Obviously, I need more structure in my day. Today it was rainy, again. I couldn't go outside and finish planting my impatiens and petunias. I didn't feel like making 12 Sawtooth Star blocks. So what did I do?
I went from my bed to my chaise lounge and curled up with a book all day. Took a great nap, in spite of Sophie laying on my chest.
My book? A strange one. Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin. About a medieval coronor of all things. A woman! She is investigating the deaths of some children in Cambridge, England. The town thinks the Jews are doing it, but our heroine has her doubts. I am about 100 pages into it and am wishing for some romance angle, but given the plot, it doesn't appear likely. It would sure lighten things up a bit.
I went to Border's recently and picked up my first Kristin Hannah book. Have any of you read her? What did you think? I was also looking at Barbara Delinsky, but didn't buy. I don't mind a bit of romance, but don't care for the bodice ripping, heroine hates the male protaganist at first then changes her mind, formulaic sort of book. Nothing too sappy along the lines of Nicholas Sparks either. (Sorry all you Notebook fans). And absolutely nothing with a main character named Cat. I'd love some recommendations for some really good historial or literary fiction.
There is nothing more fun than discovering a new author and finding out they have written a slew of books!
Added later: Oh my goodness, if you love reading, you have got to read all the comments folks have left to this post! What a ton of wonderful suggestions! I am going to be busy reading for the next few years! Will I ever have time to quilt again??? lol
96 responses to “If I Were Any Lazier…”
If you’re looking for really great historical fiction, look at Sharon Kay Penman. I’ve read four of hers so far and haven’t been disappointed yet. The first one I read is “Here Be Dragons,” which sounds like a fantasy book. However, she explains in the foreword that in midieval times this was the designation for unknown territories on maps. There are no dragons in the story! It’s a wonderful book and will make you want to visit Wales and England. (On amazon.com it has an average of 5 stars, with 173 reviews – an exceptionally high ranking.)
If you’re looking for really great historical fiction, look at Sharon Kay Penman. I’ve read four of hers so far and haven’t been disappointed yet. The first one I read is “Here Be Dragons,” which sounds like a fantasy book. However, she explains in the foreword that in midieval times this was the designation for unknown territories on maps. There are no dragons in the story! It’s a wonderful book and will make you want to visit Wales and England. (On amazon.com it has an average of 5 stars, with 173 reviews – an exceptionally high ranking.)
I’m reading “The Frontiersmen” by Allan W. Eckert. It’s mainly about Simon Kenton & his role in opening the Northwest Territory.
I’m reading “The Frontiersmen” by Allan W. Eckert. It’s mainly about Simon Kenton & his role in opening the Northwest Territory.
Have you read any of Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series? Definitely historical fiction with a bit of an implausible twist. I’ll warn you, there’s a smidge of bodice ripping but the depth of her characters and the twists and turns in the plot had me riveted. Plus, the books are LONG which makes for some excellent rainy day/sunny beach reading.
Have you read any of Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series? Definitely historical fiction with a bit of an implausible twist. I’ll warn you, there’s a smidge of bodice ripping but the depth of her characters and the twists and turns in the plot had me riveted. Plus, the books are LONG which makes for some excellent rainy day/sunny beach reading.
Have you read the Elm Creek Quilters books by Jennifer Chiaverini? Just finished The Aloha Quilt. Hawaiian qilting, history, friendship and romance.
Have you read the Elm Creek Quilters books by Jennifer Chiaverini? Just finished The Aloha Quilt. Hawaiian qilting, history, friendship and romance.
Kristin Hannah is great I just finished firefly lane. Have you read Jodi picoult? She doesn’t write any romantic stuff but the stories are great and really make you think. My sister’s keeper was my fav by far.
Kristin Hannah is great I just finished firefly lane. Have you read Jodi picoult? She doesn’t write any romantic stuff but the stories are great and really make you think. My sister’s keeper was my fav by far.
Nicole – I think you’d like the Amelia Peabody series by Elizabeth Peters – just enough romance, but with a mystery in the plots. Set in the late l800’s – early 1900’s. Best to read them in sequence, and I think there are 19 or so by now. Historical atmosphere, set in Egypt and England – mostly Egypt.
Nicole – I think you’d like the Amelia Peabody series by Elizabeth Peters – just enough romance, but with a mystery in the plots. Set in the late l800’s – early 1900’s. Best to read them in sequence, and I think there are 19 or so by now. Historical atmosphere, set in Egypt and England – mostly Egypt.
