This is How I'd Love You by Hazel Woods (Book Tour)

As the Great War rages, an independent young woman struggles to sustain love—and life—through the power of words. It’s 1917 and America is on the brink of World War I. 

After Hensley Dench’s father is forced to resign from the New York Times for his anti-war writings, she finds herself expelled from the life she loves and the future she thought she would have. Instead, Hensley is transplanted to New Mexico, where her father has taken a job overseeing a gold mine. Driven by loneliness, Hensley hijacks her father’s correspondence with Charles Reid, a young American medic with whom her father plays chess via post. Hensley secretly begins her own exchange with Charles, but looming tragedy threatens them both, and—when everything turns against them—will their words be enough to beat the odds?

 Publication Date: August 26, 2014
Plume Books
Formats: eBook, Paperback, MP3 CD
Pages: 320

Genre: Historical Fiction

 ****

This is Hazel Wood's debut.  It is written in 3rd person narrative, which I am not totally used to, but thankfully it did not take long to get lost in this story.  I really enjoyed this book and like the unique premise, a chess game via mail.   Taking place in 1917 and America has just entered World War I.  There seems to be quite a number of books around these days during this time period, but I don't recall reading any that takes place primary in the US.  I am not a big romance reader and though this book has been listed as 'romance' it wasn't over the top, it was realistic and a believable tale.

Hensley Dench is young, fresh out of high school and uprooted from New York and moved to New Mexico.  She begins a unique relationship with a medic who is serving in France.  As the story progresses we learn that each is not without secrets and when tragedy strikes both of them they are both forced to do some serious soul searching.  I really enjoyed watching the progression of Hensley and Charles character throughout this book.  The author's writing style keep me engaged as well as visualizing places.

The cover is gorgeous and was one of the first things that attracted me to this book. This is How I'd Love You will  appeal to those that enjoy World War I fiction or just a good all round historical fiction read.

Praise for This Is How I’d Love You

“In This is How I’d Love You, Hazel Woods explores the enduring nature of an improbable love born of words, washed in tragedy, and sustained despite impossible circumstances. With prose as immediate and evocative as a painting, Woods accomplishes the magic of rendering sorrow into hope and fear into courage. It is as idealistic a tale as it is clear-sighted, a brilliant alchemy few novels achieve. Readers, prepare to melt” — Robin Oliveria, author of My Name is Mary Sutter

Buy the Book

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
IndieBound
Powell’s

Hazel Woods lives in New Mexico with her husband and two children.

For more information please visit www.hazelwoodsauthor.com.

You can also find her on Twitter.

This Is How I’d Love You Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, August 25
Review & Giveaway at Flashlight Commentary
Wednesday, August 27
Interview at Dab of Darkness
Friday, August 29
Interview at Book Babe
Tuesday, September 2
Review & Interview at Closed the Cover
Review & Interview at A Chick Who Reads
Wednesday, September 3
Review at The Bookworm
Friday, September 5
Spotlight & Giveaway at So Many Precious Books, So Little Time
Monday, September 8
Spotlight & Giveaway at Historical Tapestry
Tuesday, September 9
Guest Post & Giveaway at Let Them Read Books
Wednesday, September 10
Interview at Caroline Wilson Writes
Thursday, September 11
Review at Booktalk & More
Friday, September 12
Review & Giveaway at A Bookish Affair
Spotlight at CelticLady’s Reviews
Monday, September 15
Review & Guest Post at Bookish
Tuesday, September 16
Review at Book of Secrets
Wednesday, September 17
Review at Book Nerd

Powder Monkey by Donna McDine (Book Tour)

Forced into a life at sea by the Royal Navy Press Gangs, 12-year-old Tommy Kitt finds himself in a floating sea of misery. Poor living conditions and beatings occur daily. 

Despite his small size, Tommy must summon the courage and physical ability to prevail in a situation he cannot escape.

Suggested age range for readers: 8-12. Free Educator Guides Available.

Written By: Donna McDine
Illustrated by: K.C. Snider
Publication Date: May 20, 2013
Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc
Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook

Genre: Historical Fiction/Children’s Fiction (Ages 8-12)

                                                   ***1/2

My second book by Donna McDine and another enjoyable one.  It appears that she has connected with her targeted age range here (8-12 year olds) with another look at the past.  The illustrations are wonderful and really bring this book to life.    Though the book does not mention where it is taking place or the time period it was still interesting.  Dark at times, it might frighten younger readers.

