Tregaron's Daughter by Madeleine Brent This was my second Madeleine Brent novel in a month. I liked it just as much as Moonraker's Bride. It's a beautifully written British period book with just the right amount of suspense, romance, and beautiful scenery. No, it's not illustrated, but Brent's stunning descriptions and vivid imagery make it feel more like you're watching a movie than reading a book. Speaking of making it into a movie--someone should. And if they cast Matthew MacFadyen (the latest Mr. Darcy) as Lucian, I'd have to own it.
Missing by Ronda Gibb Henrichsen
Before reviewing this book, I'm going to make a confession. I was at Costco and Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen was there signing copies of this book. Uncomfortable in the knowledge that in a few short months that could be me, feeling awkward and silly, I stopped and talked to her. And yes, I bought her book. Mostly out of pity. Having said that, I actually read the book and found it enjoyable. It was unpredictable, entertaining and a quick read. Just what I was in the mood for. It probably helped that it was set in Victoria, B.C., one of my favorite cities to visit.
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens I'm sorry to say this is the first time I've ever read a Charles Dicken's book in its entirety. I remember starting A Tale of Two Cities in High School, but I don't remember finishing it. The first part of the book was slow, and I had to push my way through it, but then it grabbed me and I quickly finished (as quickly as you can finish a 600 page book). My copy included the original ending as well as the ending Dickens settled on. I had mixed feelings about the endings. Even now, I'm not sure which one I prefer--the darker and more depressing ending that seemed to fit the mood of much of the book or the more hopeful "happy ending." This surprised me a little, because I love a happy ending, but in this case, I'm just not sure. Any of you who have read it, please tell me what you think.
The Heretic's Daughter by Kathleen Kent
The Heretic's Daughter by Kathleen Kent This is not a happy book. It is tragic, disturbing and true. The circumstances surrounding the Salem Witch Trials and the lives of the people involved are difficult to understand and hard to read, but if you have ever had an interest in the historical realities of that time, this is an excellent book. The author is a descendant of one of the women put to death for witchcraft and it is well-researched and very interesting. There are some terrible times in human history and I'd have to say this is definitely one of them.
Please share any thoughts you've had on these four books or share some recommendations for me. What do you think I should add to my reading list?
Comments
Regarding Charles Dickens, I read Oliver Twist and David Copperfield. I remember those because Dickens explores and considers the question "Nature vs Nurture". I believe that in his time there was still the notion that one was born into position and that was that. Refinement vs coarseness was a matter of birth, not choice and experience.
Someday I'll tell the story of how I got back to the classics.