Dani's Bookshelf

In the Mail box

2012-01-25T14:51:00.000-08:00

Last week I ordered 2 books from my son's Book order form. I was really excited to see Prisoners in the Palace and another book I found is I Was Jane Austen' Best Friend. These are of course both YA books but they look very interestng.

From Tyndale publishers for review I received

War of the Roses saga set for television adaptation

2012-01-13T04:25:00.000-08:00

The BBC is to screen a television adaption of Philippa Gregory's best-selling novels set during the War Of The Roses.

Ben Stephenson, the BBC's controller of drama commissioning said the programme would be a "big, fat, old soap opera".

The BBC said War Of The Roses will be told uniquely from the point of view of powerful women who "shaped their men and who shaped history in the process".

Mr Stephenson added: "We haven't quite worked out how many episodes it's going to be but it's going to be many."

Paying tribute to Gregory, he said she had an "extraordinary skill" as she "tells incredibly textual, well-researched history, but in the most page-turning way".

Acclaimed historical writer Gregory is also known for penning The Other Boleyn Girl, which was made into a film starring Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson.

Naughty In Nice By Rhys Bowen

2012-01-07T23:45:00.000-08:00

Saummary
Lady Georgiana is volunteering in the soup kitchen, which is near the train station. Thus she sees everyone leaving cold depressing England for sunny Nice. Even her sister-in-law's determined to go to France, using her pregnancy as an excuse.

Georgiana wishes she could go to, but of course, there's no money for her ticket. Then the Queen asks a favor - one of her favorite snuffboxes has gone missing. She has a pretty good idea on the thief and asks Georgiana to go recover her property.

Happily, Georgiana complies. On the train, she meets Coco Chanel who is putting together a fashion show. After a rude awakening at her destination, she decides to take Chanel up on her offer to reside with her while Chanel turns Georgiana into a model.

While modeling, the Queen's jewels turn up missing. Then the thief of the snuffbox turns up dead in his swimming pool only hours after seen with Georgiana. The French police are keeping a close eye on her as she's the number one suspect.
My Thoughts: I just Love Georgie This installment of the series was such fun to read i hated the book to end. Coco Chanel wasa hoot and of course the Infamous Mrs. Simpson makes a apperance in the book as well.
now starts the long wait for the next book which is in fact A Christmas Mystery Coming in November.
Format: Kindle
Rating:

A New Tudor Challenge for 2012

2012-01-05T05:57:00.000-08:00

A new year a new challenge I came across this challange on facebook and figured why not?
I have tons of Tudor related books that are begging to be read So I decided to join . I think I will try for the King Henry VIII and see how far I get with it. I know I can come up with 10 Tudor related books.

The Winter Palace By Eva Stachnick

2011-12-28T07:16:00.000-08:00

Summary:Her name is Barbara—in Russian, Varvara. Nimble-witted and attentive, she’s allowed into the employ of the Empress Elizabeth, amid the glitter and cruelty of the world’s most eminent court. Under the tutelage of Count Bestuzhev, Chancellor and spymaster, Varvara will be educated in skills from lock picking to lovemaking, learning above all else to listen—and to wait for opportunity. That opportunity arrives in a slender young princess from Zerbst named Sophie, a playful teenager destined to become the indomitable Catherine the Great. Sophie’s destiny at court is to marry the Empress’s nephew, but she has other, loftier, more dangerous ambitions, and she proves to be more guileful than she first appears.

What Sophie needs is an insider at court, a loyal pair of eyes and ears who knows the traps, the conspiracies, and the treacheries that surround her. Varvara will become Sophie’s confidante—and together the two young women will rise to the pinnacle of absolute power.

With dazzling details and intense drama, Eva Stachniak depicts Varvara’s secret alliance with Catherine as the princess grows into a legend—through an enforced marriage, illicit seductions, and, at last, the shocking coup to assume the throne of all of Russia.

My thoughts: The friendship of Barbara and Catherine was fasicanting it was a fast pace read for me the character of Barbara kept me interested in the story but I just wish there was more of Catherine 's life . Lots of twists and an turns to keep you turning the page, The development of the friend ship between Sophie and Barbara was one of my favorite parts. This book just draws you to another time in Russia and you just dont want to leave until that last page .
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A Reader's Christmas

2011-12-27T08:08:00.000-08:00

I hope every one had a wonderful Christmas, now that things have calmed down a bit I thought i would share with you what I recieved this year under the tree. My big gift was a Kindle Fire,I love this little thing it is basically just a big Ipod as my daughter would say but it is perfect for me since I usally have to share the big pc with hubby so he can play his games . Reading on this little gem will be different from the K3 I recieved last year since it is a LCD Screen, I tried a few books so far and it doesn't seem to bother me. I am really excited to own one and look forward to enjoying it over the year. I also recieved Two gift cards for Barnes and Nobel which I used to preorder these two upcoming releases..

Book of the Year 2011

2011-12-20T11:05:00.000-08:00

It's that time of the year again to pick the the book of the year.
This year's I have 2 book that I wanted to give Book of the year award too
First up is A Royal Likeness I recieved this one from the Author for review last year
after I picked The Queen's Dollmaker for a honorable mention.S ince it was not suppose to be out til 2011 I saved it for this years award

Christine really finds some interesting carrers to write about this one is based on Madame Tussade's wax figures. and is a sequel to The Queen's Dollmaker. A fabulous book to read I can not wait for the one about the Victorian undertaker I am sure that will be a wonderful book as well.

I loved Roses it was pure escapism I loved it so much I donated it to library where I volunteer it has become a hit there as well.It really should be a movie it was that good.I have a few honorable mentions this year as well.

First up is
Now unless you have been under a rock you know we had a Royal wedding this year.
Anderson is one of my favorite Royal biographers and he has written a lovely book on William and his new wife Catherine. It is a lovely tribute to the couple and to William's mother and the lessons he had learn from her life. A must read for Royal fans.

Georgie is one of my favorite characters to read about she is always in to some kind of trouble and I love her run in with Wallis Simpson.

Isabel Wolf is a new author for me I downloaded this book by mistake on to my Kindle it was quite a surprise I loved reading about the vintage clothing and the histories behind them. and all the sightings in London came to life in this book I was surprised to see that there was a scene set in the Diana Memorial Park.

Gregg Olsen is another new author to me Starvation heights is a true story about a woman who was convicted of murder a English Heiress and countless others. Another one of those books that really need to be made in to movie.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and gets lots of books under their tree this year

In The Mailbox

2011-12-20T10:25:00.000-08:00

This weekin the Mail box I recieved from The Library Thing for review.

From paperbackswap I recieved some books that are not historical fiction but I am trying to get caught up on DALLLAS before the new series starts in the summer so I grabbed these gems for my bookshelf.

Mine in the Night By Liz Curtis Higgs

2011-12-20T10:06:00.000-08:00

Summary:Stepping from a battered coach on a rainy April eve, newly widowed Elisabeth Kerr must begin again, without husband or title, property or fortune. She is unafraid of work and gifted with a needle, but how will she stitch together the tattered remnants of her life? And who will mend her heart, torn asunder by betrayal and deception?
Elisabeth has not come to Selkirk alone. Her mother-in-law, Marjory Kerr, is a woman undone, having buried her husband, her sons, and any promise of grandchildren. Dependent upon a distant cousin with meager resources, Marjory dreads the future almost as much as she regrets the past. Yet joy still comes knocking, and hope is often found in unexpected places.
Then a worthy hero steps forward, rekindling a spark of hope. Will he risk his reputation to defend two women labeled as traitors to the Crown? Or will a wealthy beauty, untainted by scandal, capture his affections?
The heartrending journey of the Kerr women comes to a glorious finish in Mine Is the Night, a sparkling gem of redemption and restoration set in eighteenth-century Scotland.
My Thoughts: this is suppose to be a take on the Ruth, Naomi and Boaz from the bible
the story started off well and the chapters were short a so it wasa fast read but the I had a problem with the scottish language and the constant worrying about Gibson drove me nuts.
I found out that it part of series maybe that is the reason why I didn't "get" the story.

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Movie of The Month Love's Christmas Journey

2011-12-13T07:13:00.000-08:00

While still mourning the loss of her husband and daughter, recently widowed Ellie King (Natalie Hall) visits her brother Aaron Davis (Greg Vaughan) and his children for Christmas. Ellie does her best to enjoy the holidays, even making new friends with Mrs. Thompson (JoBeth Williams), a local shop keeper, and handsome admirer Deputy Strode (Dylan Bruce). Settling in nicely with her brother's family, Ellie also meets Erik (Bobby Campo), a young man abandoned by his outlaw father whom Aaron has taken in as one of his own. When Aaron travels out of town to purchase adjacent land for farming, Ellie agrees to watch his children, but the season’s festivities are threatened when Aaron goes missing.

It has been awhile since I have watched this movie but I figured I need to go ahead and review it so I can review another film. Love's Christmas Journey was a sweet film but lacked the drama that the others in the series had. Since it was not based on a particular book I felt like the series has run it course. A good start to the Christmas movie season but left a lot to be desired
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The lady of The Rivers by Philippa Gregory

2011-12-13T06:41:00.000-08:00

Summary:
Descended from Melusina, the river goddess, Jacquetta always has had the gift of second sight. As a child visiting her uncle, she met his prisoner, Joan of Arc, and saw her own power reflected in the young woman accused of witchcraft. They share the mystery of the tarot card of the wheel of fortune before Joan is taken to a horrific death at the hands of the English rulers of France. Jacquetta understands the danger for a woman who dares to dream.
Jacquetta is married to the Duke of Bedford, English regent of France, and he introduces her to a mysterious world of learning and alchemy. Her only friend in the great household is the duke’s squire Richard Woodville, who is at her side when the duke’s death leaves her a wealthy young widow. The two become lovers and marry in secret, returning to England to serve at the court of the young King Henry VI, where Jacquetta becomes a close and loyal friend to his new queen.
The Woodvilles soon achieve a place at the very heart of the Lancaster court, though Jacquetta can sense the growing threat from the people of England and the danger of royal rivals. Not even their courage and loyalty can keep the House of Lancaster on the throne. Henry the king slides into a mysterious sleep; Margaret the queen turns to untrustworthy favorites for help; and Richard, Duke of York, threatens to overturn the whole kingdom for his rival dynasty.
Jacquetta fights for her king, her queen, and for her daughter Elizabeth for whom Jacquetta can sense an extraordinary and unexpected future: a change of fortune, the throne of England, and the white rose of York.
My Thoughts:
Philippa's books always draw me in to the story really fast and before I know it am at the end and disapointed that I now have to wait another year or so before the next one. This one was no exception I enjoyed Jacquetta's story and was relived to find that the Joan of Arc portion of the book did not drag on through out the story. I even enjoyed the Meslunia parts I guess because there was so much more going on than just the witch craft. Queen Margaret of Anjou needed a good slapping from time to time with all of her whining and clinging to Jacquetta who seemed to be with child every year or so.I personally would have like to have seen more of the running of her house hold and interactions with her staff the poor woman never stayed home long enough to have a child and get back to court.
I would really suggest reading this one before the White Queen then read The Red Queen if you have not started this series yet since it will make more sense to the reader that way. I personally enjoyed it and look forward to the next book in the series The Kingmaker's Daughters.
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In the Mailbox New DVDs For The Weekend

2011-12-02T15:07:00.000-08:00

Today I received a DVD that I won from the website BritScene.com it focuses on all things British in film, Music and TV. I entered a giveaway and the prize was the three disc set of the movie The Rise and Fall of Margaret Thatcher. it looks like it was made like the drama The Queen with three different actress playing each stage of her life.I can not wait to watch it this weekend

I also received the movie Gunpowder,Treason &Plot this one I purchased. It is set during the reign of Mary Queen of Scots it looks to be very interesting. So i am ready for the weekend just need to get some Popcorn!