I had never heard of the Royal Navy Press Ganges before or the term Powder Monkey, so this reader got a history lesson.  Tommy is only 12 years when taken by force from his family, he is scared, smart but also determined that he will survive.  I read this book is one sitting and would have liked the ending to have gone on a little longer.  It ended rather abruptly and it would have been nice to see what happened to Tommy.  I guess that is a sign that the author created a bond with her readers.

In a classroom setting or with parent/child reading it could open a door to questions and bringing history to life.

Praise for Powder Monkey

“Danger. Hardship. Cannon blasts. And whips. Stolen violently into service as a boy who delivers powder to the cannons during a battle, young Tommy never sees his parents again. What adventures await him? Donna M. McDine’s book, Powder Monkey, moves quickly through tense action scenes to portray realistic life during this dangerous era on the high seas.” ~ Nancy I. Sanders, bestselling and award-winning children’s author of Challenge on the Hill of Fire and Frederick Douglass for Kids ~ nancyisanders.com

“The saga of an age gone by, Donna McDine’s Powder Monkey, ably captures the essence of what some young boys endured as impressed sailors. With pathos and honesty, this historically accurate account of Tommy Kitt’s struggle to stay alive at sea, is a testimony to the author’s prowess as a storyteller.” ~ Nancy Stewart, Award-winning and Amazon best-selling children’s author ~ http://nancystewartbooks.com

“Powder Monkey by Donna McDine, illustrated by K.C. Snider, is a heart wrenching historical fiction. The story chronicles the lives of two brothers during British naval history. The brothers are taken and forced to run powder to the cannons during battles at sea. K.C. Snider’s artwork transports the reader back to a world where innocent boys endured many hardships. Parents and teachers can certainly use the book to teach many valuable lessons about life and how it should not be taken for granted. ~Reviewed by Nicole Weaver, Award-winning Children’s Author ~ http://mysisterismybestfriend.blogspot.com/2013/11/book-review-powder-monkey-by-donna.html

“The richly detailed illustrations, by well known artist and illustrator K.C Snider, drew me back into a time when the theme of this historical novel would have been played out – press gangs kidnapping young boys for service at sea. This tale of 14 year old farm boy Tommy, and his older brother, is well told. It has the right feel. The author’s research shines through on every page. Action scenes, and well crafted tense moments pulled me into the story, and the ending was true to life in those times. This is a book that boys and tomboys will enjoy. Teachers and home schooling parents will appreciate its authentic background and vivid details: an exciting and action packed read. I recommend Powder Monkey as a book that will definitely HOOK Kids on Reading.” ~ Reviewed by Margot Finke, children’s author ~ http://margotfinke.com

Buy the Book

Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
Amazon (Print)
Autographed Copies
Wholesale Orders

Donna McDine is a multiple award-winning children’s author, Honorable Mention in the 77th and two Honorable Mentions in the 78th Annual Writer’s Digest Writing Competitions, A Sandy Grave ~ Story Monster Approved and Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, The Golden Pathway ~ Literary Classics Silver Award & Seal of Approval Recipient Picture Book Early Reader, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention, Global eBook Awards Finalist Children’s Picture Book Fiction, and Preditors & Editors Readers Poll 2010 Top Ten Children’s Books.

Her interest in ocean life resulted in writing and publishing A Sandy Grave (January 2014). Other books by McDine, Powder Monkey (May 2013), Hockey Agony (January 2013) and The Golden Pathway (August 2010). A fifth book is in the publishing pipeline with Guardian Angel Publishing. She writes and moms from her home in the historical hamlet Tappan, NY. McDine is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators.

For more information please visit Donna McDine’s website. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, and Goodreads.

Powder Monkey Blog Tour

Monday, August 25
Spotlight at So Many Precious Books, So Little Time
Wednesday, August 27
Interview & Giveaway at Let Them Read Books
Monday, September 1
Spotlight at What Is That Book About
Tuesday, September 2
Review at Book Nerd
Thursday, September 4
Review at A Leisure Moment
Monday, September 8
Review at Bookish
Tuesday, September 9
Interview at Closed the Cover
Wednesday, September 10
Review at Historical Tapestry
Thursday, September 11
Review at Impressions in Ink
Friday, September 12
Review at Just One More Chapter
Friday, September 19
Review & Giveaway at Peeking Between the Pages

The Golden Pathway by Donna M. McDine (Book Tour)

Be transported through time to the Underground Railroad, where high-pitched screams echo each night. David’s cruel Pa always chooses the same victim. Despite the circumstances during slavery, David uncovers the courage to defy his Pa.

