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Recommend this book:
Sudden Freedom
Home is where the Heart is
Joseph Woodward
2020 Finalist
114 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Personage
Reviewed by Cheryl E. Rodriguez for Readers' Favorite
Sudden Freedom: Home is Where the Heart Is forms the final book in Joseph Woodward’s trilogy, Lost between the Continents. Ernest Woodward’s family has grown on the shores of the Ohio River in America. Putting aside the trials of his childhood, Ernest focuses on the triumphs of his life. Ernest’s sister, Flossie, remains in England, working alongside their father, Malcolm. However, regardless of how much distance or time passes by, some things never change. Ernest and Flossie’s stepmother, Catherine, once again raises her ugly head, threatening to seize Malcolm’s company and estate. In the midst of the darkness of Catherine’s evil intent, Malcolm finally sees the light and confides in Flossie. Flossie writes to Ernest asking her brother to return to England to protect their father and his business against their scheming stepmother. The estranged family reconnects, building a bridge from America to England, restoring all that was once lost. Together they right the wrongs, and become a family once again.
Joseph Woodward outdoes himself here. Sudden Freedom is the best of the three books in the Lost between the Continents series! Sudden Freedom is a novel rich with familial love, portraying relatable characters that overcome and unite, using their unique gifts to make a difference in the world. The novel is personable, you really get to know the characters and understand the ties that bind the Woodward family together. In this final installment, the main character, Ernest, comes full circle. The lost son returns home, not as a prodigal son, but as a successful and sensitive hero. Yet, he is not the only one who escaped or was trapped by the wiles of the antagonist. Each member of the family comes to terms with their abusive childhood and is set free from the emotional bondage Catherine imposed on them. Joseph Woodward recreates his family history, revealing the integrity of spirit, and the will to not only survive but rise above tragedy and heartbreak. Sudden Freedom reveals the power of legacy; one man’s visionary hard work is bequeathed to future generations. It was a pleasure to get know the Woodward family.
Sudden Freedom: Home is Where the Heart Is forms the final book in Joseph Woodward’s trilogy, Lost between the Continents. Ernest Woodward’s family has grown on the shores of the Ohio River in America. Putting aside the trials of his childhood, Ernest focuses on the triumphs of his life. Ernest’s sister, Flossie, remains in England, working alongside their father, Malcolm. However, regardless of how much distance or time passes by, some things never change. Ernest and Flossie’s stepmother, Catherine, once again raises her ugly head, threatening to seize Malcolm’s company and estate. In the midst of the darkness of Catherine’s evil intent, Malcolm finally sees the light and confides in Flossie. Flossie writes to Ernest asking her brother to return to England to protect their father and his business against their scheming stepmother. The estranged family reconnects, building a bridge from America to England, restoring all that was once lost. Together they right the wrongs, and become a family once again.
Joseph Woodward outdoes himself here. Sudden Freedom is the best of the three books in the Lost between the Continents series! Sudden Freedom is a novel rich with familial love, portraying relatable characters that overcome and unite, using their unique gifts to make a difference in the world. The novel is personable, you really get to know the characters and understand the ties that bind the Woodward family together. In this final installment, the main character, Ernest, comes full circle. The lost son returns home, not as a prodigal son, but as a successful and sensitive hero. Yet, he is not the only one who escaped or was trapped by the wiles of the antagonist. Each member of the family comes to terms with their abusive childhood and is set free from the emotional bondage Catherine imposed on them. Joseph Woodward recreates his family history, revealing the integrity of spirit, and the will to not only survive but rise above tragedy and heartbreak. Sudden Freedom reveals the power of legacy; one man’s visionary hard work is bequeathed to future generations. It was a pleasure to get know the Woodward family.
Recommend this book:
Water Lily Dance
Michelle Muriel
2020 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Historical - Personage
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Water Lily Dance is a novel mixing contemporary and historical stories and was penned by author Michelle Muriel. Set in both 2014 and 1865, we meet women in search of a better life for themselves, all of whom are connected by the romantic art and beautiful gardens of the artist Claude Monet. In the modern age, Sophie Noel is grief-stricken and in search of a way to cope, and her artistic tendencies lead her back to her love of Monet as a means of escape. And, in 1865, Camille Doncieux seeks more from life in the company of the rebellious and powerful artists of the time, one of whom is Claude Monet.