I just finished a Kristin Hannah book called “Between Sisters”. I read all day yesterday just like you although it wasn’t rainy here… I couldn’t put the book down. Very good and yes, some romance…
For historial drama I like anything by Philippa Gregory… I just started The White Queen…
I just finished a Kristin Hannah book called “Between Sisters”. I read all day yesterday just like you although it wasn’t rainy here… I couldn’t put the book down. Very good and yes, some romance…
For historial drama I like anything by Philippa Gregory… I just started The White Queen…
Deanna Raybourn has a really good series starting with Silent in the Grave. They are set in Victorian times and are murder mysteries with some romance. I enjoyed the Ariana Franklin series and there will be some romance in that book.
Deanna Raybourn has a really good series starting with Silent in the Grave. They are set in Victorian times and are murder mysteries with some romance. I enjoyed the Ariana Franklin series and there will be some romance in that book.
Oh Nicole, you’ve been working so hard lately to get the house ready. You deserve a day to laze around the house. If you’re in the mood for literary fiction, Ann Patchett is an excellent author. I’m reading Patron Saint of Liars right now and really enjoying it. Sara Donati just finished a great historical fiction series – it starts out with Into the Wilderness. Mom and I devoured those books one right after the other!
Oh Nicole, you’ve been working so hard lately to get the house ready. You deserve a day to laze around the house. If you’re in the mood for literary fiction, Ann Patchett is an excellent author. I’m reading Patron Saint of Liars right now and really enjoying it. Sara Donati just finished a great historical fiction series – it starts out with Into the Wilderness. Mom and I devoured those books one right after the other!
Outstanding historical fiction: Katherine by Anya Seton. Seton’s other books are good also.
Romance with no bodice ripping, set in medieval times: anything by Lynn Kurland.
Outstanding historical fiction: Katherine by Anya Seton. Seton’s other books are good also.
Romance with no bodice ripping, set in medieval times: anything by Lynn Kurland.
Not necessarily all historical but Sharyn McCrumb has some of the best books out there. She writes two types of books, historical fiction in the Appalachian mountains and some really comical mysteries.
Not necessarily all historical but Sharyn McCrumb has some of the best books out there. She writes two types of books, historical fiction in the Appalachian mountains and some really comical mysteries.
It’s dangerous to ask me for book recommendations! I second the Outlander series, by Diana Gabaldon, for historical romance. I was out of the romance genre when I first heard about them and resisted for a couple of years, but when I finally picked up the first book (Outlander), I was hooked. For non-romance, if you haven’t already, you MUST read The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger. My favorite author right now is Joshilyn Jackson – her fourth book, Backseat Saints, is coming out very soon, but I loved all of her other books (gods in Alabama; Between, Georgia; and The Girl Who Stopped Swimming). The main character in The Girl Who Stopped Swimming is an art quilter, by the way. Another author I really enjoy is Richard Russo – he wrote Empire Falls, Nobody’s Fool, and Straight Man, among others, and several have been turned into movies. (Nobody’s Fool starred Paul Newman.) Empire Falls won the Pulitzer – AND it was a great read!
It’s dangerous to ask me for book recommendations! I second the Outlander series, by Diana Gabaldon, for historical romance. I was out of the romance genre when I first heard about them and resisted for a couple of years, but when I finally picked up the first book (Outlander), I was hooked. For non-romance, if you haven’t already, you MUST read The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger. My favorite author right now is Joshilyn Jackson – her fourth book, Backseat Saints, is coming out very soon, but I loved all of her other books (gods in Alabama; Between, Georgia; and The Girl Who Stopped Swimming). The main character in The Girl Who Stopped Swimming is an art quilter, by the way. Another author I really enjoy is Richard Russo – he wrote Empire Falls, Nobody’s Fool, and Straight Man, among others, and several have been turned into movies. (Nobody’s Fool starred Paul Newman.) Empire Falls won the Pulitzer – AND it was a great read!
I am reading the series by Nancy E Turner about Sarah Agnes Prine’s life in the Arizona territory. I am on the third book. First one is “These Is My Words”. can’t seem to put the last one down….
I am reading the series by Nancy E Turner about Sarah Agnes Prine’s life in the Arizona territory. I am on the third book. First one is “These Is My Words”. can’t seem to put the last one down….
