Books By The Willow Tree

"Sister Queens: The Noble, Tragic Lives of Katherine of Aragon and Juana, Queen of Castile" by Julia Fox

2012-01-08T12:21:00.000-08:00

* * * * *

Hardcover: 480 pages
Publisher: Ballantine Books (January 31, 2012)
ISBN-13: 978-0345516046
US Release Date January 31, 2012

Another winner from Julia Fox!

I have been a fan of Julia Fox's writing since the publication of "Jane Boleyn". I was thrilled when I saw that her new book, "Sister Queens" was being published and jumped at the opportunity to read it.

Once again, Ms. Fox does not disappoint. This is a history book that reads as fluidly as fiction and her writing style can make you feel as if you are a participant in the history. A lot of the book is about Katherine of Aragon - in part I think because there is more extant historical documentation about Katherine's life than there is about Juana. I fell in love with the impetuous Juana when I read C.W. Gortner's historical novel "The Last Queen" - so I was even more happy to read some of the history behind the fiction in Julia Fox's book.Ms. Fox has carefully researched her subjects, cites historical documents, and covers the journey of these two women thoroughly - seamlessly weaving the threads of their lives taking you on a time traveler's glimpse into the time period and the other historical figures who formed the frame work of these women's lives. I've learned a lot from this book - and was entirely enjoyable. The author has a way of recounting history that makes some of the more cloudy history and relationships make sense and fall into place - no small feat with some of the more convoluted names and titles of British Aristocracy!

This book is enthralling and, for me at least, it was a book that I could not put down. I highly recommend this book for any history buffs like me, Tudor fans, or biography-philes. it's an excellent read!

This from Julia Fox's web site:

Katherine of Aragon, Henry VIIIs first bride, has become an icon: the betrayed wife, the revered Queen, the devoted mother, a woman callously cast aside by a selfish husband besotted by his strumpet of a mistress. Her sister, Juana of Castile, wife of Philip of Burgundy and mother of the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, the most powerful man in Renaissance Europe, is still more of a legend. She is Juana the Mad, the wife so passionately in love with her husband that she could not bear to be parted from him even by death, keeping his coffin by her side for year upon year. 

They were Sister Queens  the accomplished daughters of Ferdinand and Isabella, the founders of a unified Spain. While their royal birth conferred entry into a world of privilege and plenty, it came at a devastating personal price. Since monarchs played their parts on an international stage, it was inevitable that the formidable Ferdinand and Isabella would send their children abroad as dynastic pawns. Katherine and Juana needed all their courage, resolve and inner strength as they confronted the harsh realities of life in a male-dominated world. 

A gripping tale of love, sacrifice, the demands of duty and the conflict between ambition and loyalty  at a time when even royal women had to fight for their positions in society  Julia Foxs vibrant new biography teems with life. By placing Katherine and Juana squarely back into their family and Spanish contexts, she takes two remarkable women out of the shadows of the powerful men around them, showing us who they really were, how they coped with their setbacks and successes, how they gained the values by which they lived and died. Linked not only by blood but by cruel experience, their dual stories enrich our understanding of them both, casting a searchlight onto the turbulent age in which they lived. 

and this from the Amazon web page :

The history books have cast Katherine of Aragon, the first queen of King Henry VIII of England, as the ultimate symbol of the Betrayed Woman, cruelly tossed aside in favor of her husband’s seductive mistress, Anne Boleyn. Katherine’s sister, Juana of Castile, wife of Philip of Burgundy and mother of the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, is portrayed as “Juana the Mad,” whose erratic behavior included keeping her beloved late husband’s coffin beside her for years. But historian Julia Fox, whose previous work painted an unprecedented portrait of Jane Boleyn, Anne’s sister, offers deeper insight in this first dual biography of Katherine and Juana, the daughters of Spain’s Ferdinand and Isabella, whose family ties remained strong despite their separation. Looking through the lens of their Spanish origins, Fox reveals these queens as flesh-and-blood women—equipped with character, intelligence, and conviction—who are worthy historical figures in their own right.

When they were young, Juana’s and Katherine’s futures appeared promising. They had secured politically advantageous marriages, but their dreams of love and power quickly dissolved, and the unions for which they’d spent their whole lives preparing were fraught with duplicity and betrayal. Juana, the elder sister, unexpectedly became Spain’s sovereign, but her authority was continually usurped, first by her husband and later by her son. Katherine, a young widow after the death of Prince Arthur of Wales, soon remarried his doting brother Henry and later became a key figure in a drama that altered England’s religious landscape.

