Category Archives: Historical Fiction

In the Shadow of the Storm by Anna Belfrage – Review

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Title – In the Shadow of the Storm (The King’s Greatest Enemy #1)
Author – Anna Belfrage
Genre –  Historical Fiction
Length –   396 Pages
Publication – Nov 2015
My Rating – 4/5 Stars

Synopsis

Adam de Guirande owes his lord, Sir Roger Mortimer, much more than loyalty. He owes Sir Roger for his life and all his worldly goods, he owes him for his beautiful wife – even if Kit is not quite the woman Sir Roger thinks she is. So when Sir Roger rises in rebellion against the king, Adam has no choice but to ride with him – no matter what the ultimate cost may be. England in 1321 is a confusing place. Edward II has been forced by his barons to exile his favourite, Hugh Despenser. The barons, led by the powerful Thomas of Lancaster, Roger Mortimer and Humphrey de Bohun, have reasons to believe they have finally tamed the king. But Edward is not about to take things lying down, and fate is a fickle mistress, favouring first one, then the other. Adam fears his lord has over-reached, but at present Adam has other matters to concern him, first and foremost his new wife, Katherine de Monmouth. His bride comes surrounded by rumours concerning her and the baron, and he hates it when his brother snickers and whispers of used goods. Kit de Courcy has the misfortune of being a perfect double of Katherine de Monmouth – which is why she finds herself coerced into wedding a man under a false name. What will Adam do when he finds out he has been duped? Domestic matters become irrelevant when the king sets out to punish his rebellious barons. The Welsh Marches explode into war, and soon Sir Roger and his men are fighting for their very lives. When hope splutters and dies, when death seems inevitable, it falls to Kit to save her man – if she can. ‘In the Shadow of the Storm’ is the first in Anna Belfrage’s new series,The King’s Greatest Enemy, the story of a man torn apart by his loyalties to his baron, his king, and his wife.

Review

I’m going to be 100% honest from the start of this review.. I’m not a romance fan.. it’s not my genre but I do enjoy a good historical fiction book when the romance is done right and this is what Anna Belfrage has done perfectly. Sometimes I think authors put in a sex scene just for the sake of it but when Anna has done this it brings something to the story.. makes the connection between the two main characters believable

The tale starts with the abduction of Kit..she has been sheltered her whole life but now her mother is gone no one is there to protect her and she is thrust into the life of Katherine.. unbeknown to Kit at the time that they share the same father. Kit is brought in to help when Katherine runs off from an arranged marriage..they need some to take her place

This is where we met Adam, loved his character. Loyal and brave to fault.

Mix in with this wedding a tale of politics, blackmail, deception and murder and you have one hell of a tale.

The romance the book is just the underlying story that plays out, the true story for me was about loyalty which I loved. Adam de Guirande is split in two wanting to fight for his lord whom he owes so much or to stay with Kit who has given him another purpose in life. Kit’s tale is also focuses around loyalty..the love that grows for Adam overtime bringing her to risk everything for the man she loves

For me the way these two interacted throughout the book worked well, at times both were stubborn and annoying but it made the relationship feel real rather than forced. I really enjoyed that the tale was shown from both sides and highlighted a woman’s worth back  in that age when they were viewed more as property but at the same time it was great to see that love could still spark

The only thing I would have liked to see was at the beginning when Kit replaces Katherine would be more of a struggle for her. She seemed to take to the role quickly and didn’t have too many problems fooling people who Katherine met beforehand..one in a intimate way.

I won’t spoil the plot any more but seriously I really loved the tale. With rebellion afoot you know not everyone will make it out alive and there are some very interesting and manipulative characters to meet along the way. Two of the best characters are Adam’s brothers.. i’ll say no more than that 🙂

While Adam and Kit are completely fictional characters the rebellion itself is fact and  this led to the perfect setting where the author could let their wonderful imagination go. The book relies more heavily on the plot than some books which focus a lot on historical detail like descriptiveness of locations and events but that helped the book flow better and the plot definitely had me hooked.. I didn’t even care where the characters were.. I just wanted to know what would happen next

This is the perfect historical fiction book if you are looking for a little less battlefield action..this tale works well without the extra bloodshed.

