Fiction Favorites March/April Edition

The past couple of months have been AWESOME in the reading department! I've only slowed a little so really hoping to keep this streak alive. Wish me luck!

Here are a few of my favorite fiction titles from March & April:

Girl at War by Sara Nović

Ana Jurić is just ten years old when the civil war in Yugoslavia forces her family and neighbors to routinely visit the bomb shelters near her home. Once an emergency forces her mother, father, and young sister to cross into Bosnia, Ana finds herself alone, and is soon recruited as a child soldier. Snippets of this life are told through the lens of 20-year-old Ana, a student at NYU, as she faces her past and returns to her homeland.

First, I was shocked by how little I knew of the war in this region considering it occurred in the early 90s. As Ana's character is close in age to me, during a very real event in recent history, I felt the rawness of it all more acutely. I found myself weeping at heart-wrenching passages that made it come alive. I couldn't stomach reviewers who criticized Ana's character's withdrawal and habit of not sharing any information from her past when it would seem so paralyzing to have lived through something of that magnitude. Definitely a novel I'll remember for years to come. (4 stars)

Rush Oh! by Shirley Barrett

Told from the perspective of the young matriarch of a whaling dynasty in Australia in the late 19th century, Rush Oh! is the perfect blend of literary and historical fiction.

Absolutely loved this novel. It's intelligent, hilarious, and just such a great example of historical storytelling. I 'll admit that I was so sad to see this absent from the Bailey's shortlist. (4 stars)


Jane Steele by Lyndsay Faye

More of a story inspired by Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre than retelling, Jane Steele follows the life of a forsaken, yet strong-willed woman during the Victorian period in England. A self-confessed murderess, Jane's unfortunate circumstances place her in precarious positions time after time, and are sure to catch up with her in the end. Interesting characters and brilliant cultural references, Jane Steele was fun! (4 stars)


So, what's next?

I'm going to try to tackle ARCs on the ereader in anticipation of Summer/Fall releases. I've got my eyes on several that I'm beyond excited about: Marrow Island by Alexis Smith, Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead, Yuki Chan in Bronte Country by Mick Jackson, Chronicle of a Last Summer by Yasmine El Rashidi.

Also, BEA is exactly one week from today and I cannot wait to meet so many of you beautiful souls!! 

What are you reading?

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A Post: Weekly Reads / 02.22.2016

Still working on First Ladies: Presidential Historians on the Lives of 45 Iconic Women by Susan Swain and C-SPAN.

Started Alexander Chee's The Queen of the Night a couple of days ago and hate having to do anything other than read it. A+ historical fiction (even though one scene prompted intense eye roll action) based in Paris with loads of debauchery and enchanting prose.

Hoping to get into some of the comics I've got stacked on my coffee table to finish out #comicsFebruary before we call a wrap on the month.

If all goes to plan, I'll finally post my review on The Improbability of Love & The Bronte Plot later this week because it's seriously been sitting in my draft list for TWO WEEKS and that's just unacceptable.

What are you reading?

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A Review: The Dream Lover by Elizabeth Berg

Elizabeth Berg's The Dream Lover is the story of George Sand: French novelist, protofeminist, and inamorata to some of history's leading men.

I must admit that I haven't read Sand's work. I actually, and this is outright embarrassing, had only learned of her after watching a movie based on her relationship with Frederic Chopin. You know, the film with a young Hugh Grant as a sickly Chopin? Yep, I totally had a thing for him (Grant) as a teenager, and was also obsessed with Chopin, so she was really just a side note. Whatever. So I basically knew that these two had gotten busy together and that she wore men's clothing but that was about it. Pathetic.

This novel delves into the life of George Sand beginning with her parents ill-suited match, adding color to her formative years. Assuming that much of the novel is based on biographies of the writer, there's much to be learned, or at the very least, researched after finishing the book. I had no idea she was close friends with some of her more well-known literary, male contemporaries. The atmosphere was lovely and I was instantly transported to the busy streets of Paris, or the idyllic, lush countryside of her family estate at Nohant. It was the perfect companion for escaping the everyday life for an hour or so.

That being said, I didn't entirely love this novel. As of late, I've felt that many narrators in historical novels sound eerily similar, and this one was no different. Is this just me?! Anyway, the beginning seemed promising, as we learn of Sand's family background, of her relationship with a grandmother who means the best but demands the rigid etiquette of post-revolutionary France, which paves the way for George and her exciting life ahead. However, the moments where the reader is forced, suddenly, into George's present day life, consists of being fed exacting play-by-plays of her deteriorating relationships with lovers and her inability to write without them. It was something along the lines of, "and then I started seeing x, but it just didn't work after I caught him with z, so we broke it off." Every. Time. And the woman falls in love with like every dude (and maybe one lady) she meets. Ok, ok, so maybe that's just how she operated so I can't really fault the book for that, but the jump from one summary of a lover to the next was boring and didn't offer anything substantial in terms of character development. I really longed to get back to Nohant and watch her grow.