Seeing the quilt on your chaise reminded me that I wanted to show you the quilt that you inspired to make. When you first started making the blocks you posted about them on here and I instantly fell in love. Thanks for the inspiration! I love reading your blog!
Seeing the quilt on your chaise reminded me that I wanted to show you the quilt that you inspired to make. When you first started making the blocks you posted about them on here and I instantly fell in love. Thanks for the inspiration! I love reading your blog!
I’ve read most of Kristin Hannah’s and Barbara Delinsky’s books . . . I like them . . . good summer beachy reads . . .
BUT . . . if you want an author that does great historical fiction . . . Tracie Peterson . . . check out her website . . .
http://www.traciepeterson.com
I have read ALL of her books . . . every single one . . . I love them all . . . but the best ones were the 2 series on the mill girls from Lowell Massachusetts . . . fantastic . . .
you can buy them as a set at a good price at . . . http://www.christianbooks.com
I also have read ALL of these authors . . . Beverly Lewis . . . Wanda Brunstetter . . . they are about the Amish . . . and they have several series each . . . and quilts are usually part of their stories . . . very very good . . .
I’ve read most of Kristin Hannah’s and Barbara Delinsky’s books . . . I like them . . . good summer beachy reads . . .
BUT . . . if you want an author that does great historical fiction . . . Tracie Peterson . . . check out her website . . .
http://www.traciepeterson.com
I have read ALL of her books . . . every single one . . . I love them all . . . but the best ones were the 2 series on the mill girls from Lowell Massachusetts . . . fantastic . . .
you can buy them as a set at a good price at . . . http://www.christianbooks.com
I also have read ALL of these authors . . . Beverly Lewis . . . Wanda Brunstetter . . . they are about the Amish . . . and they have several series each . . . and quilts are usually part of their stories . . . very very good . . .
Warning! Super long response to follow!!!
I am officially envying you (is envying a word?). That chaise and quilt look sooo wonderfully comfy! I wish I had one of those in my house (both the quilt and the chaise).
Real book junky (read about 180+ books last year) here but mostly read the romance stuff, not alot of bodice ripping but the I hate you now but love you later thing. I find that I’m a bit of a fantasy / Sci Fi reader too. I’m not really into Chick Lit though or those angsty thing (if I want misery I tune into my news channel).
I do read other stuff like murder mysteries and courtroom drama with alot of chasing the bad guys. If they have some romance thrown in even better!
Recommendations… I used to review my books on another blog I have but haven’t done sucha great job since 2008 but there are always the Archives….
Diana Gabaldon has a Saga going with about 8 mammoth books under belt. Her series starts out fabulous with the Outlander and i would recommend the next two as well but then it gets tedious if you are not a fan (I read them ALL – Love Jamie and Claire). There is a bit of Time travel but credit to Gabaldon that she fits it in the story in a way that it becomes plausible and she doesn’t focus on that to make the story work.
Have you read Diane Setterfield’s Thirteenth Tale. Fabulous book! Here is my review:
http://texas-bookworm.blogspot.com/2008/08/thethirteenth-tale-by-diane-setterfield.html
Big fan of David Baldacci, he writes political intrigue books but he humanizes his characters to the extent that you completely fall in love with them and you just don’t want to let them go at the end of the book. Here are a few that I reviewed:
http://texas-bookworm.blogspot.com/search/label/DBaldacci
I used to follow Linda Fairstien’s Alex Cooper series but was disappointed in her last few books and put her on hold for a while. Her earlier books in the series are just fabulous, so if you can get your hands on some of that, you are golden.
Sandra Brown might be a hit and miss for some but I absolutely love her stuff. If you get a chance to read Envy you will know what I mean. Here are a few others:
http://texas-bookworm.blogspot.com/search/label/SBrown
One more recommendation and I’ll leave you to it. Lisa Scottoline. She writes edge of your seat thrillers that have a good chunk of humor. Witty characters that you love and stories that have you glued to the books…
http://texas-bookworm.blogspot.com/search/label/LScottoline
Ok, that’s it. I’m a bit embarased with the length of this comment but you got me going on my second favorite love, books!
Oh! One more.. someone mentioned Jodi Picoult. Pick up her last book, House Rules. It’s about an autistic boy accused of murdering his tutor. It has been ranked my best read for 2010. A+ all around on that one – and it has a bit of romance! She sometimes misses the mark by spilling into depressing angst but she knocked this one out of the park. Fabulous!