Raised in a hostile environment where abuse occurs daily, David attempts to break the mold and befriends the slave, Jenkins, owned by his Pa.

Fighting against extraordinary times and beliefs, David attempts to lead Jenkins to freedom with no regard for his own safety and possible consequences dealt out by his Pa.

Suggested age range for readers: 8-12. Free Educator Guides Available.

 

Written By: Donna McDine
Illustrated by: K.C. Snider
Publication Date: August 12, 2010
Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc
Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook

Genre: Historical Fiction/Children’s Fiction (Ages 8-12)

  *****

I will not recap what this book is about, I think the synopsis does a fine job of that.  There are so many positive things that I love about this book. 

The Golden Pathway is the perfect book to read to any 8-12 year old.  It shows a side of American history from a child's pov and that is rarely done.  This book can open the door to questions and discussions about the Underground Railroad and other aspects of this time period.  David's compassion for Jenkin's is heartfelt, he knows what is right and his desire to help (even though he knows the consequences if he is caught) is admirable. He is brave and determined to get Jenkin's away, he has a plan and figures out how to make it work.

This is a powerful book that is further enhanced with the colorful and moving illustrations. Not just a historical story but educational as well.  A must for classrooms and home libraries.

Praise for The Golden Pathway

“The Golden Pathway is a tale of compassion and courage. This book earns the Children’s Literary Classics Seal of Approval, a designation reserved for those books which uphold the rigorous criteria set forth by the Children’s Literary Classics review committee, a team comprised of individuals with backgrounds in publishing, editing, writing, illustration and graphic design.” –Literary Classics Book Awards & Reviews

“The Golden Pathway is written specifically for children 8-12 years old and is written perfectly to their level of understanding. It is easy to comprehend and the plot flows smoothly. The illustrations are beautifully depicted and complement the wording immensely. I found this story to be powerful, inspiring and something that will provide children with a valuable lesson about slavery and freedom as part of American History. I can see this book also providing a valuable tool for children to ask questions and bring about important conversation. I feel strongly that this book is a must read for all children ages 8 and up.” –Rita V., Readers Favorite

“This story by author Donna M. McDine, with full-page, full-color illustrations by K. C. Snider, is an attention-grabbing way to introduce students to the fact that slavery once existed in this country and also illustrate how the “Underground Railroad” helped slaves to escape north so that they might gain their freedom. It is a great book.” –Wayne S. Walker, Home School Book Review

“Donna M. McDine is an award winning children’s author and it comes through in the book. The way she has handled such a delicate and emotional subject is really good. She has given a good twist to the tale in the end. The story imparts an important message to the children, of being courageous and yet compassionate towards fellow human beings. At the same time the story makes the children realize the plight people went through in those times.” -Benu Bali, Zealot Readers

Buy the Book

Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
Amazon (Kindle)
Amazon (Print)
Autographed Copies
Wholesale Orders

Donna McDine is a multiple award-winning children’s author, Honorable Mention in the 77th and two Honorable Mentions in the 78th Annual Writer’s Digest Writing Competitions, A Sandy Grave ~ Story Monster Approved and Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, The Golden Pathway ~ Literary Classics Silver Award & Seal of Approval Recipient Picture Book Early Reader, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention, Global eBook Awards Finalist Children’s Picture Book Fiction, and Preditors & Editors Readers Poll 2010 Top Ten Children’s Books.

Her interest in ocean life resulted in writing and publishing A Sandy Grave (January 2014). Other books by McDine, Powder Monkey (May 2013), Hockey Agony (January 2013) and The Golden Pathway (August 2010). A fifth book is in the publishing pipeline with Guardian Angel Publishing. She writes and moms from her home in the historical hamlet Tappan, NY. McDine is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators.

For more information please visit Donna McDine’s website. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, and Goodreads.