At the end of the day, I would recommend this book to friends who love historical fiction and want to read about a pioneering lady figure. It's perfect for getting swept away to a different time and place, especially imagining being apart of the literary circles of Paris at this time. And I'll admit that I did learn a lot about her life, even though this work was fiction, as it prompted me to research her life past the pages. I'll definitely be adding Sand's work to my TBR moving forward.

Read this title? Share your thoughts! I'd love suggestions of other historical fiction to add to the TBR, as well!

*I received an advanced reader's copy of this title from Random House through Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.

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A Review: She Rises by Kate Worsley

When I saw that this one was sporting a blurb by Sarah Waters on the cover I knew I had to read it!

Louise is a young dairy maid on a prosperous farm when she's chosen to become lady's maid for the master's niece far away in a seaside town. Her mother, wary of her daughter's proximity to the dangerous waters after losing a husband and a son to ship life, begrudgingly consents to her new task. Rebecca, the lady in question , is far different than anything Louise ever expected and threatens to change her life completely. While Louise takes to her new position, Luke, a young man, finds himself aboard a naval vessel with men that have been taken into the sea life by force. Faced with a new way of living, Luke must learn the ways of the pack quickly in order to survive. A gritty tale of sea life and its dangers, readers will feel like they stepped back in time.

First, let me say that I really enjoyed this novel despite having a few issues overall. It's official that I'm less fond of stories told in the style of alternating between two characters. It can really break up the story and make it a bit more confusing than a straight narrative. I also found I was much more taken with one narrative in the book than the other and had a harder time reading the chapters that weren't as engaging. However, each character had their own distinct voice which made this style successful in the end. I could see the similarities in the two writers' styles shortly after beginning the novel. While Waters has had far more time to perfect her craft, Worsley will not disappoint with this debut novel. Bits of dialogue reminded me very much of Waters's Fingersmith, and were at times a little too similar, but enjoyable nonetheless. All and all, it's a great novel that is perfect for those who enjoy detailed stories with multiple characters.

**Readers beware! There are some pretty distressing subjects in this book. While they aren't necessarily discussed in gory detail, subjects are strongly alluded to and could be distressing for some readers. 

Oh! and guess what?? TLC Book Tours is offering one lucky reader a copy of this beautiful book!

Enter below for a chance to win:

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A Review: Life After Life by Kate Atkinson

Ursula Todd is born to an ordinary family on a snowy evening in 1910. However, Ursula's no ordinary girl, because while she lives in one life, she dies in another. Kate Atkinson allows readers to witness the alternative lives one woman leads while experiencing two great wars in different locations in Europe. Unfolding through an intense series of chain of events, the story is sure to leave readers reeling long after they finish.

In the past I've seen novels hyped to the point where I would have been happy to not ever see the title again. I initially heard about this one through Twitter--it seemed like everyone was reading it or talking about reading it--and I took the bait. I listened to people sing its praises, but deliberately kept myself ignorant of the storyline. So... in the spirit, I'm not going to divulge too much.

Set amidst two calamitous world wars, Life After Life depicts some rather weighty topics, giving the reader an intimate glimpse into this era. Atkinson provides gritty details and the ruthlessness that festers during trying times. I was thoroughly impressed with her depiction of the WWII effort because I found it to be presented in such a different light than most war novels that often romanticize the period.

First, I want to emphasize that the hype didn't kill this one. When I finished reading the digital ARC I received from Little, Brown and Co., I immediately pre-ordered a physical copy so I could reread as soon as possible. I strongly suggest getting a hard copy of this one, if you can. I've grown to love my Kindle, but there are some books that just go down better in physical form. It's the type of novel that will have have you flipping back and forth in order to absorb every detail.

I want to offer more because I absolutely fell in love with this novel, but honestly can't give you what you deserve without a reread. While I will admit that it did take me several chapters to get sucked in, I was unable to start anything long after after completing because I couldn't stop thinking about Ursula and her incredible lives. Atkinson proves that she is a creative genius, offering multiple outcomes so vivid and varying that you'll find yourself lost in each new situation. Completely different than anything I've ever read, I can't recommend Life After Life enough. Read it!

