Oh The Places You'll Go

Come Away With Me by Karma Brown
Published: August 25, 2015 by Mira
I've never read Eat, Pray, Love before, but I imagine that is quite similar to this book. Except of course that this one is a book of fiction and not a memoir.

In some ways I so want to share the places Tegan traveled after her miscarriage to help herself heal, except that I love how each one was a surprise until you got there. Even more than that I really enjoyed how each location was written. You couldn't help but feel yourself on these adventures with Tegan. Even though I've only been to one of the places in the book, it didn't matter, because you truly did feel like I was a part of the trip.

I wasn't expecting the end to this at all, but really appreciated it. In fact, I was leaning towards classifying this book as one I liked, but after reading how it ended, now it's a love. It's the type of ending that makes you want to reread the book immediately to see what clues you may have missed and how you could have predicted it better.

According to the author's interview in the reader's guide, the next book she's working on (which will only be her second!) is about a family who uses a surrogate to have a baby. While it is normally a topic that would intrigue me, after reading one book by Karma, I can't wait to read another from her and just hope its as good as this one!

5/5

I have one copy of 2 A.M. at Come Away With Me to giveaway to one lucky reader. (US and Canada only.) Please use the rafflecopter form below to enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Disclosure: I was provided this book through TLC Book Tours. All opinions expressed are my own.

From Italy to France

Madame Serpent by Jean Plaidy
Published: July 3, 2012 by Touchstone
First Published: 1952
Series: Catherine de Medici #1
It's been over two years since I've last read a Jean Plaidy book, which is a little crazy knowing that ever since college I've considered her one of my favorite historical fiction authors. (Just looking at my goodreads stats gives you an idea how much since I've read 17 books by her since 2007 compared to my second most read author at 10.) There's just something about how many historical places and periods she wrote about and how many details she's able to include to I can't help but be excited about.

Funny enough, I've never read a book on Catherine De'Medici yet reading this I realize how much I actually know about her story. It seems she's been actually been the background character in several other books I've read when reading about her husband's Mistress, Diane de Poitiers, or her daughter, or Mary, Queen of Scots, her daughter-in-law, or even her perfumer. Even with this background though, there's still so much new information I found which is one reason I love Plaidy's books.

It's hard for me to really articulate just why I enjoy reading her books so much. But she's definitely an author I'm always telling people to try out, especially if they like historical fiction. They've slowly started to bring more and more of her books back in print, but it definitely is exciting to know how many of her books I've still yet to read, although a bit depressing to know how many are still out of print.

5/5

Today I'm linking up with Blonde Undercover Blonde for Book Club Friday!

The Top 10 Books of 2014 So Far

I debated a while as to whether I wanted to write this. After all at the end of each year, I try to write a post listing out my favorites of the year. What if my post halfway through the year was the exact same as the end of the year?!?! Would it even be worth writing? Except, I know how silly that sounds since I have a whole year of reading ahead of me. Yes, books on this list will likely be on my end of the year list (and likely in different spots since my thoughts change with time), but it won't be a carbon copy.

But while I have every intention of writing a top 10 post at the end of the year, I'll have a newborn baby then too. Yes, I have every intention of keeping up the blog after baby, but who knows how crazy life may be. So just in case, I wanted to write this that way I can much sure my favorite, up till now, have their time in the spotlight.

1. Somewhere in France by Jennifer RobsonWhile this review went up in 2014, I technically read it in 2013. Except I read it after my Top 10 of 2014 had already been written. It's too bad because it would have been number 1 of 2013, and is number 1 on this list as well. I can't wait to reread it, so much so that I've suggested it as our book club selection so hopefully they love it too.


2. City of Heavenly Fire by Cassandra ClareAs much as I love Clare's books I wasn't expecting this to be here. But I can't help but think this was the perfect way to end this series, and a great way to build excitement for her next two series. As much as I want to hate Clare at times I really can't, especially when she's so good at drawing you in.


3. Three Souls by Janie ChangThis was such a haunting book, but it's definitely one that left an impression. I think the cover is perfect for the story, and I loved getting to explore China in this. I know this is a debut which makes me even more excited for what's to come from Janie Chang.