The Golden Pathway Blog Tour

Monday, August 25
Review at What Is That Book About
Tuesday, August 26
Spotlight at So Many Precious Books, So Little Time
Wednesday, August 27
Interview & Giveaway at Let Them Read Books
Friday, August 29
Review at 100 Pages a Day – Stephanie’s Book Reviews
Wednesday, September 3
Review at Bookish
Thursday, September 4
Review at A Bibliotaph’s Reviews
Friday, September 5
Review at Book Nerd
Review at A Leisure Moment
Monday, September 8
Review at Beth’s Book Nook
Review at Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers
Tuesday, September 9
Interview at Closed the Cover
Thursday, September 11
Review at Impressions in Ink
Review at Historical Tapestry
Friday, September 12
Review at Just One More Chapter
Wednesday, September 17
Review & Giveaway at Peeking Between the Pages

Review & Giveaway: Shadow on the Highway by Deborah Swift

 Please join Deborah Swift as she tours the blogosphere with HF Virtual Book Tours for Shadow on the Highway (The Highway Trilogy, Book One), from August 25-September 15, and enter to win your own copy!

May 1651. England has been in the midst of a civil war for nearly ten years. The country has been torn in two, and the King is getting ready to make his last stand against Cromwell’s New Model Army.

Abigail Chaplin, a young mute girl, has lost her father to the parliamentarian cause. But with her family now in reduced circumstances, she is forced to work as a servant at a royalist household – the estate of Lady Katherine Fanshawe.

Abi is soon caught up in a web of sinister secrets which surround the Fanshawe estate. The most curious of which is the disappearance of Lady Katherine late at night.

Why are her husband’s clothes worn and muddy even though he hasn’t been home for weeks? How is she stealing out of the house late at night when her room is being guarded? And what is her involvement with the robberies being committed by the mysterious Shadow on the Highway?

‘Shadow On The Highway’ is based on the life and legend of Lady Katherine Fanshawe, the highwaywoman, sometimes known as ‘The Wicked Lady’. It is the first book in ‘The Highway Trilogy’.

Publication Date: July 15, 2014

Endeavor Press

Formats: eBook, Paperback; 200P

Series: The Highway Trilogy

Genre: Historical Fiction/YA (14+)

****

Book 1 in The Highway Trilogy has two of my favorite elements - young adult and historical fiction.  Deborah Swift is a favorite of mine, I've read all 3 of her books, The Lady Slipper, The Gilded Lily and A Divided Inheritance and am thrilled to be a part of this tour.

Young Adult is a new genre for this author and she has embraced it very nicely.  Coming in around 200 pages it was a quick read, but for this reader I was so engrossed in the story that the time just flew by.

Told from the POV of young Abi (Abigail) during the Civil War in England (17th century).  She is sent by her mother to Markyate Manor where she is met with a grumpy cook and ornery overseer.  To top it off she is to be maid to Lady Katherine Fanshawe, who just happens to be the same age and not too pleasant herself.  Did I mention that Abi is deaf? 

I really like the authors writing style, she managed to captured the essence of this time period through her vivid descriptions showing the effects this war had on it's citizens.    The storyline was interesting and unique, how slowly over the course of this book the mystery of Abi's deafness is revealed.  Along with how she ended up being a maid in the first place.  How Katherine turned into Kate and fell for Abi's brother.  There is a lot going on here but in a good way.  Mystery, a touch of romance, hidden agenda's, friendship, commitment, manipulation and more.

The historical notes at the end of the book were an added bonus.  They explained much and confirmed the fact that this author really knows her history and has done her homework.  

I think that not just YA but adults will enjoy this book, especially if you are a lover of historical fiction taking place in England (with non royal characters.)

 

 Praise for Deborah Swift

“There is no greater compliment than ‘Give me more!’” – Author Susanna Gregory

“realistic dialogue, an author’s obvious love for history, and characters that leap off the pages” – Romance Reviews Today

“genuinely engrossing… with characters you can get interested in” – The Mum Website

 

Buy the Book

Amazon US
Amazon UK

Deborah Swift used to work in the theatre and at the BBC as a set and costume designer, before studying for an MA in Creative Writing in 2007. She lives in a beautiful area of Lancashire near the Lake District National Park. She is the author of The Lady’s Slipper and is a member of the Historical Writers Association, the Historical Novel Society, and the Romantic Novelists Association.

For more information, please visit Deborah’s website. You can also find her on Facebook and Twitter.

 

Shadow on the Highway Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, August 25

Review at Flashlight Commentary

Tuesday, August 26

Interview at Flashlight Commentary

Book Blast at Princess of Eboli

Wednesday, August 27

Guest Post at Reading the Past

Book Blast at Broken Teepee

Thursday, August 28

Review at WTF Are You Reading?