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A Review: The House of Special Purpose by John Boyne

I've always been very interested in Russian history, but I think I've stated this fact again and again. I mentioned it when I reviewed Richard Massie's Catherine the Great, Kathryn Harrison's Enchantments, and Rebecca Makkai's The Borrower. I'm sure there's more posts than these. If I can't go anytime soon, I'll read about it and dream about it. When I read the plot summary of this one I was immediately drawn to the promise of adventure and the descriptions of Russia's beauty. Boyne, author of The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, is a new writer to me, so I didn't really know what to expect. I can say I was impressed and will definitely be looking out for future work.

Daniil Jachmenev is taken from the small Russian town of Kashin before he has time to realize what has happened. Saying goodbye to his family, whom he'll never see again, he is hurriedly transported to the Winter Palace to begin work as a bodyguard and companion to the young Tsarevitch, Alexei, who suffers from hemophilia. All seems to be well until revolution forces Nicolas II to abdicate and move his family to a spot known as the house of special purpose. Removed from his duties, Daniil does whatever he can to locate the Romanov family and see his beloved Anastasia (the Tsar's youngest daughter). Sixty years later, Daniil is living in England, spending his days as an employee of the British Library, and married to the woman he fled Russia with all those years ago. Desiring to visit to his homeland one last time, Daniil must face the tragic event that changed his life forever and decide if it's safe to return.

The novel is told from Daniil's perspective, moving between his life in the palace, and that of a reflective 80-year-old man who's survived difficult circumstances. The most appealing quality of the title was that Boyne really does a superb job of offering authentic voices during the two stages of Daniil's life. The reader sees his character move from young man, with a fiery temperament and juvenile desires, to a responsible older man, engaged in serious reflection. I find that many titles using this method generally can't believably pull off the same character at two very different times of their life.

The novel isn't short, and I found that Boyne's descriptions were beautiful, yet long-winded. The story went on and on, offering every detail of Daniil's current life, with short glimpses of his life at the Winter Palace, to the point that I thought he might not ever actually address the event that forced him to leave Russia in the first place. While I guessed the ending of the story far before it was actually revealed, I was anticipating a conclusion with a little more bang. It seemed to build and build, but the climax just didn't deliver. Furthermore, the ending really requires a serious ability to suspend disbelief, which made it a little less enjoyable for me. There were many moments that seemed highly unlikely that occurred so perfectly as to keep the story afloat.

While I certainly had my issues with this title, I won't swear Boyne off forever. I thought his characters were well-developed, and his subject interesting. I suggest reading an excerpt to decide if it's a title for you.

I received a copy of this title from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
You can expect to see this novel in stores on April 2, 2013. Listen to the author read an excerpt, or pre-order a copy. 

Interview with the author available at Shelf Awareness.

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A Review: Enchantments by Kathryn Harrison & Giveaway

When Grigory Rasputin's body is found in the frozen waters of the Neva, tsarina Alexandra Feodorovna immediately sends for his daughters Masha and Varya in the hopes that they have the same healing powers as their father. Masha, the eldest and most like Rasputin, is asked to take charge of the future tsar Alexei, a young boy who suffers from hemophilia and whose greatest challenge is to live to see the next day. However, Masha and Varya arrive just as the Romanov family have relinquished their titles, are swept away by Bolshevik soldiers and forced into house arrest, leaving them with more than enough time to question their fate. Aware that she does not possess the same healing powers as her father, Masha embarks on a 1001 Nights-esque journey with young Aloysha to distract him from the pain his disease inflicts and the thought that his family will soon meet their end.

I've been fascinated with Russian history as long as I can remember. My hopes to visit this vast landscape have grown stronger with each passing year. When I expressed excitement over TLC Book Tours offering this title, I found a copy in my mailbox a few weeks later. After having just finished John Boyne's (author of The Boy in the Striped Pajamas) The House of Special Purpose*, another novel taking a look at the tragic lives of the Romanov family, I was completely ready to dive into another title that looked at the same situation from a different light.

While Enchantments is completely fictional, the subject of the thoughts and feelings of the imperial family while prisoners in their own home is interesting. So little is known of their imprisonment (or has been entirely exaggerated since) as much of it was either destroyed by the family or those that opposed their position that Harrison had the opportunity to be really creative. Out of all the historical novels I've read on the subject, Harrison's novel seems the most realistic. Furthermore, Masha's tales for the young tsarevich explore everything from his parent's courtship, to the crowning of his father, to the sexual exploits of Rasputin in the hedonistic city of St. Petersburg. Exploring a budding sexuality, Masha and Aloysha slowly form an unlikely relationship that the audience will root for despite knowing the tragic outcome.