It is clear from the start that author Michelle Muriel relishes in fine art and has plenty of knowledge about it because her beautiful descriptions of Monet’s work make you feel as though you’re looking right at it. As a fan myself, I was totally transported by the historical setting of Paris reborn and the Salon culture, reveling in every stylish detail and the well-depicted dialogue of the post-uprising rebels. There is a fantastic air of reinvention to this deeply emotional and sensitive tale, making for a smooth mix of women’s emancipatory fiction, emotional drama and historical artistic fiction that fans of any/all are sure to enjoy. For me, it was the characters at the very heart which draw you in and keep you reading, superbly developed and likable as they are. Water Lily Dance is a highly recommended read.
Water Lily Dance is a novel mixing contemporary and historical stories and was penned by author Michelle Muriel. Set in both 2014 and 1865, we meet women in search of a better life for themselves, all of whom are connected by the romantic art and beautiful gardens of the artist Claude Monet. In the modern age, Sophie Noel is grief-stricken and in search of a way to cope, and her artistic tendencies lead her back to her love of Monet as a means of escape. And, in 1865, Camille Doncieux seeks more from life in the company of the rebellious and powerful artists of the time, one of whom is Claude Monet.
It is clear from the start that author Michelle Muriel relishes in fine art and has plenty of knowledge about it because her beautiful descriptions of Monet’s work make you feel as though you’re looking right at it. As a fan myself, I was totally transported by the historical setting of Paris reborn and the Salon culture, reveling in every stylish detail and the well-depicted dialogue of the post-uprising rebels. There is a fantastic air of reinvention to this deeply emotional and sensitive tale, making for a smooth mix of women’s emancipatory fiction, emotional drama and historical artistic fiction that fans of any/all are sure to enjoy. For me, it was the characters at the very heart which draw you in and keep you reading, superbly developed and likable as they are. Water Lily Dance is a highly recommended read.
Recommend this book:
The Emperor's Assassin
Autumn Bardot
2020 Bronze Medal
476 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Personage
Reviewed by Heather Osborne for Readers' Favorite
In The Emperor’s Assassin by Autumn Bardot, Locusta of Gaul had greater plans for herself than those placed in the path by the Faiths. The daughter of a vintner, she will marry a man chosen by her father and aunt. However, after a brutal attack by her fiancé, Locusta’s maidservant, Priscilla, decides to help Locusta take her fate into her own hands and begins her education in the helpful and deadly world of herbal remedies. She then finds herself in Rome, sent by her family to seemingly plead for a tax extension, but really to find a suitable husband. However, word of her skill travels fast, and Locusta finds herself embroiled in plots beyond her wildest imagination. Will she survive the politics of Rome, or will she find herself doomed by her own knowledge?
As a hardcore historical fiction fan, I found The Emperor’s Assassin by Autumn Bardot an absolutely enrapturing read. Locusta of Gaul did exist in Roman times, and Bardot has taken great care and research to weave together a believable story about a woman who is a victim of circumstance and gender. The characters were engaging and I found myself immediately drawn into Roman life. The atmosphere was immersive, and I could really see what Locusta saw and feel what she experienced. Bardot doesn’t shy from describing the realities of life in Rome as a woman, and I didn’t once feel taken out of the story by any implausible event. I will actively be seeking out other novels by Autumn Bardot, and I highly recommend this novel to anyone interested in little-explored historical figures of the Roman Empire.
In The Emperor’s Assassin by Autumn Bardot, Locusta of Gaul had greater plans for herself than those placed in the path by the Faiths. The daughter of a vintner, she will marry a man chosen by her father and aunt. However, after a brutal attack by her fiancé, Locusta’s maidservant, Priscilla, decides to help Locusta take her fate into her own hands and begins her education in the helpful and deadly world of herbal remedies. She then finds herself in Rome, sent by her family to seemingly plead for a tax extension, but really to find a suitable husband. However, word of her skill travels fast, and Locusta finds herself embroiled in plots beyond her wildest imagination. Will she survive the politics of Rome, or will she find herself doomed by her own knowledge?
