I thought that I hadn't read that many historical fiction books in 2010, but when I was going back through my list of books read this year I found several that really stuck out.The Postmistress by Susan Blake
The title doesn't necessarily sound that exciting, but when you read the book you will find that there is a lot more to it than meets the eye. The book takes place around and during World War II, which is one of my favourite time periods to read books set during. The book sets around two women: Iris James and Frankie Bard. I found the story rather captivating and look forward to what Blake writes next.
The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton
While I am calling this historical fiction, it is actually set in several different time frames. When books travel around through time and have many different narrators I am always worried, but Morton pulled it off really well. She was added to my auto-buy book because I was drawn into this story and the characters. I am hoping to read her debut novel and her new novel this year.
The Greatest Knight by Elizabeth Chadwick
I admit that I have always wanted to read Chadwick, but every time I tried I would have a hard time getting into the story. This time was different. I was drawn in from the very first moment and am now a Chadwick fan, which Marg, Ana, and Alex all ready claim to be. I am hoping to read a bunch of her books this year because she is such a gifted author. Her books are very readable, but they also provide lots of information. She attains a very happy balance.
The Winter Sea by Susanna Kearsley
This list turns out to all be new-to-me authors, but Kearsley became my favourite. I read this book and then I had to try all of her books. I still have a couple left for 2011, but I think that 2010 easily became the Year of Kearsley. It could easily have been the other three authors in this list, too, because I loved them. This book also travels back and forth through time in a masterful way. She writes fascinating characters and really draws writers into her story. I am very happy that I gave her a read.
Honourable Mentions:
Named of the Dragon by Susanna Kearsley
Mariana by Susanna Kearsley
The Shadowy Horses by Susanna Kearsley
I've been trying to read The Postmistress all year! I should really get back on that...
ReplyDeleteGreat list. I've read all but The Postmistress.
ReplyDeleteI, too, am a big fan of Susanna Kearsley. I'm not sure if many people are aware, but she has written one modern-day thriller called Every Secret Thing. Originally published under the pseudonym Emma Cole, the book has recently be re-released under Kearsley's own name. I've not seen any comments on this particular Kearsley book, but I do hope to read it early this year.
I read and *loved* THE WINTER SEA. It was my last book of 2010 and I'm so glad I picked it up. Which Kearsley book do you recommend moving on to after that one?
ReplyDeleteAngie: Hopefully you enjoy it when you get to it!
ReplyDeleteAvid_Reader: I read Every Secret Thing earlier this year. It was rather good. I know it is supposed to be quite different, but you can still tell it is her book. I am not sure if my point is getting across...
Angiegirl: You could try Mariana. It is a bit earlier in her career, but still written well.
The Postmistress made my list too. Greatest Knight and Winter Sea are on my TBR.
ReplyDeleteTeddy: I hope you enjoy The Greatest Knight and The Winter Sea when you read them!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed The Postmistress and loved The Greatest Knight!!
ReplyDelete