Loved it

To find out more head to Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com

Liverpool Connection by Elisabeth Marrion – Review

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Title – Liverpool Connection
Author – Elisabeth Marrion
Genre –  Historical Fiction
Length –   258 Pages
Publication – 14th May 2014
My Rating – 5/5 Stars

Synopsis

“Oh Danny Boy, the pipes, the pipes are calling…” Annie sang quietly, holding Derek’s baby blue cardigan and trying to detect a familiar smell. The same cardigan he was supposed to wear at his christening. Annie and her friends leave Ireland in 1926 young and optimistic, hoping to find a better life in Liverpool. Only things do not turn out the way they had imagined. Annie falls in love, marries and starts a family of her own. But with the onset of World War Two comes tragedy and loss, testing Annie’s strength to the limit. Little does she realise that the salvation of her loved ones lies partly with a German woman named Hilde, whose life and situation mirrors Annie’s own. ‘Liverpool Connection’ is the second book of a trilogy and is based on a true story. The first book, ‘The Night I Danced with Rommel’, tells Hilde’s story. The books are historical novels based on facts and tell the writer’s family history.

Review

This book connects with the author’s  previous work The Night I Danced With Rommel which I absolutely loved. It was a heart wrenchingly beautiful tale written superbly so I had high expectations with this one.

Elisabeth Marrion delivered again with her lovely storytelling that pulls you in. One of the major plus point for this author is her style of writing, short, sharp and informative chapters make the book flow so well and keep you engrossed as you don’t have time to tire.

This book is a tale of war, death & love which compliments the previous book immensely when the books connect. I won’t spoil it for you but the events that link the two books were amazing to read, when things clicked together I had that “Wow” moment.

For me this book wasn’t as emotive as the last one but that’s not to say this is a happy book.. it’s not, it feels real..gritty..the struggle for money and food. It really makes you appreciate what you have these days

One thing I enjoyed reading about but at the same time hated thinking about was the children being sent away to safety because of the war.. just how many families were truly torn apart.

There is one little boy I loved in this book above everyone else David.. a cheeky little lad.. and what a great name choice by the parents!

The only thing for me that would improve the book is an author’s note. The book is based on facts but is sold as fiction so it would be lovely to know just how much is fact and fiction

Literally I can’t think of anything else that would have made it any better.. it’s just a wonderfully easy and emotive read that opens your eyes to war while not overpowering you. At times it’s sad at others you can’t help but smile

A wonderful book from a talented writer

To find out more head to Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com

Plantagenet Princess, Tudor Queen: The Story of Elizabeth of York By Samantha Wilcoxson – Review

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Title – Plantagenet Princess, Tudor Queen: The Story of Elizabeth of York
Author – Samantha Wilcoxson
Genre – Historical Fiction
Length –   438 Pages
My Rating – 5/5 Stars

Synopsis

She was the mother of Henry VIII and wife of Henry VII, but who was Elizabeth of York? Raised as the precious eldest child of Edward IV, Elizabeth had every reason to expect a bright future until Edward died, and her life fell apart.

When Elizabeth’s uncle became Richard III, she was forced to choose sides. Should she trust her father’s brother and most loyal supporter or honor the betrothal that her mother has made for her to her family’s enemy, Henry Tudor?

The choice was made for her on the field at Bosworth, and Elizabeth the Plantagenet princess became the first Tudor queen.

Did Elizabeth find happiness with Henry? And did she ever discover the truth about her missing brothers, who became better known as the Princes in the Tower?

Lose yourself in Elizabeth’s world in Plantagenet Princess Tudor Queen.

This novel has been selected by the Historical Novel Society as an Editors’ Choice and long-listed for the 2016 HNS Indie Award.

Review

What a treat this book was..

Once again my eyes have been opened to another powerful historical woman who I had little knowledge of before. If you’re like me you will know of Richard III and Henry Tudor but until now I knew nothing about Elizabeth of York.

This is such an emotive tale when you consider everything that happens. The most difficult part being the underlying mystery of the princes in the tower.. what really happened to them? As the book progresses you can really see the affect this must have had on Elizabeth.