As a hardcore historical fiction fan, I found The Emperor’s Assassin by Autumn Bardot an absolutely enrapturing read. Locusta of Gaul did exist in Roman times, and Bardot has taken great care and research to weave together a believable story about a woman who is a victim of circumstance and gender. The characters were engaging and I found myself immediately drawn into Roman life. The atmosphere was immersive, and I could really see what Locusta saw and feel what she experienced. Bardot doesn’t shy from describing the realities of life in Rome as a woman, and I didn’t once feel taken out of the story by any implausible event. I will actively be seeking out other novels by Autumn Bardot, and I highly recommend this novel to anyone interested in little-explored historical figures of the Roman Empire.
Recommend this book:
Antonius
Son of Rome
Brook Allen
2020 Silver Medal
299 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Personage
Reviewed by Maria Victoria Beltran for Readers' Favorite
Brook Allen's Antonius: Son of Rome is about the life of young Marcus Antonius after his father dies in disgrace in Rome. The Roman Republic is waning and the young man yearns to restore his family’s honor. Handsome and possessed of military talent, he's now entering manhood and falls prey to the excesses of a licentious Roman society. After an episode of whoring, gambling, and drinking, he finds himself mired in debt and grieving the death of his wife and unborn child. The political situation is dangerous while personal and political tragedy haunts his family. With help from a relative, the rising politician Julius Caesar, he finally earns a military commission, where he struggles to earn the respect and admiration of the soldiers, proconsuls, and kings that he deals with on his way to his destiny.
Antonius: Son of Rome by Brook Allen is the first installment in a trilogy about the life of Marcus Antonius. More popularly known as Marc Anthony, a lot of books have been written about him but none is probably more introspective than Brook Allen's compelling trilogy. One of history's most controversial figures, Marc Anthony's life seems like an open book, but it is largely based on accounts written by his enemies. Allen's book, however, is an objective and microscopic look at the early life of Rome's iconic symbol of love and power. Antonius: Son of Rome is a revealing story of the young Marc Anthony. Growing up in the shadow of a disgraced father, this noble son of Rome has a very uncertain teenage life but he will go on to become a very promising soldier and this is just the beginning of his remarkable life story. Kudos to Brook Allen for introducing us to the real person behind the enigma that is Marcus Antonius.
Brook Allen's Antonius: Son of Rome is about the life of young Marcus Antonius after his father dies in disgrace in Rome. The Roman Republic is waning and the young man yearns to restore his family’s honor. Handsome and possessed of military talent, he's now entering manhood and falls prey to the excesses of a licentious Roman society. After an episode of whoring, gambling, and drinking, he finds himself mired in debt and grieving the death of his wife and unborn child. The political situation is dangerous while personal and political tragedy haunts his family. With help from a relative, the rising politician Julius Caesar, he finally earns a military commission, where he struggles to earn the respect and admiration of the soldiers, proconsuls, and kings that he deals with on his way to his destiny.
Antonius: Son of Rome by Brook Allen is the first installment in a trilogy about the life of Marcus Antonius. More popularly known as Marc Anthony, a lot of books have been written about him but none is probably more introspective than Brook Allen's compelling trilogy. One of history's most controversial figures, Marc Anthony's life seems like an open book, but it is largely based on accounts written by his enemies. Allen's book, however, is an objective and microscopic look at the early life of Rome's iconic symbol of love and power. Antonius: Son of Rome is a revealing story of the young Marc Anthony. Growing up in the shadow of a disgraced father, this noble son of Rome has a very uncertain teenage life but he will go on to become a very promising soldier and this is just the beginning of his remarkable life story. Kudos to Brook Allen for introducing us to the real person behind the enigma that is Marcus Antonius.
Recommend this book:
A Runaway Star
A Biographical Novel, The Lord Byron Series Book 4
Gretta Curran Browne
2020 Gold Medal
402 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Personage
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
A Runaway Star is a work of fiction in the historical, interpersonal drama and Regency fiction sub-genres, and was penned by author Gretta Curran Browne. In this fourth installment of The Lord Byron Series we see our central figure’s fame on the rise owing to the response to his latest works. But rumors follow Byron everywhere, not least those spread by people who were once close to him. His new adventures see him take to travel and meeting other figures, trying to put thoughts of Mary Chaworth out of his mind. So begins another torrid account of this real-life historical figure and his truly fascinating life.