Book Blast at Peeking Between the Pages

Friday, August 29

Book Blast at Passages to the Past

Book Blast at What Is That Book About

Monday, September 1

Review at The Maiden’s Court

Book Blast at Reading Lark

Tuesday, September 2

Guest Post at Let Them Read Books

Wednesday, September 3

Review at A Bookish Affair

Friday, September 5

Book Blast at Curling Up By the Fire

Saturday, September 6

Book Blast at A Book Geek

Monday, September 8

Review at Oh, for the Hook of a Book

Review at Historical Fiction Obsession

Tuesday, September 9

Review at Brooke Blogs

Book Blast at CelticLady’s Reviews

Wednesday, September 10

Review at Unabridged Chick

Review at So Many Books, So Little Time

Thursday, September 11

Review & Guest Post at Just One More Chapter

Interview & Giveaway at Unabridged Chick

Book Blast at Luxury Reading

Friday, September 12

Review at The Musings of ALMYBNENR

Review at Ageless Pages Reviews

Monday, September 15

Review at Historical Tapestry

Book Blast at A Bibliophile’s Reverie

Giveaway

To win a Paperback or eBook of Shadow on the Highway please complete the Rafflecopter giveaway form below. Five copies of each are up for grabs. Giveaway is open internationally.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Guestpost: Sally O’Reilly – Dark Aemilia

Please join me in welcoming Sally O'Reilly to JustOneMoreChapter today.  I was able to pick the topic for this guestpost and here it is -


"With so many books out there about the major players in that time period it is nice to read something about lesser known people.  Why did you pick Amelia?  I'd love to hear about your research, how hard is it to dig up information about someone that isn't part of the court."

My original idea when writing ‘Dark Aemilia’ was to set the story in eleventh century Scotland. The novel was going to be told from the point of view of Lady Macbeth. But I found it difficult to understand the mind-set of a woman in the eleventh century – it all seemed very alien and remote. So I researched Shakespeare’s London (in the sixteenth and early seventeenth century) and found I could identify more easily with the people at this time.

However, the Early Modern period is very popular with historical fiction writers, and I was keen to find a new area that I could explore.  I was excited to discover Aemilia Bassano (later Lanyer) largely because she has been almost forgotten by history. The facts that we do know are startling: she was illegitimate, of Venetian/Jewish descent, the cast-off mistress of the Lord Chamberlain and she was the first woman to be published professionally as a poet in England. Add to this the possibility that she could be Shakespeare’s Dark Lady and you have a story that is waiting to be told.

Hilary Mantel has said that when writing ‘Wolf Hall’ and ‘Bring Up the Bodies’ she operates ‘in the gaps in history’ and that she writes about ‘what is said behind the hand, and on the back stairs’. She does this brilliantly by somehow getting into Cromwell’s point of view without using the first person voice. But he is a major historical player, and it suited me to find someone who was anything but, someone who was in close contact with influential people, but had no real influence of her own. (In formal terms, at least; Aemilia actually had a lot of power sexually and emotionally, as I hope the story demonstrates.)

To me, writing good historical fiction is about being accurate where you have to be – about major historical events, about the context, the details of everyday life, and so on. But it is also about letting your imagination run free when you find the sort of gap that Hilary Mantel is talking about. And life outside the court is a very big gap indeed – no one even kept a diary that we know about until Samuel Pepys in the mid seventeenth century. I worked within the known facts about Aemilia’s life – date of birth, dates of her relationship with the Lord Chamberlain, Lord Hunsden, date of her marriage and so on.

In addition to this, I looked for facts about women’s domestic lives, fashions, superstitions, information about the raising of children, where and how they did their shopping, the kind of books they would read (if they were literate) and so on. I found that this really bought the period alive, and allied to what I knew about his extraordinary woman, it helped me to paint a picture of her life that I found credible, and that I hoped other people would also believe in.  The places I looked were contemporary social documents, such as chapbooks about childbirth and household remedies, and physical places like museums, ancient houses and churches.

I tried to find out about the tactile reality of life: I even tried on a crinoline in the costume museum in Bath, because I thought the way it hangs and gets in the way would be very like the farthingales that were fashionable in Aemilia’s time. (And why on earth are women’s fashions so cumbersome and impractical?)

Research is a strange business – you don’t know what you need to know till you are quite far into the narrative, and until you get to that point it can feel as if you are assembling a huge pile of weird facts that you don’t know what to do with. I am at this stage with my new novel now, and I have to remind myself that I have been there before, and it is all part of the process.