Ousted from the positions of power and influence they had been groomed for and separated from their children, Katherine and Juana each turned to their rich and abiding faith and deep personal belief in their family’s dynastic legacy to cope with their enduring hardships. Sister Queens is a gripping tale of love, duty, and sacrifice—a remarkable reflection on the conflict between ambition and loyalty during an age when the greatest sin, it seems, was to have been born a woman.

Wishing You Joy!

2011-12-24T12:38:00.000-08:00

'Winter Willow' by MZ Johansen 2011

I would like to thank you all for stopping by my book blog. I admit that I have not been as diligent as I would like to be with my reviews recently.That being said, one of my New Year's plans is to post reviews more regularly. I have a large list of 'already read' books to share!

I wish you all the love,laughter and magic of the season and wishes for joy and prosperity to come in the New Year!

"..Clouds appear and bring to men 

a chance to rest 

from looking at the moon.."

Basho 

Machine Embroidered Flowers, Woodlands & Landscapes: The Art Of Alison Holt

2011-12-06T13:31:00.001-08:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 144 pages
Publisher: Search Press (October 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1844483457
Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.4 x 0.4 inches

For anyone who loves the work of Annamieke Mein or Jane Hall you're in for a treat with this latest book from Alison Holt. Lush and beautiful are words that just don't quite describe this book that is part eye-candy and part super well done instruction.

This is a book that is really about the art of 'seeing' and translating what you see into poetry made with thread. The instructional part of the book is very well written, with excellent photographs that illustrate the process very well. Search Press has always, in my opinion, spotted good books and publishes them to their full, beautiful, potential

I am, indeed, quite excited about this book and I know that it will be a "keeper" for. me. I think that it will have wide appeal since many of the techniques can be translated into hand embroidery if desired. Artists, quilters, embroiderers, textile and fiber artists alike will find something to tickle their imagination in the pages of this beautiful book. I can do nothing but highly recommend this gorgeous publication!

I could go on describing this book - but I do believe that a picture is worth a thousand words and, hopefully, these photos, will tempt you to add this to your own 'keeper" library!

"At The Mercy Of The Queen" by Anne Clinard Barnhill

2011-11-11T12:10:00.001-08:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 448 pages
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin (January 3, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-0312662134

I was intrigued by the prospect of reading this book because it presents the oft told story of the rise and fall of Anne Boleyn from another perspective - that of her cousin and maid-of-honor, and confidant, Madge (Margaret) Shelton I wondered if there was really another angle that would be compelling enough to make for a good read.

By my 5 star rating you can tell that I found that the book really did offer a fresh, new view. Madge Shelton was in a very unique position in the Court of Henry VIII.

Arriving from from the country as a young girl, Madge was innocent of the vagaries and morals of Court life. Her nickname at Court quickly becomes "Pretty Madge" and the reader follows her story as she rebuffs the admiring courtiers and soon becomes Anne Boleyn's closest confident and champion.

Madge becomes swept along in the story of Anne's determination to be wife of King Henry and, later of Anne's desperate attempts to fulfill her royal duty of filling the royal nursery with make heirs - as her predecessor, Katherine of Aragon had failed to do - a failure that led the Country though religious wars and the dismantling of the monasteries.

As Anne desperation for a son becomes the only focus of her life she hatches a plan to lure the King into an affair with Madge's; proffering her beauty and charms as bait in order to keep the the King from courting the King's current paramour, the milk faced Jane Seymour. Not long before Anne devises this plan to have Madge lure the King into an affair Madge herself has succumbed to lure of love - falling in love with a handsome, well placed Courtier named Charles Brandon who Madge initially called 'Sir Churlish'.

As the the story turns towards the final downfall of Anne Boleyn Charles exhorts Madge to leave with him so that they can be married and stay away form the increasing dangers of the Court. Madge's love and commitment to Anne force her to remain with Anne until the hour. Did Madge wait too long? Did she lose the love of her life by remaining true to Queen Anne?

This book is well written and well paced. The plethora of factual historical references keeps the flavor of the time - allowing the reader 'feel' as though they can 'smell' and 'be' in the book as a participant. The fact that Ms Barnhill can take a secondary historical note and create such a riveting story from it is surely testimony to her skill as a writer. This is her first book - and I am looking forward to more !