Author Gretta Curran Browne takes much of her inspiration and detail directly from the letters, works, and diaries of Lord Byron, and it shows in every detailed facet of this excellent historical fictionalized work. What really stands out to make this so much more readable than a simple biography is the artistic license used to bring Byron and his contemporaries to life, lighting them up with fantastic dialogue, beautiful views of Regency England and Europe, and the society-obsessed way of life that he often raged against in his own way. I really appreciated the gossipy nature of the work and its focus on reputation and social standing, which will surely please fans of classics like the works of Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters. Overall, I would definitely recommend A Runaway Star to fans of the existing series, but also to anyone looking to enter the world of historical writing with an accomplished author.
A Runaway Star is a work of fiction in the historical, interpersonal drama and Regency fiction sub-genres, and was penned by author Gretta Curran Browne. In this fourth installment of The Lord Byron Series we see our central figure’s fame on the rise owing to the response to his latest works. But rumors follow Byron everywhere, not least those spread by people who were once close to him. His new adventures see him take to travel and meeting other figures, trying to put thoughts of Mary Chaworth out of his mind. So begins another torrid account of this real-life historical figure and his truly fascinating life.
Author Gretta Curran Browne takes much of her inspiration and detail directly from the letters, works, and diaries of Lord Byron, and it shows in every detailed facet of this excellent historical fictionalized work. What really stands out to make this so much more readable than a simple biography is the artistic license used to bring Byron and his contemporaries to life, lighting them up with fantastic dialogue, beautiful views of Regency England and Europe, and the society-obsessed way of life that he often raged against in his own way. I really appreciated the gossipy nature of the work and its focus on reputation and social standing, which will surely please fans of classics like the works of Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters. Overall, I would definitely recommend A Runaway Star to fans of the existing series, but also to anyone looking to enter the world of historical writing with an accomplished author.
Recommend this book:
I, Claudia
A Novel of the Ancient World
Lin Wilder
2019 Finalist
272 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Personage
Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
I, Claudia: A Novel of the Ancient World by Lin Wilder is one of the fascinating books I have read — wonderful historical references, Christian and mythological underpinnings, with strong considerations of some of the troubling spiritual questions of all time. Born in Delphi and daughter of the last of the Oracles of Pythia, Claudia Procula is the wife of Lucius Pontius Pilate, who decides to share her story. Her husband already dead for several decades, Claudia lifts the veil and offers readers a unique version of events they have read in history and from a surprising perspective, that of the wife of one of the key players in the drama of the agony and death of Jesus.
This narrative captures the early culture of the Jewish people and the friction between the religious authorities and the Romans. One interesting element is the portrait of Pontius Pilate, which is different from what popular literature has created of the man. “Like me, Lucius is the subject of vast ignorance, lies, and injustice. The very name Pontius Pilate has become synonymous with cowardice and betrayal.” The narrative from the perspective of the protagonist is powerful, even absorbing. Lin Wilder allows the story to flow through the words of the daughter of an Oracle, a voice that reflects something deep and mysterious. Listen to how she describes herself: “I am nearing the end of my life. Seventy-nine years lived as a shadow, a face behind a curtain, whispering the residues of a dream. Insubstantial, unheard. But my time of silence is done.” The use of biblical allusion, religious symbolism, and mythology transforms the narrative and creates a spiritual atmosphere that is intriguing and exciting.
The prose in I, Claudia: A Novel of the Ancient World is gorgeous and the author’s language reflects the setting. Beautiful scenes greet the reader’s mental gaze, from the bustling surroundings to the day-to-day lifestyle in the house of Pilate. Beautifully paced, ingeniously plotted, and skillfully written, this novel is a page-turner for both fans of historical personages and narratives with strong religious themes. The author did the research thoroughly, but it is how the results of that research are woven into the story that will wow most readers.
I, Claudia: A Novel of the Ancient World by Lin Wilder is one of the fascinating books I have read — wonderful historical references, Christian and mythological underpinnings, with strong considerations of some of the troubling spiritual questions of all time. Born in Delphi and daughter of the last of the Oracles of Pythia, Claudia Procula is the wife of Lucius Pontius Pilate, who decides to share her story. Her husband already dead for several decades, Claudia lifts the veil and offers readers a unique version of events they have read in history and from a surprising perspective, that of the wife of one of the key players in the drama of the agony and death of Jesus.