Starvation Heights By Gregg Olson

2011-11-29T11:13:00.000-08:00

Summary: A tall, egotistical woman doctor with an imposing jawline and a fierce will to dominate others. The victims are two wealthy English sisters, gullible health faddists after the fashion of those who flocked to Dr. Kellogg's sanitarium in Battle Creek, Michigan. But unlike Dr. Kellogg's comparatively gentle method of diet plus enemas, Dr. Hazzard's method was to literally starve her patients to death--and then defraud them of their valuables.
My Thoughts:
I first saw this book at our local library where I volunteer it was ordered on interloan library for another patron So I could Not check it out. But the photos and the history of this woman and her crimes drew me in to the story. I had to download it to my Kindle that night.This is one of the best "Crime" books I have read in a long time it reads like a historical novel and is easy follow along. I could not put this book down,In fact my daughter and I rented the Deadly Women ( Obession) Episode from Netflix so we could find out more about Linda Hazzard sadly to say it left alot to be desired and I went back to the book asap.An awesome read!
Format : Kindle
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BBC & HBO Adapt ‘Wolf Hall’ Novel For TV

2011-11-18T13:32:00.000-08:00

HBO are teaming up with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) to produce a made for TV mini-series of the Hilary Mantel novel ‘Wolf Hall‘. The novel won Mantel the UK’s most prestigious literary award, the Man Booker Prize, in 2009.The adaptation will be penned by the Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy movie writer Peter Straughan and will become a four part series to be broadcast on HBO and BBC2.

A work of fiction,Wolf Hall is set in England during the first half of the 16th century and follows the rise to power of Thomas Cromwell in the court of Henry VIII. Cromwell, a staunch supporter of the English Reformation, helps Henry VIII annul his marriage to Catherine of Aragon so he can marry his mistress Anne Boleyn. The King eventually tires of Cromwell and has him executed.

Developing the series for HBO and the BBC are Company Pictures, the team behind Shameless, Skins and The Shadow Line, and former HBO Films president Colin Callender’s Playground Entertainment.

Source: The Guardian

Disney's Brave Trailer

2011-11-18T10:36:00.000-08:00

This first trailer introduces us to the stunningly animated, Scottish characters. Not only is this fairy tale a first for Pixar, Merida is the first Scottish princess for Disney as well. Full of Pixar humour, this is sure to be an epic adventure and the ginger-haired family will be a memorable one for all.

Brave is directed by Brenda Chapman and Mark Andrews, and the British cast also includes Craig Ferguson, Robbie Coltrane, and Kevin McKidd.

Watch the trailer below, and see this in US theaters on June 22,2012.
I can not wait to see this!

To Die For By Sandra Byrd

2011-11-17T11:49:00.000-08:00

Sumamry:is the story of Meg Wyatt, pledged forever as the best friend to Anne Boleyn since their childhoods on neighboring manors in Kent. When Anne’s star begins to ascend, of course she takes her best friend Meg along for the ride. Life in the court of Henry VIII is thrilling at first, but as Anne’s favor rises and falls, so does Meg’s. And though she’s pledged her loyalty to Anne no matter what the test, Meg just might lose her greatest love—and her own life—because of it.
Meg's childhood flirtation with a boy on a neighboring estate turns to true love early on. When he is called to follow the Lord and be a priest she turns her back on both the man and his God. Slowly, though, both woo her back through the heady times of the English reformation. In the midst of it, Meg finds her place in history, her own calling to the Lord that she must follow, too, with consequences of her own. Each character in the book is tested to figure out what love really means, and what, in this life, is worth dying for. Though much of Meg’s story is fictionalized, it is drawn from known facts. The Wyatt family and the Boleyn family were neighbors and friends, and perhaps even distant cousins. Meg’s brother, Thomas Wyatt, wooed Anne Boleyn and ultimately came very close to the axe blade for it. Two Wyatt sisters attended Anne at her death, and at her death, she gave one of them her jeweled prayer book.
My Thoughts:
Sandra Byrd did a fantasic job on Anne's story it was a refeshing look in to her life through the eys of Meg her friend and confidant. I loved everything about this book from the cover to the Authors questions. There was not one dul moment reading this novel.
Format: Book
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In yesterday's Mailbox

2011-11-15T06:37:00.000-08:00

This beautiful book arrived in my mailbox yesterday for my review from Blogging for books.
I have been eyeing this book in the stores for awhile so I am excited to get the chance to review it.

In My Mailbox

2011-11-13T20:48:00.000-08:00

This week in my mailbox I recieved the following books.

The second book in the elizabethan mysteryseries I am trying to collect them all before I begin reading them.

The following books I purchased from my book club

:Paid:

:Free:

Novemeber Movie of the Month: Jewels

2011-11-02T08:21:00.000-07:00

After her marriage crumbles, Sarah Thompson tours Europe where she is captivated by William, the Duke of Whitfield. In time, William insists on making Sarah his wife. They settle in a chateau in France and begin a family. World War II interrupts their happiness and alters their future when Sarah is left at home with a small child and another on its way. When the war finally ends, in a gesture of goodwill, the Whitfields start buying jewelry from war survivors, which eventually leads to a successful jewelry store business. But conflicts abound after William dies, as Sarah struggles to control her children’s rivalry. As Sarah strives to keep the family and the business together, a man from her past teaches her that it may be possible to love again. Jewels on of my favorite movies besides all the glittering jewels and the royal love story it has passion, family drama ,heartache. it sort of reminds me of those primetime soaps from the 80's.

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A Sound Among Trees By Susan Mesinger

2011-11-01T18:44:00.000-07:00

Summary:
As a young bride, Susannah Page was rumored to be a Civil War spy for the North, a traitor to her Virginian roots. Her great-granddaughter Adelaide, the current matriarch of Holly Oak, doesn’t believe that Susannah’s ghost haunts the antebellum mansion looking for a pardon, but rather the house itself bears a grudge toward its tragic past.

When Marielle Bishop marries into the family and is transplanted from the arid west to her husband’s home, it isn’t long before she is led to believe that the house she just settled into brings misfortune to the women who live there.
My Thoughts: This was a wonderful story of a house and the women who lived in it and thier personal tragedies and heartache. The beginging was a bit slow for me but by the time I reached 137 pages it got better Characters were well written. i actually enjoyed this one alot more than I did Lady in waiting. Thanks to blogging for books for the chance to review this book.
Format:Book
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New Borgia Series On Netflix

2011-10-25T16:54:00.000-07:00

If you loved Showtime's Series The Borgias you will probably enjoy this series as well.
It is available for streaming via Netflix now. Created by Tom Fontana, The series is a French/German production and will recount the Borgia family's rise to power and subsequent domination of the Vatican during the Renaissance.You can start watching here Thanks to CW Gortner for the heads up on this series.

Maid to Match by Deeanne Gist

2011-10-24T06:33:00.000-07:00

Summary:Tillie Reese, a bright young woman hindered by the extreme poverty in the mountains of New York, gets the job of her dreams—a position as a housemaid in George Vanderbilt's Biltmore Estate. Surrounded by beauty and opulence, Tillie doesn't mind the physical demands of being a servant. Meanwhile, Mack Danver will do anything to save money so he can get his sister out of the school for orphans. His twin brother, Earl, is a footman for the Vanderbilts, and when Mrs. Vanderbilt sees Mack, she decides to make the handsome brothers a “matched set.” Although well read, Mack is a mountain man at heart, and he hates being at the beck and call of the privileged upper class. However, the need to save his sister trumps his distaste. Then it's love at first sight for Mack and Tillie, but rules against the help dating each other make Tillie fight her attraction with all the strength she can muster.
My Thoughts: This was a charming story I loved the behind the scenes running of the Biltmore and little tidbits about the Vanderbilts. I would like to have had more scenes with Mrs Vanderbilt and Tillie. I thought the parts about the orphange just didnt fit in to the story and took away from the Biltmore.
Format: Kindle
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All Different Kinds of Free By Jessica McCann

2011-10-21T04:43:00.000-07:00

Summary:In 1837, Margaret Morgan was kidnapped from her home in Pennsylvania and sold into slavery. The state of Pennsylvania charged her kidnapper with the crime, but the conviction was later overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court. It was the first time a major branch of the federal government had made a pro-slavery stand, and the ruling in Prigg v. Pennsylvania sewed the bitter seeds of the states' rights battle that eventually would lead to the Civil War.

Yet, the heart of this story is not a historic Supreme Court ruling. It is the remarkable, unforgettable Margaret Morgan. Her life would never be the same. Her family had been torn apart. Uncaring forces abused her body and her heart. But she refused to give up, refused to stop fighting, refused to allow her soul to be enslaved.
My Thoughts:
I throughly enjoyed this book The story of Margaret was a touching one. you will cry , smile, and jump for joy at certain stages of the story. This is one book that need to be read by every one who love's historical fiction.
Format: Kindle
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In The MailBox Today!

2011-10-19T14:16:00.000-07:00

when I requested this book I thought it would be one of those boring Bios on Prince Philip but after it arrived today I thumbed through it and it doesnt look as bad as I thought. I Can't wait to get to it and learn about his family especially his deaf mother.
Here is a brief summary: Before he met the young girl who became Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip had a tumultuous upbringing in Greece, France, Nazi Germany, and Britain. His mother, Princess Alice of Battenberg, was born deaf; she was committed to a psychiatric clinic when Philip was eight. His father, Prince Andrew of Greece, already traumatized by his exile from his home country, promptly shut up the family home and went off to live with his mistress, effectively leaving his young son an orphan.
Remarkably, Philip emerged from his difficult childhood a character of singular vitality and dash—self-confident, opinionated, and devastatingly handsome. Girls fell at his feet, and the princess who would become his wife was smitten from the age of thirteen. Yet alongside his considerable charm and intelligence, the young prince was also prone to volcanic outbursts, which would have profound consequences for his family and the future of the monarchy.
In this authoritative and wonderfully compelling book, acclaimed biographer Philip Eade brings to vivid life the storm-tossed early years of one of the most fascinating and mysterious members of the royal family.

The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie by Jennifer Ashley

2011-10-17T08:27:00.000-07:00

It was whispered all through London Society that Ian Mackenzie was mad, that he'd spent his youth in an asylum, and was not to be trusted-especially with a lady. Yet Beth found herself inexorably drawn to the Scottish lord. Despite his decadence and his intimidating intelligence, she could see that he needed help- her help. Because suddenly the only thing that made sense to her was...the Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie.

My Thoughts:

All I can say is WOW what a fabulous book this was Ian was a man who has Asperger syndrome

and Beth is the woman who loves him and his " madness" . She is determined to help Ian solve a Murder mystery that he is blamed for because of his disabilty. There is lots of hot scenes and some heart warming moments. This is the first in the Highland Pleasures series

Format: Kindle

Rating;

Multiple Reviews Movie and Tv Shows

2011-10-17T07:37:00.000-07:00

The last couple of weeks I have been doing some serious Dvd watching as well catching the latest installment in the Love Saga series. So I thought I would post about some of the wonderful shows I have been watching. Starting with October's movie of the month: Love's Everlasting Courage.