From Felt To Fabric: New techniques In Nuno Felting By Catherine O'Leary

2011-11-07T20:39:00.000-08:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Lark Crafts; 1 edition (October 4, 2011)
ISBN-13: 978-1600596674
Dimensions: 9.8 x 8.4 x 0.4 inches

When I was given the opportunity to review this book Lark I was excited. his book is right up my alley! Nuno felting has had a wide following for many years and this book takes the nuno felting process into a new direction. Catherine O'Leary has produced a beautiful volume - and introduces us to using a variety of fabrics (silks included of course!) on top of felt to create a wide range of fantastic textures, modular units and endless possibilities. I think this book will have wide appeal for all textile artists, felters, clothes mavens, and, most certainly, nuno felters! I love finding a familiar technique used in a fresh, stylish and utterly delightful way! This is really an excellent book and it should have a place in your permanent textile arts library!

Some wonderful new ways to create fabric from modular 'new' nuno felted units.

Creating a new piece of fabric & cutting out modular units.

Endless possibilites

From haute couture to utilitarian the possibilities presented in this book are myriad.

The usual method of preparing nuno felts - with a twist!

This page shows the some of the best ways to use the new nuno felting for garment construction to emphasize the draping qualities.

"His Last Duchess" by Gabrielle Kimm

2011-10-08T21:02:00.000-07:00


*** * * * ***

Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark (October 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1402261510

I have read other books about the Medicis. Many of them irk me just a bit with their concentration on sex and depravity. Yes, we all have noted that the Medici family was prone to some perversity but that is rally only a small part of the story of this truly amazing Renaissance family. The history of Florence and the Medici family is, perhaps, not complete without some portrayal of their odd familial sexual perversion but it need not be the focus of a book to be interesting. At least on my opinion - and although I don't consider myself a libertine by any stretch of the imagination- neither am I prude.

This book was a happy exception to the rule about fiction based on the Medici family. My favorite thing about the book is that it poignantly depicts the beauty that was Florence during the Renaissance. As a reader I can almost smell the air, breath in the scents of cooking and flowers, walk through sun warmed porticos and wander through darkened, shuttered room where anything might - and sometimes does -happen. This is a well researched book that shines with the basis of fact that makes reading good historical fiction so enjoyable and satisfying.

The story takes the reader through 16 year old Lucrezia de Medici's ill fated marriage to the wealthy & handsome Duke of Ferrara, Alphonso D'Este. Yes, there is some sex - but it a part of the story - not the story itself. That makes all of the difference for me as a reader.

The book is well researched, well written with subtlety blended plot lines that will have you routing for Lucrezia as the book nears the end. It's a compelling read that I certainly think can't fail to please. I thoroughly recommend this as a very readable, enjoyable, and illustrative book about this famous family.

"Dimensional Beaded Embroidery : A Reference Guide To Techniques" by Jamie Cloud Eakin

2011-10-08T20:31:00.000-07:00


*** * * * ***

Hardcover: 160 pages
Publisher: Lark Crafts; 1 edition (October 4, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1600597961
Product Dimensions: 10.1 x 8.8 x 0.7 inches

This new book from Lark is a real treat for bead-o-philes everywhere. The directions are clear and complete, concise, well illustrated and well written and easy to follow.

The chapters include:

Materials and Tools
Basic Techniques
Getting Started and Designing
Using Components
Surface Stitches
Bezel Stitches
Edge Treatment Stitches
Attachment Stitches
The Projects !

There is a wealth of information in this well designed book and, if you're not already into bead embroidery - you surely will be by the time you've paged through this book. I have to admit that jewelry making has never been one of my greater obsessions, but thanks to being able to see some of the amazing jewelry making titles in the Lark line up I have to confess that I have dabbled a bit! Good Lord - one more thing to add to my peripatetic resume! I am, however, trying to stick to small things like earrings. If you have a hankering for beaded embroidery or are, like me, a technique junkie, this is a good book to have in your library! You'll be able to create these amazing beaded embroidery projects easily by following the super well done instructions! Go on - you know you need another obsession don't you ?!