4. Driving Lessons by Zoe FishmanI feel like I was so vague in my review of this book because I wasn't quite ready to share what was going on with me. In this book the main character is in her early 30s and not quite sure if she wants to have kids, but then unexpectedly she gets pregnant. Not realizing this story line would be the main point in this, I read this only a week or two pregnant and found it to be such a pleasant surprise. The cliched moment on food tasting weird for so perfect for me since I had my own version only days before. It pained me a little while writing my review that I couldn't reveal just WHY it spoke so much to me, but now that my secret is out I'm so happy to be able to finally share!


5. Where'd You Go Bernadette by Maria Semple2013 seemed to be the year of Bernadette, but better late than never, right? Especially since there's still a movie on the way. I really loved the way the story was told, through e-mails, documents, and such. And Bernadette came off as so out there and crazy you couldn't help but love her. I do feel quite a bit late with this, but if you haven't read it yet, definitely do it before the movie


6. When the Cypress Whispers by Yvette Manessis CorporonI still can't get over some of the food description in this. Yes, there was a love story too, but what I remember most about this one is how easily it transported me to Greece to be part of the culture there.


7. The Care and Management of Lies by Jacqueline WinspearThis likely would have been higher without Somewhere in France to compare it to, but it's still a pretty amazing look at WWI. It is a bit heartbreaking, and I'm not sure I'm quite up for rereading it yet. But it's definitely one I'd love to come back to.


8. Cancel the Wedding by Carolyn DingmanI only finished this one yesterday, and have yet to even write my review of it, so it only barely made the list. But it definitely deserves to be here. From the title you'd guess this is a basic chick-lit, and while it does have a romantic story line, that's not the part that spoke to me. Instead it was the parts where the main character researched her mother's life after her death. I think there's definitely someone about one's death that makes you realize all the questions you never asked, and considering my mom's passing it really resonated with me.


9. Beautiful Ruins by Jess WaltersAnother book I feel like I was a bit late too. It's hard to describe succinctly, but it really is a beautiful book. There is a lot going on at times, but overall it really managed to work.


10. The Collector of Dying Breaths by M.J. RoseGoing into this book I wasn't sure I would enjoy it as much as I did. Especially knowing that it's 6th in a series I've yet to read, but it didn't really matter. I think one reason I enjoyed this so much so because it was the type of book my mom always loved, and reading it as I imagined she may have, made me enjoy it that much more.

Have you had the chance to read any of these books? And which books would you include on your top 10 list of the year, so far?

On the Set of Cleopatra

Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walters
Published: June 4, 2012 by Harper Perennial
I didn't really know what I was getting into when I started this book, but I think that's the way to do it. Yes, you could try to summarize it, but there's so much happening that's it's not really going to capture it. I will say it does have a bit of a dual timeline with parts in Italy in 1962, and the other today in Hollywood. But there's also scenes bridge the two sections in various times and locations.

The story isn't really told linearly, and knowing that and how much happens I'm surprised how easily it read and made sense. I do think the first half read slower, but slow like a long lazy day at the beach. But once I got to the last 100 pages or so I really didn't want to put it down.

I loved how every story line was wrapped up so neatly at the end. Normally with a book like this you really only get closure on the main characters. But here every character, no matter how small their part, got their nice pretty bow as well.

This was a book that's easy to fall in love with and perfect for a warm summer day. In fact reading it I can't help but dream of escaping to a small little town on the coast of Italy.

5/5

Today I'm linking up with Blonde Undercover Blonde for Book Club Friday!

Mailbox Monday (64)

Mailbox Monday is the place for bloggers to share the books they've recently added to their shelves. It was started by Marcia, who now blogs at To Be Continued..., and is hosted each month at the Officially Mailbox Monday site. The week I'm excited to share...
For Review from Virtual Author Book Tours
Cover Me Boys, I'm Going In by Keith Hirshland
This is a memoir about the author's life in sports reporting. He does specialize in golf, which I'm not actually a huge fan of watching. But I'm still excited to see a behind the scenes look at what it's like being on tv and being a sports reporter.

For Review from TLC Book Tours
When the Cypress Whispers by Yvette Manessis Corporon
This is a chick-lit type, where Greece is featured. It's about an American who escapes back to her childhood home in Greece to help herself move on from the loss of her husband.

From Paperback Swap
The Midwife of Venice by Roberta Rich
I'm more excited about this one than I have been about any book in a while. It's a historical fiction about a Jewish midwife in Venice in the 16th century. Combining so many of my favorite theme to read about (Renaissance! Judaism! Babies!), I'm really hopeful that this lives up to my expectations.

