pickYet again, this book did not disappoint. I found it fascinating to learn more about Katherine of Aragon and her journey from Spanish princess to Queen of England and first wife of Henry VIII. Philippa Gregory brings Katherine‘s strength,faith,and determination vividly to life. I was especially interested in the background of Spain and the holy wars between Christians and the Muslims (Moors), which added depth to the story. I recommended this book
Random book from our personal library.
pickA friend lent me this older book from her shelf. Published in 2001 and sub titled “A Year of the Plague” - I wasn‘t feeling much excitement to read this so it sat by the bed for 6 months. I finally picked it up over Xmas & then completely devoured it. It‘s a beautifully written & researched historical fiction, told in 1st person from a young woman living within a small English village in 1665 & her town has been closed off due to plague outbreak.
pickI thought this third book of the Marlo Murders was really clever and well plotted. However, I couldn't decide whether or not it would be offensive to people who are higher-weight, and that's important to me. I enjoyed all the characters revelations. The characterization is amazing.
After publishing 84 Charing Cross Rd, Hanff finally got to visit London, meet many of her pen pals in person, and geek out about being in the same places Shakespeare and other beloved writers had been.
This brought back fond memories of my week in London. So much history, everywhere! Written in diary format, this takes you right there, into her silliest encounters and deepest awe.
#BookSpinBingo
I asked if he could point me toward Bloomsbury, I wanted to walk home. He said: “Go on up to O-Burn Street and follow the bus.“
Looked for O-Burn Street, looked for Auburn Street and finally stumbled on the street he meant: High Holborn. And that's what they mean by a cockney accent.
pickA decade after WWI and Maisie is still coming to terms with her grief as she investigates the "Retreat" where disfigured soldiers go missing. The emotions run deeper than other historical cozies which I like, but the conclusion leaves me unfulfilled.
#SeriesLove2026 @Susanita @TheEllieMo
#LitsyAtoZ Letter M @Texreader
On the 12th day of Christmas, my TBR pile gave to me: Cider With Rosie, Laurie Lee‘s memoir of his childhood growing up in the 1910s/20s about 10 miles away from where I now live. Some beautiful moments in it, though not all quite the bucolic tales I expected.
Honourable Mention to Zen and The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance. It still blows my mind how much I liked reading that one.
#12BooksOf2025