Monday, August 18
Review at The Bookworm
Tuesday, August 19
Review & Giveaway at Unshelfish
Spotlight & Giveaway at So Many Precious Books, So Little Time
Wednesday, August 20
Guest Post at Bibliophilia, Please
Thursday, August 21
Spotlight at Princess of Eboli
Monday, August 25
Review at The Mad Reviewer
Review & Giveaway at Curling Up By the Fire
Tuesday, August 26
Review & Giveaway at Poof Books
Thursday, August 28
Review at Ageless Pages Reviews
Sunday, August 31
Review at Carole’s Ramblings
Monday, September 1
Review at Book Drunkard
Giveaway at Carole’s Ramblings
Tuesday, September 2
Guest Post & Giveaway at Passages to the Past
Wednesday, September 3
Review & Giveaway at Bibliophilia, Please
Friday, September 5
Review at Awesome Book Assessment
Tuesday, September 9
Review at Just One More Chapter
Wednesday, September 10
Guest Post at Just One More Chapter
Thursday, September 11
Review at CelticLady’s Reviews
Tuesday, September 16
Review & Giveaway at Bookish
Wednesday, September 17
Review & Giveaway at Casual Readers
Friday, September 19
Review & Giveaway at Book Nerd
Monday, September 22
Review at A Book Geek
Tuesday, September 23
Review & Giveaway at Beth’s Book Reviews
Wednesday, September 24
Review & Giveaway at Peeking Between the Pages
Friday, September 26
Review at A Chick Who Reads
Sunday, September 28
Review at WTF Are You Reading?
Monday, September 29
Review at 100 Pages a Day – Stephanie’s Book Reviews
Review & Giveaway at Book Dilettante

Review & Giveaway: Dark Aemilia by Sally O'Reilly (book tour)

A TALE OF SORCERY AND PASSION IN SEVENTEENTH-CENTURY LONDON—WHERE WITCHES HAUNT WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE AND HIS DARK LADY, THE PLAYWRIGHT’S MUSE AND ONE TRUE LOVE.

The daughter of a Venetian musician, Aemilia Bassano came of age in Queen Elizabeth’s royal court. The Queen’s favorite, she develops a love of poetry and learning, maturing into a young woman known not only for her beauty but also her sharp mind and quick tongue. Aemilia becomes the mistress of Lord Hunsdon, but her position is precarious. Then she crosses paths with an impetuous playwright named William Shakespeare and begins an impassioned but ill-fated affair.

A decade later, the Queen is dead, and Aemilia Bassano is now Aemilia Lanyer, fallen from favor and married to a fool. Like the rest of London, she fears the plague. And when her young son Henry takes ill, Aemilia resolves to do anything to save him, even if it means seeking help from her estranged lover, Will—or worse, making a pact with the Devil himself.

In rich, vivid detail, Sally O’Reilly breathes life into England’s first female poet, a mysterious woman nearly forgotten by history. Full of passion and devilish schemes, Dark Aemilia is a tale worthy of the Bard.

Selected by O, The Oprah Magazine as one of 17 Books You Won’t Be Able To Put Down!

  Publication Date: May 27, 2014

Picador/Macmillan Formats: eBook, Hardcover

***1/2

I found this to be a fascinating book.  The authors attention to detail had me visualizing England during this time period.  Whether it was the theater, mud caked streets, ferries across the Thames and so much more, the authors realistic descriptions shows her knowledge of this era.  I had a hard time putting this book down just for the sheer fact that I was intrigued enough to find out what was going on.  The supernatural part was interesting, though at times a little much.  The concept of Lilith was something I have never heard of before (whether it is a true legend I am not sure).

This book focuses mainly on Aemilia and I got to know her quite well.  Some of the other players here lacked depth and I would have liked to see a little more of Queen Elizabeth and even William Shakespeare here.

This is historical fiction with supernatural elements and might not appeal to all HF fans.  I enjoyed it for glimpses of London life, the theater, poetry and a look at a 'little known' real person.

5 copies available for giveaway, open to US & Canada residents only.  It's easy just leave a comment, an extra entry if you blog or tweet about it (leave link).  Contest ends Sept 17th.

READ AN EXCERPT.