From Goodreads
Nothing Sweeter by Laura Drake
Yes, this book is exactly what the cover makes it out to be. But it is about an L.A. girl who moves to the South like me, and just that gets me even more excited for it.

What did you find in your mailbox this week? And do you have a favorite book that seems to be about all encompass all the themes you enjoy reading?

While you're here, don't forget to enter my giveaway for At The River's Edge by Mariah Stewart!

Waiting on Wednesday (5)

I don't often participate in Breaking the Spine's Waiting on Wednesday, but every so often there's a new release coming that I can't help but get excited about. Clearly, this week is one of those times.

Daughters of the Nile by Stephanie Dray
Expected Publication: December 3, 2013 by Berkley Trade
Series: Cleopatra's Daughter #3
Synopsis via Goodreads:Based on the true story of Cleopatra’s daughter…

After years of abuse as the emperor’s captive in Rome, Cleopatra Selene has found a safe harbor. No longer the pitiful orphaned daughter of the despised Egyptian Whore, the twenty year old is now the most powerful queen in the empire, ruling over the kingdom of Mauretania—an exotic land of enchanting possibility where she intends to revive her dynasty.

With her husband, King Juba II and the magic of Isis that is her birthright, Selene brings prosperity and peace to a kingdom thirsty for both. But when Augustus Caesar jealously demands that Selene’s children be given over to him to be fostered in Rome, she’s drawn back into the web of imperial plots and intrigues that she vowed to leave behind.

Determined and resourceful, Selene must shield her loved ones from the emperor’s wrath, all while vying with ruthless rivals like King Herod. Can she find a way to overcome the threat to her marriage, her kingdom, her family, and her faith? Or will she be the last of her line?

I loved the first two books of the series, and can't wait to see how it continues! I would imagine this is the last of the series, but hopefully I'm wrong. Either way, I definitely want to be savoring this once it's finally available.

Are they any books you're waiting on that you can't wait to see published?

Mailbox Monday (27)

Another weekend is almost over, which means it's time for another Mailbox Monday post! For the month of April, we're all linking up over at MariReads.
Purchased
Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare
I finally have this one! Yes, I know it only recently came out, but it feels like I've been waiting forever. I was a little disappointed at first to see that the collector's edition didn't include a letter or something special. At least that was until I noticed the awesome family tree on the inside cover. Or what would be an awesome family tree until you realize it spoils part of this book. But at least it does present a few questions as well, so now I'm really excited to dive into this!

Borrowed
Goodnight Nobody by Jennifer Weiner
A few of my coworkers have read this copy, and when I realized no one was currently reading it, I brought it home with me. Besides her newest one, I believe this is the only Jennifer Weiner book I haven't read, so I'm excited to finally get to it.

Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter
My dad read this one and mailed it to me. While I have seen it around, I don't actually know much about it. From the back cover it's a historical fiction and it takes place in Italy, so just from that I'll pretty sure I'll have fun with it.

What did you find in your mailbox with week? And what are your thoughts on accidentally having a book spoiled?

And while you're here don't forget to enter my giveaway for an 8x10 travel print from Around the World in 80 Frames!

Sunday Social

I feel like so many of the blogs I follow are participating in A Complete Waste of Makeup's Sunday Social, so I decided to jump on the bandwagon and join in.Best trip you've ever been on
It's hard for me to pick a favorite since I feel like I've been on so many awesome trips, but it would have to be either my Birthright trip to Israel,

Can you find me in this picture?or our family trip to Italy in 2000.Funny enough, both of these trips were actually taken with my BFF/MOH.

Best idea for a girls weekend trip
Back in college we took a spring break trip to the Florida Keys. Except it wasn't a drink all day/go crazy type of spring break trip. Instead we spent most days lounging at the beach, and grilled out at our condo most night. (Although we did spend one night out in Key West at a drag show, where we went a little crazy.) Anyways that's the type of girls' trip I'd love to have, a laid back weekend at the beach.
Best idea for a couples trip
I would love to go to Turtle Island in Fiji. I mean you have your personal private beach. What could be better than that?

Best vacation on the cheap
Growing up we used to also go camping up on the mountains. They would be a good bit of planning involved trying to make sure that you had enough food packed for a week, and all the camping necessities. But it wasn't a high cost trip. I haven't gone to the mountains since college, but I'd love to take a camping trip with the boy.