Beautifully detailed prose, the reader is swept up into the world of Russian society and into the freezing landscape of one of the last places the Romanovs would call home. If you enjoy historical fiction, or Russian history, or imaginative prose, Enchantments is the perfect title! My favorite TLC title to date, I will be recommending this one to everyone I know.

*Pub Date: April 2, 2013.

I received a copy of Enchantments from TLC Book Tours in exchange for an honest review of the title.

 

Learn more here: Random House Reader's Circle http://www.randomhouse.com/rhpg/rc/

TLC is offering one lucky reader a chance to win a copy of Enchantments!

*open to US/Canada only

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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A Review: Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald by Therese Anne Fowler

Zelda Sayre is young, sociable, and hell bent on breaking the rules. A force in her small Alabama hometown, her wild tendencies haven't met a match until she meets a young Army officer, F. Scott Fitzgerald, at a town dance. Z follows the infamous couple from the beginning of their happy lives together, highlighting Scott's height of fame, before exhibiting their final collapse after leading lives of excess. Told from the perspective of Zelda through these trials and tribulations, Z is a refreshing look at this tragic story.

From what I understand, the recapitulation of Zelda and Scott's relationship is quite polarizing. Some believe Zelda and her emotional fits ruined Scott and drained his creativity. Others, however, believe that Zelda was very clever, incredibly yielding, and allowed Scott to repeatedly claim her work as his own. I, for one, have never been one to view a relationship and its success or failure on one individual; clearly, there were issues with both Scott and Zelda. Both appear to have been unable to control their fiery temperaments, which probably didn't mix well with Scott's alcoholism and Zelda's mental instability. This, however, most certainly falls into the camp that sympathizes with Zelda, and obviously so, as it's told from Zelda's perspective of their wonderful honeymoon period and its subsequent decline.

Fowler has a way of evoking the sights and sounds of the glitz and glamour of cities like New York City and Paris in the late 1920s. Smoky dens, loud music, and artists assembled around crowded tables come to life in its pages. While she doesn't necessarily provide vivid descriptions of these scenes, her characters and their actions bring it to life in a way that makes it so much more fascinating.

Fowler admits that she took liberties with some events in the book, which is standard for historical literature, but emphasizes that she was inspired by reading countless letters from the couple to one another, and credible biographies on the two. Overall, it's a well written historical look at a couple that history has long been fascinated with, told by the figure that is often overshadowed but provided just as much color. I can't recommend this one enough; a fun read that is sure to prompt you to learn more about the Fitzgeralds.

I received a copy of Zelda: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald from St. Martin's Press in exchange for an honest review. You can expect to see this novel in stores on March 26, 2013.
Read an excerpt, or pre-order a copy.

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A Review: The Confidant by Helene Gremillon

I completely fell for this book. In the best way. I loved it. Be warned: the contents are not necessarily profound, the story even cliche, but the CHARACTERS, oh the beautiful characters and the train wreck that was bound to follow made this one so hard to put down. Sometimes you just need something for the entertainment, a novel that's well written, maybe even a little filthy, but takes you a thousand places you could never go. This is also a perfect title to suggest on Valentine's Day for so many reasons, but mostly for some of the seriously sensual scenes. Steamy time. I'm sure in the original French it was absolutely thrilling.

This year has been a winner in the reading department. I've completed six and have only been disappointed with one. The library is suddenly releasing all my anticipated holds. Netgalley continues to promote reads that I just have to have (look out for a review of Z: The Life of Zelda Fitzgerald in March). I'm basically foaming at the mouth for an advanced copy of Kate Atkinson's Life After Life because I hear it's amazing. If the galley gods see this, perhaps they'll spare my poor heart and grant me access. A girl can hope.

When Camille begins receiving handwritten letters in the post, she believes someone has cleverly decided to take advantage of her role as a book publisher. However, Camille quickly realizes that the author, Louis, is telling a story of a past that will change her life forever. Deep between the pages of paper weathered from Louis's own hands, Camille discovers the life of Annie, and Louis's undying love for her. Louis's dreams are dashed when a mysterious, and wealthy, young couple move into their small town, just outside of Paris. Annie is swept under the wing of Madame M. and spends less and less time with her friends and family. After a sudden decision to escape to a small town with the couple, those closest to her attempt to understand her decision. In these letters, Camille discovers the reason for her flight and secrets that Annie was forced to keep for the rest of her life.

There's not much I can say that won't spoil the novel. Sure, there are many bits that you see a mile coming, but then there are things that take you by surprise and change everything you thought you knew completely. The characters, while not completely complex, do have their own voices and tales that garner sympathy. The backdrop, Paris, is only vaguely described, but the life within each individual brings it to life. Gremillon brilliantly manages to bring an authenticity to the changing landscape in the midst of the occupation of France by Germany.