"The Women Of The Cousin's War: The Duchess, The Queen and The King's Mother" by Phillipa Gregory, David Baldwin, Michael Jones and Bianca Amato and

2011-10-02T22:01:00.000-07:00

* * * *

Hardcover: 352 pages
Publisher: Touchstone (September 13, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1451629545

I have some confessions to make. I owe some apologies as well. After I did my series of reviews for Helen Hollick life, work and health all went through a bit of a burble. It's been long enough that I have considered deleting this blog. I felt I had let myself and my few readers down by taking such a long hiatus. I know - blogging without obligation and all of that....but I was feeling pretty low. I have kept on reading though and now I realize that I don't want delete this blog because I still have so many wonderful books to share with all of you. You may not be interested in all them but everything I write about is a book I have found interesting for one reason or another. Lately I have been in a non-fiction phase on the literary front and a natural dyeing phase on the artistic front - so those are where I will begin to crawl back into the comfort of my willow tree.

I realize that I have a book from the Helen Hollick tour to settle on a lucky winner - and I will. I'll notify the winner and write to Helen to give her person's name. I hope you will accept my apology for being so long in getting back to you.

Okay - now about this excellent read.

Alongside this book I was also reading "Elizabeth: England's Slandered Queen" by Arlene Orkelund - so the combination could not have been any better! I think that it would be helpful if you have read Phillipa Gregory's earlier books, "The Red Queen" and "The White Queen" since they are mentioned quite often. You'll understand who's who alright without knowing about the books but the references sort of make you want to refer to those books (and maybe that's one of the ideas). I would have been as happy without the reference - but no matter. I think the the "Red Queen" and "The White Queen" were panned a bit when they first came out but I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed both of them.

I was truly excited when I saw that this book was available for order. The women of the cousin's war were, in my opinion, some of the most fascinating, intelligent, strong willed and motivated women of their time. I have always been a special fan of Elizabeth Woodville and her brother, Anthony, Lord Rivers. I think they were part of a very interesting family - well ahead of their time in terms of education and inquisitiveness. Elizabeth withstood such an incredible amount of stress and weathered it all with some aplomb I think. The stresses of their age are so very different from the stresses most of us deal with - but I've always believed - stress is stress and managing stress is what makes a winner (no - I don't manage stress too well!). I really admire Elizabeth and think that she was a most fitting Queen Consort for Edward IV. A strong role model for women of her time.

My hope for this book was that it would elucidate the war in context with the women who played such important roles in the war. I was not disappointed from that perspective! Jacquetta, Duchess of Bedford, her daughter Elizabeth Woodville, the Queen (one of my favorite monarchs) and Margaret Beaufort, wife to Henry VII and mother to Henry VIII. What an amazing trio of strong, well educated, survivors and game changers they were! I learned quite a bit about them and their familial relationships - which is what I wanted to understand more clearly. I found that this book really helped me sort out the myriad 'players' in this most important historical frame.

I might have given this 5 stars had it all been more 'fleshed out' but that was probably not the idea for this book - it's more of an introduction and, for me at least, a clarification and time line. As an introduction to these amazing women and their important roles in the long conflict that ruled their lives I found the book to be well worth the reading - and keeping. This book will remain as a permanent part of my "British History Library"! It really helped me to get a sense of these women and where they fit in the political framework of this conflict; the men in their lives and the conflicts and the family politics that shaped their lives and the lives of their families - and of British history itself.

"Bring It Close" by Helen Hollick

2011-07-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 386 pages
Publisher: Silverwood Books (June 22, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1906236625

In the third volume in the 'Sea Witch' series we learn that pirate Captain Jesamiah Acorn has accepted amnesty from the Governor but finds that the amnesty has not allowed old rifts to mend. He still has enemies - among them the infamous, sadistic pirate Edward Teach - better known as Blackbeard - who has an issue to settle with Jesamiah. After a misdirected and impulsive tryst with a female acquaintance Jesamiah returns home only to discover that, Tiola, now his fiancée, has traveled to North Carolina to assist with an imminent, likely difficult, birth. Jesamiah wants to go to Tiola but has one large problem - Edward Teach lives in North Carolina and going to find Tiola might mean a serious wrangle with the vindictive pirate.

Teach must not discover that Tiola is pledged to Jesamiah and she must cloak her identity and her 'gift'. In a deal made long ago -Teach's soul belongs to the devil and Tiola must hide her powers in order to survive her chance meetings with Teach and to protect Jesamiah who has been wounded by Teach and has taken refuge at his family's home in Virgina. The plot twists and turns as it winds it's way through this story of love, a family's dark history, treachery and, ultimately some peace - before the seas of life turn wild once again.