Praise for Dark Aemilia: A Novel of Shakespeare’s Dark Lady

“A gripping novel that gives feisty feminist voice to the unknown woman who inspired Shakespeare’s sonnets… O’Reilly brings her star-crossed lovers together and drives them apart through plot twists that are, for once, credible outgrowths of the characters’ personalities and beliefs, finally giving them a tender, heartbreaking parting. First-rate historical fiction: marvelously atmospheric and emotionally engaging.”—Kirkus Reviews (starred)

“[Dark Aemilia] mesmerizes with its descriptions of the Bard’s London…O’Reilly casts her story with witches, doomed royals, evil courtiers, and star-crossed lovers, as if it were a Jacobean play. But her finest accomplishment is not the tribute she pays to these historical figures, but the bold imagination she displays in bringing them together.”—Publishers Weekly

“With elegant style, masterly wordplay, and an eye for historical detail, O’Reilly beautifully relates a passionate and tragic love story, worthy of two such well-known figures. With Shakespeare’s 450th birthday approaching this April, fans of historical fiction writers such as Philippa Gregory, Anne Easter Smith, and Tracy Chevalier won’t want to miss this one.” —Library Journal

“O’Reilly’s American debut is an imaginative take on the life of poet Aemilia Layner, a contemporary of William Shakespeare…. This is a lively, vividly rendered novel about the dramatic life of an extraordinary woman.”—Booklist

“Seductive, sharp-witted lady-in-waiting Aemilia Bassano, who later becomes known as England’s first published female poet, falls into a love affair with the Bard himself, loses favor with the court, and resorts to black magic and sorcery to save her child in this textured work of historical fiction.”—O, The Oprah Magazine

“I just finished this, and I’m jumping at this opportunity to recommend it to book lovers far and wide… Dark Aemilia is a must-read for all lovers of Shakespeare and old England, and while it is written from the perspective of a woman, I am confident men will enjoy it, too. I am usually careful with my books, but this one quickly became a victim of dog ears and pencil-marks, because O’Reilly touches on so many crucial historical moments and writes with such intelligent elegance.” —Anne Fortier, BookPage

“We all know Shakespeare wrote love sonnets. Now, O’Reilly’s new novel brings us the Bard’s sonnet-writing lover and sonnet-inspiring muse.”—The New York Post

“Draped in the lure of magic and fantasy that weaved its way through many of Shakespeare’s plays, Dark Aemilia lives and breathes the late 16th century ….O’Reilly’s debut novel is a sweeping success, a tale full of action and intrigue and as deep as any ocean. Live vicariously through the eyes of one of the first proto-feminists to have lived. See as the author steps into her head and creates a world that is more realistic than the one outside your window. Let this book redefine the way you see love.”—Bookreporter

Buy the Book

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Book Depository

Sally O’Reilly has received numerous citations for her fiction, which has been shortlisted for the Ian St James Short Story Prize and the Cosmopolitan Short Story Award. A former Cosmopolitan New Journalist of the Year, her work has appeared in The Guardian, The Sunday Times, the Evening Standard, and the New Scientist. She teaches creative writing at the Open University and the University of Portsmouth in England. Dark Aemilia is her U.S. debut.
For information and news please visit Sally O’Reilly’s website and the Dark Aemilia Facebook Page.

Dark Aemilia Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, August 18
Review at The Bookworm
Tuesday, August 19
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Snow on the Tulips by Liz Tolsma

In a time of unprecedented darkness and fear, Cornelia must decide if saving a stranger’s life is worth risking her own.

In the twilight of the Nazi occupation of The Netherlands, the Germans have taken everything Cornelia had to give, even what was most precious to her. Now Gerrit Laninga—a man who puts God and country above all else—arrives at her house, needing help. She is terrified for herself and terrified for her family, but most of all, terrified of the pain she might feel again if she allows herself to love Gerrit. Her hope is to be free from her paralyzing fear.

Gerrit is a known and hunted Dutch Resistance member. When he comes to Cornelia’s home for shelter, he’s drawn to her strength and kindness. When he asks her to contact the local Resistance on his behalf, she refuses. Gerrit is determined to find a way to continue his underground work without putting Cornelia or her family in harm’s way.

When things start to unravel and Gerrit’s life depends on her actions, she must summon her courage and learn to depend on the perfect love that drives out all fear. But will her new love be snatched away before it has a chance to bloom?

Paperback, 326 pages

Published August 2013 by Thomas Nelson 

***1/2

I never used to read that much about World War II, especially after reading books like The Book Thief, Between Shades of Grey and The Invisible Bridge.  Plus knowing the atrocities committed by the Nazi I just needed to stay away for a bit.