The emotional impact at the heart of the novel really makes this shine. An unrequited love, a story you've heard before, Camille and Louis and Annie make this feel so unique. My only issue was that the translation, at times, felt clumsy and ruined the pacing. However, it didn't ruin the book for me. I can say, for sure, that I'll be reading this one again to pick up the pieces that I failed to notice along the way.

Even if you don't celebrate Valentine's Day, do yourself a favor and pick this one up. I mean, who doesn't like receiving gifts from themselves?! Maybe that's just me.

I had to feature the following tweet posted by WaterstonesOxfordSt earlier today: "Remember that if your partner didn't get you a book today then it's over. It's all over. They had their chance. They blew it." So funny! Happy Thursday, everyone! 

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A Review: An Unmarked Grave by Charles Todd

Bess Crawford is serving as a nurse in France during WWI when she suddenly comes down with Spanish influenza. An illness that is killing more than the shots fired on the battlefield, Bess is quickly transported back to England and into the care of her parents. However, when Bess finally emerges from her prolonged sickness, she remembers the events that occurred just before she succumbed to the illness. Was the body Private Wilson revealed to her that of Major Carson, a family friend and celebrated military man? And, if so, why was his body covered in an ill-fitting uniform without identification? Slowly Bess begins to put the pieces together in order to uncover an act that she believes must be shown justice. As Bess trust her instincts and takes action, in her desperate attempt to discover the murderer, the target begins to track her every move and harm all those that stand in the way.

An Unmarked Grave is a title in a series of novels following the nurse/detective Bess Crawford during the Great War. I was unfamiliar with this series, but agreed to read this one without first discovering the others written before.  If you're looking for a new series to get involved with, I suggest taking the time to look this one up. I could easily grasp the characters and the dynamics between them without reading the novels prior. I had a sense of who Bess was on her own, through her actions and thought processes, without really needing other characters to provide much detail.

I was drawn to this title because it sounded very similar to the Maisie Dobbs series by Jacqueline Winspear, which I've become quite fond of. While the two focus on the same period, same profession and face the same hardships, Todd's novel felt like a more authentic description of life as a nurse on the lines, or a soldier on leave in a busy city, slowly being lost to an enemy.  There was grit and reality that seemed to shine through in An Unmarked Grave that I've always wanted to find in the Maisie Dobbs series. I also appreciated that the authors didn't repeat Bess's story again and again to keep the reader up to speed if they had not read the previous titles in the series. While I understand the logic behind adding these details, I have always felt that Winspear takes it a level that is unnecessary and spoils the pacing of the story.

My only complaints were that many of the situations seemed to work out too perfectly against odds that just were not plausible, and the motive, finally uncovered, was hastily explained and just a bit weak. The charming characters and their stories, trials and successes really made this book an enjoyable read for me.

If you enjoy historical wartime dramas, with strong female leads, and mysteries that keep you going until the very conclusion of the book, a Bess Crawford mystery is worth looking into.

I received a copy of An Unmarked Grave from TLC Book Tours in exchange for an honest review of the title.

To learn more about the authors, visit their website: http://charlestodd.com/.

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A Review: Fingersmith by Sarah Waters

To think that I waited as long as I did to read this title makes me twitch a little. To think I might not have ever picked it up if it weren't for a couple of reviews I stumbled upon recently makes me worry. What could I potentially be missing out on? So many books!

Sue Trinder has led a quiet life of thieving in the sprawling and dirty streets of nineteenth century London. Ms. Sucksby, a mother figure to Sue, has managed to hold onto her for 17 years despite her occupation of farming infants and dealing with the crooked. When a man, only known as Gentleman, appears with a job that he believes only Sue will be able to complete, she recognizes her chance to be the prize Ms. Sucksby has always hoped she would be. A sinister plan to dupe the naive Maud Lilly, a lonely girl kept in a country house by her overbearing uncle, into accepting Sue as lady's maid, and eventually running off with the dashing Mr. Rivers (Gentleman himself) is soon underway. When the entire job seems to turn quite unexpectedly, readers are taken through madhouses in a world without regulations, the slums of London's back alleys and an unsympathetic period when you didn't know who you could trust.

I recently became acquainted with Sarah Waters this past fall when I completed The Little Stranger. The folks participating in the RIP Challenge had decided to create a readalong and I thought it seemed like something I could read around the same time and have some resources to review as well. Ok, so I admit that I never wrote a review. I enjoyed The Little Stranger for the strength of her writing, technically speaking. Waters can build an atmosphere, create distinct characters and force the reader to stumble through an intended confusion that seems unending (this is a compliment). However, her pacing, is another story. While The Little Stranger was creepy and perfectly haunted, it was really slow. The action is actually so slow in coming that you might miss it when it does because I'll admit that at times I zoned out while reading.