The movie I chose for this month was Love's Everlasting Courage starring Cheryl Ladd. Although this film was not based on a particular book in the series it was nice to see more of the background of Clark and his daughter Missy. Film Summary: Clark Davis (Wes Brown) struggles to maintain his land and support his family during a long drought. With a bank loan to repay, his wife, Ellen (Julie Mond), takes a job in town as a seamstress, but soon becomes ill with scarlet fever. Devastated to lose his beloved wife, Clark and his young daughter Missie (Morgan Lily) turn to his parents Irene (Cheryl Ladd) and Lloyd (Bruce Boxleitner) for support. Clark must find a way to save his farm and survive Ellen's death without losing the person he loves most: his daughter.
I have always felt this series was sort of like Little House but aimed towards the adults. The story had and enduring feel to it I enjoyed the interactions between Cheryl as the grandmother to Missy it just seemed like she was born to play the part and brought her all to the character.
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From The Love Saga I went to Colorado Springs
to Visit it town Doctor The lady Doctor that is Dr Michaela Quinn

I used to watch this series when it was on in the 90's on Saturday nights it was and delightful series and Jane Seymour was just fabulous as the town strong willed Dr Quinn.
We had everything in this series Romance, Action , Animals, Fascinating Story lines Guest Stars.
I recently purchased the entire series of the show and it took me exactly 2 weeks to get through all the episodes and 2 movies. in a way it was sort of like watching a very long movie I could not stop watching it. Joe Lando as Byron Sully was delicious. And who forget William Shockley as Trouble maker Hank he was a character you loved to hate but just sexy enough to love once you got to know him. Jane as Micheala was the anchor to this series she held the town together during crisis as well earning their respect . CBS cancelled the series after six seasons and received some backlash from the shows fan base who begged them to bring the series back instead they gave us two crappy films that only left us wanting more. The last film was not even made at the paramount ranch and left alot of the town folks out of the film.
Rating:

From Colorado Springs I go to England to The Palace
Think West Wing but at Buckingham Palace

I have looked everywhere for this series in US Format and when I found it I jumped at the chance to add it to my collection. I used to watch West wing so I was familar with the concept here but a person who loves royal gossip this series would ahve been perfect for me. . Now the royal family in the series is fictional of course but some of the story lines that rocked the real Royal family are real. . Like a scandalous book be written, An affair with a married woman, A princess who suffers mental health issues etc. The only thing I could find wrong with it is the goofy maid Ruby who was always trying to cash in on her job like selling toenail clippings on a auction site. . Another series that was cancelled in the UK but if they brought it here to US it may have picked up better ratings.
Rating:

Necessary Deception By Laurie Alice Eakes

2011-10-17T06:20:00.000-07:00

When young widow Lady Lydia Gale helps a French prisoner obtain parole, she never dreamed he would turn up in her parlor. But just as the London Season is getting under way, there he is, along with a few other questionable personages. While she should be focused on helping her headstrong younger sister prepare for her entré into London society, Lady Gale finds herself preoccupied with the mysterious Frenchman. Is he a spy or a suitor? Can she trust him? Or is she putting her family in
danger?
My Thoughts:
This was a hard book for me to get in to and I usally love the regency period. I enjoyed the first half of the book By the middle I wanted the whole story to end . I found the sisters more interesting than the main character. I felt like there was too much going on for me to concentrate on the main story.
Thanks to Donna @ Revell books for the chance to review this book. The book is now available at your local bookstores or on Amazon .
Format: Softcover
Rating:

In the Mail box

2011-10-12T08:37:00.000-07:00

This month I have had a few little gems find it's way to my mailbox.
I seem to enjoy looking for old but interesting books Since alot of these will not find thier way in to Kindle format any time soon I these oldies but goodies.
First up is Dr Quinn Medicine Woman By Teresa Warfield

Years ago there was this fabulous series starring Jane Seymour as Michela Quinn
On CBS on saturday nights. I recently purchased the DVD set of the entire series of Dr Quinn which I have been watching every night for the last week or so, Then I found this gem of a book on Ebay so I had to add it to my library.

On Paperback Swap I found these:

This I found out is before another book I have added to my library

last year called The Thackery Jewels.

Yesterday I discovered that there are two more books ahead of this one I need to find before I can start the series.

For my Elizabethan mystery series by Karen Harper I found these

The Measure of Katie Calloway

2011-10-09T06:43:00.000-07:00

The Civil War has ended, but in Katie Calloway's Georgia home conflict still rages. To protect herself and her young brother from her violent and unstable husband, she flees north, finding anonymity and sanctuary as the cook in a Northwoods lumber camp. The camp owner, Robert Foster, wonders if the lovely woman he's hired has the grit to survive the never-ending work and harsh conditions of a remote pine forest in winter. Katie wonders if she can keep her past a secret from a man she is slowly growing to love.

With grace and skill, Serena Miller brings to life a bygone era. From the ethereal, snowy forest and the warm cookstove to the rowdy shanty boys and the jagged edges of the saw, every detail is perfectly rendered, transporting the reader back to the time when pine was king, men were made of iron, and rivers were choked with logs on the way to the sawmills.
My Thoughts:
I recieved this book this past friday I was drawn in by the cover art and the setting of a logging camp.
Katie's skills in the cooks cabin was so well written I felt my self growing hungry for fried potatoes, flapjacks and so much more. I really felt a bond with the characters and I hated for the book to end it was such a good book fora rainy weekend.
Thanks to the publishers ar Revell For the chance to review this fabulous book !
Format: Softcover book
Rating:

A Fabulous New Book For Royal Fans

2011-09-25T12:43:00.001-07:00

If you're looking for a special book for that person in your life who loves all things royalty this book just may be the ideal gift.
The Royals By Leslie Carroll has some really cool features inside it has envelopes filled with letters from Anne Boleyn , Katherine Howard and even a invitaton to William and Catherine Middleton's wedding.
This is an exclusive to Barnes and Noble either online or at the Store.
which you can order here.

September's Movie of the Month Review : The Grace Kelly Story 1983

2011-09-23T06:58:00.000-07:00

I have always had a deep respect for Princess Grace since she came from my birth town of Philadelphia where she is considered a legend, she was truly America's princess.
Cheryl Ladd portrayed Princess Grace and did a awesome job at it. The costumes were great for the time period in which the film was made. Included in the film were snippets of news reels from the day and snippets of Grace's wedding day. The Producers of the film gave Grace credit for helping with the film which would turn out to be the only drama made about her life. the film was not too bad I just felt it left alot to be desired. I feel the film was completed before We lost Grace and she probably had approved everything at the end there for they did not include her accident which resulted in the end of her life.
Rating:

The Royals: Prince Harry By Bluewater Productions

2011-09-20T11:24:00.000-07:00

The attention of the world is aimed squarely at the Royal family as the wedding of the century hits, and now it''s time to focus our attention on the Wild Child, Prince Harry. From his upbringing with his mother, Princess Di, and father, Prince Charles, to his wild partying and his military experience, all doors are opened and all parts of his life are on display. Prince William might be the one getting married, but Prince Harry continues to make waves all over the world

My Thoughts:
Bluewater has started a series of graphic novels focusing on the lives of the Royals. Harry's book is available on Kindle which is a new concept for Bluewater.I was really excited to see a email in my mailbox about this book and the chance to read it. I quickly downloaded it and started reading one thing I noticed is that several of drawings of the prince look nothing like him at all. Then it came to Diana well this really bothered me because I have seen Bluewater's work on Diana and it is beautiful.If I wasn't reading the wording I would not have known they were talking about his mother.As I got to the middle of the story Harry started to look like his self

and then A beautiful image of his mother was next and then his Brother and his Wife appeared on the next page.

Maybe it is me but when I read a graphic novel about a real person I expect the artist to at least try to make the artwork look like the real deal. The next image is what I call the Fake Harry.

The last image is one I named "Scared Diana"

This one could have been done so much better graphic wise.

Format: Kindle
Rating:

The Butterfly Cabinet By Bernie McGill’s

2011-09-20T10:06:00.000-07:00

Vivid, mysterious and unforgettable, The Butterfly Cabinet is Bernie McGill’s engrossing portrayal of the dark history that intertwines two lives. Inspired by a true story of the death of the daughter of an aristocratic Irish family at the end of the nineteenth century, McGill powerfully tells this tale of two women whose lives will become upended by a newly told secret.
The events begin when Maddie McGlade, a former nanny now in her nineties, receives a letter from the last of her charges and realizes that the time has come to unburden herself of a secret she has kept for over seventy years: what really happened on the last day in the life of Charlotte Ormond, the four-year-old only daughter of the big house where Maddie was employed as a young woman. It is to Charlotte’s would-be niece, Anna—pregnant with her first—that Maddie will tell her story as she nears the end of her life in a lonely nursing home in Northern Ireland.

The book unfolds in chapters that alternate between Maddie’s story and the prison diaries of Charlotte’s mother, Harriet, who had been held responsible for her daughter’s death. As Maddie confesses the truth to Anna, she unravels the Ormonds’ complex family history, and also details her own life, marked by poverty, fear, sacrifice and lies. In stark contrast to Maddie is the misunderstood, haughty and yet surprisingly lyrical voice of Harriet’s prison diaries, which Maddie has kept hidden for decades. Motherhood came no more easily to Harriet than did her role as mistress of a far-flung Irish estate. Proud and uncompromising, she is passionate about riding horses and collecting butterflies to store in her prized cabinet. When her only daughter, Charlotte, dies, allegedly as the result of Harriet’s punitive actions, the community is quick to condemn her and send her to prison for the killing. Unwilling to stoop to defend herself and too absorbed in her own world of strict rules and repressed desires, she accepts the cruel destiny that is beyond her control even as, paradoxically, it sets her free.

My Thoughts:
This story was very intriguing at sometimes I couldn't put it down.
The Maddie character wasa bit annoying at sometimes I found my self skipping her parts you just get to the mother's diary. I would have like to have seen this book written only from the Mothers POV it seemed to flow much better for me.
Format: Kindle
Rating

Congrautlations to the Cast of Downton Abbey

2011-09-19T10:58:00.000-07:00

last night was agood night for all of us who love the British drama Downton Abbey. The series won 6 out of 11 catergories with the final award being Outstanding Miniseries or Movie. Maggie Smith took home the Emmy for Best Supportng Actress in a Miniseries or Movie. Other catergories the series won in are as follows:
Outstanding Directing For A Miniseries, Movie Or A Dramatic Special
Outstanding Cinematography For A Miniseries Or Movie
Outstanding Writing For A Miniseries, Movie Or A Dramatic Special

Finding Sarah By Sarah, the Duchess of York

2011-09-19T07:50:00.000-07:00

FINDING SARAH is an extraordinarily personal memoir by Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York. As she spends time with Dr. Phil McGraw, she gains a new understanding of her relationship with herself and with others. Suze Orman helps Sarah unravel the poisonous money issues she suffers from. Martha Beck teaches her how let go of her negative self-image. Many other friends and experts populate these pages and you will meet them all.
Sarah's journey, in so many ways, is everyone’s journey and as she shares her story with us she also shares the advice and wisdom she benefited from along the way. Her struggles with adversity have taught her that life’s lows can become a source of strength and courage. She knows, first hand, what it means to feel lost and she also knows that it is never too late to find your way back, to attain your goal, to take back control of your life and to make a special dream come true.

Format: Kindle
Rating:

My Thoughts: If you watched the Duchess's docuseries on the OWN channel you will probably want to read this book. Now there is very little royal gossip in the book, it givesa bit of background as to why she wanted to do the series and has some interesting tidbits relating to the latest scandal she has found her self involved in. I did enjoy the parts about her relationship with Diana and how she dealt with the press of the Royal wedding of the year.

Wallis Simpson That Fascinating Woman

2011-08-25T09:34:00.000-07:00

Back in April I was watching a show on the monarchy and saw this clip of the Duchess of Windsor.I have always been fascinated by Wallis's Story and her romance with the King. Although I often find my loyalty seems to lie with the Queen Mother. It is a well known fact that Wallis was known to insult her in front of others.

The battle of wills between The Queen Mother and Wallis went on for years. Wallis in the end became a legend in her own right.it was the Queen Mother who often referred to Wallis as "That Woman"She often blamed her for her beloved Bertie's death. For some of us we have to thank Wallis for coming along because with out her we would not have had Diana and her legacy of compassion and now her son William as England's future king.
Today Wallis is featured in many tv movies and major motion pictures.Madonna is working to set her story straight in her new film W.E. She even shows up in the cozy mystery series Her Royal Spyness. The latest book to cover her life " That Woman" by Anne Sebba is due to be released March 2012, a book that I will no doubtly read . No matter what people think of Wallis she has made her mark on the world of Royalty and has becomea legend in her own right.
Enjoy The clip!

