History 

Giles Milton

1999

4/5 stars

This is a nonfiction account of the English attempt (during the 16th and 17th centuries) to acquire spice trading posts in what is now Indonesia.  The East India Company had their sights set on the island of Run in the Banda Islands.  This lead to hostility and bloodshed between them and the Dutch East India Company -- and to the eventual English ownership of Manhattan.

One difficulty I had with the book is that while Milton makes extensive use of journals, diaries, and letters, which he acknowledges in the bibliography, he unfortunately doesn't ascribe to any particular source with footnotes.

My other complaint is that the title is misleading.  Nathaniel Courthope features only as a minor character in the story of these spice wars.  Milton gives Courthope direct credit for the British obtaining Manhattan because of the stand he took against the Dutch on the island of Run.  This is tenuous at best, though I don't deny that Courthope was both brave and heroic.

Despite these two problems, I found the book easy to read, enjoyable, and fascinating.  I've studied a lot of British history but had no idea of the depth of the conflict between England and the Dutch over  cloves and nutmeg.  The brutality was horrifying, and the extent of the rancor over one small spice island was astounding. 

I will add that Nathaniel's Nutmeg is definitely written from the British point of view, and may be biased, but it is still interesting and informative. 

Top Ten Tuesday: Armchair Travels

  Top Ten Tuesday is a feature hosted by Jana at That Artsy Reader Girl.

Today's Top Ten Tuesday prompt is "books for armchair travelers".  These are the eight that I would recommend wholeheartedly to any reader.

1.  Sky Burial by Xinran 

I absolutely loved this book!  It's a love letter to Tibet and was simply fantastic.  My full review can be found here.

2. Married to Bhutan: How One Woman Got Lost, Said "I Do," and Found Bliss by Linda Leaming  

This is another romance that is also a love story of a woman with a country.  I loved this one, too!  My full review is here.

3. Chasing the Rose: An Adventure in the Venetian Countryside by Andrea Di Robilant 

This is more history than travel, as the author is attempting to trace the identity of a certain rose, but the reader still travels with the author on his lovely adventure.  My full review is here.

4. King Solomon's Mines by H. Rider Haggard

Haggard wrote great adventure stories and this is one of his best -- and one of my favorite novels.  Yes, it's dated here and there, but for the most part it is a sterling yarn.  My full review is here. 

5.  The Mapmaker's Wife by Robert Whitaker

This is a nonfiction account of a map-making expedition, plus the story of a woman's adventure.  My full review is here.

6. The Altogether Unexpected Disappearance of Atticus Craftsman by Mamen Sánchez 

This novel is the delightful tale of a Brit, Atticus Craftsman, and his visit to Madrid.  My full review is here.

7. Passionate Nomad: The Life of Freya Stark by Jane Fletcher Geniesse 

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.   Her travels make fascinating reading for the armchair traveler.

8. Dracula by Bram Stoker

Travel to Transylvania with Harker in one of my favorite books!  My full review is here.

To see more books by location, check out my "Where in the World" page.

Edit: While looking at other blogs, I was reminded of Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery and the Little House series by Laura Ingalls Wilder.  Both excellent armchair travelling aides! 

The Belton Estate

Trollope

The Belton Estate 

Anthony Trollope 

1866  

5/5 stars

On the face of it, this is the story of a love triangle between Clara and two very different suitors -- and yet it's so much more.  Clara is spirited and determined, but a family tragedy makes her dependent in different degrees on the various men in her life.  She must navigate new experiences and emotions while still staying true to herself.  Through Clara, Trollope compassionately shows the difficulty a Victorian woman faced when trying to make decisions regarding her future.   

The characters are believable and well-rounded, filled with goodness and flaws.  The book is witty, intelligent, and engrossing. Though it seems like a commonplace plot, it was so well-written that it kept me riveted throughout.  I absolutely loved it.

Let's Talk Bookish: Reading with Friends

 Let’s Talk Bookish is a weekly bookish meme created co-hosted by Dinipandareads and Book Nook Bits. 

Today's topic is "reading with friends" and asks about group reads, buddy reads, and online reading groups.

My husband and I have done buddy reads in the past, sometimes with two copies of the same book, sometimes taking turns, and previously we used to listen to audiobooks together in the evenings.  I love having someone to discuss a book with, so I'm very fortunate he'll join me.

After years, I talked my Mom into reading Dracula (one of my favorite novels), so I did a refresher of it while she read it, and we enjoyed talking about it.

Other than that, though, in-person discussions like book clubs or Bible study groups are not for me.  I'm too introverted these days to be able to enjoy it.

Online discussions are different, though.  In December, I participated in a group read of The Cricket on the Hearth (Charles Dickens) on Bookstagram (my account) and enjoyed the experience immensely. I did very little actual contributing to the conversations, but liked seeing what other people had to say. 

This month, I've joined another group that is reading A Man of Property by John Galsworthy.  The Forsyte Saga has been on my TBR for some time now, so I was glad to be encouraged to finally read it.  I'm trying to keep up with the group chat and want to actually participate since the group isn't as large as the Dickens group was.

I was also been fortunate enough to buddy-read Castle Rackrent by Maria Edgeworth with a Bookstagram friend.  We had an interesting discussion about it and I hope to read with her again sometime.

So, for me, I enjoy reading with others so I can discuss my feelings and pose questions -- just not in person.  How about you?