While the pacing is certainly a lot faster in Fingersmith, there are pieces that could probably have been edited and removed. There seems to be lulls in actions for 30 or more pages in order to let all the little details fall into place so that the whole story moves like one well-oiled machine. Basically, if you dig Wilkie Collins and his unending internal dialogue about watching a pin drop, you're going to love Fingersmith.

Ok, so that last bit sounded snarky and insincere. But I love Wilkie Collins and I loved Fingersmith. If you've read The Woman in White, expect the beginning to be essentially the same TWiW plot, but make it two ladies and a whole lot more deception.

It's after this point that things become really exciting. However, it's also the point where it seems a little dull even though it's imperative to the whole cohesion requisite. I want to talk about it so much more but don't want to spoil it because there are so many surprises that really make the novel stand out. I'll say, without giving it away, that I enjoyed the difference in romantic perspective, the questions raised about the ways in which women could live during this period, and the inability to determine the outcome until it was staring me in the face. My only issue was that some of the characters seemed to have the same voices. This irked me a bit, but didn't really take anything from the story in the long run.

The entire novel was a joy to read. I highly recommend it to anyone not afraid to tackle a real door stopper that's full of detail and big story. Waters is such a talented storyteller and I can't wait to read more of her work.

Read Fingersmith? Let me know what you think (please note spoilers for other readers)! Thinking about picking it up? Do it!!!

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A Review: Gillespie and I by Jane Harris

It's been a minute. Apologies. Thanksgiving was crazy. And then I had to deal with my birthday and then J's birthday and time spent in a cabin in the woods in the middle of nowhere without WIFI and phone service. We watched Cash Cab marathons, Rocky III and Ghost Adventures (I CAN'T EVEN). We played scrabble and microwaved s'mores and huddled next to the fake fire (which was oh so warm). It was AWESOME. I didn't want to come home, but here I am.

Gillespie and I is the story of Harriet Baxter's relationship with the Gillespie family, specifically, her relationship with Ned Gillespie, an aspiring artist who fails to receive the credit that Harriet feels he deserves. When Harriet manages to save Ned's mother from choking on her dentures one day on a crowded Glasgow street corner, she slowly forms a connection with the family and becomes a regular body in their household. When an event turns the family's life upside down, Harriet is there to witness the situation that will change everything.

I read Gillespie and I right before the celebrations began. If you remember, I think I've mentioned how excited I was to pick this one up in a million posts prior to this one. Let me just say that my fervor did not kill the experience. This book is one of my top reads of the year.

I've found (like so many others) that I have a much easier time reviewing books that I dislike rather than the ones I adore. I actually mentioned this a bit in my last post. However, with this one it's imperative to keep it short and sweet so you enjoy it just as much as I did. Really, to enjoy it thoroughly, you have to be open to anything.

First and foremost, I want to say that Harris blew me away with her characters - so vivid that I felt I knew them. The setting and cast were well developed making it a tight story with a big impact. While I didn't expect a story that would keep my guessing, I found I couldn't put it down in order to get to the next part. I wanted it to last forever but knew I'd reach the end and want more. Harriet's character is so very curious and found myself moving through emotions quickly.

If you're looking for a well-written novel, with some historical tidbits tossed in, that also keeps you guessing, you must find a copy of Gillespie and I now! I'm generally not so heavy handed with my reviews, so this is an indication of my confidence that you'll love it, too. If you don't... well, we can still be friends, but I'll be just a little sad. Hope you enjoy!

P.S. Happy Holidays!

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A Review: The Second Empress: A Novel of Napoleon's Court by Michelle Moran

Ok, let's talk about these covers. Seriously. 

(The one on the left is the cover circulating in the states right now.) 

I mentioned the ugly cover situation when I read Moran's last novel, Madam Tussaud, and expressed my inability to understand why someone would ever have approved it. (I apologize if you enjoy these covers - I guess it's a preference). If it's an issue with my character, so be it. While I won't judge a novel on its cover art, or not entirely anyway, I'll admit a well designed cover will catch my attention and at least get me reading the jacket. This one... Not. so. much.

But I really liked Madame Tussaud. It was a historical novel about a female figure I didn't know much about and seemed to offer just enough truth and fiction for it to be smart and entertaining. So when I heard about The Second Empress I requested it from the library with the expectation that she would do it again.

Hmmm.. yes and no.