Yes, this is me, blonde hair and all.
I'm around 3 or 4 here.Place you most want to visit
My top three would have to be Australia, Greece, or Egypt.

Vacation/Travel necessities
Obviously a book, but more importantly a book that takes place where I'm visiting. I still remember reading Walking the Bible in Israel, or a modern day Venetian love story in Italy, or a Guinevere book in England. I just think it's fun to actually read something that makes the most of the trip you're already on.

If you're here from Sunday Social, thanks for stopping by, and be sure to let me know you were here! And if you haven't linked up, what would be your answers to these questions?

The Glass Heart of Venice

The Glassblower of Murano by Marina Fiorato
This book has everything that my mom loved in a book. There's a historical story and a plot in present time and each tale is told in alternating chapters. There's a mystery that our character in the present is trying to solve, and at the same time we as a reader get to see the mystery unfold as it happens in the past. My mom lent me books of the same basic plot line over and over throughout the years, so it's somewhat fitting that the last book she lent me before she passed away follow this formula.

Here, the past is Venice in the last 1600s. We meet a famous glassblower who may (or may not) have been a traitor to the city and helped the French build the hall of mirrors at Versailles. In the present we follow Leonora Manin, and Englishwoman who goes to Venice in hopes of becoming a glassblower.

I really wanted to enjoy this one, but I just couldn't get into it. I think maybe the sentiment behind the book, distracted me from the actual story and I just couldn't connect to the actual characters. I felt like time, in the present sections especially, seemed to be off. It seemed months would pass for the character between chapters, yet it was never actually mentioned, and it was difficult to have a bearing on the actual timeline of events. I did like the historical chapters more, and think if this was only a historical novel, it may have worked better.

I do think this book had a lot of potential, and I'm a little disappointed that I didn't enjoy it more. I have to assume that my mom really liked it, otherwise she probably wouldn't have passed it on to me. So if you do decide to pick this one up, hopefully your experience with it is closer to my mother's.

3/5

Today I'm linking up with Blonde Undercover Blonde for Book Club Friday!

Mailbox Monday

Today I'm linking up with Mailbox Monday. It was originally started by The Printed Page, and each month there's a new host. This month is hosted by Martha's Bookshelf. So let's get to the books!
From My Mom
When I was home recently for my bridal shower I made a point to go through my parents' house and pick up a few items. I did go through the books as well and somehow managed to fly back with several. These are the books of my mom's that I brought home with me.

Confessions of a Counterfeit Farm Girl by Susan McCorkindale
This is actually the book my mom was reading when she passes away. Her bookmark is still in it, and she was about halfway through. I remember talking to my mom about it in the hospital, telling her if she liked it she'd probably like the Pioneer Woman memoir as well. I wanted to read this then, and especially now that's there's more meaning behind it.

30-Minute Meals by Rachael Ray
30-Minute Meals 2 by Rachael Ray
What's for Dinner? by Michael Roberts
About a year ago my mom redid her breakfast room. She turned one entire wall into shelves, and filled it with cookbooks. Her thought was an entire wall of cookbooks was enough, and anything that didn't fit she didn't really need. Since she was getting rid of books these were some she set aside for me. She had them packed up in a box to mail, but never had a chance to fill it. But this time home I was able to bring them back.

The Geography of Girlhood by Kirsten Smith
The is a YA book told in verse I had never heard of. Although looking through it now, it's signed from the author and there's a note from my godmother inside to my mom which also includes, "P.S. Shoshanah might like it too!" So I guess I was meant to bring this back with me.

The Book of Splendor by Frances Sherwood
This is a historical fiction book about Judaism in 17th century Prague. I hadn't heard of this one either, but it does look like one I'd enjoy.

Immortal by Traci Slatton
Another historical fiction that was unheard previously. This one takes place in Florence during the Renaissance.

The Girl in the Red Coat by Roma Ligocka
I actually had heard of this one before. This is a Holocaust memoir about a woman who saw Schindler's List and realized "the girl in the red coat" had to be based on others' memories of her.

Motherhood & Hollywood by Patricia Heaton
A different type of memoir, this one written by Patricia Heaton of Everybody Loves Raymond

A Thousand Days in Venice by Marlena De Blasi
This is a romance-y novel set in Venice. Looking through it there's a few recipes included as well.