Elizabeth must have really battled with her emotions considering individuals so close to her might have had a hand in their deaths..

The young princes aren’t the only ones to die in the tale. The author takes the chance to show what things were like to be alive at that time. Sicknesses that swept the land that would kill indiscriminately..rich and poor it did not care..anyone could die. I really can’t imagine what it must have been like but even I had a lump in my throat at times..

Death follows our Queen around in what I thought was a very well written book. The chapters flowed so easy from one to the next with the perfect mix of detail and story that I like

I really like how the author handled the ageing process for the King and Queen, describing the changes that occurred over time. It made the story feel more real as I could imagine the events unfolding around them and how it changed their mind and bodies.

Elizabeth’s life is a hard one. We don’t know all the facts but Samantha Wilcoxson puts flesh on the bones of this tale making it an engrossing read

I’m a big fan of powerful, determined, emotive women in historical fiction novels and this is up there with the best I’ve read. This is the type of book that actually makes me want to learn more about history

While this tale is dark in its events it’s rather an inspiring tale, this woman had so much to deal with but she battled through until her death

Lovely!

To find out more head to Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com

The Wolf Banner by Paula Lofting – Review

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Title – The Wolf Banner
Author – Paula Lofting
Genre – Historical Fiction
Length – 474 Pages
Publication – 20 Aug 2016.
My Rating – 5/5 Stars

Synopsis

WAR AND BLOODFEUD
1056…England lurches towards war as the rebellious Lord Alfgar plots against the indolent King Edward. Sussex thegn, Wulfhere, must defy both his lord, Harold Godwinson, and his bitter enemy, Helghi, to protect his beloved daughter.
As the shadow of war stretches across the land, a more personal battle rages at home, and when it follows him into battle, he knows he must keep his wits about him more than ever, and COURAGE AND FEAR MUST BECOME HIS ARMOUR…

Review

The Wolf Banner is the follow up book to Sons of the Wolf which I loved! This has to be one of my most anticipated releases of 2016 and I didn’t let me down.

First off I must says it’s taken a while for the author to get this book ready to be published but I can say honestly that all the time and heard work she has put into it has paid off.

The book follows on nicely from where Sons left off, as as you’d expect it’s full to the brim of action and develops the characters even further. I really enjoyed Burghred in this story.. The author explains little is known about him so she was able to give life to him with her words and besides Wulfhere he was the most interesting character for me

Another character I believe came into his own in this tale was Aemund, a very funny cheeky chap indeed.

The twins are back also in this tale and they play a pivotal role..They have matured a little and are ready to stand in the shieldwall with their father.

The family feud that existed in Sons of the Wolf is even more heated if that’s possible and Edgar and Freyda are in the thick of it….will it ever end? I guess I’d like to see things resolved but at the same time I like the possibilities this feud can bring to the story.

The best scene which I won’t ruin for you involves Gunnhild.. who you may remember from the first book. She not likeable at all and there’s a funny little event that plays out that had me laughing for ages.

For those who are fans of a good battle won’t be disappointed either as Wulfhere gets to show he may be getting old but he can still fight tooth and nail.

Although the book focuses on the life of Wulfhere the underlying tale of Harold Godwinson plays out beautifully. Anyone who enjoys this period in time should find this book the perfect accompaniment to go with other tales of Harold.. This book brings fresh life to the period for me and makes me want to reread books I thought I’d probably not look at again.

I can’t fault this book, not one bit. I loved it from start to finished and it ticked every box for me.

Paula really knows her history and how to hook the reader in and i can’t wait for book three Wolf’s Bane! I’ve been left me on tenterhooks as to what will happen next (FYI I’ve never used tenterhooks in a sentence before 🙂 )

Head to Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com to pre-order now!

1066 Turned Upside Down – Review

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Title – 1066 Turned Upside Down
Author  – Joanna Courtney, Helen Hollick, Annie Whitehead, Anna Belfrage , Alison Morton, Carol McGrath, Eliza Redgold, GK Holloway, Richard Dee
Genre – Historical Fiction /Alternative History
Length –    197 Pages
Publication – 1st August 2016
My Rating – 5/5 Stars

Synopsis

Ever wondered what might have happened if William the Conqueror had been beaten at Hastings? Or if Harald Hardrada had won at Stamford Bridge? Or if Edward the Confessor had died with an heir ready to take his place? Then here is the perfect set of stories for you. ‘1066 Turned Upside Down’ explores a variety of ways in which the momentous year of 1066 could have played out differently.