This narrative captures the early culture of the Jewish people and the friction between the religious authorities and the Romans. One interesting element is the portrait of Pontius Pilate, which is different from what popular literature has created of the man. “Like me, Lucius is the subject of vast ignorance, lies, and injustice. The very name Pontius Pilate has become synonymous with cowardice and betrayal.” The narrative from the perspective of the protagonist is powerful, even absorbing. Lin Wilder allows the story to flow through the words of the daughter of an Oracle, a voice that reflects something deep and mysterious. Listen to how she describes herself: “I am nearing the end of my life. Seventy-nine years lived as a shadow, a face behind a curtain, whispering the residues of a dream. Insubstantial, unheard. But my time of silence is done.” The use of biblical allusion, religious symbolism, and mythology transforms the narrative and creates a spiritual atmosphere that is intriguing and exciting.
The prose in I, Claudia: A Novel of the Ancient World is gorgeous and the author’s language reflects the setting. Beautiful scenes greet the reader’s mental gaze, from the bustling surroundings to the day-to-day lifestyle in the house of Pilate. Beautifully paced, ingeniously plotted, and skillfully written, this novel is a page-turner for both fans of historical personages and narratives with strong religious themes. The author did the research thoroughly, but it is how the results of that research are woven into the story that will wow most readers.
Recommend this book:
 is the first novel in an epic historical fiction series by Gretta Curran Browne. Based on the life and times of British Major General Lachlan Macquarie (1761-1824), a famous early governor of New South Wales in Australia, it tells the story of a young Scot from the Isle of Ulva who enters the British...){kind=link}
By Eastern Windows
The Macquarie Series Book 1
Gretta Curran Browne
2019 Honorable Mention
246 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Personage
Reviewed by Kimberlee J Benart for Readers' Favorite
By Eastern Windows (The Macquarie Series Book 1) is the first novel in an epic historical fiction series by Gretta Curran Browne. Based on the life and times of British Major General Lachlan Macquarie (1761-1824), a famous early governor of New South Wales in Australia, it tells the story of a young Scot from the Isle of Ulva who enters the British Army as a boy. Returning to Scotland as an officer after serving in North America and the West Indies, young Lachlan finds his family on the brink of bankruptcy and poverty. Needing to provide for his widowed mother and brother, he returns to active service and departs for exotic India. There he experiences a place and people very different from his own and meets a young Englishwoman who quickly captivates his heart.
By Eastern Windows is an engaging story on many levels. Browne writes in lush detail and flowing narrative, evoking the people, places, and cultures of Europe, India, and China in the late 18th century. Lachlan is an admirable protagonist, a young man of dependable and steadfast character, well-liked by those under his command as well as those he serves, and devoted to his family even when he’s far from them. The plot introduces a cast of characters which crosses cultural and religious lines and frankly acknowledges the racial prejudices and restrictive sex roles of the time. Browne displays great skill in expressing the subtleties of human emotions, from the tenderest passion to the deepest grief. Lachlan will experience both. Highly recommended. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
By Eastern Windows (The Macquarie Series Book 1) is the first novel in an epic historical fiction series by Gretta Curran Browne. Based on the life and times of British Major General Lachlan Macquarie (1761-1824), a famous early governor of New South Wales in Australia, it tells the story of a young Scot from the Isle of Ulva who enters the British Army as a boy. Returning to Scotland as an officer after serving in North America and the West Indies, young Lachlan finds his family on the brink of bankruptcy and poverty. Needing to provide for his widowed mother and brother, he returns to active service and departs for exotic India. There he experiences a place and people very different from his own and meets a young Englishwoman who quickly captivates his heart.