For Review from the Publisher
The Car Thief by Theodore Weesner
I'm about halfway through this one, and so far I'm a fan. This book was originally published in the 1970s, and is being republished as an ebook this year. It's about a boy growing up and becoming and adult in 1950s Michigan..

From TLC Book Tours
I, Iago by Nicole Galland
I've already read and reviewed this one. It's a retelling of Shakespeare's Othello from the view of Iago. For more of my thoughts on it be sure to check out my review.

Dead Beautiful Melanie Dugan
This is a YA that's a modern day retelling of the Greek myth, Persephone. It looks like it will be an interesting read, so hopefully I enjoy it.

I know that there's a lot here, so thanks for reading along! And be sure to tell me what's in your mailbox this week.

From the Eyes of the Villain

I, Iago by Nicole Gallad
I feel a little embarrassed to admit this, but the only reason I know anything about the story of Othello is from the Josh Harnett & Julia Stiles movie, O. Although this was part of the reason I was excited to read the book, so I could learn more about the actual play but from an unexpected form.

This book is a retelling of Shakespeare's Othello but from the point of view of Iago, the villain. And it isn't the origonal, it is the same story taking place in Italy during the Renaissance (instead of say, a modern day reimaging like O). I did wind up really enjoying this, and captivated throughout. (Although I think Shakespeare probably deserves some of the credit for that.) But I did feel for Iago throughout, which I don't believe you're supposed to get from the actual play.

I do think that I may have been at a disadvantage going into this without knowing a lot of the background. But on the other hand I didn't feel lost, like I was missing important background knowledge. And I also think that not knowing the story may have helped, because I didn't know what to expect so there was still an element of surprise throughout.

I can't really speak for someone who knows (and perhaps loves) Shakespeare's original, but from my point of view, I was most definitely a fan of this. Granted being a historical fiction sent during the Renaissance it's the type of book I love reading normally. But even so, I would easily recommend this one.

4.5/5

Disclosure: I was provided this book through TLC Book Tours. All opinions expressed are my own.

In My Mailbox (38)

I never seem to expect to be participating in this link up, because I really don't need to pick up any new books. But yet again here I am linking up with The Story Siren's In My Mailbox. The damage was done a the library book sale of a local community college. The most expensive of these was $3, and on average the books were under $2. So with such a good deal, how could I pass it up. Now let's get to the books!
Swimming by Nicola Keegan
This seems to be somewhat chick-lit-y but in it the main character competes in the Olympics. And with the London games only a few weeks away, it seems like the perfect time to read it.

Lord John and the Private Matter by Diana Gabaldon
I've never read any of Gabaldon's books, but I do have the first book in her Outlander series sitting by my bed to read. Although I'm realizing now this is a spin off of the Outlander books, so I might read those before picking up this one.

One for the Money by Janet Evanovich
I've heard nothing by great things about the Stephanie Plum books, and now I finally have the chance to read the first in the series.

Into the Wilderness by Sara Donati
I knew nothing about this book, but it's hard for me to say no to any type of historical fiction. This one takes place in New York in the late 1700s.

Masie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear
This is another series I've heard nothing but great things about, but I've haven't had the chance to read before.

Lady Audley's Secret by Mary Elizabeth Braddon
This is actually mentioned in my favorite book series, The Betsy-Tacy Series. This is the romance novel that Tacy's father finds her reading and burns it in the stove since it isn't the type of book a young lady should be reading. After hearing about the book through multiple re-readings, I'm excited to see if it's as risque now as it was 100 years ago.

Digging to America by Anne Tyler
This was a compemtory novel that caught my eye about a family adopting a baby girl from Korea.

Vanishing Acts by Jodi Picoult
I recently read my first Picoult book and wound up being a fan, so I can't wait to read more of her books.

The Passion of Artemisia by Susan Vreeland
This is another historical fiction that called out to me about an Italian painter.

The Quiet Gentleman by Georgette Heyer
I've heard great things about Heyer, but I've yet to read any of her books. So here's my chance!

I know there's a good amount of books here, but I had to stop myself because I could have easily found more. What's in your mailbox this week? Did you wind up with any good deals as well?

The Princess of Egypt

Song of the Nile by Stephanie Dray
Last year I read Dray's first book about Cleopatra's daughter, Lily of the Nile and absolutely loved it, so much that I picked up this sequel almost as soon as it came out. So it's almost ridiculous that I've waited so long to read this, especially since I love this one just as much if not more.