Written by nine well-known authors to celebrate the 950th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings, the stories will take you on a journey through the wonderful ‘what ifs’ of England’s most famous year in history.        

Review

What a brilliant book this was. I just love the idea that the authors have taken a period in time and let their creative juices flow. 1066 is a fascinating period to read about and to have these authors explore the “what if” was refreshing

I’m a big fan of collections like this, I find then fun to read. Not only do they flow easily since they are self-contained short stories but you also get introduced to some authors you might not previously have heard of. I’ll admit I’ve only read books be three of these authors.. that will soon change.

The book starts with a forward by C.C Humphreys. I’m the first to admit I’ve never really understood the need for these in a book but this one has changed my mind. This forward was witty and fun and perfectly set up the book for me as a reader

Each author tackles at least one story, they each take an event that happened and twist it.. they explore the possibilities that might have occurred if things went differently.

After reading other books I’ve always wondered about the “what ifs” Such as what would have happened if Harold had waited before going to war on that fateful day.. what would have happened if the rest of Harold’s army had arrived in time to engage in the fight..the outcome could have been so different

One of my favourite stories had to be the tale by Richard Dee, the perfect mix of science fiction and historical fiction, where the butterfly effect is explored and that if you could travel back to the past even the slightest change could mean big changes to the future

It was really good to see Annie Whitehead take part in this book also. If you’ve read my reviews you’ll know I’m a fan of hers and her story was particularly enjoyable to read. Her tale focused on the Battle of Fulford where Morcar and Edwin were defeated by Harald Hardrada.. what if this was the other way around??

Each story was well written and allowed the author to play with the events of history and I enjoyed every one of them. I also really liked at the end of each story the reader is given discussion suggestions which raise some interesting thoughts

This book was a gripping read and it’s opened my eyes to more wonderful authors.. I’ll be sure to add some of their books to my TBR list… some i already have 🙂

Any fan of the period who likes the idea of exploring the endless possibilities of what could have happen will enjoy this

You can pre-order the book now for £1.99!

To find out more head to Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com

Galba’s Men by L. J. Trafford – Review

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Title – Galba’s Men – The Four Emperors Series: Book II
Author – L. J. Trafford
Genre –  Historical Fiction
Length –     431 Pages
My Rating – 5/5 Stars

Synopsis                 

Rome 68 AD. Slaughtering hundreds of civilians at the gates of Rome is hardly the best introduction for new Emperor Galba to his city. However the aged ruler is determined to get on with clearing up the mess Nero left. Assisting him are his three men: Vinius, Laco and Icelus. Also in his entourage one Marcus Salvius Otho. Jovial, charming and fatally reckless Otho is armed with a killer idea: Wouldn’t it be marvellous if the childless Galba adopted him as his heir? Appointing old pal Epaphroditus as his campaign manager, Otho sets about winning hearts and minds in his own unique cheery way. For Epaphroditus it is a harmless way of enlivening his post Nero retirement; either Galba makes Otho his heir, or he doesn’t. What could possibly go wrong? For once the former Palace manipulator has fatally miscalculated. These are paranoid times and Otho’s ‘harmless’ plan is about to bring Rome to its knees.

Review

So this book follows directly on from Palatine the first book in The Four Emperors Series by L. J. Trafford. If you haven’t read the first book I highly recommend you do as this is a brilliant tale which deserves to be read.

This book is based on events around 68/69 AD when Galba succeeded Nero as emperor of Rome. Albeit for a very short time

L. J. Trafford manages to give us real facts about the events but also has fictional side stories to keep you engaged and it’s this mix that makes this series so interesting

Galba arrives in Rome and it quickly becomes apparent he’s not going to make any friends. His reign only lasted 7 months so it’s clear he wasn’t well liked and the way L. J. Trafford portrays him fits with this image

Reading about Galba’s downfall was very gripping but was outshined by one character as with the first instalment.. Philo! The author continues his tale of woe at the hands of Straton just when he hopes his life is on the up. There is so much development for this character during this tale and I think it helped that Galba’s reign was short as it left time in this novel to develop characters like Philo but also Alex, Mina, Sporus & Straton. They all have their part in this story no matter how little.