What I am finding these days is a wide array of books showing the war from the other side.  Those courageous enough to fight back in any way they can.  Snow on the Tulips is a look at the Netherlands during the final days of this conflict.  Some sat and waited for the war to end, surviving on ration cards, minding their own business. For others there is the underground, the Resistance.  Some get involved on purpose and for others its thrown in their face. 

It's almost the end of the war, but Cornelia and Gerrit do not know this.  This book shows a vivid portrait of life in the Netherlands, the emotions when a loved one is no longer there.  Hiding those you love from the Germans and knowing who you can trust and who you can't.  This is the authors debut and I think that she is off to a good start.  There were times I felt it dragged a little, but the author shows that she knows her subject matter and wrote an interesting and believable story.

It's Christian fiction which I think added the story,  it's wartime and sometimes all you have left is your faith. 

  

“Courage is not a feeling. Courage is an action.”

Another reason I was drawn to this book is simply the fact that my parents lived in the Netherlands during this war as a young married couple.  My dad was a German POW for 2 years as well.  My parents never talked about the war and this book was a glimpse for me of what life might have been like for them. 

P.S. - it's the cover gorgeous?!

The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton

Set in seventeenth century Amsterdam-a city ruled by glittering wealth and oppressive religion-a masterful debut steeped in atmosphere and shimmering with mystery, in the tradition of Emma Donoghue, Sarah Waters, and Sarah Dunant.

"There is nothing hidden that will not be revealed…"

On a brisk autumn day in 1686, eighteen-year-old Nella Oortman arrives in Amsterdam to begin a new life as the wife of illustrious merchant trader Johannes Brandt. But her new home, while splendorous, is not welcoming. Johannes is kind yet distant, always locked in his study or at his warehouse office-leaving Nella alone with his sister, the sharp-tongued and forbidding Marin.

But Nella's world changes when Johannes presents her with an extraordinary wedding gift: a cabinet-sized replica of their home. To furnish her gift, Nella engages the services of a miniaturist-an elusive and enigmatic artist whose tiny creations mirror their real-life counterparts in eerie and unexpected ways . . .

Johannes' gift helps Nella to pierce the closed world of the Brandt household. But as she uncovers its unusual secrets, she begins to understand-and fear-the escalating dangers that await them all. In this repressively pious society where gold is worshipped second only to God, to be different is a threat to the moral fabric of society, and not even a man as rich as Johannes is safe. Only one person seems to see the fate that awaits them. Is the miniaturist the key to their salvation . . . or the architect of their destruction?

Enchanting, beautiful, and exquisitely suspenseful, The Miniaturist is a magnificent story of love and obsession, betrayal and retribution, appearance and truth.
 

Hardcover, 416 pages

Published August 26th 2014 by Ecco

"But the problem is...those with no horizons want to pull yours down."

There are so many things that drew me to this book.

Locations, location, location - Amsterdam, it's off the beaten path.  Though I am Canadian, my parents and siblings were all raised there and I am always on the lookout for anything HF that I can get my hands on.  The author created scenes that I could visualize, reminders of a trip I once did and made me all the more anxious to go back again.  Add the fact that my mothers maiden name is also Brandt, well it was a given that this book was for me.

It's no secret that I love debuts and this one comes fully loaded!  Outselling JK Rowling is enough to raise ones expectation level!  It's based on a real cabinet and the author has really written a unique story that just drew this reader right in.  It was intriguing, with a wide array of different individuals, each character so different from the other, in their roles and personalities.

Taking place in 1686, Amsterdam was not just a wealthy city but a deeply religious one as well.  Nella is only 18 years old when she arrives in the Brandt household as a young bride, so many ideas and images of what her life would be like, only to meet with Johannes (again) who really does not share those ideas himself.  In fact he doesn't share a lot of things.  He is mysterious and aloft, which adds to the gothic feel.  His sister Marin, who welcomes Nella to the household in an unwelcoming manner and does not hide her feelings. 

When Johannes gift arrives things change and a new Nella emerges. The story takes off once the cabinet starts taking on a life of its own, Nella is no longer shy or reserved, but rather daring and inquisitive.   The writer has a pose that I like, rich details emerge about this time period and lifestyles in a way that kept this reader reading.
 

There are two different covers out there, I really like the UK one and that is what I purchased. I think there is just something kind of mystic and enchanting with this one.

"Freedom is a glorious thing.  Free yourself, Marin.    The bars on your cage are of your own making"