Finding Old Friends

2011-08-22T16:30:00.000-07:00

These last few weeks I have been on a major hunt for a series that started in 1991 it was called Homefront. This series was beautifully done set in the post war 1940's sadly cut short after two seasons. It must have been the begining of my love for period dramas because I can rememeber being so invloved in this show. Then my life got busy when I had my first child and I forgot about the show Until recently. For some reason I could never remember the proper name of the show but I knew it started with a H and it had Kyle Chandler in it, And who could forget loveable Ginger and Charlie's Money hungry wife. I decided last week I was going to find this show on Dvd well turns out it not offically released on DVD. But thankfully I was able to find a set on Click DVD Media for a decent price at $42.95. It may not be a "legal" set but at least it will tide me over til the actual authorized set is released. I am adding this set to my christmas list for now until then I can catch up with my Homefront friends on youtube.

Enjoy the Pilot Episode S.N.A.F.U.

A Vintage Affair by Isabel Wolff

2011-08-22T09:52:00.000-07:00

Every dress has a history. And so does every woman. Phoebe Swift’s friends are stunned when she abruptly leaves a plum job to open her own vintage clothing shop in London—but to Phoebe, it’s the fulfillment of a dream, and her passion. Digging for finds in attics and wardrobes, Phoebe knows that when you buy a piece of vintage clothing, you’re not just buying fabric and thread—you’re buying a piece of someone’s past. But one particular article of clothing will soon unexpectedly change her life.Thérèse Bell.
My Thoughts: This was a beautiful story I loved all the wonderful information about Vintage clothing. I loved the relationship between all the characters. I was surprised to see that there was a scene set in the Diana Memorial Park. this book had it all history, Romance and mystery This was my first book by Wolff and I plan on reading more.

Letter of Love By Virginia Henley

2011-08-16T06:12:00.000-07:00

Summary:
This short story is set in Elizabethan times.
At Hampton Court Palace, Queen Elizabeth has arranged a marriage for her ward Burgundy Bedford with Lord Nicholas Mountjoy, Earl of Devon.
This union will join two great shipping families and provide Mountjoy with vessels to transport his troops to Ireland to quell the uprising led by Tyrone of Ulster.
Burgundy plans to thwart the queen, as her mother did before her, by eloping the day before the wedding.
Burgundy comes into possession of an ancient book passed down through two centuries from mother to daughter.
Between the pages of the book, Burgundy finds a letter written to her by her mother when her daughter was born.
The book's ancient legacy and the letter of love touches her heart and alters the course of her life forever.
My Thoughts:Although I enjoyed the story it left alot to be desired. The story felt rushed but the characters were interesting. I would have liked to know more about the mother and her relationship with the Queen. I can't complain too much because it was a free book. I just wish it wasa bit longer.

Wolves Among Us By Ginger Garrett

2011-08-01T12:27:00.000-07:00

In a small village near the Black Forest, a double murder sets the stage for a charismatic inquisitor to begin a terrifying witch hunt among the town's women. Mia, the sheriff's wife, is the axis around which this story turns as she keeps her past a secret while dutifully tending to her sickly daughter and her aged mother-in-law. The town's priest, Father Stefan, struggles with leading his flock faithfully while keeping evil from taking over the village. Confused about what is good and what is evil, these two characters embark on much soul-searching as the violence around them intensifies to a stunning conclusion.
My Thoughts: Ginger is one of my favorite authors in the Christian Historical fiction genre.So I am a bit biased when it comes to her books. This latest in the Chronicles of the Scribe series was really different it had it all Drama , history and Passion. a fabulous read from a time I didn't know about.

Thanks to Jeanne From David Cook Publishing for the chance to read this fabulous book.

Martha by Diana Wallis Taylor

2011-06-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

Sumamry: Perhaps one of the most misunderstood and misrepresented characters of the New Testament is Martha. Often painted in the colors of reproach, Martha seems to be the poster child for how not to be a follower of Jesus. From the mind of Diana Wallis Taylor comes this touching, well-researched portrayal of Martha of Bethany, sister of Mary and Lazarus. Through Taylor's lush descriptions and inspired combination of imagined and recorded dialogue, Martha's world--her trials, triumphs, and loves--vibrantly comes to life. Follow Martha as she is jilted by her betrothed, falls in love with a Roman soldier, grieves the death of her father, cares for her siblings, and serves her Lord with dignity and grace. My Thoughts:
Another wonderful story from the bibical times. Martha is one of those books every Mother, Daughter and Wife should read. a fascinating look at one of the sometimes forgotten heroines of the bibical times.
Thanks to Revell publishers for the chance to review this wonderful novel.

Roses An Epic Read!

2011-06-22T19:24:00.000-07:00

Sumamry:This enthralling stunner, a good old-fashioned read, may herald the overdue return of those delicious doorstop epics from such writers as Barbara Taylor Bradford and Colleen McCullough. Meacham's multigenerational family saga, set in East Texas circa 1914–1985, charts the transformation of Mary Toliver, a wide-eyed 16-year-old heiress, into a calculating cotton plantation queen as hardheaded as Scarlett O'Hara. Her brother, Miles, goes off to WWI, returns home, but then goes back to France to marry Marietta, a French Communist, leaving Mary to deal with their plantation, Somerset, and Darla, their alcoholic mother (who later hangs herself ). Many years later, Mary, now an elderly, terminally ill widow, resolves to defeat the Toliver Curse and regrets selling her soul for Somerset and giving up her true love, Percy Warwick, the father of their secret child, to marry their friend Ollie DuMont, who helped her save Somerset when Percy refused. Meacham uses three well-balanced viewpoints: Mary's, Percy's and Rachel's, Mary's great-niece, who must confront Percy when she discovers some disquieting family information after Mary dies

My Thoughts:When this book came out I had looked at it in the B&N store. I wanted to find out more about Mary and the mysterious change she made to her will. But at the time I had already spent my book budget for the month so back on the shelf it went. Last month I had a 15% off coupon for anything in the store and I chose Roses to use it on. From the first chapter I was hooked in to this family saga. It is a whopping 609 pages long but as you read it you see the scenes of a miniseries unfold before your eyes. I really hope this one is made in to a film it deserves at least a 3 night miniseries. This one is one of my favorites for the year!

The Secret History of Elizabeth Tudor The Vampaire Slayer

2011-06-07T23:22:00.000-07:00

A highly palatable fusion of dark fantasy, historical fiction, and Arthurian legend, this first installment of an audacious new mashup series features Queen Elizabeth as Britain's only hope to defeat an "ancient foe" threatening to overwhelm the land. The narrative, presented as a recently unearthed secret diary, begins when an encounter with Anne Boleyn's ghost awakens Elizabeth's latent supernatural powers. With powerful enemies watching her every move, the young queen is informed of an even more pressing concern: Mordred, a thousand-year-old vampire--who happens to be the bastard son of King Arthur--wants to turn Elizabeth into one of the undead and rule England by her side. Powered by exceptional character development, a meticulously detailed portrayal of 1559 London, and brisk pacing, this utterly readable novel will more than satisfy fans of fantasy and historical fiction alike.

My Thoughts: This was the first Tudor Vampire book i ahve ever read and I must say I was pretty surprised by it. It was not gory or bloody at all. I know the story was far fetched but it was still a very interesting twist to the Tudor saga. a fascinating read if your looking to sort of mixed up your historical fiction reading this summer.

Upcoming Release:

2011-06-02T09:04:00.000-07:00

I just love Sabrina Jeffries Hellions of Hallstead Hall series. I just don't which I like better the books or the covers ....:0)
Here is the fourth book in the series

Murder In the Tower By Jean Plaidy

2011-04-22T18:18:00.000-07:00

The dashing Robert Carr is a well-known favorite of King James I. After attracting his attention by falling from a horse in the tiltyard, Robert rises quickly through the ranks. But when the cunning and beautiful Frances Howard comes to court, a very dangerous liaison changes everything.
Married against her will while still a child, Frances emerges from that experience a headstrong force of nature—determined to have her own way, no matter what the consequences. Her attempts to rid herself of an unwanted husband, and later to ensnare a lukewarm lover, have led her deep into the world of spell-makers and poisoners. This is a woman to underestimate at great peril. But not until Robert finds himself ensnared in one of Frances’s plots—imprisoned in the Tower of London and accused of murder—does he learn at last what she is truly capable of.
My Thoughts:
This is the first of the Stuarts Plaidy novels I have read and it was really entertaining. Frances was one of those gals who you really loved to hate. she was sort of a Jezabel type chracter to me. Another great Plaidy read.

Harlequin Celebrates The Royal Wedding

2011-04-05T13:41:00.000-07:00

I was browsing the Harlequin site and came across this miniseries of Ebooks.

Each one highlights a different Royal wedding through out the ages. There are seven books and each one is priced at 1.79. They can be found on Amazon as well just make sure you are looking under the right country for your Kindle because they are available in the UK as well when ppurchasing remember these are short stories. They are all historical romances not necessarily historical fiction The tittles are:

With Victoria's BlessingQueen Victoria and Prince Albert, 1840

Lionheart's Bride King Richard and Princess Berengaria, 1191

What the Duchess WantsEleanor, Duchess of Aquitaine and Henry of Anjou (future Henry II), 1152

Princess Charlotte's ChoicePrincess Charlotte and Prince Leopold, 181

Prince Charming in Disguise Prince George and Caroline of Ansbach, 1704

A Princely DilemmaGeorge, Prince of Wales (future Prince Regent/George IV) and Princess Caroline of Brunswick, 1795

The Problem with JosephineNapoleon and Archduchess Marie-Louise of Austria, 1810

I went ahead and purchased them all for summer reading their reviews will appear here soon.

Calling Jane Austen Fans

2011-03-25T20:01:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine who has been sketching Princess Diana prints for awhile has taken her art in a new direction in her art to include our literary favorites . Here is Jane Austen and isn't she beautiful. She is up on EBay at the moment . So if you would like to bid on her head on over to EBay before she is gone.

Love Amid the Ashes By Mesu Andrews

2011-03-22T09:41:00.000-07:00

Sumamry:Love amid the Ashes is one of those books I could not put down
a fascinating tale of romance and tragedy and faith. Dinah must follow her deceased grandfather Issac's final command and marry the son of Job Then tragedy strikes his family Diah must decide what she will risk for his survival.
My thoughts: I really enjoyed this ride through bibical times Dinah was a very interesting chracter to get to know. The details of the surroundings of the characters were vivid and you feel like you are there walking hand in hand with Dinah as she tells the story of Job.
I would like to thank Revell for the chance to review this book.

Bringing Adam Home by Les Standiford, Joe Matthews

2011-03-15T08:05:00.000-07:00

I was probably about 8 or 9 when Adam Walsh was abducted this was the first time in knew that kids were kidnapped and that some never came home. In today's world we are pretty much used to turning on the TV and seeing that yet another child has been taken and 4 days later we hear they are are no longer with us. and every once in awhile we hear some good news that they have been found alive thanks to the resources that we have today such as Code ADAM, Amber alerts etc.We also have America's Most Wanted Which Adam's father is the host of. Bringing Adam Home is the story of one man's determination to get justice for Adam and his family. This book pulled at my heartstrings as I read how this little boy was tortured and murdered for no reason what so ever. But in the end Adam's story changed many of our lives today he is the reason we now have the Missing Children's center, CODE ADAM and today parents are more aware of the dangers that await our children. The book is not just the story of what happened to Adam but Also the story of how The Walsh's chose to use their son's murder to help other children around the world and how they help changed laws and how the police respond to a missing child call. If you remember Adam's story you may want to pick this book up to find out justice was found for this little boy.

William and Kate A Royal Love Story By Christopher Andersen~

2011-03-07T06:56:00.000-08:00

I have decided when it comes to Royal Biographies Andersen is one of my favorite authors. So I was thrilled to see this book released. The book opens with a dream scenario that William has that really pulls you in to the book. from then on you are hooked . we are given some really interesting inside looks in to the Middleton family as well as Kate and William’s relationship grew over time. I learned quite a bit about The Future Princess and I must say that we Diana Fans have nothing to worry about Miss Middleton is going to make us proud. William did a good job picking this girl out and taking his time to make sure he doesnt repeat the mistakes his father made. This is not one of those trashy tell all books its more like a inside look at the couple. The only thing negetive I can say about the book is the Author has revealed The couple’s rpivate nicknames for each other. To me they seemed too personal to publish. There are several photographs and i must say I love the back of the book of Diana holding William as a baby . This one is definitely one that will make a home on my bookshelf right next to the previous Andersen books I own.