With so many good characters to use the author had no trouble switching perspectives to allow other’s tales to continue and it was this back and forth that made it all the more gripping as you never had the chance to get bored of a character and you just had to get back to them to see what happened next.

Essentially the end of this book is a repeat of the first instalment.. the emperor is overthrown and it’s bloody, but the author still managed to make the tale fresh and interesting as the build-up is very different and Nero and Galba couldn’t be more different if they tried.

Added shock factor was introduced when the author killed off a few characters. I won’t spoil it by saying who but I did make a little note with a sad face each times.

I think the best thing about L.J. Trafford’s work is how seamlessly she can fit real facts and fiction together so neatly.. nothing feels out of place at all.

We were also introduced to some new characters in this novel. My favourite being Otho who came across as a happy go lucky kind of guy who does things on a whim which is dangerous but very entertaining..his tale will continue in the next book in the series.. I can’t wait for that!

For me this is a shining example of what historical fiction is for me..and I couldn’t fault it. This was my most anticipated book this year and it’s definitely been my favourite read so far.

To me, these are the kinds of tales that make reading as fun as it is.

I’ve already said this but I think it deserves to be brought up again.. Philo.. he outshines this whole series for me and I could read anything with him in it. Such a good character and I hope we see more of him.

Anyone who likes the genre or wants to get into the genre will enjoy this book, great mix of humour, love and death and a perfect blend of characters you’ll love

My thanks go to the author and Karnac Books for the review copy.

If you’d like to buy the book but haven’t read the first installment head to Karnac Books who have a great offer on where you can buy this book and get book 1 at half price.

To find out more head to Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com

Nursing Fox by Jim Ditchfield – Review

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Title –  Nursing Fox
Author – Jim Ditchfield
Genre –  Historical Fiction
Length –    291 Pages
My Rating – 5/5 Stars

Synopsis

At the outbreak of World War I, Lucy Paignton-Fox enlists in the Australian Army Nursing Service and leaves her family’s cattle station in the Northern Territory to join the war effort. During the Gallipoli campaign she serves in hospitals in Egypt, but when the Anzacs are posted to France she moves with them. A talented and spirited nurse, with dreams of one day becoming a doctor, Lucy finds more opportunities than she ever imagined: working alongside doctors and surgeons, sharing the soldiers’ dangers, helping them through their pain, and making lifelong friends.

But with war comes suffering. Lucy sees it all around: sorrow, disease and death. How long can she stay separated from it all?

Adam Hayward joins the British Army after a devastating attack on his family. Accepted into the air force, Adam tests his luck in the cockpit fighting for those he loves. But with aircraft technology booming, can Adam continue to stay ahead of the game?

John Mitchell’s determination leads him slowly up the ranks. With more responsibility than ever, he becomes disillusioned with the horrors of war, but he can’t help admiring the brave nurses who do so much to help the wounded men.

Nursing Fox details the experiences of Australian nurses during the Great War. It honours their journeys and shows the impact that the nurses had on the soldiers with whom they crossed paths.

Review

This has without a doubt been one of the best books I’ve ever had the pleasure to read, A beautiful and emotive tale that had me engrossed from the start.

The story is told from 3 different points of view, Lucy, Adam and John. Set within World War I they are thrust into the war effort and each play a part in each other’s lives. The tale starts slowly but then you get carried away and I just couldn’t put it down

At times the tale was heart-warming..at others gut wrenching. It really made me feel glad for the freedom I’m lucky to have.

For me I feel the book did a good job and developing the characters, they felt real and I loved all 3..each strong but with their own issues they have to overcome.

One of the best things about this book for me is it really showed you well how nursing was conducted during the war. We all know fighting men died but have you ever thought of those close to enemy lines who were there to help the wounded? I know it’s something I’ve never really considered.

