Because I Could Not Stop for Death by Amanda Flower

Title: Because I Could Not Stop for Death

Author: Amanda Flower

Genre: Historical Fiction, Mystery

Synopsis: January 1855 Willa Noble knew it was bad luck when it was pouring rain on the day of her ever-important job interview at the Dickinson home in Amherst, Massachusetts. When she arrived late, disheveled with her skirts sodden and filthy, she'd lost all hope of being hired for the position. As the housekeeper politely told her they'd be in touch, Willa started toward the door of the stately home only to be called back by the soft but strong voice of Emily Dickinson. What begins as tenuous employment turns to friendship as the reclusive poet takes Willa under her wing.
Tragedy soon strikes and Willa's beloved brother, Henry, is killed in a tragic accident at the town stables. With no other family and nowhere else to turn, Willa tells Emily about her brother’s death and why she believes it was no accident. Willa is convinced it was murder. Henry had been very secretive of late, only hinting to Willa that he'd found a way to earn money to take care of them both. Viewing it first as a puzzle to piece together, Emily offers to help, only to realize that she and Willa are caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse that reveals corruption in Amherst that is generations deep. Some very high-powered people will stop at nothing to keep their profitable secrets even if that means forever silencing Willa and her new mistress.... - Back Cover

My Thoughts

The title and the shelf note "Local Author" drew me to pull this novel off the library shelf. What a fun idea to have Emily Dickinson and her maid work together to solve a mystery. The reader learns about Emily Dickinson's background and gets a historically based murder mystery as well. I didn't know Emily's father served as a representative in Washington. It was interesting to read about her trip to visit him, which really happened, though the events of the trip are fictionalized. As a renowned recluse later in life, I enjoyed reading about Dickinson as a young woman moving in social circles in her town of Amherst, Massachusetts. The mystery of the murder of Willa's brother kept me guessing until almost the very end. I look forward to reading the next book in this series!

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The Games Gods Play by Abigail Owen

 

Title: The Games Gods Play

Author: Abigail Owen

Genre: NA Fantasy

Synopsis: "I have never been favored by the gods. Far from it, thanks to Zeus. Living as a cursed office clerk for the Order of Thieves, I just keep my head down and hope the capricious beings who rule from Olympus won't notice me. Not an easy feat, given San Francisco is Zeus' patron city, but I make do. I survive. Until the night I tangle with a different god.

The worst god. Hades.

For the first time ever, the ruthless, mercurial King of the Underworld has entered the Crucible—the deadly contest the gods hold to determine a new ruler to sit on the throne of Olympus. But instead of fighting their own battles, the gods name mortals to compete in their stead. So why in the Underworld did Hades choose me—a sarcastic nobody with a curse on her shoulders—as his champion? And why does my heart trip every time he says I’m his? I don’t know if I’m a pawn, bait, or something else entirely to this dangerously tempting god. How can I, when he has more secrets than stars in the sky? Because Hades is playing by his own rules…and Death will win at any cost." - Back Cover

My Thoughts

I was intrigued by the title and cover of this book on the shelf at the library. It is a little outside of my usual genre preferences, set in modern day in the US. But the addition of the Greek Gods and mythology had me interested. I’d say this is novel is a combination of Greek Mythology and The Hunger Games, but a little more grown up. (New Adult vs Young Adult is not super different, I even had to look it up.) 

 I looked forward to reading it every night. It is suspenseful, unexpected, and heartfelt. The cliffhanger ending is a killer, so I patiently await the publishing of the sequel.

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The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis

 

Title: The Magnolia Palace

Author: Fiona Davis

Genre: Historical Fiction

Other Books I've Read by This Author: The Address, The Lions of Fifth Avenue

Synopsis: Eight months since losing her mother in the Spanish flu outbreak of 1919, twenty-one-year-old Lillian Carter's life has completely fallen apart. For the past six years, under the moniker Angelica, Lillian was one of the most sought-after artists' models in New York City, with statues based on her figure gracing landmarks from the Plaza Hotel to the Brooklyn Bridge. But with her mother gone, a grieving Lillian is rudderless and desperate—the work has dried up and a looming scandal has left her entirely without a safe haven. So when she stumbles upon an employment opportunity at the Frick mansion—a building that, ironically, bears her own visage—Lillian jumps at the chance. But the longer she works as a private secretary to the imperious and demanding Helen Frick, the daughter and heiress of industrialist and art patron Henry Clay Frick, the more deeply her life gets intertwined with that of the family—pulling her into a tangled web of romantic trysts, stolen jewels, and family drama that runs so deep, the stakes just may be life or death.

