Category Archives: Historical Novel

I Recommend Mary Balogh’s “A Secret Affair”

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Mary Balogh’s “A Secret Affair” gets 5 Stars from me.

More than a great romance story between a strong woman and man. This story covered some of the ills of the period and how two caring people were able to make a difference for those unable to improve their lot in life on their own.  Anne Flosnik does an excellent job bringing the characters to life with her narration on the audiobook.  Well done production.  Thank you Hennepin County library for providing the best selection of audio and ebook for any library of similar size.

Sincerely, 

Melissa Blanchard

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Minneapolis MN

“Mistress Angel,” by Lindsay Townsend

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What about “Mistress Angel” is uniquely special?

The medieval period city life becomes reality as the story unfolds.  Isabella has been used first by her family then by her dead husband’s family – she is a commodity to them.

The writing brought me into the city with it’s dirty streets and how little value was placed on the life of a woman.  Her young son is taken from her, she’s pressed into servitude and she must choose between getting her son back and pleasing the local marriage prospects.

“Mistress Angel” is a journey through medieval London from the landscape to the characters Lindsay delivers.  Raw emotions and agonizing struggles are included in the telling.

I also enjoy finding new phrases and words from the period in Lindsay’s writing.  She defines them and uses them as keys to her plot.  I liken it to a treasure hunt, always something new in the next chapter.

Will Isabella get her son back?  Will she find true love?  All will be answered before the last word is read.

I hope you give “Mistress Angel” a look.  Great writing, well developed plot and interesting characters, what more could you want in a story?

I got my copy from Amazon Kindle for iPad at this link:

 

“The American Heiress: A Novel” by Daisy Goodwin

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Why do I recommend Daisy Goodwin’s “The American Heiress“?

First, the novel is well written with elements of romance but not focusing on the happily ever after concept. Instead Daisy Goodwin provides a fresh look at turn of the twentieth century America and England. Her perspective is a new one for me painting a picture of how truly callous the wealthy are during this era.

You’ll learn much about what a British title costs the young Cora Cash.  Cora pursues the title to appease her Mother but finds herself drawn to a Duke she meets by chance.

I think what brings depth to “The American Heiress,” is the relationship between Cora and her maid, Bertha. As Cora is drawn more and more into the drama of English Aristocracy, Bertha is able to ground her on what’s most important. Bertha’s story is every bit as important to the plot of this excellent tale as Cora’s.

There’s also plenty mystery and intrigue as the story unfolds. Daisy Goodwin keeps me guessing until the final chapter.

Will Cora be happy? Is Bertha going to be able to keep her position and the love of her life? You won’t find out until the very end, but I can guarantee “The American Heiress” is a page turner that keeps you hooked until the very end.

I listened to the audiobook and found Katherine Kellgren’s narration engaging and full of emotion.  A very well done production.

You can get an audiobook from iTunes or the book or e-book from Amazon at the following links.

https://itunes.apple.com/us/audiobook/american-heiress-novel-unabridged/id441922680

Enjoy.