I'll be clear and say that I haven't read Moran's other novels about similar women in compromising/uncomfortable/crazy political situations in years past, but I've seen enough reviews to think she has a loyal following and reviews that state it's quality material.

The Second Empress follows the life of Maria Louisa of Austria after Napoleon Bonaparte has chosen her to be his "walking womb" wife once it's clear that his beloved Josephine will never bare him the heir he so desperately needs. Dragged from her home and the family she loves, she must learn to deal with Napoleon's erratic and selfish behavior in the hopes that she keeps both the Emperor and the French people happy (remember her great-aunt Marie Antoinette was beheaded just a decade before). Told from the perspectives of Pauline Bonaparte (Napoleon's sister and possible incestuous partner), Paul Moreau (Pauline's Haitian chamberlain) and Maria Louisa, we see numerous sides of the conqueror Napoleon Bonaparte and his life prior to his fall from grace.

After completing the novel, which I managed to polish off pretty quickly, I noticed that several people mentioned an annoyance with the multiple narrators and the fact that a story told from so many perspectives leaves a lot to be desired. It's clear that Maria Louisa finds herself in a miserable situation, but Moran doesn't ever really tap into Maria's emotions. The characters are one dimensional and lack their own voices. They all seem to possess the same pattern of thought, which seems highly unlikely as one character thinks of sleeping with and marrying their sibling, another longs to be home with their family and another reflects upon the life of conflict and misery they've left behind. I don't know about you, but it seems that three people in very different places wouldn't be going through the same steps of cognition and action. *I shrug my shoulders* Furthermore, despite the gossip the French court is infamous for, Maria Louisa speaks of her discomfort quite freely to individuals she's just met (all to keep the reader up to speed) which seemed completely unrealistic. So... I certainly had some issues.

Despite my annoyances with bits of this novel I did find it highly entertaining. Plus, I ended up walking away much more interested in each of these figures. Moran states that much of her writing is built on information she's gained from some of the most credible scholars of these public figures, but I wouldn't mind seeking out some nonfiction on these events to get another perspective. What type of person was Maria Louisa? Were Pauline and Napoleon actually engaged in incestuous relations? What role did Paul Moreau really play in the lives of Pauline and Napoleon?

If you enjoy historical fiction with a whole lotta drama this is a must-read!

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Favorite Reads of 2011: A Mid-Year Review

When I was a child I was told that as I grew older the years would begin to flash before my eyes, rushing past so quickly that I'd barely have time to grasp the subtleties that presented themselves before me.  While I agree that time seems to be more hurried, I also have days that seem to (so wonderfully) stretch before me.  Some of these days I'm busy getting in all the things I can't do when working, or spending time with my loved ones, but sometimes I get the chance to sit and read for as long as I wish.

Because I featured my favorite reads at the close of the following year, I felt it only right to provide a little mid-year review of six titles that I just couldn't put down.  I'm also excited to share that I've already read three books more than I did in all of 2010.  Goals!

1. The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield

Mysteries and secrets.  Secrets and mysteries.  I'm kidding, but this novel sucked me in.  I distinctly remember my boyfriend having to pull me out of the groove of the couch I found myself in after not getting off the thing for hours.  In the end, you still have questions.  It was dark and fascinating and an awesome thriller.  All hands for The Thirteenth Tale.

2. The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton

I don't know if any of you remember, but a while back, Brenna from Literary Musings and I decided to host a little read-along.  The book was a little slow in the beginning, but I soon found that I didn't want to stop reading once I began the second half.  We got some great participation and were able to share our opinions and questions, which made the read even more enjoyable.  Edith Wharton is seriously amazing.

3. Madame Tussaud by Michelle Moran

Another book that I couldn't peel my hands from and one that I mention as a "must read" to any bookworm I encounter.  I have this thing for historical fiction (as you probably already know) and thought this was perfectly entertaining and informative.  The cover art not so much.

4. The Bird Sisters by Rebecca Rasmussen

I know, I know. I haven't managed to post a review on this one yet.  But it has definitely been one of the best reads of 2011.  The storyline was not quite what I expected and made the novel that much better.  Maybe Milly and Twiss are described as old women who nurse birds back to health, but this title holds so much more.  I found Rasmussen's language authentic and engaging.  I strongly encourage giving this title a chance!

5. The Heretic's Daughter by Kathleen Kent

I finished this novel last night.  And loved it.  I refused to give it up upon finding that the beginning was a little slow.  In the end, I am so glad I stuck with it because not only did I enjoy the historical element of the storyline, but I also really enjoyed the raw expression of emotions and the landscape Kent so delicately describes.  I didn't want this one to end.  

