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Showing posts from March, 2014

Seer of Sevenwaters (Book #5 of the Sevenwaters Series) by Juliet Marillier: A Book Review

Seer of Sevenwaters (Book #5 of the Sevenwaters Series) Author: Juliet Marillier Genre: Historical Fiction, Fantasy Publisher: Roc Release Date: 2011 Pages: 448 Source: Personal Collection Synopsis: Get swept away in the romantic fantasy of this national bestselling author's world of Sevenwaters.      The young seer Sibeal is visiting an island of elite warriors, prior to making her final pledge as a druid. It's there she finds Felix, a survivor of a Viking shipwreck, who's lost his memory. The scholarly Felix and Sibeal form a natural bond. He could even be her soul mate, but Sibeal's vocation is her true calling, and her heart must answer.       As Felix fully regains his memory, Sibeal has a runic divination showing her that Felix must go on a perilous mission-and that she will join him. The rough waters and the sea creatures they will face are no match for Sibeal's own inner turmoil. She must choose between the two things that tug at her soul-her spir

Guest Post by Heath Jacks: Heads Are Gonna Roll! The Trend of Headless Women Book Covers

      Today's guest writer is Heath Jacks, whom I am proud to say is my father. He is an amateur comedian, and always makes me laugh. We were talking about historical book covers earlier, and he asked if he could write a guest article. I hope you enjoy my dad and his humor!      Greetings, readers of History From A Woman's Perspective. I am the father of the lovely young woman who writes this blog. I have my own blog, Cancer - The Lighter Side ,  which takes a lighter, more humorous look at my battle with colon cancer and the ensuing chemotherapy, which I am happy to report is over and all is well. I have written some short stories, and am attempting a longer work called "Walking Dumb". I know you're breathless already in anticipation. Look for it to be self-published posthumously. I am also a former stand-up comic.      I am writing this guest post after noticing the number of historical fiction novels with covers where the model's head is cut off.  

Deborah Swift's Book Blast

HF Virtual Book Tours is delighted to introduce you to historical novelist Deborah Swift! Deborah’s acclaimed novels are set in turbulent seventeenth century England and have been described as “brilliant” and “a must for all readers looking for something out of the ordinary but grippingly alive”. Her previous life as a scenographer and costume designer shine through as the settings are beautifully evoked, immersing the reader in the sights and smells of the time. Deborah’s multi-layered and engrossing historical adventures will make perfect picks for reading groups. Reading Group Guides can be conveniently found in the back of each book and on her website. Find more information on Deborah's novels below and enter to win a $25 Amazon Gift Card (£15 UK)! The Lady's Slipper Publication Date: June 3, 2011 Pan MacMillan Formats: Ebook, Paperback England, 1660. The King is back, but memories of the English Civil War still rankle. In rural Westmorland, artist Alice I

Heir to Sevenwaters (Book #4 of the Sevenwaters Series) by Juliet Marillier: A Book Review

Heir to Sevenwaters (Book #4  of the Sevenwaters Series) Author: Juliet Marillier Genre: Historical Fiction, Fantasy Publisher: Tor Books Release Date: 2008 Pages: 416 Source: Personal Collection Synopsis: " A   brand new novel in the beloved world of Sevenwaters—a fantasy series that “should appeal to Lord of the Rings fans” (VOYA)."      The chieftains of Sevenwaters have long been custodians of a vast and mysterious forest. Human and Otherworld dwellers have existed there side by side, sharing a wary trust. Until the spring when Lady Aisling of Sevenwaters finds herself expecting another child—a new heir to Sevenwaters.      Then the family’s joy turns to despair when the baby is taken from his room and something...unnatural is left in his place. To reclaim her newborn brother, Clodagh must enter the shadowy Otherworld and confront the powerful prince who rules there.      My Review: This story takes place 4 years after Child of the Prophecy . Because the fir

Child of the Prophecy (Book #3 of the Sevenwaters Series) by Juliet Marillier: A Book Review

Child of the Prophecy (Book #3 of the Sevenwaters Series) Author: Juliet Marillier Genre: Historical Fiction, Fantasy Publisher: Tor Books Release Date: 2003 Pages: 528 Source: Personal Collection Synopsis: Magic is fading... and the ways of Man are driving the Old Ones to the West, beyond the ken of humankind. The ancient groves are being destroyed, and if nothing is done, Ireland will lose its essential mystic core.       The prophecies of long ago have foretold a way to prevent this horror, and it is the Sevenwaters clan that the spirits of Eire look to for salvation. They are a family bound into the lifeblood of the land, and their promise to preserve the magic has been the cause of great joy to them... as well as great sorrow.      It is up to Fainne, daughter of Niamh, the lost sister of Sevenwaters, to solve the riddles of power. A shy child of a reclusive sorcerer, she finds that her way is hard: She is the granddaughter of the wicked sorceress Oonagh, who has emerge

Son of Shadows (Book #2 of the Sevenwaters Series) by Juliet Marillier: A Book Review

Son of Shadows (Book #2 of the Sevenwaters Series) Author: Juliet Marillier Genre: Historical Fiction, Fantasy Publisher: Tor Books Release Date: 2002 Pages: 608 Source: Personal Collection Synopsis: Beautiful Sorcha is the courageous young woman who risked all to save her family from a wicked curse and whose love shattered generations of hate and bridged two cultures.       It is from her sacrifice that Sorcha's brothers were brought home to their ancestral fortress Sevenwaters, and her life has known much joy.       But not all the brothers were able to fully escape the spell that transformed them into swans, and it is left to Sorcha's daughter Liadan to help fulfill the destiny of the Sevenwaters clan. Beloved child and dutiful daughter, Liadan embarks on a journey that shows her just how hard-won was the peace that she has known all her life.      Liadan will need all of her courage to help save her family, for there are dark forces and ancient powers conspirin

Book Blast of The Frost of Springtime by Rachel L. Demeter

The recent release of The Frost of Springtime , by debut author Rachel L. Demeter, transports readers to the war torn streets of nineteenth century Paris. Driven by paradoxical characters, steamy encounters, and a compelling storyline, it's a bittersweet tale of revolution, redemption, and the healing power of love. Described as "poignant," emotionally devastating," and "beautiful," The Frost of Springtime is sure to please historical and romance readers alike. Available now in both eBook and paperback. Currently Amazon Prime members can read the Kindle edition for free! Genre: Historical/Romance/Historical Fiction Publication Date: February 14, 2014 Black Lyon Publishing Formats: Paperback, Kindle eBook Pages: 288 Book Description: To rescue her was to rescue his own soul. On a cold Parisian night, Vicomte Aleksender de Lefèvre forges an  everlasting bond with a broken girl during her darkest hour, rescuing her  from a life of abuse a

The Copper Witch (Book One of the Broken Line Series) by Jessica Dall: A Book Review

The Copper Witch Author: Jessica Dall Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance Publisher: 5 Prince Publishing and Books, LLC Release Date: March 13th, 2014 Pages: 374 Source: This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. Synopsis: Adela Tilden has always been more ambitious than her station in life might allow. A minor nobleman’s daughter on a failing barony, Adela’s prospects seem dire outside of marrying well-off. When Adela catches the eye of the crown prince, Edward, however, well-off doesn’t seem to be a problem. Thrown into a world of politics and intrigue, Adela might have found all the excitement she ever wanted—if she can manage to leave her past behind.      My Review: Jessica Dall’s debut novel tells the story of the impoverished daughter of a baron who manages to catch the crown prince’s eye. She then rises from her humble beginnings to become the most powerful woman in the country. This is a tale of ambition, romance, and betrayal that will