Warning! Super long response to follow!!!
I am officially envying you (is envying a word?). That chaise and quilt look sooo wonderfully comfy! I wish I had one of those in my house (both the quilt and the chaise).
Real book junky (read about 180+ books last year) here but mostly read the romance stuff, not alot of bodice ripping but the I hate you now but love you later thing. I find that I’m a bit of a fantasy / Sci Fi reader too. I’m not really into Chick Lit though or those angsty thing (if I want misery I tune into my news channel).
I do read other stuff like murder mysteries and courtroom drama with alot of chasing the bad guys. If they have some romance thrown in even better!
Recommendations… I used to review my books on another blog I have but haven’t done sucha great job since 2008 but there are always the Archives….
Diana Gabaldon has a Saga going with about 8 mammoth books under belt. Her series starts out fabulous with the Outlander and i would recommend the next two as well but then it gets tedious if you are not a fan (I read them ALL – Love Jamie and Claire). There is a bit of Time travel but credit to Gabaldon that she fits it in the story in a way that it becomes plausible and she doesn’t focus on that to make the story work.
Have you read Diane Setterfield’s Thirteenth Tale. Fabulous book! Here is my review:
http://texas-bookworm.blogspot.com/2008/08/thethirteenth-tale-by-diane-setterfield.html
Big fan of David Baldacci, he writes political intrigue books but he humanizes his characters to the extent that you completely fall in love with them and you just don’t want to let them go at the end of the book. Here are a few that I reviewed:
http://texas-bookworm.blogspot.com/search/label/DBaldacci
I used to follow Linda Fairstien’s Alex Cooper series but was disappointed in her last few books and put her on hold for a while. Her earlier books in the series are just fabulous, so if you can get your hands on some of that, you are golden.
Sandra Brown might be a hit and miss for some but I absolutely love her stuff. If you get a chance to read Envy you will know what I mean. Here are a few others:
http://texas-bookworm.blogspot.com/search/label/SBrown
One more recommendation and I’ll leave you to it. Lisa Scottoline. She writes edge of your seat thrillers that have a good chunk of humor. Witty characters that you love and stories that have you glued to the books…
http://texas-bookworm.blogspot.com/search/label/LScottoline
Ok, that’s it. I’m a bit embarased with the length of this comment but you got me going on my second favorite love, books!
Oh! One more.. someone mentioned Jodi Picoult. Pick up her last book, House Rules. It’s about an autistic boy accused of murdering his tutor. It has been ranked my best read for 2010. A+ all around on that one – and it has a bit of romance! She sometimes misses the mark by spilling into depressing angst but she knocked this one out of the park. Fabulous!
well, if I had that quilt and that chaise, I’d be laying around reading all day too!!
well, if I had that quilt and that chaise, I’d be laying around reading all day too!!
Heh, keep reading.
The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe.
What Angel’s Fear by C.S. Harris
Johannes Cabal The Necromancer by Jonathan L. Howard
I edge more towards the fantasy side of things & a few of the really good ones.
The Mists of Avalon – Marion Zimmer Bradley
The Name of The Wind – Patrick Rothfuss
Sunshine by Robin McKinley
Heh, keep reading.
The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe.
What Angel’s Fear by C.S. Harris
Johannes Cabal The Necromancer by Jonathan L. Howard
I edge more towards the fantasy side of things & a few of the really good ones.
The Mists of Avalon – Marion Zimmer Bradley
The Name of The Wind – Patrick Rothfuss
Sunshine by Robin McKinley
Historical Fiction – I loved Anne Perry’s series of WWI.
Historical Fiction – I loved Anne Perry’s series of WWI.
You cannot go wrong with Robyn Carr books. They are not historical romances, but are set in Northern California. Start with the Grace Valley series and then move on to the Virgin River series. You will love her. Check out her web site, http://www.robyncarr.com
You cannot go wrong with Robyn Carr books. They are not historical romances, but are set in Northern California. Start with the Grace Valley series and then move on to the Virgin River series. You will love her. Check out her web site, http://www.robyncarr.com
Check out Jane Kirkpatrick, she’s a writer from Oregon and I have loved her books, also an older series, The Poppy Chronicles by Claire Rayner, set in Ireland.