6. Shakespeare by Bill Bryson

Ok, so maybe I read this one during haze that follows the extraction of my wisdom teeth, but somehow I was able to remain attentive enough to finish the whole thing in a sitting.  Bryson is increasingly becoming a go-to when it comes to learning while laughing.


So close to making the list: The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath & The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Anne Barrows

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A Review: Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

Between Shades of Gray is a newly released, young adult title that deals with Stalin's "purification" of the Baltic region in the 1950s.  Sepetys uses the narrative of 15-year-old Lina, to uncover the crimes against the people of this region that went largely hidden from the world for nearly 50 years.

When Lina's family is taken from their home one night, they find themselves boarding train cars with other families without an explanation as to where they will end up.  Fretting over her father's life, as she finds that he's been taken to a prison camp many miles away, Lina, her mother, brother and the bonds she forms with those en route to the work camps, which become her home for 10 years, experience a myriad of intense emotions.

Because Stalin's death camps were so much like Hitler's concentration camps, I feel that the narrative closely resembles other war tales from the unfortunate individuals that were condemned to such horrid conditions.  Sepetys acknowledges that she used the tale to exhibit the voices of the individuals who lost their lives and those that lost loved ones during Stalin's Reign of Terror, which went pushed under the radar for many years under the USSR.

Lina, a gifted artist, idolizes Munch, an artist known for portraying the beauty in tragedy, while simultaneously exhibiting what the artist sees deep within an object.  This representation symbolizes Lina's courage to draw what she sees, even at the risk of murder, and to voice the  realities of this existence.  She draws in order to document the pleasures that assuage this lifestyle, and to remind her of the blessings of her previous life.

The novel seems to be able to accurately describe the transformation of a young girl, as Lina begins to piece together the events that led up to her family's extraction.  Her father's political affiliations and the lives he's saved, which ultimately condemn his own, all come sharply into focus, prompting Lina to understand the world that was slowly changing around her on a much deeper level.  Lina speaks as a child coming to grips with suddenly being forced into an early maturity, and notes the changes she witnesses in her young brother. Their mother's devoted love for their father and the pains of separation, the brutality of war and the sexual crimes committed against women are all explored in a manner that, thankfully, lacks the theatrics of a Hollywood feature, allowing the reality of such conditions to be identified and discussed in a manner that prompts a better understanding of these events.

I really enjoyed this read, despite the ever saddening content.  I felt that the simplicity of the author's language and the raw exposure of the conditions of living in such conflict is a very straightforward way to introduce readers, young and old, to the subject.

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A Review: Michelle Moran's Madame Tussaud

This was my introduction to Moran's work and was largely unaware that her historical fiction titles feature powerful women in such a unique perspective. *Start the cheese* Generally weary of novels that feature such, I hate to say, gaudy cover art, I have finally learned that you should never judge a book by it's cover.  *End of cheese*

Madame Tussaud, as you might have guessed, provides an intimate account of the life of one of the world's most well-known wax artists.  Alongside a fierce desire to become a highly successful artist, who can support herself, Marie Grosholtz (Madame Tussaud) witnesses the start and end of the French Revolution. Marie cleverly plays her role in a struggle to survive.  Morality, power, loss and art are themes explored quite heavily throughout the novel.

The novel loosely follows the progression of the revolution, showing numerous perspectives as Marie maintains contact with both the royal family and the leaders of the revolution.  Blood, guts and gore, Marie must make gut-wrenching decisions, from creating wax molds of the heads of cadavers, to sneaking molds into the royal family while they're held captive.  Events inspired from reality, Moran breathes life into this enigmatic female.

I found the novel most fascinating due to the fact that the storyline focused on a strong female character; one who possessed wit, intelligence and dedication to achieve stability in her life. Marie, forced to choose between domestic life and a career, faces the inevitable doubt that occurs when choosing one indefinitely.  The novel, however, did not rely upon a budding relationship with her male counterpart, Henri, but focused on the political upheavel of the day, making the novel much more informative. For a female (and really any citizen in her position) during this period, it was incredible to see such a feat. 

Madame Tussaud explores the intensely dark days of the French Revolution, and the disheartening extremes of humanity.  I'd say that the novel isn't necessarily for those who detest violence and devious sexuality, but is worth the read due to the historical figures it presents.  I've been on quite the historical hunt to find out more information about many of the individuals represented in the book. 

If you enjoy historical fiction that presses you to find out more about the subject, Moran's Madame Tussaud is a perfect selection.  Plus, a friend of mine let me borrow her copy of this book, so be sure to visit her site, Literature and a Lens, to see a more thorough review of the novel.

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