Nearly fifty years later, mod English model Veronica Weber has her own chance to make her career—and with it, earn the money she needs to support her family back home—within the walls of the former Frick residence, now converted into one of New York City's most impressive museums. But when she—along with a charming intern/budding art curator named Joshua—is dismissed from the Vogue shoot taking place at the Frick Collection, she chances upon a series of hidden messages in the museum: messages that will lead her and Joshua on a hunt that could not only solve Veronica's financial woes, but could finally reveal the truth behind a decades-old murder in the infamous Frick family. - Back Cover

My Thoughts

I loved reading this novel. Cross-generational storytelling is so fun and it was interesting to compare the lives of both Lillian and Veronica as models trying to support their families. Davis always brings an air of mystery to her novels which is engaging and reveals aspects of the characters along the way. The ending is a bit unexpected and I really enjoyed it! Mystery and history, what more could I ask for? A trip to The Frick in NYC may be in my future after reading this novel.

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When He Was Wicked by Julia Quinn

Title: When He Was Wicked

Author: Julia Quinn

Genre: Historical Romance

Other books I've read by this author: The Duke and I, The Viscount Who Loved Me, An Offer From a Gentleman, Romancing Mister Bridgerton, To Sir Philip, With Love

Synopsis: In every life there is a turning point. A moment so tremendous, so sharp and breathtaking, that one knows one’s life will never be the same. For Michael Stirling, London’s most infamous rake, that moment came the first time he laid eyes on Francesca Bridgerton.

After a lifetime of chasing women, of smiling slyly as they chased him, of allowing himself to be caught but never permitting his heart to become engaged, he took one look at Francesca Bridgerton and fell so fast and hard into love it was a wonder he managed to remain standing. Unfortunately for Michael, however, Francesca’s surname was to remain Bridgerton for only a mere thirty-six hours longer—the occasion of their meeting was, lamentably, a supper celebrating her imminent wedding to his cousin.

But that was then . . . Now Michael is the earl and Francesca is free, but still she thinks of him as nothing other than her dear friend and confidant. Michael dares not speak to her of his love . . . until one dangerous night, when she steps innocently into his arms, and passion proves stronger than even the most wicked of secrets . . . - Back Cover

My Thoughts

As always, Quinn's Bridgerton novels are so fun to read. I loved that this novel gave so much of Michael's perspective and it was more about his happily ever after than Francesca's (though she gets there, of course!). While it still had the general formula of a Bridgerton novel and historical romance, When He Was Wicked is about finding love after loss, so it feels different from others in the series. 

I can't wait to see the TV adaptation of this novel as part of the Netflix series!

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The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker

Title: The Silence of the Girls

Author: Pat Barker

Genre: Historical Fiction

Other books I've read by this author: The Women of Troy

Synopsis: Here is the story of the Iliad as we’ve never heard it before: in the words of Briseis, Trojan queen and captive of Achilles. Given only a few words in Homer’s epic and largely erased by history, she is nonetheless a pivotal figure in the Trojan War. In these pages she comes fully to life: wry, watchful, forging connections among her fellow female prisoners even as she is caught between Greece’s two most powerful warriors. Her story pulls back the veil on the thousands of women who lived behind the scenes of the Greek army camp—concubines, nurses, prostitutes, the women who lay out the dead—as gods and mortals spar, and as a legendary war hurtles toward its inevitable conclusion. - Back Cover

My Thoughts

After reading the sequel to this novel first, while it stood alone just fine, it was so nice to have more context and backstory for the characters. This novel felt even heavier than the first and I'm taking a break from this trilogy for some lighter books. I look forward to reading the final book in the series when I'm ready for something a little intense again.

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The Women of Troy by Pat Barker

 Title: The Women of Troy

Author: Pat Barker

Genre: Historical Fiction

Synopsis: "Troy has fallen and the victorious Greeks are eager to return home with the spoils of an endless war—including the women of Troy themselves. They await a fair wind for the Aegean.