Check out Jane Kirkpatrick, she’s a writer from Oregon and I have loved her books, also an older series, The Poppy Chronicles by Claire Rayner, set in Ireland.
I am LOVING these comments. *going to the library today!* 🙂 Have you ever read Barbara Kingsolver’s “Prodigal Summer?” FAVORITE BOOK EVER. Some subtle and not so subtle romance. 🙂
I am LOVING these comments. *going to the library today!* 🙂 Have you ever read Barbara Kingsolver’s “Prodigal Summer?” FAVORITE BOOK EVER. Some subtle and not so subtle romance. 🙂
The Ariana Franklin books are a good read, if a bit heavy on the history – I have book 3 waiting for me right now. Another great English writer of historical fiction is Diana Norman. One final recommendation is Gillian Bradshaw – beautifully written, not too heavy, a bit of romance, set in classical times. She is one of my favorite authors. Try your library.
I’m with everyone else – love the chaise and the quilt! Looks so cozy.
The Ariana Franklin books are a good read, if a bit heavy on the history – I have book 3 waiting for me right now. Another great English writer of historical fiction is Diana Norman. One final recommendation is Gillian Bradshaw – beautifully written, not too heavy, a bit of romance, set in classical times. She is one of my favorite authors. Try your library.
I’m with everyone else – love the chaise and the quilt! Looks so cozy.
I agree with Missy Ann about the Mists of Avalon- Marion Zimmer Bradley. I’ve read it about 13 times- apart from Little Women it is my most read book- you won’t think the same about King Arthur ever again- her Firebrand is also good- a spin on the Iliad. The time travellers wife is also a great read and who doesn’t love Jennifer Chiaverinni!
I agree with Missy Ann about the Mists of Avalon- Marion Zimmer Bradley. I’ve read it about 13 times- apart from Little Women it is my most read book- you won’t think the same about King Arthur ever again- her Firebrand is also good- a spin on the Iliad. The time travellers wife is also a great read and who doesn’t love Jennifer Chiaverinni!
I have to agree…. the Outlander book is amazing, I love Piccoult, and Prodigal Summer has to be one of my all time favs. I have to throw a couple more in there….. I love Philipa Gregory– by far her best book is The Other Boelyn Girl (I didn’t see the movie– don’t get me started). If you love historical fiction, I think you’d really like a book called “1,000 White Women”– the premise is odd, the story is FASCINATING. Also, don’t you have some Italian in your family? If so (or even if not, actually, cuz I don’t) , you will LOVE the Adriana Trigiani books. I have really enjoyed ALL of them, but my fav is Very Valentine. Really– you’d love them! All of these recomendations have some romance, at least *some* history, and a super great story. Enjoy!
I have to agree…. the Outlander book is amazing, I love Piccoult, and Prodigal Summer has to be one of my all time favs. I have to throw a couple more in there….. I love Philipa Gregory– by far her best book is The Other Boelyn Girl (I didn’t see the movie– don’t get me started). If you love historical fiction, I think you’d really like a book called “1,000 White Women”– the premise is odd, the story is FASCINATING. Also, don’t you have some Italian in your family? If so (or even if not, actually, cuz I don’t) , you will LOVE the Adriana Trigiani books. I have really enjoyed ALL of them, but my fav is Very Valentine. Really– you’d love them! All of these recomendations have some romance, at least *some* history, and a super great story. Enjoy!
OH my…that is quite a list!
I want to put in a plug for my favorite author…Barbara Kingsolver. My favorite novels are the Poisonwood Bible (about Africa, and women’s responses to challenges) and the Prodigal Summer (about the balance of nature). All her books have wonderful female characters and much historical research, written with a totally captivating voice.
OH my…that is quite a list!
I want to put in a plug for my favorite author…Barbara Kingsolver. My favorite novels are the Poisonwood Bible (about Africa, and women’s responses to challenges) and the Prodigal Summer (about the balance of nature). All her books have wonderful female characters and much historical research, written with a totally captivating voice.
yes, Kristin Hannah (Firefly Lane was awesome), anything recent by Jodi Piccoult is an excellent read, and also I don’t believe I’ve seen (tho I haven’t read ‘all’ the suggestions) is The Other Boleyn Girl by Phillipa Gregory (maybe someone mentioned the author). Now, I’m certainly no history buff and never thought I would enjoy such a book but a friend recommended it, and I very much enjoyed it. Also, if you’ve never read Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden, then you’ve missed out because that was also a great one.
yes, Kristin Hannah (Firefly Lane was awesome), anything recent by Jodi Piccoult is an excellent read, and also I don’t believe I’ve seen (tho I haven’t read ‘all’ the suggestions) is The Other Boleyn Girl by Phillipa Gregory (maybe someone mentioned the author). Now, I’m certainly no history buff and never thought I would enjoy such a book but a friend recommended it, and I very much enjoyed it. Also, if you’ve never read Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden, then you’ve missed out because that was also a great one.