The story mainly follows Lucy and her part within the war effort, she has a lot to deal with.. not only are people around her dying but she also has to deal with superior’s looking down on her for wanting to better herself. Lucy seemed so strong but at times you can tell the struggles the character must have been going through

This story isn’t the kind of book to make you laugh, at times you might smile and at other times you might shed a tear..there’s this sense right from the beginning that not everything will end well.

Another thing that I really liked about the book was the pacing of the story. Never too much, never to boring with the perfect amount of detail and story to keep me reading well into the early hours of the morning.. and the ending!! I’m never one for spoilers but I felt the last few chapters suited the story perfectly.. I can’t imagine the author finishing the book any other way

In conclusion, this book was a real treat. It picks up on the courage and effort both woman and men (and horses J ) put into the war effort and does it in such a way that by the end of it you feel you’ve had a history lesson rather than simply reading a story.

Well worth reading in my opinion

My thanks go to Odyssey Books for the chance to read/review the book

To find out more head to Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com

The Night I Danced with Rommel by Elisabeth Marrion – Review

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Title – The Night I Danced with Rommel
Author – Elisabeth Marrion
Genre – Historical Fiction
Length –   200 Pages
Publication – June 2013
My Rating – 5/5 Stars

Synopsis

‘May I have this dance, Hilde?’ asked Field Marshal

Rommel, opening the Grande Ball held in his honour.

Did this dance save the life of Hilde’s Polish friends?

Hilde had come a long way since her dream of becoming a singer was shattered when her father made arrangements for her to work as a housekeeper in Berlin at the tender age of fourteen.

Until then, although poor, Hilde led a happy and protected life with her family on their small-holding in East Prussia.

Hilde’s life is thrown into turmoil in Berlin during the late 1920’s, early 1930’s. Having Polish friends meant it was becoming increasingly unsafe for her to stay there and she finds a new life in the Harz Mountains. This taking her still further away from her home and her beloved younger sister, Erika.

In Goslar, Hilde meets her husband, Karl, a young officer in the German Army.

When he joins the 7th Panzer Brigade led by General Erwin Rommel at the beginning of WW II, Hilde is left to bring up their children in war-torn Germany.

After Rommel’s promotion to Field Marshal, Karl follows him to Africa, later Italy and ultimately Karl is posted to the Russian front. Hilde’s story is based on facts and is told by her youngest daughter, Elisabeth

Review

By the end of this book I was quite emotional to say the least. It’s a wonderful and interesting story to read. I was a bit conflicted with my feelings, finding the story so enjoyable when it’s based not such a horrible point in time for many…It show you the effects of war from a different perspective and leaves you contemplating what it must have been like for those innocents caught up in the war not to mention all those soldiers some of whom I’m sure felt forced into serving.. it must have been very hard on so many people.

The story follows Hilde, a very likable character and her life.. growing up, making friends, finding love..in the end I felt so much love for Hilde.

We all know what happened, we’ve all heard of Hitler or Anne Frank but there must be so many other tales out there.. untold. It’s really interesting and educational to have a story told the way this one is, reminds you that these things happened to real people.

The story was very well written, in short sharp bursts which made the book fast following and very easy to read. There were also great insights into German propaganda which I didn’t really know about until I read the book. It must have been so hard for the people not knowing who or what to believe.

Most people, including myself have a very 1 dimensional view of WWII. Germany bad.. plain and simple.. but it’s not that simple is it? The author has managed to make me think about what it must have been like not only for Jews but also German soldiers and citizens caught up in the war.

I couldn’t fault this book with anything.. all I know is I didn’t expect the emotional response it had with me as I read the last few pages. It really made me think how lucky I am to have my family to go home to every night.

This is a very emotional and thought provoking story which I highly recommend you read

My thanks go to the author for allowing me the chance to read/review her work. I have two more books from Elisabeth on the TBR list.. keep a look out for reviews on my blog in the near future!