Since it had been so long since I read the first I was a little worried that I would be confused since I couldn't remember all the details. But Dray manages to subtly recap all the details of the first book without resorting to a Baby-Sitter's Club-esque chapter long recap. It didn't feel like I as hit over the head with the prior events, but I still felt more than adequately caught up.

Before reading this books I knew little about Cleopatra and had barely heard of her daughter, Cleopatra Selene, and afterwards I feel like I've learned so much. Granted these books take place in the 20BC, and we don't have a lot of details from that time. In the afterwards Dray mentions what details she used to base the story on, and those details seem to be few are far between. Which does mean that I can credit a lot of the world building to Dray herself, which I absolutely fell in love with.

Reading this I didn't want to put it down, and couldn't wait to find out the ending. Except I didn't want the story to end and would have gone on reading about Selene and her kingdom forever. I believe this is only Dray's second book, and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next!

5/5

Today I'm linking up with Blonde Undercover Blonde for Book Club Friday!

The True Story?

O, Juliet by Robin Maxwell
I've read Robin Maxwell's books before and enjoyed them each time. (I think the first of hers I read was To the Tower Born right after college graduation.) But I actually picked this one up based on only the title and summary, it was only after I purchased it that I realized who the author was.

In case you couldn't guess from the title of this, it's a historical retelling of Romeo & Juliet. It takes place in 15th century Italy and almost reads as if it is the true story behind the play. While Romeo & Juliet and their associated families aren't actually historical, the other characters like the Medici's are in fact based on actual people. I think it's an interesting version of what could have potentially been the truth, although as the author explains in her note, there are version of the love story that predate this period.

I loved reading how various scenes from the play were reinterpreted her. Except of course I read the whole time dreading the ending. I knew what to expect, yet I was hoping they would be saved, maybe they could escape and fool everyone into thinking they were dead. It's not like the ending hasn't been reinterpreted before, haven't you seen West Side Story?

But I am glad I picked this one up. While I have read most of Maxwell's books at this point there are still one or two that I've love to read. (Signora da Vinci probably being at the top of the list!)

4.5/5

From Egypt to Rome

First before I get to my review (which I really think you should read because I loved this book!), just wanted to send out a friendly announcement that Book Blogger Appreciation Week 2012 has been announced for September 12 - 16. Last year I wound up on the long list for best historical fiction blog, which I thought was impressive since I wasn't a huge part of the book blogging community. But in the past year I've gotten so much more involved in the community and read some many more book blogs, I'm excited for the festivities to start! So if BBAW is something new to you I highly recommend you check it you, but now... onto the review!

Lily of the Nile by Stephanie Dray
Obviously I've heard of Cleopatra, Mark Antony, and Julius Caesar. But in truth I don't know that much about them. Surprising I think I learned far more about them from this book than I knew before, and this book actually about any of the three of them.

Instead it tells the story of Cleopatra Selene, the daughter of Cleopatra and Mark Antony. Within the first few pages both of her parents are dead, and Selene and her brothers are taken as prisoners to Rome to be raised in the household of the Roman Emperor.

I really enjoyed reading Selene's story and almost more so loved the history. Being that this is historical fiction, I have to wonder just how much is based on actual fact. Obviously given when these event occurred (about 40 B.C.E) we don't have a lot of concrete information. But while I'm not a scholar and don't know how much is the truth, it felt real to me and I very mush so enjoyed reading and learning what ancient Rome was potential like.

I don't want to say I'm surprised by how much I enjoyed the book, because I was expecting to love it based on the subject matter. I am happy I finally had a chance to read it and am now looking forward to sequel's release this fall, and would also love to read Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran to read about Selene from another author's perspective as well.

5/5

Back to the Borgais

Light on Lucrzia by Jean Plaidy
This is the first book of Plaidy's I've read that reads like a true sequel. It picks up right where Madonna of the Seven Hills ends. Lucrezia is no longer married and no longer with her former lover. The story opens with Alphonso traveling to Rome for his marriage to Lucrezia. Alphonso is the sister of Sanchia, who is the wife of Lucrezia brother, who is also the mistress of Lucrezia's other brother, who was also the mistress of Lucrezia's other brother until he was murdered by yes, his own and still Lucrezia's brother. It sounds a little over the top, and if it was fiction, a little unbelievable. But knowing this is based on fact turns this unbelievable story into reality.