Hi, Nicole – I really envy all the time you have now! Connie Willis is my favorite author. She is the Queen of time travel and a multiple Hugo winner. Her current book is Black Out – about the London Blitz and it’s sequel – All Clear – comes out in the fall. She is a master story teller!
http://www.sftv.org/cw/
I also like the Louise Perry Inspecter Gamache series. It’s set in a small, out of the way village in Canada. She draws strong characters and I was hooked almost from the first page.
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=louise+perry&x=16&y=22
As always, love the quilts!
Karen L.
Hi, Nicole – I really envy all the time you have now! Connie Willis is my favorite author. She is the Queen of time travel and a multiple Hugo winner. Her current book is Black Out – about the London Blitz and it’s sequel – All Clear – comes out in the fall. She is a master story teller!
http://www.sftv.org/cw/
I also like the Louise Perry Inspecter Gamache series. It’s set in a small, out of the way village in Canada. She draws strong characters and I was hooked almost from the first page.
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=louise+perry&x=16&y=22
As always, love the quilts!
Karen L.
Enemy Women by Paulette Jiles takes place in Missouri during the Civil War.
Enemy Women by Paulette Jiles takes place in Missouri during the Civil War.
I just finished The Help by Kathryn Stockett and just loved it. I believe it is one the New York Times bestseller list.
Set in 1960’s Mississippi, it’s about a young aspiring journalist, who with the help of 2 black maids, writes a book about the realtionships between the help and their employers.
It was sooo good that I couldn’t put it down!
I just finished The Help by Kathryn Stockett and just loved it. I believe it is one the New York Times bestseller list.
Set in 1960’s Mississippi, it’s about a young aspiring journalist, who with the help of 2 black maids, writes a book about the realtionships between the help and their employers.
It was sooo good that I couldn’t put it down!
The best books I’ve read lately are THE HELP by Kathryn Stockett and THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN by Garth Stein (has dogs!).
The best books I’ve read lately are THE HELP by Kathryn Stockett and THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN by Garth Stein (has dogs!).
I agree about Nancy E.Turner. Couldn’t put them down (plus she’s a quilter!)I love the southern writers like Pat Conroy and Anne Rivers Siddon. Also, if you haven’t read the Glass Castle, get it. It isn’t fiction, but it is an unbelievable book about love in a disfunctional family – sort of on the line of Angela’s Ashes. I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry, feel pity or envy. Widow of the South was a good book, although dark, about the Civil War. Hicks is the author. An finally, anything Barbara Kingsolver writes is wonderful.
I agree about Nancy E.Turner. Couldn’t put them down (plus she’s a quilter!)I love the southern writers like Pat Conroy and Anne Rivers Siddon. Also, if you haven’t read the Glass Castle, get it. It isn’t fiction, but it is an unbelievable book about love in a disfunctional family – sort of on the line of Angela’s Ashes. I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry, feel pity or envy. Widow of the South was a good book, although dark, about the Civil War. Hicks is the author. An finally, anything Barbara Kingsolver writes is wonderful.
Ditto the Outlander series. I held out for a long time because I thought they would be too romance-y but love me some Jamie & Claire.
Would also strongly recommend The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory – all of her books are good but this is her best I think.
Also The Heretic’s Daughter about the Salem witch trials – can’t remember the author.Just finished The Aloha Quilt by Chiaverini which was good but The Lost Quilt was my recent favorite by her since I love historical fiction.Jennifer Chiaverini is a good comfort read for me.
Ditto the Outlander series. I held out for a long time because I thought they would be too romance-y but love me some Jamie & Claire.
Would also strongly recommend The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory – all of her books are good but this is her best I think.
Also The Heretic’s Daughter about the Salem witch trials – can’t remember the author.Just finished The Aloha Quilt by Chiaverini which was good but The Lost Quilt was my recent favorite by her since I love historical fiction.Jennifer Chiaverini is a good comfort read for me.