By Eastern Windows is an engaging story on many levels. Browne writes in lush detail and flowing narrative, evoking the people, places, and cultures of Europe, India, and China in the late 18th century. Lachlan is an admirable protagonist, a young man of dependable and steadfast character, well-liked by those under his command as well as those he serves, and devoted to his family even when he’s far from them. The plot introduces a cast of characters which crosses cultural and religious lines and frankly acknowledges the racial prejudices and restrictive sex roles of the time. Browne displays great skill in expressing the subtleties of human emotions, from the tenderest passion to the deepest grief. Lachlan will experience both. Highly recommended. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Recommend this book:
No Woman's Land
A Holocaust Novel
Ellie Midwood
2019 Bronze Medal
314 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Personage
Reviewed by Joel R. Dennstedt for Readers' Favorite
The first and most important thing to say about Ellie Midwood, and by extension her intensely appealing historical novel No Woman’s Land: A Holocaust Novel, is that this author’s fine writing skills are superbly well honed. Any seasoned reader will immediately recognize a master at her craft, one both naturally gifted and creatively experienced, while the deepest pleasure desired by any avid reader, that derived from fully inhabiting a truly gripping, fascinating, and compelling story, rapidly seeps into a last conscious thought: I can relax now. With such good writing, I can sit here, without effort, and thoroughly enjoy a marvelous ride.
One is obligated to convey the plot of No Woman’s Land; the story of a young German/Jewish woman who suffers the terrors of the Holocaust as already told by many others, one who falls in love with her unanticipated warden/protector with whom, eventually, she plans an escape. But that tells you nothing of the wonder of this book, unless one also shares why Ellie Midwood’s writing creates such a compelling story and truly exceptional novel. Ms. Midwood’s writing is intensely evocative, bringing vividly to life a time and place seen with stark reality by those fated to be there and then. This author has a deeply satisfying sense of the dramatic, choosing perfect details to augment her action, with a perfect ear for dialogue, and an ultra-keen eye for descriptive detail. Add to this her retention of a commonly and rapidly fading ability to write complex sentences without sacrificing readability or flow, and as I said, you have a master at her craft. With a truly grand novel to her credit.
The first and most important thing to say about Ellie Midwood, and by extension her intensely appealing historical novel No Woman’s Land: A Holocaust Novel, is that this author’s fine writing skills are superbly well honed. Any seasoned reader will immediately recognize a master at her craft, one both naturally gifted and creatively experienced, while the deepest pleasure desired by any avid reader, that derived from fully inhabiting a truly gripping, fascinating, and compelling story, rapidly seeps into a last conscious thought: I can relax now. With such good writing, I can sit here, without effort, and thoroughly enjoy a marvelous ride.
One is obligated to convey the plot of No Woman’s Land; the story of a young German/Jewish woman who suffers the terrors of the Holocaust as already told by many others, one who falls in love with her unanticipated warden/protector with whom, eventually, she plans an escape. But that tells you nothing of the wonder of this book, unless one also shares why Ellie Midwood’s writing creates such a compelling story and truly exceptional novel. Ms. Midwood’s writing is intensely evocative, bringing vividly to life a time and place seen with stark reality by those fated to be there and then. This author has a deeply satisfying sense of the dramatic, choosing perfect details to augment her action, with a perfect ear for dialogue, and an ultra-keen eye for descriptive detail. Add to this her retention of a commonly and rapidly fading ability to write complex sentences without sacrificing readability or flow, and as I said, you have a master at her craft. With a truly grand novel to her credit.
Recommend this book:
The Far Horizon
The Macquarie Series Book 2
Gretta Curran Browne
2019 Bronze Medal
303 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Personage
Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
The Far Horizon is the second book in The Macquarie Series by Gretta Curran Browne, a historical novel with strong and elaborately developed characters; a story that captures the beginnings of a nation that eventually became known as Australia. In this narrative, a British officer, Lachlan Macquarie, who has served his country in America, India, Egypt, and the West Indies is sent on a new mission, a place where life is very difficult. A strong hand is needed to help a population suffering from famine, tribal conflicts, and other ills, and Lachlan demonstrates a unique leadership. His young companion, George Jarvis, meets and falls in love with Mary Neely, a bitter young British woman who learns the joys of life from George. Can anything good be made of this convict colony?
The story is set in the early nineteenth century and follows strong historical characters in what once was a convict colony. The narrative is done in a clear and arresting voice. The plot is well imagined and it has wonderful historical elements, a setting filled with imagery that evokes the physical challenges. Against this backdrop, Gretta Curran Browne crafts a narrative that is gripping, weaving in themes of politics, love, colonization, and a lot more. The story is character-driven and I enjoyed the author’s ability to show how the characters evolve. The romance between George and Mary adds an interesting spice to the story and readers will enjoy how love can transform a woman. I enjoyed the strong narrative voice, the vivid historical details, the compelling characters, and the skillful development of the historical setting.