To quote from Ms. Hollick's website - for who can say it better than she?

"....How is Jesamiah Acorne to clear his name, overturn a sentence of hanging, keep Tiola safe, put an end to Blackbeard and deal with being haunted by the ghost of his father? Bring It Close moves from the Bahamas to North Carolina and Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia at a swashbuckling pace. There is intrigue, misunderstandings, romance and adventure all wrapped up in a delightful blend of mystical fantasy....."

Oh did I not mention the fantasy?! It's one one of the things I like best about this series - and this volume in particular. The classic battle between good and evil is played out through the powers of Tiola - the 'white witch" and healer and the dark, dominating, malevolence of Blackbeard's diabolical mind. The whole series is filled with a hint of magic...and that's one of the elements that I love the best about this series: the fanciful aspect that, understated as it is, is a palpable element that runs throughout the series.

I can't speak highly enough of Helen Hollick's work. She is a master story teller - whose plots are well paced, filled with action, adventure, romance and yes, a bit of magic too. You will find yourself wanting to read more of her work and you will, most assuredly, be sad when this book ends. A sequel is in the works though - so we may not be sad for too long!

Now - leave a comment and I'll have a drawing - the prize is a signed copy of "Sea Witch" from the author to you - just to whet your reading whistle!

"Pirate Code" by Helen Hollick

2011-07-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 302 pages
Publisher: Silverwood Books (June 15, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1906236632

"Pirate Code" is the second volume in Helen Hollick's "Sea Witch" series. The rollicking, riveting action continues as Jesamiah Acorn, Captain of the 'Sea Witch', continues his pursuit of the woman he loves, Tiola Oldstaugh. Tiola, now married to the wealthy, obdurate Dutchman Stefan Van Overstreet, knows that Jesamiah is her true love but gaining her freedom is rife with peril. Jesamiah has renounced the pirate's life and has been trying to find his way in a world without it. He wants Tiloa divorced from the overbearing Van Overstreet, but Stefan has imposed a condition of his release of Tiola. The terms of Tiola's freedom are that Jesamiah goes to Spanish held Hispaniola and smuggle out barrels of indigo that are hidden on the island. The Governor wants Jesamiah to go to Hispaniola as well - but his reasons are completely different - he wants to incite rebellion and dictates that Jesamiah search for a spy who's headquartered in Hispaniola.

The 'top dog' in Hispaniola is a dictator- a man who wants nothing more than to hang, draw and quarter Captain Jesamiah Acorn. War with Spain looms on the horizon and the search for the barrels of precious Indigo is perilous - and fraught with not only treachery and potential death but also with the amourous cravings of a lovely widow - Francesca Escudero.

Historically accurate details surround the adventures of the book. This volume is so much more than a mere love story - treachery, skullduggery, action, adventure, warfare and plunder abound. You'll be on the edge of seat all the way through this rollicking great adventure.

" Sea Witch" by Helen Hollick Blog Tour Special

2011-07-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 316 pages
Publisher: Silverwood Books (June 20, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1906236601

For the next three days I am honored to be reviewing the Sea Witch series by Helen Hollick. Today I review the first book in this wonderful series "Sea Witch" along with a fascinating author interview. On Wednesday I will be reviewing the second book, "Pirate Code" and on Thursday I will present "Bring It Close". Follow along, leave a comment and on Thursday I will be picking one name from the proverbial hat to win a copy of "Sea Witch" sent to you by the author herself!

I have to admit that I was never much of a pirate fan. Johnny Depp changed my feelings with his colorful portrayal of the swashbuckling, slightly swashed pirate ,Captain Jack Sparrow in the Pirates Of The Caribbean series. The movie series sufficed to fill my pirate cravings - until a chance meeting with Helen Hollick's dauntless character Captain Jesamiah Acorn.

First - I must correct an error in my initial 'teaser' post - this is more than a trilogy really because a fourth title in the series will soon be published - so it is, in actuality, a quad series.... and who knows, maybe the adventures will continue! That would be a good thing because once you start to read the series you won't want the story to end! Trust me on this !