I recommend these two:
“Hotel on the Corner of Bitter & Sweet” by Jamie Ford and “Secrets of Eden” by Chris Bohjalian. Really enjoy your blog!
I recommend these two:
“Hotel on the Corner of Bitter & Sweet” by Jamie Ford and “Secrets of Eden” by Chris Bohjalian. Really enjoy your blog!
I read a lot of historical fiction also (including Mistress in the Art of Death). I really enjoyed “The Physic Book of Deliverance Dane” and “The Thirteenth Tale”. “Widow of the South” and “Jenny Dorset” are both great also. Happy reading!
I read a lot of historical fiction also (including Mistress in the Art of Death). I really enjoyed “The Physic Book of Deliverance Dane” and “The Thirteenth Tale”. “Widow of the South” and “Jenny Dorset” are both great also. Happy reading!
Can I have another 24 hours in my day????
I want to make quilts and read great books!!!!
Can I have another 24 hours in my day????
I want to make quilts and read great books!!!!
oh my gosh, I’ve just updated my Shelfari site…I have enough titles for the next decade!
congrats on your quilts at market-tres kewl!
oh my gosh, I’ve just updated my Shelfari site…I have enough titles for the next decade!
congrats on your quilts at market-tres kewl!
Have you read Emilie Richards? They aren’t historical fiction, but still great stories. I got hooked on her “Shenandoah Album” series…each book features a quilt in the title, quilting in the story, great story lines (romance included). They need to be read in order tho…beginning with Wedding Ring…then Endless Chain…Lover’s Knot…Touching Stars…and ending with Sister’s Choice. She’s got lots of other great reads out too, that don’t necessarily mention quilts/quilting.
Have you read Emilie Richards? They aren’t historical fiction, but still great stories. I got hooked on her “Shenandoah Album” series…each book features a quilt in the title, quilting in the story, great story lines (romance included). They need to be read in order tho…beginning with Wedding Ring…then Endless Chain…Lover’s Knot…Touching Stars…and ending with Sister’s Choice. She’s got lots of other great reads out too, that don’t necessarily mention quilts/quilting.
Katherine Hall Page, Earlene Fowler (great quilting mysteries), Sue Henry, John Lescroart, David Baldachi, and my very favorite author of the Mitford Series – Jan Karon(a must read, feel good, I want to live there in Mitford series of books).
Katherine Hall Page, Earlene Fowler (great quilting mysteries), Sue Henry, John Lescroart, David Baldachi, and my very favorite author of the Mitford Series – Jan Karon(a must read, feel good, I want to live there in Mitford series of books).
Recently read Mariana and Sophia’s Secret by Susanna Kearsley, loved them both. A bit of romance and going back into the past. Love your lounger and quilt.
Recently read Mariana and Sophia’s Secret by Susanna Kearsley, loved them both. A bit of romance and going back into the past. Love your lounger and quilt.
I have read quite a few of these authors- I love Kristen Hannah, Iris Johansen, Diana Gibaldon , the Mists of Avalon is fantastic.
I also am a fan of Sandra Brown, Catherine Coulter, the series by Nancy Turner that begins with These is my Words.
I really love Eileen Goudge’s books- Barbara Taylor Bradford and Philippa Gregory’s historical fiction.
Another author you may enjoy is Barbara Erskine _ The Lady of Hay is one of all time favorite books.
I have read and enjoyed Jodi Picoult but don’t read her if you are feeling down- most of her books are thought provoking but not always cheerful.
So many choices Nicole and not enough time to read these days..
Hope you find some great novels ,
Regards,
Anna
I have read quite a few of these authors- I love Kristen Hannah, Iris Johansen, Diana Gibaldon , the Mists of Avalon is fantastic.
I also am a fan of Sandra Brown, Catherine Coulter, the series by Nancy Turner that begins with These is my Words.
I really love Eileen Goudge’s books- Barbara Taylor Bradford and Philippa Gregory’s historical fiction.
Another author you may enjoy is Barbara Erskine _ The Lady of Hay is one of all time favorite books.
I have read and enjoyed Jodi Picoult but don’t read her if you are feeling down- most of her books are thought provoking but not always cheerful.
So many choices Nicole and not enough time to read these days..