It does not come, because the gods are offended. The body of King Priam lies unburied and desecrated, and so the victors remain in suspension, camped in the shadows of the city they destroyed as the coalition that held them together begins to unravel. Old feuds resurface and new suspicions and rivalries begin to fester.

Largely unnoticed by her captors, the one time Trojan queen Briseis, formerly Achilles's slave, now belonging to his companion Alcimus, quietly takes in these developments. She forges alliances when she can, with Priam's aged wife the defiant Hecuba and with the disgraced soothsayer Calchas, all the while shrewdly seeking her path to revenge." - Back Cover

My Thoughts

It turns out that this is the second book in a trilogy, and I didn't realize until I had finished it! So if you want to know if it can stand alone, it certainly does. This is exactly the kind of book I was looking to read right now and it really hit the spot. It opens inside the Trojan Horse and then follows the events of the end of the Trojan War, told from several points of view but highlighting the lives of the Trojan women. I love the idea of a modern take on the Illiad!

There are a few instances where some of the language feels slightly too modern, like the use of the word "supernatural" when the wind rocks a cradle, but overall it feels really well done. I already have the first book in the series on hold at the library and I'm going to pick it up today! I'm looking forward to meeting the characters as the author intended in book one!

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Hang the Moon by Jeannettte Walls

Title: Hang the Moon

Author: Jeannette Walls

Genre: Historical Fiction

Synopsis: "Sallie Kincaid is the daughter of the biggest man in a small town, the charismatic Duke Kincaid. Born at the turn of the 20th century into a life of comfort and privilege, Sallie remembers little about her mother who died in a violent argument with the Duke. By the time she is just eight years old, the Duke has remarried and had a son, Eddie. While Sallie is her father’s daughter, sharp-witted and resourceful, Eddie is his mother’s son, timid and cerebral. When Sallie tries to teach young Eddie to be more like their father, her daredevil coaching leads to an accident, and Sallie is cast out.

Nine years later, she returns, determined to reclaim her place in the family. That’s a lot more complicated than Sallie expected, and she enters a world of conflict and lawlessness. Sallie confronts the secrets and scandals that hide in the shadows of the Big House, navigates the factions in the family and town, and finally comes into her own as a bold, sometimes reckless bootlegger." - Back Cover

My Thoughts

This is another book that I received as a Christmas gift from a friend. I really enjoyed reading about this time period in a small town. The story explores complicated familial issues and the complexities of a blended family. It also highlights the lawlessness of small town America during prohibition, showing that money is the real power. 

I appreciate that Sallie does what she can to help the people of her town survive and keep her sprawling family together when everything seems to be pulling them apart. This is an interesting read, but not one to pull off the shelf if you're looking for something uplifting.

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The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower

 

Title: The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion

Author: Beth Brower

Genre: Historical Fiction

Synopsis: "The Year is 1883 and Emma M. Lion has returned to her London neighborhood of St. Crispian’s. But Emma’s plans for a charmed and studious life are sabotaged by her eccentric Cousin Archibald, her formidable Aunt Eugenia, and the slightly odd denizens of St. Crispian’s.

Emma M. Lion offers up her Unselected Journals, however self-incriminating they may be. Armed with wit and a sideways amusement, Emma documents the curious realities of her life at Lapis Lazuli House." -Back Cover

My Thoughts

This cute little novella was given to me as a gift for Christmas. Emma's journal contains honest and charming descriptions of her life and the people in it. Many plotlines are started in this book, which leaves the reader curious and wanting more! Unfortunately, almost none of them are resolved at the end of volume one, creating a necessity to continue further into the series to find out what happens next. Having a book reach its climax at the very end without resolution is not my favorite style, but I'd like to read the next volume to see if that is the style of the entire series.

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The Roaring Days of Zora Lily by Noelle Salazar

 Title: The Roaring Days of Zora Lily

Author: Noelle Salazar

Genre: Historical Fiction

Synopsis: "2023, The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History: A costume conservator is preparing an exhibition featuring movie costumes from the 1920s to present day. As she gingerly places a gown once worn by Greta Garbo on a mannequin, she discovers another name hidden beneath the designer's label, leaving her to wonder—who is Zora Lily?