The Tudor Secret C.W Gortner

2011-02-28T18:40:00.000-08:00

Christopher has done it again! the Tudor Secret is a fascinating look in the to the Tudor Court with a fresh pair of eyes if you will. Brendan Precott is a orpahn raised in the house hold of the Dudleys He finds his sellf sent ona misson to Princess Elizabeth and ends up becoming her protector. But then The King dissapears and Elizabeth is determined to the uncover the truth behind it puts Brendan in the middle of it all.
A wonderful book ful of mystery and the intrigue of the Tudor court its one of those books you must read this year. Many thanks to Chris for the chance to review it I just loved it!

The Lady in the Mist

2011-02-17T06:16:00.000-08:00

Summary:By virtue of her profession as a midwife, Tabitha Eckles is the keeper of many secrets: the names of fathers of illegitimate children, the level of love and harmony within many a marriage, and now the identity of a man who may have caused his wife's death. Dominick Cherrett is a man with his own secret to keep: namely, what he, a British nobleman, is doing on American soil working as a bondsman in the home of Mayor Kendall, a Southern gentleman with his eye on a higher office.
By chance one morning before the dawn has broken, Tabitha and Dominick cross paths on a misty beachhead, leading them on a twisted path through kidnappings, death threats, public disgrace, and . . . love? Can Tabitha trust Dominick? What might he be hiding? And can either of them find true love in a world that seems set against them?

My Thoughts:Although it took mea couple of days to really get in to the story I throughly enjoyed it. Tabitha wasa refreshing new character to get to know. The subject of the book was an interesting one as I really didn't know much about Midwiveryand all the rules that uit entailed such as you had to be a married woman to take up the profession. Its a great start to the series.
Thanks the publishers of Revell For the chance to review the book!

Royal Flush By Rhys Bowen

2011-01-02T09:10:00.000-08:00

Even though Lady Georgiana is only thirty-second in line to the British throne, one would expect her to possess something other than her good name. Alas, this is not the case, and when a scheme to drum up money by being a suitable dinner companion for male travelers goes terribly wrong, she hightails it up to the family home in the Highlands. There, she finds the castle full of guests (including Wallis Simpson), who make up part of a shooting party at nearby Balmoral. But the grouse aren’t the only ones in danger as guests keep turning up injured (including one hapless woman who’s knocked about by the castle’s old plumbing while she is on the “throne”). Is there a plot afoot to do in members of the royal family?
My Thoughts:
Georgie is back and boy she is literally dodging the bullets in this one.
Like the previous books in the series Georgie is trying to make her life better with out embarassing her Royal realatives. Her latest stint as a Escort gets her sent to the dreaded Rannoch house. Where she is forced to help her sister inlaw entertain Wallis Simpson and her American friends.
tons of hillarious mishaps and lots of new interesting characters in this one.

My New Best Friend The Kindle3

2010-12-28T23:36:00.000-08:00

A few months ago my friend Leslie got herself a Kindle Since she was like me finding her shelves over stuff with paperback books.I was still on the fence about ereaders I love to go in to the book store and browse the shelves and look at the cover art.I didn't know If I could see my self reading from a machine. Over the last few months I have enjoyed listening to Leslie tell me all the neat books she found for free and how much fun it is to use. The instant gratification of having a new book dowloaded is really the key here. Once I decided I wanted one the question was Which one? The Nook had just come out with the Nook Color and it had some cool features such as coupons for Starbucks when you go to the localB&N and free books as well. But the downside for me was I don't like touch screen devices. So when hubby asked me what I wanted for Christmas I said I just want a Kindle. He wasn't able to get it ordered in time for Christmas,due to his work schedule so it arrive today. I did recieve a Amazon gift card from my in laws which I saved it for the big day. Once I got it all set up I went to work downloading the free books I wanted from the free list, such as The Traitor's Wife, Heidegger's Glasses, Sweetie and The Year She Fell.

With the gift card I purchased a few books that have been on my wish list for awhile such as For the King's Favor, Royal Flush, Royal Blood, The secret of Elizabeth Tudor the Vampire slayer, and Alison Chase's new book Outragesly Yours.
This little guy will be going with me everywhere from now on having some many books to choose from away from home is just bliss.
Needless to say I am just in love with this little gadget it's light weight, easy to figure out and fun to use.If you are on the fence about purchasing one I wouldn't wait much longer jump right and join the fun!

Book of the Year 2010

2010-12-18T13:07:00.000-08:00

It's the end of the year and time to share my favorite reads of this year.

This years pick is a classic among those who read historical fiction. I have to admit when I picked the book out at Barnes and Noble I really didn't expect to finish all 972 pages. It took me exactly one month to complete it and when it ended I was sad to say the least.

There are several books that I thoroughly enjoyed this year but Forever Amber is one of my major faves. The others that I really enjoyed this year I decided to give them a Honorable Mention.

By Royal Decree By Kate Emerson

2010-12-18T13:06:00.000-08:00

Charming. Desirable. Forbidden. Brought to court with other eligible young noblewomen by the decree of King Henry VIII, lovely Elizabeth "Bess" Brooke realizes for the first time that beauty can be hazardous. Although Bess has no desire to wed the aging king, she and her family would have little choice if Henry's eye were to fall on her. And other dangers exist as well, for Bess has caught the interest of dashing courtier Will Parr. Bess finds Will's kisses as sweet as honey, but marriage between them may be impossible. Will is a divorced man, and remarriage is still prohibited. Bess and Will must hope that the king can be persuaded to issue a royal decree allowing Will to marry again . . . but to achieve their goal, the lovers will need royal favor. Amid the swirling alliances of royalty and nobles, Bess and Will perform a dangerous dance of palace intrigue and pulse-pounding passions.
My Thoughts: Bess Brook was a interesting charcter in the beginning of the book she seemed more like a child than a yong woman but as the book progress she grew up and the story became more interesting.
Emerson's Secrets of the Tudor Court series is getting better with each book. She really has the talent to find some of the most interesting people to write about in the Tudor age and bring them to life. Her next book will be At The King's Pleasure the story of Lady Anne Stafford. Thank you Ms Emerson for the chance to review this book it was a pleasure to read.

FTC:book was sent to me by the Author

Mailbox Monday

2010-12-06T14:08:00.000-08:00

From the author Kate Emerson for review

Thank you Kate for sending this beautiful book I can't wait to start this one.

A Royal Likeness By Christine Trent

2010-12-06T07:47:00.000-08:00

Sumamry:As heiress to the famous Laurent Fashion Dolls business, Marguerite Ashby's future seems secure. But France still seethes with violence in the wake of the Revolution. And when Marguerite's husband is killed during a riot, the young widow travels to Edinburgh and becomes apprentice to her old friend, Marie Tussaud, who has established a wax exhibition. When Prime Minister William Pitt commissions a wax figure of Admiral Nelson, Marguerite becomes immersed in a dangerous adventure - and earns the admiration of two very different men. And as Britain battles to overthrow Napoleon, Marguerite will find her loyalties under fire from all sides. With a masterful eye for details, Christine Trent brings one of history's most fascinating eras to life in of a story of desire, ambition, treachery, and courage.
My Thoughts:
Christine has really done a beautiful job introducing the world of Madame Tussauds to me through this book. it had every thing from fascinating history about Wax works, fabulous historical characters and who could forget all those long sea voyages that Marguerite had to take.
I loved this book as much as I loved the Queen's doll maker. Marie Tussaud is such a fascianting woman I can't wait to find out more about her life.Thanks Christine for sending me this book to review.

Paperback Weekend Review: Death at Buckingham Palace By C.C. Bension

2010-11-24T08:34:00.000-08:00

Summary:When Jane Bee ends up at her aunt's in London, having exhausted her money while traveling through Europe, she's not sure what she'll do next. She hadn't thought it would be as housemaid in the Royal Palace. Polishing the china and sweeping the floors-however royal-isn't much fun, but Jane likes the people and even talks to the Queen, who enlists her help when a footman apparently commits suicide in the Royal Apartments.
My Thoughts:
Jane is a hilarious Character her interactions with the Queen and the palace staff will keep you laughing through out the book. Interesting tidbits of royal stories from 1996 are sprinkled through out the book.

Paperback Weekend: This weekend it's to Buckingham palace I go.

2010-11-19T08:18:00.000-08:00

It's time for the weekend that means time to grab a paperback off the shelf.

With all the exciting news this week it seems fitting to read

something with a Royal theme. So I chose

This Is the first in the Her Majesty Investigate's Series

featuring many members of today's Royal family.

I am anxious to get in to this series.

With all the exciting news this week it seems fitting to

read something with a Royal theme
I am sure this will be an exciting read.

Kate Gets Her Prince

2010-11-16T06:43:00.000-08:00

A friend called me this morning and said it's official it's on the news!
It took me awhile to realize what she was referring to then it hit me WILLIAM! He Finally Did it! I am So excited for these two I am sure they are going to bring joy to the Monarchy and I for one will be setting my alarm to watch the royal wedding like I did all those years ago when his mother walked down the aisle 30 years ago. Hold on tight Kate it's going to get really crazy from here on out.
Congratualtion's to them both

The Virgin Widow By Anne O'Brien

2010-11-15T13:22:00.000-08:00

Summary:Anne Neville, daughter of the powerful Earl of Warwick, grows up during the War of the Roses, a time when kings and queens are made and destroyed in an on-going battle for the ultimate prize: the throne of England. As a child Anne falls in love with the ambitious, proud Richard of Gloucester, third son of the House of York. But when her father is branded a traitor, her family must flee to exile in France. As Anne matures into a beautiful, poised woman, skillfully navigating the treacherous royal court of Margaret of Anjou, she secretly longs for Richard, who has become a great man under his brother's rule. But as their families scheme for power, Anne must protect her heart from betrayals on both sides-and from the man she has always loved, and cannot bring herself to trust.
My thoughts:
I have to confess I didnt know much about Anne Neville other than She was a Princess of Wales and that she married Richard III. O'Brien's book was an interesting look at this often forgotten Queen of England.The love story between Richard and Anne is one you will never forget.
Thanks to Library Thing Early Reviewers for my copy.

Mail Box Monday

2010-11-15T07:48:00.000-08:00

It's Monday and time see what made its way to my mailbox.
From the Author Christine Trent A beautiful signed copy of A Royal Likness.
from Paperbackswap
All three books in the Her Majesty Investigates trilogy by C.C. Benison

1st Paperback Weekend Review: The Christmas Sweater By Glenn Beck

2010-11-14T11:52:00.000-08:00

Paperback Weekends is a new feature that you can read more about here

Eddie is twelve year old boy who just wants a bike for Christmas.
But with his Mother struggling to make ends meat since his father passed away all he could do was pray and hoped that his mother would finally be able to afford his dream bike. But instead he recieves a sweater from her. A sweater that he leaves crumpled up in a ball in the corner of his room.
But then something horrible happends to Eddie that Christmas that would change his life forever and forces Eddie to grow up and be thankful for the gifts around him.
My Thoughts:
WOW was all I could say after reading Beck's first novel. This was not you typical Christmas tale it was much more than that. With out giving much away all I can say is Eddie's story reminded me very much of my own. Beck captured the essence of what a child feels when they lose a parente and things just dont seem like they used to be. His out look on how children see thier friends So called " Normal Life" and comparing it to his was spot on. I would reccomend every one pick upa copy this year and read it. You will never forget Eddie and his sweater.