Hope you find some great novels ,
Regards,
Anna
I enjoyed the Cobbled Court series by Marie Bostwick. The first book is A Single Thread.
The Guernsay Literary and Potato Peel Society was super. Also, I was fascinated with Sarah’s Key.
Enjoy!
I enjoyed the Cobbled Court series by Marie Bostwick. The first book is A Single Thread.
The Guernsay Literary and Potato Peel Society was super. Also, I was fascinated with Sarah’s Key.
Enjoy!
An author l would like to recommend is Philippa Gregory. Her series on the life and times of Henry 8th, The Tudor Court Novels, are fantastic. Great Historical romances. l love your chaise lounge, so comfy and inviting with that quilt. Thanks for sharing.
Linda.
An author l would like to recommend is Philippa Gregory. Her series on the life and times of Henry 8th, The Tudor Court Novels, are fantastic. Great Historical romances. l love your chaise lounge, so comfy and inviting with that quilt. Thanks for sharing.
Linda.
Wow, what a great list of books to put on my wish list! My quilting bee is also a reading group – although we don’t discuss much, we share liberally with each other. One that you have to add to your list is Snowflower and the Secret Fan about two girls growing up in China during foot binding times. It is a wonderful read and will really help you appreciate your modern day life in the US! Your chaise lounge is lovely…I hope to have one in my sewing room one day so I can sew and read in the same place!
Wow, what a great list of books to put on my wish list! My quilting bee is also a reading group – although we don’t discuss much, we share liberally with each other. One that you have to add to your list is Snowflower and the Secret Fan about two girls growing up in China during foot binding times. It is a wonderful read and will really help you appreciate your modern day life in the US! Your chaise lounge is lovely…I hope to have one in my sewing room one day so I can sew and read in the same place!
You might also like:
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows (strange title, but an absolutely delightful book)
An Irish Country Doctor, by Patrick Taylor (and its sequels)
A Year in Provence, by Peter Mayle
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, by Lisa See
The Ladies of Covington Send Their Love, by Joan Medlicott (and its sequels)
You might also like:
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows (strange title, but an absolutely delightful book)
An Irish Country Doctor, by Patrick Taylor (and its sequels)
A Year in Provence, by Peter Mayle
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, by Lisa See
The Ladies of Covington Send Their Love, by Joan Medlicott (and its sequels)
Amasing suggestions here. I just read The Last Beach Cottage by Jennie Nash and loved it. The Aloha Quilt by Jennifer Chiaverini was also a good follow through with her characters from her previous books. I did not like her Lost Quilter book…way too graphic for me…it should have come with a warning 🙁
Now I want a chaise. Yours looks wonderful!
Amasing suggestions here. I just read The Last Beach Cottage by Jennie Nash and loved it. The Aloha Quilt by Jennifer Chiaverini was also a good follow through with her characters from her previous books. I did not like her Lost Quilter book…way too graphic for me…it should have come with a warning 🙁
Now I want a chaise. Yours looks wonderful!
Am LOVING reading these recommendations! I’ve been looking for the same types of books! Definitely ones that have been recommended, I can agree on…all of Gabaldon, Chiaverini, Philippa Gregory, Barbara Delinsky I just discovered..LOVED “The Vineyard”..
Must add some more…have read almost ALL of Anne Rivers Siddons…Colony,Outer Banks, etc. All good stories, many set in N. Carolina’s coastal areas. Also I love a California writer, Jo-Ann Mapson…Hank & Chloe, Blue Rodeo, Wilder Sisters, Loving Chloe. And anything Rosamunde Pilcher..Shell Seekers!!Ok, can’t wait to go to the library now!
Am LOVING reading these recommendations! I’ve been looking for the same types of books! Definitely ones that have been recommended, I can agree on…all of Gabaldon, Chiaverini, Philippa Gregory, Barbara Delinsky I just discovered..LOVED “The Vineyard”..
Must add some more…have read almost ALL of Anne Rivers Siddons…Colony,Outer Banks, etc. All good stories, many set in N. Carolina’s coastal areas. Also I love a California writer, Jo-Ann Mapson…Hank & Chloe, Blue Rodeo, Wilder Sisters, Loving Chloe. And anything Rosamunde Pilcher..Shell Seekers!!Ok, can’t wait to go to the library now!
The Help is a great book! I didn’t see it on your recommendation list.
The Help is a great book! I didn’t see it on your recommendation list.