1924, Seattle: Poverty-stricken Zora Hough spends her days looking after her younger siblings while sewing up holes and fixing hems for clients to bring in extra money, working her fingers to the bone just to survive. But at night, as she lies in the bed she shares with one of her three sisters, she secretly dreams of becoming a designer like Coco Chanel and Jeanne Lanvin.

When her best friend gets a job dancing in a club downtown, Zora is lured in by her stories of music, glittering dresses and boys. She follows her friend to the underground speakeasies that are at once exciting and frightening—with smoke hanging in the air, alcohol flowing despite Prohibition, couples dancing in a way that makes Zora blush and a handsome businessman named Harley. It’s a world she has only ever imagined, and one with connections that could lead her to the life she's always dreamed of. But as Zora's ambition is challenged by tragedy and duty to her family, she'll learn that dreams come with a cost."

 -Back Cover

My Thoughts

Reading this novel, which I received as a Christmas gift, was so fun! It encompassed Zora's life without ever feeling slow or boring. Zora's friendships and familial relationships are relatable and realistic. She follows the societal expectations of the period while still pushing the boundaries of what women of the time could accomplish. While the events of the story may be exciting and dramatic, they're tempered enough to give a natural and believable feel. 

I struggled at first with how the brief introduction in 2023 would fit in with the rest of the story. It doesn't come back into play until the very end, but it provided a beautiful full-circle ending that I thoroughly enjoyed.

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The Cuban Heiress by Chanel Cleeton

 

Title: The Cuban Heiress 

Author: Chanel Cleeton

Genre: Historical Fiction

Other books I've read by this author: Next Year in Havana, When We Left Cuba

Synopsis: New York heiress Catherine Dohan seemingly has it all. There’s only one problem. It’s a lie. As soon as the Morro Castle leaves port, Catherine’s past returns with a vengeance and threatens her life. Joining forces with a charismatic jewel thief, Catherine must discover who wants her dead—and why.
Elena Palacio is a dead woman. Or so everyone thinks. After a devastating betrayal left her penniless and on the run, Elena’s journey on the Morro Castle is her last hope. Steeped in secrecy and a burning desire for revenge, her return to Havana is a chance to right the wrong that has been done to her—and her prey is on the ship.

As danger swirls aboard the Morro Castle and their fates intertwine, Elena and Catherine must risk everything to see justice served once and for all.

My Thoughts

I really enjoyed reading this novel, so much so that it only took me one week to finish it! I bought it on my birthday with a gift card from a friend, and I'm so glad I did!

 I loved the intrigue and mystery surrounding so many of the characters. I loved the description of the ship, the passengers, and Havana. I loved the unexpected twist near the end, and of course, the history surrounding the ship itself. 

Chanel Cleeton's books are so well done and truly enjoyable to read, I cannot wait to read more from this author!

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Loyal in Love by Jean Plaidy

Title: Loyal in Love: Henrietta Maria, Queen of Charles I 

Author: Jean Plaidy

Genre: Historical Fiction

Synopsis: The daughter of Henry IV of France, Princess Henrietta Maria, becomes a pawn in a political strategy to stabilize relations between two countries when her father marries her to Charles I of England. Sent abroad, she finds herself living in a Protestant country that views her own faith—Catholicism—with deep suspicion.
Yet her new husband is a man of principle and integrity, and Henrietta and Charles fall deeply in love. Henrietta is passionate about her faith, however, and soon politically powerful people, namely Oliver Cromwell and his Puritans, turn her loyalty to her religion into a focal point for civil war. As the royal couple watch the fall of Thomas Wentworth, first Earl of Strafford, the rise of Puritanism, and Englishmen fight Englishmen, they are undeterred in their dedication to each other and in their belief in the divine rights of king and queen—even as spies lurk in their very own household. - Back Cover

My Thoughts

Henrietta is such an interesting character as written by Plaidy. She is meddlesome and entitled and yet somehow endearing. It is written in the first person past tense, as though Henrietta is telling her life story. This gives an interesting perspective and allows for some irony of self-reflection. Events move quickly and there was less punctuation than I'm used to, which makes the writing feel more stream of consciousness; like an elderly woman might speak when telling a story. I enjoyed reading it and look forward to reading others in the series. 

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