Honoring Our Military In Books

2010-11-11T13:34:00.000-08:00

In Honor of Veterans Day I thought I would share how reading helped me get through some of the loneliest times while my husband served his country

In 1994 I was a young Navy wife with no children and tons of time on my hands. I loved to read but since I had just gotten married four years before. My life had been spent adjusting to my role as wife and learning how to deal with the household, while my husband was getting ready to go on his second tour of duty for six months. After he had left I realized I was all alone and I needed something to keep me occupied So I headed to the mall and walked in to the book store. I really wasn't in to reading historical at that time and romance was really what I was looking for either. So I just started picking up books and read the backs Until I came across Men In Uniform an anthology of three military themed novels.I knew I had to buy it and I did and went home had dinner and read the entire book in one night. here I was all alone but yet the characters I was reading about knew what I was experiencing. Then I found out that Debbie Macomber had a entire Navy Series that I had to start looking for.I managed to find them all I read them all with in that six month tour. Another author I discovered during that tour was Fern Micheal's and her Texas series Since I was from Texas and I had married a sailor I could Identify with Micheal's characters Billie and Seth Coleman. I passed many lonely hours with the Texas Series it was Simply delicious reading about the Coleman family and their jewels massive homes. Today there are tons of novels that feature our men In uniform and their families left at home keeping the home fires going.I am glad to see that authors realize that our military families do have some interesting stories to tell and its great that the wives have something that they can read where the characters understand what they are going through at that time. I would like to thank all the veterans and active duty military for making our country what it is today. Thanks to Debbie Macomber and Fern Micheal's for all the entertaining hours during that long six months.

The little Princesses By Marion Crawford

2010-11-07T09:59:00.000-08:00

The backstory on the first royal Tell All book
Marion Crawford, CVO (5 June 1909 – 11 February 1988) was an employee of the British Royal Family, the nanny of the children of King George VI and Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, Princess Elizabeth (the future Queen Elizabeth II) and Princess Margaret who gave her the nickname "Crawfie". Crawford was the named author of the book The Little Princesses: The Story of the Queen's Childhood by her Nanny, which told the story of her time with the Royals. After the book was published in 1950, she was banished from court and neither the Queen nor any other Royal Family member ever spoke to her again.After the wedding of Princess Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh, they conducted an overseas tour, visiting Canada and the United States of America. Shortly afterwards, the publishing house of Bruce and Beatrice Gould contacted Buckingham Palace and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to seek stories for publication across the Atlantic. Although the approach was refused by the Palace, the British government proved keen on the idea and suggested Marion Crawford, as the recently retired governess of the Princesses.

When the Goulds approached Crawford she first sought permission from Queen Elizabeth (later Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother), who refused. However, the Goulds persisted and offered Crawford $85,000 for her story. Although Crawford accepted, she asked the contract state that Palace approval would be sought for any stories published. However, the contract allowed the Goulds to publish even if the Palace refused.
Queen Elizabeth was predictably furious and was quoted as saying: "We can only think that our late and completely trusted governess has gone off her head, because she promised in writing that she would not publish". The first note of displeasure for Crawford came when she failed to receive a Christmas card from the Royal Family in the year of publication.

As the first servant to cash in on the private lives of the Royals, Crawford was treated severely by the Royal Family, and they never spoke to her again. Despite this, the King and Queen received the Goulds, who published the stories, at Buckingham Palace.
Crawford retired to Aberdeen. The Royal Family regularly drove past her front door on their way to nearby Balmoral Castle. However, they never stopped to see the Queen's former governess. When she died aged 78 at Hawkhill House, a nursing home in Aberdeen in 1988, neither the Queen, the Queen Mother nor Princess Margaret sent a wreath.

My Thoughts:I found this book one day on Ebay and looked up Marion Crawford and found her Story so interesting on how the book came about and the Royal reaction to it when it was published. In this day and age we are so used to the royal tell all books that nothing shocks us now. Considering this is one of the First Royal tell all books it is really interesting there is No royal Secrets revealed here it was really written out of love For the Royal family and and respectfully done. I have to Wonder if The Family ever really read the book before they dismissed this lady from thier lives for good. It looks like this book was republished
Since it was listed on Amazon but my Copy is the orignal 1950's edition I am sadden that it did not come with the orignal duskjacket never the less it is a gem among my Royalty books. i would love to see a movie made from it some day Perhaphs after her Majesty The Queen is we will see it on the screen.

Confessions of Catherine De Medici By C.W. Gortner

2010-11-06T22:54:00.000-07:00

Summary:The last legitimate descendant of the illustrious Medici line, Catherine suffers the expulsion of her family from her native Florence and narrowly escapes death at the hands of an enraged mob. While still a teenager, she is betrothed to Henri, son of François I of France, and sent from Italy to an unfamiliar realm where she is overshadowed and humiliated by her husband’s lifelong mistress. Ever resilient, Catherine strives to create a role for herself through her patronage of the famous clairvoyant Nostradamus and her own innate gift as a seer. But in her fortieth year, Catherine is widowed, left alone with six young children as regent of a kingdom torn apart by religious discord and the ambitions of a treacherous nobility. Relying on her tenacity, wit, and uncanny gift for compromise, Catherine seizes power, intent on securing the throne for her sons. She allies herself with the enigmatic Protestant leader Coligny, with whom she shares an intimate secret, and implacably carves a path toward peace, unaware that her own dark fate looms before her—a fate that, if she is to save France, will demand the sacrifice of her ideals, her reputation, and the passion of her embattled heart. From the fairy-tale châteaux of the Loire Valley to the battlefields of the wars of religion to the mob-filled streets of Paris, The Confessions of Catherine de Medici is the extraordinary untold journey of one of the most maligned and misunderstood women ever to be queen.

My Thoughts:
Gorter's take on Catherine wasa an interesting one from the very first page I was taken in to the story of this often misjudged Queen.the way she dealt With her husband's mistress was extraoridnary and some how made me have resepct Zfor this woman who had to put up with so much during her lifetime. I really enjoyed this novel and i hope to pick up Gorter's First novel The last Queen soon.

A Princely Discovery: William and Harry Behind Palace Walls By Katie Nichols

2010-11-02T10:40:00.000-07:00

Here I am sitting at the B&N waiting on a friend to arrive to do some errands together. While wandering around looking at all tables I discovered this beautiful book on the Princes William and Harry. So far I have read the first 2 chapters and I have to say this will be a fantastic Christmas gift for that Royal fan or Dianaphile in your life.Sadly I have to leave the book behind til I can afford it. If Santa is making his list already would he will be kind enough to add this book to my never ending Book list?So far my favorite part of the book is where young Wills is running his dump truck up and down the palace halls til it hits the baseboard and his mother Diana causally says to him "What will you grandmother say." So far it read like a novel rather than a bio which I am really enjoying. I am going to sign off now and maybe squeeze another chapter in before I have to leave the Princes behind here in the store, Something I know I am going to dread doing.

Deep In The Heart By Gilbert Morris: A book My Texas History Teacher would have made us read.

2010-10-26T07:26:00.000-07:00

I was born In Philadelphia but raised in Houston and LaPorte Texas.I consider all these cities my hometowns because I love the history that surrounds them. I enjoy reading books that are set in these states as it makes me feel a bit closer to home now that I live in IL. This book in particular brought back lots of memories of studying Texas history in school.Going to school in Texas we were required to take Texas history in which we studied about the Alamo and the battle of San Jacinto and Santa Anna,Sam Houston, William Travis and of course Stephen Austin. All these fascinating men helped my home state become and independant. I had a Texas history teacher who was Spanish and she was passionate about the history of Texas when we were in her class we lived and breathed the Battle of the Alamo. These men became real during our one hour class. Our field trip to The San Jacinto Monument was steeped in small history lessons. We were taught to be proud of our State's struggle to to be in dependant. Something that I will never forget is Mrs Campo's passion to teaching Texas history reading the first book is like taking a step back in to Tex history for me. She would be proud to see a series like this So I am dedicating this post to her for all her hard work as a history teacher and for her love of the State of Texas

Summary:

Jerusalem Ann is a woman who will take whatever life gives her. But when her home in Arkansas Territory is threaten by the bankers she wonders if her husband will make it home in time to save the house.Then mysterious man named Clay rides in to save the day. Clay finds himself protecting another man's family. Jerusalem has had enough of Her husband Jake's absence from the family and decides to head of to Texas and make a new life for her family.When the arrive in Texas they encounter The legendary Jim Bowie , hear Stories of Stephan Austin and the infamous Santa Anna. Clay and her Son Brodie end up serving in the Battle of the Alamo and become allies with Sam Houston and Davy Crockett. Together the struggle for their dream of Texas becoming a Independant state.

My Thoughts: This is one of the best books I have read on the History of Texas. historical characters in the story really came to life and I grew to actually care about them and see them as real human beings as opposed to Pictures I remember seeing in my Tex. History book. Mr Morris has captivated me with this series and once again made me proud to be from Texas. There are two more books in this series and I can not wait to get them and find out what happens to everyone.

New Post on Romancing History

2010-10-25T08:10:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to figure out how to connect the new posts on the Romancing History blog
So I could share with you all the interesting historical romances I have been reading lately. It never occured to me to create a button and link it to the new posts. Here is the button that I will be using when I post a new review which fall under Historical Romances. I just posted a new review and I hope you stop by and take a look around.

Historical Movie: The King's Speech Coming In Novermber

2010-10-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

My Husband found this clip on the Yahoo movie page. Knowing how I am obessed with anything with royalty he called it to my attention.I will be in line to buy my ticket for this film for sure.
George VI, also known as Bertie, reluctantly takes the throne of England when his brother, Edward, abdicates in 1936. The unprepared king turns to a radical speech therapist, Lionel Logue, to help overcome his nervous stutter and the two forge a friendship.

Who is Lionel?

I never heard of Lionel Logue before so I did a quick search on him and this is a small piece of his work with King George.
Before he ascended the throne, Albert, Duke of York, dreaded public speaking because he suffered from a severe stammer. His closing speech at the British Empire Exhibition at Wembley on 31 October 1925 proved an ordeal for both speaker and listeners alike. The experience left the Duke resolved to find a way to manage his stammer, so he engaged Logue.

Diagnosing poor co-ordination between the Duke's larynx and thoracic diaphragm, Logue prescribed vocal exercises which would occupy an hour daily. Logue's treatment gave the Duke confidence to relax and avoid tension-inducing muscle spasms. As a result he suffered only occasional hesitancy in speech. By 1927, he was speaking confidently and managed his address at the opeing of the Australian parliament in Canberra without stuttering.

Logue's work with the Duke continued through the 1930s and 40s. He used tongue-twisters to help King George VI rehearse for major speeches, his coronation and radio broadcasts to the British Empire throughout World War II. The King recognised his friendship and gratitude to Logue by inducting him to the Royal Victorian Order, awarding him an M.V.O on 11 May 1937 and elevating him to C.V.O. in 1944.

This is a fascinating story on a man who helped a King cant wait to see the film!

Rival to the Queen By Carolly Erickson

2010-10-11T15:32:00.000-07:00

Summary:The Virgin Queen Elizabeth I and her heart's consort, Lord Robert Dudley, the earl of Leicester, continue to exert a seductive hold on the imagination as fodder for fiction. Now Erickson examines a rival for Lord Dudley's affections, Leticia or Lettie Knollys, a Boleyn relative who, along with her sister, served in Elizabeth's court and eventually became Lady Leicester.

My Thoughts:

I was really looking forward to this book since I really love Plaidy's My Enemy The Queen on Leticia Knollys but Erickson did something to her story and made it completly boring.Lettie had non of the fire she held in MY Enemy. She never really faces Elizabeth until the end of the book. the scene where lettie find her husband Dudley "entertaining" the queen was the last straw for me I couldnt see Lettie running off crying Like a little ninny at least its not the way I would have wanted her to handle the situtaion.

Up until now I have always enjoyed Erickson's books this one makes me hesitate to purchase her next one.

Pearl In the Sand By Tessa Afshar Review and Giveaway!