The story is actually prefaced by a note from the author about the character of Lucrezia. History has painted her as a wicked character just like the rest of her family, capable of murder, love affairs, and even insect. But Plaidy's point of view is that she was instead innocent of this, but tainted do to her connection with the rest of her family. I haven't read anything else about the Borgias, but as Lucrezia is written here you can't help falling in love with her, and even feel a bit sorry for her.

It's no surprise given the author that I loved the book. But what might be more of a surprise is that I loved the story of Lucrezia and the rest of the Borgias. Reading this definitely make me want to read more about the family, and yes what the Showtime series as well. If you want to know what this family is all about, I would suggest the book (and its prequel) to find out just why this family is so infamous.

5/5

In My Mailbox (11)

I'm so excited to share this week's In My Mailbox (hosted by The Story Siren)! This past week our Borders had a tent sale. It looked like books left over from closing sales that hadn't sold so they had been sent to our store (which thankfully isn't closing) to finish them off. The prices were slashed and not only that they were buy 1, get one free. I definitely made the most of this deal! And without any more chatter, here are the books!
Saving CeeCee Honeycutt by Beth Hoffman
Amber recently read this one and made note of it on her goodreads account. I haven't heard a lot about it, but knowing Amber enjoyed it I'm excited to read it.

Peace, Love and Baby Ducks by Lauren Myracle
This was another one I've seen reviewed on a blog recently. (I don't remember whose, so if you have reviewed it recently let me know and I'll give you a shout out!) It sounded cute, I love the title, and considering the cost it was well worth the cost.

Someday my Prince Will Come by Jerramy Fine
I keep seeing the memoir in bookstores and think about picking it up. The subtitle is True Adventures of a Wannabe Princess, and is about how she moves to London in hopes of rubbing shoulders with royalty. I have a mild royalty obsession myself, so I'm sure I'll be identifying with this one.

The Queen Mother: The Official Biography by William Shawcross
Speaking of royalty... this was not a tent sale buy, but I've been wanting to read it since I saw The King's Speech and finally picked it up. It's a huge book and I know it'll take sometime to get through it, but I can't wait to dive into it!

The Help by Kathryn Stockett
Also not a tent sale buy, but I wanted to make sure I saw it before the movie comes out. I've actually already finished it (and loved it!). Review will b e coming soon on the blog!

That Summer by Sarah Dessen
I've never read anything by Sarah Dessen, but I've heard so many great things about her and her books I can't wait to give them a try.

O, Juliet by Robin Maxwell
I read the back of this book seeing it was a retelling of Romeo & Juliet and immediately picked it up. It wasn't till after I noticed the author, and realized I've read most of Robin Maxwell's books and loved them all. I'm sure I'll be loving this one too!

Lily of the Nile by Stephanie Dray
Another book I keep wanting to pick up. It's a novel about Cleopatra's and Marc Anthony's daughter. I'm not completely sure the plot line, but being that's it's historical fiction how could I not wind up loving it.

It was definitely an epic week for me, and I dying to read all of these! If only there was more time in the day... So tell me, what's in your mailbox this week?

A Novel of the Borgias

Madonna of the Seven Hills by Jean Plaidy
As soon as I realized this book had been released I was really looking forward to reading it. First it was written by Jean Plaidy, I've already raved about her over and over so I'll try to avoid doing that once again. Second it was about the Borgias family, and this would be my first time reading anything about them. I am happy to report back that I wasn't disappointed.

While the book follows the Borgiases from Pope Alexander VI to his 3 illegitimate sons, the focus is on his daughter Lucrezia. I had heard she was something of a harlot, and I was surprised to find her fairly innocent in this book, although I'm sure this will change in the sequel. Like most Plaidy books the story starts with Lucrezia's childhood and continues as she grows up.

I know it's been said before, but I think it's especially relevant to this story, that the truth is sometimes stranger than fiction. There is so much that happens to the family throughout the book, that if it were a work of fiction it could be seen as a little over the top. I realize the book is only based on truth, but reading it you have to wonder how much actually happened and how much is left over from rumors and gossips.

Speaking of the scandals, the last chapter is full of them. I wouldn't go as far to say that the book ends on a cliffhanger, but more that after it's ending I can't wait to dive into the sequel to see just what other adventures are ahead for Lucrezia.