The action of this series is rooted in the 'golden age' of piracy - around 1716 - and the action extends from the infamous 'horn of Africa' to the beaches of the well known pirate haunts in the Caribbean. If you can, for a moment, consider what Johnny Depp would be like if he was 100 per cent more charismatic you would have an idea of how good the main protagonist of the series, Captain Jesamiah Acorn, is. His command of the sailing vessel "Sea Witch" give series it's name. The main female character, Tiola Oldstaugh is a white witch and healer who saves Jesamiah from a murderous attack perpetrated by a band of pirate hunters. Ms. Hollick used an anagram of "all that is good" to fashion Tiola's name. Brilliant ! I think that Tethys - the soul of the seas who is portrayed as a living entity - (which I'm sure some seafarers would swear is true!) is one of my favorite elements of the series. Tethys has sworn that the handsome, invincible Captain Acorn will be hers. Tiola's task is to use the forces of her will and her love to prevent the sea from laying claim to her proud pirate, Jesamiah.

In this volume we are also introduced to the characters of Philippe Moreno, Jesamiah's bullying, vindictive, grasping brother and Stefan Van Overstreet, the wealthy and domineering Cape Town Dutchman who also wants Tiola as his wife - for all the wrong reasons. These main characters set the stage for what becomes a love story, a history of the pirate culture and a thoroughly engrossing story that you simply will not want to put down. I would advise that you have the entire series in your hands because as soon as one book ends you will feel the need to begin reading the next.

In reading the series I had so many questions about how Helen Hollick became enamored of the pirate culture and how that fascination led her to pen this most enjoyable, well researched series. What follows is my interview with the author.

MZJ: What about the history inspired you to pen this series?

HH:

The first Pirates of the Caribbean movie – The Curse of the Black Pearl, was such a fun movie to watch, and parts of it had an authentic “feel” (sadly, unlike the following two movies in the series) The nautical terms, for instance, were correct – and while this was a fantasy movie made for entertainment not history, I enjoyed the “intent” of its nature. I wanted to learn more though. How much of it was ‘real’ – how much made up? I bought a couple of non fiction books to read while on vacation and settled down to read. And was hooked. The reality of pirates is far better than any fiction novel! What a raggedy lot of rogues they were!

Being a writer, of course, all the information I was taking in just bubbled over into the realm of imagination – and before I knew it, I had the entire plot of Sea Witch, the first Voyage in the series, in my head. And within three month, down on paper (well on the computer!)

MZJ: What is it about pirate culture that inspired you?

HH:

Real pirates were not the pleasant, charming rogues of Treasure Island, Frenchman’s Creek – or Johnny Depp’s Jack Sparrow. They were mean, vicious, rapists, thieves, thugs and murderers. But then, so were most of the men of the army and navy in the eighteenth century! For some reason readers, especially us ladies of (ahem) a mature age, love the excitement of an adventurous rogue and the romantic adventures of daring-do.

The reality of historical events – shipwrecks, treasure galleons, escaping (or not) the gallows. Smuggling, fights, duels – sex – well, who can resist the romantic lure of a fictional scallywag of a pirate?

MZJ: Did you base the characters of Jesamiah and Tiola on anyone who lived at that time?

HH:

Captain Jesamiah Acorne is a made-up character, but he is a composite of the many famous pirates, the nearest, I suppose, being Jack Sparrow and Calico Jack – Jack Rackham. I liken him more, though, as a blend of Hornblower, Richard Sharpe, James Bond and Indiana Jones. A larger than life heroic figure, capable, brave, handsome – quick to laugh, formidable when angry. A man with two sides, the romantic lover, but the unrepentant killer.

Tiola is even more made up. Her name, Tiola Oldstagh (say it as Teo-la Oldstaff) is an anagram of ‘all that is good’. She is a white witch, a healer and a midwife. A Wise Woman of the Light, her soul the reincarnation of her ancestors, her gift of Craft passed from grandmother to granddaughter down through the generations from the Dawn of Time. Her task – to protect human life from the Force of Evil - from the Dark Malevolents.

Although I call her a White Witch, she cannot do “spells” – her gift is more the ability to harness the energy that surrounds and binds us – more akin to the Force in Star Wars than the magic of Harry Potter.

I suppose part of the reason why I wanted to create her character was to move away from the belief that witches are evil crones, bent on doing harm. Tiola can not commit harm to anyone, unless it is the only way to save herself. A fact that Jesamiah cannot always understand!