2010-10-02T09:43:00.000-07:00

a Canaanite harlot who has made her livelihood by looking desirable to men make a fitting wife for one of the leaders of Israel? Shockingly, the Bible's answer is yes. At the age of fifteen Rahab is forced into prostitution by her beloved father. In her years as a courtesan, she learns to mistrust men and hate herself. Into the emotional turmoil of her world walks Salmone, a respected leader of Judah. Through the tribulations of a stormy relationship, Rahab and Salmone learn the true source of one another's worth in God and find healing from fear and rejection
My Thoughts:
What a fascinating look in the Rahab's life as a strong woman determined to make it in the world she was forced in to. The story flowed with so much colorful details The characters came to life and I found my self wishing that there was seqeul to book.
If you enjoy reading books like The Red Tent or Slammerkin or even Mistress of Rome you will enjoy Pearl In the Sand.Thanks to Janis From Moody Publishers for the chance to read this beautiful book.

Now for the fun part if you would like to have a chance to own a copy of Pearl in the Sand
Please leave your name an email along with your favorite Bibical couple in the comments section.
I have three copies to give away to three lucky winners.

The Queen's Man Terri Brisbin

2010-09-17T13:30:00.000-07:00

Summary:
Present Day, England.
Textiles expert Sharon Reynolds is examining a treasure trove of Elizabethan clothing when she discovers a bit of parchment containing an astounding piece of information. Sixteenth Century, England.
Richard Granville, master of Queen Elizabeth's stables, is acknowledged only as the queen's half-brother—Henry VIII's illegitimate son. A dramatic first meeting sparks an attraction between Sharon and Richard, who recognizes a kindred spirit in this strange woman who seems to have appeared out of thin air. But only after they fall in love does Sharon realize that Richard is the heir described on the parchment—and that he, not Elizabeth—is England's rightful ruler. Now Sharon must make a choice, aware that her actions will determine the fate of man and his country....

My Thoughts: I was intrigued by the book since I found it on papaerback swap. This is the first time travel book I have read and I thourghly enjoyed it. This one of those books where you could actually place your self in the character's shoes. Sharon is a textiles expert who stumbles upon a precious document inside an Elizabethan dress. Before she could share her discovery with any one she ends up in the 16th century.
This story was delightful Sharon was lucky enough to know just enough of her Tudor history to make her situation easy to deal with. During her time in the 16th century she meets some of history's famous figures. including Queen Elizabeth herself. If you dont mind liberties taken with your Tudor history this is a enjoyable book to read

Healer By Linda Windsor

2010-09-14T08:39:00.000-07:00

Summary:
Sixth-century Arthurian Britain provides the backdrop for Linda Windsor’s latest novel, HEALER. First in The Brides of Alba Series, HEALER gifts readers with the story of Brenna of Gowrys, a woman orphaned during a 20-year blood feud and destined to spend her life in hiding with only her wolf and her faith in God as companions. Brenna flees as much from her mother’s dying prophecy as she does from the clan that seeks her life and clings tenaciously to her faith in Christ amid the lonely hills of Scotland. When a stranger is left to die surrounded by the carnage of a nearby ambush, Brenna rescues him from certain death. However, the stranger’s delirious rants leave her to wonder if his spirit will survive the darkness that enshrouds him.

Brenna’s life is trapped between an enemy clan that wants her dead and her own clan who is seeking a warrior queen to lead them to military victory over their oppressors. The stranger who enters her life makes her believe that she has found the answer to her deep loneliness. Raised by a Sister of Avalon, Brenna harbors a firm belief in Christ and His forgiveness. Yet the more she learns of her wounded guest, the more she is left to wonder how God expects her to fulfill the strange destiny prophesied by her mother those many years ago. How can she possibly “bring a peace beyond the ken of [her enemy’s] wicked soul”? Unknown to her, the wandering mercenary to whom she administers her healing finds that his own heart is softened both toward Brenna and her God. The relationship that grows between them will provide answers that both of them seek.

My Thoughts:
I recieved this review copy from The Publisher David C Cook last friday.
I usally shy away from books set during authrian period but the story of Brenna intrigued me. The first few chapters were sort of dry but by the time Brenna and Ronan were in the cave together the story got better. I love the interactions between Brenna and her pet wolf Faol He sort of reminded me of our own family pet Max who is protective and loyal but loveable.
The romance between the characters was interesting Breanna is concerned about being alone again and sets out with her own plan to convince Ronan to stay with her. But Ronan has his own secret he needs to share with her before he can make any kind of commitment.
I really enjoyed this novel it was the first for me that combined elements of new age and early christanity. I enjoyed the reading about how the author's personal struggle with her daughter helped her come up with the idea for this trilogy. Thank you Karen for bringing this novel to my attention and giving me the chance to review it.

Mailbox Monday

2010-09-14T07:28:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to be reviewing thes two very different historical novels from the publishers David Cook and Moody Publishers.

From David Cook Publishers

From Moody Publishers

Another Cool Tudor Find From the Goodwill

2010-09-06T20:23:00.000-07:00

My luck at finding some really interesting Tudor related books at the local Goodwill seems to be pretty good. It looks like I came across another gem of a book but this one is a novel of Mary Queen of Scots.I could not find my particular cover but the reviews for this book seems to be really high.

My luck with finding a decent novel on MQOS seems to be pretty bad since the episode with The Other Queen.I have been reluctant to pick up any novels on her. From reading the reviews this one seems to be on the level of Susan Kay's Legacy. So I am going to give this book a chance this winter and hopefully it will be worth reading.

Upcoming release: Wolves Among Us

2010-08-30T10:53:00.000-07:00

I have just heard from author Ginger Garrett concerning her upcoming book in the Chronicles of the Scribe series. The Title will be Wolves Among Us Here isa brief Summary:Centers on an isolated wife and mother in medieval Germany. When she is swept into the madness of the witchhunts, she must choose between security, truth, and passion.Release date is set for April 2011. Thanks Ginger for the update!

Interesting Find at the Library Sale Table

2010-08-25T09:49:00.000-07:00

Today I stopped by the library and checked out the for sale table.
I was actually looking for some books for a friend of mine. but I happend to find two books that will fit nicely on my shelf.

First of all I found this interesting book on Mary Ingles I never heard of her before but her story sounds very interesting. looks like this one will be read after Pocahontas.
Then I came across a cozy mystery set in Buckingham Palace. So you know that book came home with me.
It sounds like it will be more like the Royal Spyness series Which I loved so I was glad to pick this one up.

Now I should head off and get back to Pocahontas's story.
Enjoy The Day !

This Week From the Library

2010-08-24T13:52:00.000-07:00

Library Loot is a weekly event co-hosted by Eva and Marg that encourages bloggers to share the books they’ve checked out from the library.Today I started volunteering at my local library and while I was there I took a stroll through the shelves and picked these gems out to bring home to read. Our small library has very few historical fiction to chose from so I was thrilled to find this one in the biography section.

Upcoming Release:Christian Historical Fiction

2010-08-24T10:20:00.000-07:00

9/01/10

Can a Canaanite harlot who has made her livelihood by looking desirable to men make a fitting wife for one of the leaders of Israel? Shockingly, the Bible's answer is yes. At the age of fifteen Rahab is forced into prostitution by her beloved father. In her years as a courtesan, she learns to mistrust men and hate herself. Into the emotional turmoil of her world walks Salmone, a respected leader of Judah. Through the tribulations of a stormy relationship, Rahab and Salmone learn the true source of one another's worth in God and find healing from fear and rejection.

12/01/10

Julia has everything money can buy...except for acceptance by either the Gentiles or the Jews. Her Greek father already has a wife and family, leaving Julia and her Hebrew mother second-class citizens. But when they are introduced to followers of the Way, they become part of that community of believers. Abigail's brother, Jacob, now a young man, is attempting to discover his own place as a Christian. He is concerned that being more serious about his faith means trading away the exhilaration of his current profession as a caravan guard. Hired by Julia's father to protect the wealthy merchant's caravans on the secretive "Frankincense Trail"--undercover transport of this highly valuable commodity--Jacob also passes letters and messages between various communities of believers. He is alarmed to find out that Julia, hardly more than a girl, is also a messenger. Can their immediate mistrust be put aside to finally bring their hearts together?

The Queen Mother By William Shawcross

2010-08-10T18:09:00.000-07:00

SUMMARY:With unrestricted access to the queen mother's personal papers, letters and diaries, this respectful, mostly uncritical biography by veteran journalist Shawcross (Sideshow) focuses on the courtship of Elizabeth (1900–2002), the daughter of a Scottish earl, by the future King George VI; the shocking abdication of King Edward VIII in 1936 to marry Wallis Simpson; and WWII, when Elizabeth's narrow escape from a bomb that hit Buckingham Palace helped her commiserate with her subjects during the blitz. Throughout, the queen mother is depicted as vivacious, charming, devout and dutiful, a dedicated protector of the arts if not an intellectual, and socially conservative. Shawcross repeatedly pulls his punches when it comes to revealing the workings of Elizabeth's heart, particularly her anguish over her nemesis, Wallis Simpson, and over her role in aborting her daughter Princess Margaret's romance with the married courtier Peter Townsend. The dearth of information on the queen mother's relationship with the late Princess Diana is particularly egregious. Although readers sense some of the parade of people who crossed her path, the royal engagements that filled her calendar and the pivotal historical events that shaped her life,
My Thoughts:
This has to be the most tedious book I have ever read. The book is a massive 900 pages long and weighs a ton.I will give the author credit for trying to make the book as accurate as possible but there was way too much detail.I felt like I was reading text book with all the footnotes and references. There was some interesting parts Such as the Wallis Simpson scandal. If your looking for entertaining royal gossip this book is not it.

The Red Queen By Philippa Gregory

2010-08-07T17:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I wandered in to my local library to find that our Librarian has been listening to my endless pleas to order Gregory's latest The Red Queen. Our library has very limited space so my chances of finding newly released books are slim so seeing it on the shelf was a surprise to me.I grabbed the book and headed home to devour this issue of the Cousin's war. Margaret's story was so much more interesting that Elizabeth Woodville's her determination to get her son on the throne was one heck of a story. I usually do not enjoy the battle scenes in books but some how Gregory seemed to pull me in the battle and I thoroughly enjoyed imagining the scenes as the unfolded through out the last few chapters. I would have to say I was rooting for Henry all the way. The only thing I could say that I did not enjoy was the constant reference to Joan of Arc. I could understand using it at the time when Margaret was a child because she considered Joan her hero but as she got older it seemed to wear on my nerves. All in all this was another great read from Gregory.

the Founding Cynthia Harrod Eaagles ( Morland Dynasty Bk 1)

2010-08-02T09:05:00.000-07:00

Seeking Power and prestige , grim, ambitious Yorkshireman Edward Morland arranges a marriage between his weak son Robert and Spirited Eleanor , young ward of a an influential Beaufort family Eleanor is appalled at being forced to marry a mere "sheep farmer" She is after all, secretly in love with Richard, Duke of York. Yet from this apparentlyill matched union Robert and Eleanor form a surprising connection that will soon be tested by a bloody civil war that divides families , sets neighbor against neigbor, and brings tragedy close to home.
My Thoughts:
The Founding was a wonderful ride through history for me. I had picked this book up a few months ago and tried to get in to it but I had too much going through my own busy life as a mother to really devote time to it. So last week when things calmed down I picked it up again determined to finish it. I am glad I gave Eleanor a second chance to tell me her story. In the beginning she came off as sort of spoiled but as the chapters went on I could see her grow She could come off as a Woman who ruled her family with an iron fist but once you get in to the middle of the book you see her develop as a strong woman who really made a name for her self and put her family on the right track to being successful.There is so much packed in this first volume of the Morland Dynasty introductions to the family members. Wars, lost of loved ones. So much drama here to keep you turning the pages and rushing out for the next volume of the series.
I am glad I already have a copy of The Dark Rose which I will be starting today as I cant wait to see how the family members take on the burden of Morland Place.

Friday Finds:: Tudor Dolls and More.....

2010-07-29T19:43:00.000-07:00

No it's not a book but something else that is right up my alley Dolls and The Tudors. These beauties are based on the Showtime Series and the Dolls are wearing miniature versions of the costumes from the show.
I found them while looking for another doll based on Queen Anne Boleyn and came across these.