To find out more head to Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com

 

Crocodile Legion: A Roman Adventure by S.J.A. Turney – Review

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Title – Crocodile Legion: A Roman Adventure
Author – S.J.A. Turney (Author), Dave Slaney (Illustrator)
Genre –  Historical Fiction/Young Adult
Length –   133 Pages
Publication – March 2016
My Rating – 5/5 Stars

Synopsis 

The prefect of Egypt needs money. And the men of the 22nd Legion must brave mazes and tombs and curses and crocodile gods to get to it.

Marcus and Callie, orphaned in ancient Alexandria and taken in by their uncle, the standard bearer in the legion, are about to travel up the great river Nile with the legionaries in a tense and funny adventure to grab the gold of the Pharaoh Amenemhat.

Join the legion and discover ancient Roman Egypt.

Review

S.J.A Turney is well known to me as a historical fiction writer. After reviewing some of his previous books I couldn’t wait to see how he would write a story aimed at a younger audience.

I couldn’t help but enjoy this tale, it had the historical edge Simon is known for but with the added fun that comes from being written for a young adult.

This story was enjoyable from the start; the young kids give a fun feel to the story as we see it through their eyes rather than the adults.

The storyline itself was great, I won’t spoil it but there’s a brilliant twist that I didn’t see coming

I know myself growing up when I struggled to read, because of my eyesight and through my own laziness that I found pages full of words a bit daunting.. My only comment I would make is that maybe I would have broken down the chapters into smaller chucks within the chapter so when you flick through there are plenty of places to pause..That’s just my preference though.. I can honestly say I loved the book.

The story was well written, everything made sense and I wasn’t left with any burning questions.. Exactly what I want from a book like this.

Added to Turney’s wonderful story telling we have the added Illustrations from Dave Slaney which brought a smile to my face whenever they popped up. More of these please.. they were brilliant!

One of the best things about the book is simply Turney’s writing. He’s managed to write a brilliantly fun story without removing what I know him best for, the descriptive details, the character development.. It’s all still there.. it’s an adult story but just told in a different manner..

Add this one to your TBR piles!

To find out more head to Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com

Tales of Ancient Rome by S.J.A. Turney – Review

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Title – Tales of Ancient Rome
Author – S.J.A. Turney
Genre –  Historical Fiction/Short Stories
Length –  99 Pages
Publication –  Nov 2011
My Rating –  5/5 Stars

Synopsis

A collection of bite-size stories of varying styles all based in the world of ancient Rome. 12 tales of the ancient world, plus a bonus tale to finish.

The second edition contains two new tales not told in the 1st. Laugh, cry and shudder at:

Hold The Wall – Hadrian’s wall in the last days of the western empire
Vigil – A comedic tale of firefighting in Rome
*NEW* Rudis – A champion gladiator fights his last fight
*NEW* The Discovery – A Roman trader makes a surprising find in distant China
The man who bought an Empire – The lowest point of Imperial succession
Trackside seats – A slave helps his blind master at the circus
How to run a latifundium – A cautionary tale of estate management
A Reading – What does the future hold in Judea?
Exploratores – Trajan’s scouts on the trail of Dacian warriors
With a pinch of salt – A comedic tale of food in Claudius’ Rome
The Palmyrene Prince – Rome’s eastern border tells grim tales
Temple Trouble – A tale of the early days of Fronto (of the Marius’ Mules series)
Bonus tale: Aftermath in the Ludus – A fun finish.

Review

Yes I’m late to the party on this one I know…

As a reader I promise myself to go back and read all the books an author has wrote if I enjoy their work. It’s not always easy to fit all these wonderful tales in though..This however was perfect. I’ve been meaning to read more of Simon’s work and this was a easy read to stick in between other reads

It’s a collect of short stories which show off the author’s skills. It’s perfect if like me you want a quick read or this would also suit anyone as a great introduction to the author if you’ve not read his work previously

Some short stories leave me deflated, not bored but sort of wondering what I got out of reading them.. not this one. On numerous occasions I found myself grinning, especially when I read the sentence “oh dear, I think I shat myself” . This really was a selection of well written shorts which at times were very humorous which I think is a hard thing to do in such short tales.

My favourites were Temple Trouble & The Discovery

The book is currently free so why not grab a copy like I did.. you’ve got nothing to lose but lots to gain 🙂

To find out more head to Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com