The Far Horizon is the second book in The Macquarie Series by Gretta Curran Browne, a historical novel with strong and elaborately developed characters; a story that captures the beginnings of a nation that eventually became known as Australia. In this narrative, a British officer, Lachlan Macquarie, who has served his country in America, India, Egypt, and the West Indies is sent on a new mission, a place where life is very difficult. A strong hand is needed to help a population suffering from famine, tribal conflicts, and other ills, and Lachlan demonstrates a unique leadership. His young companion, George Jarvis, meets and falls in love with Mary Neely, a bitter young British woman who learns the joys of life from George. Can anything good be made of this convict colony?
The story is set in the early nineteenth century and follows strong historical characters in what once was a convict colony. The narrative is done in a clear and arresting voice. The plot is well imagined and it has wonderful historical elements, a setting filled with imagery that evokes the physical challenges. Against this backdrop, Gretta Curran Browne crafts a narrative that is gripping, weaving in themes of politics, love, colonization, and a lot more. The story is character-driven and I enjoyed the author’s ability to show how the characters evolve. The romance between George and Mary adds an interesting spice to the story and readers will enjoy how love can transform a woman. I enjoyed the strong narrative voice, the vivid historical details, the compelling characters, and the skillful development of the historical setting.
Recommend this book:
The Inheritance
The Guernsey Novels Book 7
Anne Allen
2019 Silver Medal
312 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Personage
Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
The Inheritance is Book 7 in The Guernsey Novels by Anne Allen, a compelling narrative steeped in mystery and featuring a historical personage that immediately catches the interest of the reader. The novel is set in 1862 and 2012. When her husband dies suddenly in 1862, Eugénie knows she has no future in Guernsey. When her path crosses with Victor Hugo, living in exile on the island near her home, everything changes for her. She becomes his copyist. A strong friendship quickly develops between the young widow, Victor Hugo and his mistress, Juliette Drouet. It is 2012 and Doctor Tess Le Prevost, born in Guernsey, is living in Exeter, but she is shocked when she learns she is to inherit her great-aunt’s house on the island. There have been stories in her family about Eugénie and that she knew Victor Hugo. Was Victor Hugo the biological father of Eugénie's child?
This is a suspenseful story that is intelligently plotted and beautifully told. The author uses the first person narrative and shifts the story from the past to the present, a literary technique that reinforces the suspense as the reader moves from one timeline and from one point of view to another. The prose is beautiful and it is filled with wonderful descriptions. The story is infused with humanity and realism and readers can feel as though they were sitting in the same room with the legendary author and the other characters. The Inheritance is deftly plotted and it features characters that are real and compelling. I enjoyed every bit of this story.
The Inheritance is Book 7 in The Guernsey Novels by Anne Allen, a compelling narrative steeped in mystery and featuring a historical personage that immediately catches the interest of the reader. The novel is set in 1862 and 2012. When her husband dies suddenly in 1862, Eugénie knows she has no future in Guernsey. When her path crosses with Victor Hugo, living in exile on the island near her home, everything changes for her. She becomes his copyist. A strong friendship quickly develops between the young widow, Victor Hugo and his mistress, Juliette Drouet. It is 2012 and Doctor Tess Le Prevost, born in Guernsey, is living in Exeter, but she is shocked when she learns she is to inherit her great-aunt’s house on the island. There have been stories in her family about Eugénie and that she knew Victor Hugo. Was Victor Hugo the biological father of Eugénie's child?
This is a suspenseful story that is intelligently plotted and beautifully told. The author uses the first person narrative and shifts the story from the past to the present, a literary technique that reinforces the suspense as the reader moves from one timeline and from one point of view to another. The prose is beautiful and it is filled with wonderful descriptions. The story is infused with humanity and realism and readers can feel as though they were sitting in the same room with the legendary author and the other characters. The Inheritance is deftly plotted and it features characters that are real and compelling. I enjoyed every bit of this story.
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