Click Here to the dolls in full view

I also found

The Duchess of Devonshire

In all her glory

I will have to get her because i have her great Niece

Diana By Madame Alexander so she will fit in nicely

Also

Lucrezia From The Borgia's

These 2 are part of the Historical series

These would make great addtions to my doll collection. Thank goodness for layaway!

A rare gem By Karen Harper

2010-07-26T11:12:00.000-07:00

I published this on my Romancing History Blog
but Since there was a lot more than romance in this book and is by a familar historical author we all know so well. I thought I would publish it on this blog as well:
Monday, July 26, 2010

Liberty's Lady By Karen Harper

Summary:As the American colonies rose up against the oppression of Mother England, spirited journalist Libby Morgan fed the fires of rebellion and invoked the wrath of the Loyalists. Thus she was bound to clash head-on with the prime target of her rabble-rousing, the dashing New York aristocrat Cameron Gant, avowed Tory, spy and her sworn enemy.

But Gant was not the haughty silk stocking he seemed. And in his arousing embrace, Libby's contempt quickly dissolved as passions flared. Soon they were risking their lives--and love--in a daring masquerade that could end in liberty--or death.

Previous Cover Art

My Thoughts:

This is one of Karen Harper's first historical romance and was orignally published under her name Caryn Cameron then was republished in 1990 under Harper. I believe it would be considered a collectors item if you are like me and consider Harper one of the best historical authors of our time.

It was a refreshing read compared to the other romances I have read recently where they were set in England. I really enjoyed the spy story within the romance and the fact that George and Martha Washington make an appearance in the book. there was a lot of interesting historical facts surounding the Declaration of Independance the excitement surrounding paper money.

I am going to be reviewing Freedom's Flame which tells the story of Libby's sister Merry and is set in my birthplace of Philadelphia. I cant wait to see what Merry will be up to

Rating:5

The Boleyn Wife by Brandy Purdy

2010-07-18T13:37:00.000-07:00

Summary: Shy, plain Lady Jane Parker feels out of place in Henry VIII's courtly world of glamour and intrigue—until she meets the handsome George Boleyn. Overjoyed when their fathers arrange a match, her dreams of a loving union are waylaid when she meets George's sister, Anne. For George is completely devoted to his sister, and cold and indifferent to his bride. As Anne acquires a wide circle of admirers, including King Henry, Jane's resentment grows. But if becoming Henry's queen makes Anne the most powerful woman in England, it also makes her highly vulnerable. And as Henry, desperate for a male heir, begins to tire of his mercurial wife, the stage is set for the ultimate betrayal. . .

My Thoughts:

All I can say is Jane gave me a major headache reading her story. At times I felt sorry for her but by the 35th chapter.I just wanted it to come an end. I had to take a break while reading this book because of all the hatred and coniving plots to undermind Anne. I came to the conclusion that maybe the Author her self did not have much affection for The Boleyns by the end of the book.

Interesting books Found at a yard sale

2010-07-17T09:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I purchased 3 boxes of books from a yard sale for 3 dollars while most of them were considered Romance novels I did find 2 books I would consider more historical novels than romantic novels.Lady in White is more of a ghost story set during Elizabeth's reign And the Itailan Secretary is set during the victorian times. They both sound really interesting so I was glad to be able to add them to my library. look for thier reviews coming soon

New look and Name

2010-07-16T18:14:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed the name change and new look to the blog. I have been wanting to have a header and buttons made for the blog for along time. Since blogger came up with the template designer I have been struggling with how to come up with something to reflect my love of reading and my love for all things Tudor. So I went on a hunt and found a wonderful site that offers custom blog work for a reasonable price. I found TKO Scraps and did some looking around at all the awesome tagging kits they had and sent in what I had in mind and this is what they came up with. The queen is not suppose to be Anne Boleyn But she represents her with a book for her love of reading and the Infamous "B" necklace. She was created by Medievil creations. I came up with the name "Totally Historical" with the help of Pixie aka KissedbyPix who was working on designing the blog .I hope you all enjoy the new look and feel of the blog as much as I do. So if your looking for some updates for your blog check them out. You wont be disappointed!

Pillars Of the Earth Series!

2010-07-13T17:30:00.000-07:00

If you are like me and can not wait til The new Showtime drama to start next year. Maybe you would be interested in This series Pillars of The Earth Starting July 23rd on Starz I will be setting my DVR for sure.The series will run for 8 episodes here is the Link to the show website. PILLARS

Mary The Queen of France By Jean Plaidy

2010-07-12T11:52:00.000-07:00

Mary is Henry VIII"s younger but much love sister Who is destined to be come The Queen of France Whether she likes it or not. Her heart is set on marrying Charles Brandon the Duke of Suffolk. She tries to persuade her beloved brother to call of the match to the Old King Louis But Henry will not give in to her he needs the alliance with France. So we all know Mary decides to make a deal with the King and asks that If she does her duty by him and when the old King dies it is SHE who will chose her next husband not Henry.

My Thoughts:

As with all of Plaidy's work I enjoyed the book but the one thing I thought was a little bit bothersome the story was suppose to be about Mary and Charles, But I felt most of the book focused on Louise of Savoy who was in fact a interesting character herself. I found my self sucked in to the rivalry Anne of Brittany and Louise they both were entertaining enough to have their own book. I know the chapters on these 2 women were to set up the story of how Louis and Mary were married but I just felt that this was Mary's book and it should have been more about her and her love for Brandon. I wont give the book anything lower that a B because the book was entertaining just lacked more information on the subject it was suppsoe to be about.

Rating: B

Teaser Tuesday

2010-07-06T17:41:00.000-07:00

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

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

My Teaser:"Mary is like her brother-headstrongand greatly indulged by all."

"She needs a strong hand I have tried to wean her from her frivolity."

The Family By Mario Puzo

2010-07-06T14:15:00.000-07:00

Summary:THE FAMILY brings the lawless world of 15th-century Rome to vivid life, revealing the secrets of the Vatican just as Mario Puzo once laid bare the mysteries of the Mafia. This extraordinary epic revolves around Rodrigo Borgia, Pope Alexander VI, a larger than life hero propelled by a myriad of passions-power, faith, luxury, women, and an all-powerful love of family. While his blessings are sought by kings and peasants alike, enemies from within and abroad plot his demise. As Alexander strives to restore glory to the Catholic Church and unify the city-states of Italy, he also seeks to direct the lives of his beloved children. But for all Alexander's love and might, he cannot reverse the legacy of sin that is revisited upon his children.
My Thoughts:
Last year when the buzz about The Borgia's was started I started looking around for some interesting books on the First crime family as the author called them. My brother told me about The Family and swore it was excellent. I have to agree with him this book was awesome! From the first page I was sucked in to Italy and the world of the Borgia's . Their cunning and conniving ways make Henry VIII look like an angel. I can not wait for this series to start I really hope they consider giving us 4 seasons like the Tudors this story is definitely worth telling.

If you are looking for something to give you the basic background of the Borgia's try this book you won't be dissapointed.

Rating: A

Diana's Rebel Heritage By Gail Douglas

2010-07-02T19:52:00.000-07:00

Diana's Rebel Heritage is one of those books that you would pick up if your doing a paper of the late Princess of Wales. It covers her ancestors from the Tudor age to the year 1997.
All the fascinating women of the Spencers family tree are here. Douglas does a wonderful job of summing up Five centuries of scandal and defiance with out berating Diana's image at all.
In each chapter Douglas related some of Diana's personal problems to the one whom she was writing about at the time such as the similarities between Georgina and Diana how their lives paralleled each others as far as the press and the " Three people in a Marriage" syndrome.
Also how Diana got her head strong personality from Sarah the Duchess of Marlborough, her heart of Charity from her grandmother Cynthia Hamilton.It is a fascinating book to add to any Diana library.
Many thanks goes to my friend Beth Taylor who found this book for me and mailed it to me you always find the coolest Diana books Bethy!
Rating: A

A Blog For My Historical Romance Reads

2010-07-02T12:01:00.000-07:00

It has accured to me that a lot of the people who follow this blog really just enjoy Historical fiction and not so much the Historical romances so I decided to create a blog for the romances that I read and review.if you are interested in following that blog as well you can do so by going to the blog and becoming a follower. The types of books that will be reveiewd are mostly Historical romances and maybe some erotic novels within a historical setting.

49 years ago Today....

2010-07-01T15:08:00.000-07:00

This little girl was born She would grow up to become one of the world's most recognizable face, she became the ninth Princess of Wales on July 29th 1981 . We know her as Diana Princess of Wales. Although she is gone she still holds a special place in many of us who grew up during the Diana Era very few will ever forget her remarkable smile and giving heart. She did how ever leave the world with her greatest legacy that is her 2 beloved boys William and Harry who are now on their way to finding their own way in the world. Today they are probably remembering their mother in private as it is their right to do so. The rest of us will remember her in our own special way. Happy Birthday Diana you are still missed 13years later. if you would like to post your favorite Diana memory Feel free to do so in the comments section.

In honor of Diana's birthday I will be finishing up The book Diana's Rebel Heritage and I will post a review tomorrow.

Upcoming Release: Diva Las Vegas, Author, Eileen Davidson Promoting Book

2010-06-28T12:09:00.000-07:00

Eileen Davidson's Latest Mystery:
On Tuesday, July 13, at 1:30pm, Eileen Davidson (Ashley) will sit down and chat with Wendy at the Wendy Williams Show about her latest installment in the soap opera mystery series titled Diva Las Vegas. The show will air the next day at 10am EST. For more TV listings in your area or for fans on the eastern seaboard who are interested in attending the show live go to the Official Website.
Diva Las Vegas is set for release on July 13. Don't forget to run out get your copy of Eileen's new novel!

Her Website is here

Sophia Loving and Living Her own Story By A. E. Hotchner

2010-06-21T16:35:00.000-07:00

I picked this book up at the library, Sophia Loren has been a household name in my family since I can remember. To me she is one of the world's most beautiful women. I was intrigued by her life story and there fore looked forward to reading this bio. Sophia shares with us her humble upbringing in Italy and her own family struggles during the war and how her career got started.Unlike most Hollywood stars Sophia really had to work to get the roles she did and had to learn English to get her American roles. The book is a wonderful story of an awesome actress who literally came from nothing and became one of Hollywood's original diva's

Some of my favorite parts of the book were her own tips on shopping for clothes and beauty tips. and the book wouldn't be complete with out her cooking tips as well. Rating:A

Here is one of my favorite photos of Sophia from her one of her films.

Farwell to the Tudors, Hello Borgias

2010-06-21T16:09:00.000-07:00

Well it's offical the Tudors are now over. That doesn't mean I won't be revisitng them from time to time.In order to brush up on my history on the Borgia's I will have to start reading what ever I can about them. I am going to start with The Family by Mario Puzo.It has been sitting on my book shelf since I ordered it from paperback swap.I wonder how many others will be reading this book to get ready for the new series.If you plan to read this book or any books about the Borgia's please feel free to leave a comment.

A Royal Pain By Rhys Bowen

2010-06-21T15:30:00.000-07:00

Georgia has been asked by the Queen to host Princess Hannilore of Bavaria and perhaphs introduce her to the Prince of Wales to get him away from the "American" Woman.

But Princess Hanni has only one think on her mind Sexy Hot men. After all the Princess has been locked away in a convent for most of her life. Georgie has her hands full with the princess and then there are two deaths that Gerogie and the Princess happend the be on the scene when they happend. Will Georgie be able to solve this case and get the Princess safely back home before someone elese is murdered?

My Thoughts:

A Royal Pain was alot of fun to read The princess was hilarious with her gangster language and her hunt for Sexy men. I actually felt sorry for Georgie if it was me I would have put that girl back on the next plane home. Wallis Simpson and Georgie exchange a few lines in this book as well. The Princess Elizabeth also is mentioned in this bookanother fascinating mystery for cozy mystery and royalty fans to enjoy!

Rating: A