MZJ: Did a specific ship inspire you to develop the Sea Witch

HH:

While writing the first novel of the series, Sea Witch, I was not expecting to write an entire series – the subsequent adventures just sprang from the moderate success of the first book. Initially, I based the ship herself – the Sea Witch – on the Whydah and Queen Anne’s Revenge, both famous ships that have been extensively archaeologically explored and recorded. By the time I had decided to write the second Voyage – Pirate Code, however, I had gathered more information about Tall Ships and had discovered the love of my life – the Rose, better known as HMS Surprise from the movie Master & Commander. The love for this beautiful vessel was compounded when I met – by chance encounter – with the man who built the replica ship. I just had to use her as a template for Sea Witch, even though, technically, Rose/Surprise was built about 50 years after my stories are set. But these are adventure yarns, and are not meant to be historically accurate novels.

MZJ: Did you travel for research? How did you become so familiar with the terminology and flavor of the golden age of piracy?

HH:

I think sailing and tall ships must be in my genetic make-up, for many of the things I just “know.” My father was in the Marines for a while, he loved the sea (although he served in the Kings Royal Rifles during World War II) I also know that many of my ancestors, on his side, came from Bristol – which back in the 17^th and 18^th centuries was the main sailing port in England.

I research my sailing detail thoroughly, and a good friend, acclaimed maritime author James L. Nelson kindly edits and corrects for me. I suppose most of it I have gleaned as an avid reader – a hefty chunk is pure imagination, and some of it is…. intuition maybe?

I have been, twice, to Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia where I have several scenes set in Bring It Close (the third Voyage) and because I have been to San Francisco, I may well set a future adventure on the Pacific Coast. (San Francisco Bay was not discovered until quite late, because the early sailors had no idea of what lay beyond that persistent, shrouding mist!) Book four – Ripples in the Sand is set in Devon, England, where I go quite often as my freelance editor, Jo, lives there. And of course early Georgian London will have to make an appearance at some point.

As for the rest… I have never been to Cape Town, the Caribbean – and come to that, I have never sailed on a Tall Ship….Not in this life anyway…

MZJ: What do you consider to be the main cause for the elimination of the pirate culture? Do you think that the actions of the famous pirate, Blackbeard, figure into the demise?

HH:

Blackbeard – real name Edward Teach - was a nasty character. As mad as a hatter and probably riddled with syphilis, as most pirates (and sailors) were in those days. The only reason why we know so much about Blackbeard, and Jack Rackham (Calico Jack) with his fellow partners, the two women, Mary Reed and Anne Bonney – plus others such as Henry Morgan, Stede Bonnet, Charles Vane and William Kidd, is because they were caught, tried and hanged – or killed while attempting to be caught.

The details of Blackbeard are in the Colonial Williamsburg records because Governor Spotswood of Virginia ordered the Navy under his command to put an end to Piracy along the Carolina and Virginia coast. Blackbeard was killed in the ensuing fight off the Ocracoke, but his surviving crew were taken for trial in Williamsburg, and were hanged there.

The same for Rackham and the two women, who were caught and tried in Port Royal. Rackham hanged, but “pleading their belly” (pregnant) the women were reprieved. Mary Reed died in jail, we do not know what happened to Anne Bonney (the subject of another Voyage – could Jesamiah have rescued her?) There were many more pirates whose deeds and exploits are ,lost to us because they were never caught (and I bet you those two above were not the only female pirates!)

Piracy, of course, still exists (off the Somalia coast for instance) but in its day, the Golden Age, piracy was a lucrative business for some of the more successful pirates. It was a short-lived phase, from around 1690 to about 1725. The cotton, sugar and tobacco trades were just starting to become profitable. There were no serious wars between England / France / Spain / Holland (though there were smaller ones in various combinations between these countries) Because there was no serious fighting there was a surplus of sailors, all without anything to do. Rumour spread of the treasure ships in the Arabian Ocean and then the Caribbean – the gold being transported by Spain, and the money to be made from tobacco and rum.

There were several thousand pirates in the Caribbean in the early eighteenth century, Port Royal, Tortuga, Nassau were notorious pirate dens. At first there were only a handful of Royal Navy ships to counter the pirates – and even these few had no idea of Caribbean waters, weather, or sailing conditions. They could only careen (clean the ship’s hull of barnacles etc) in official Navy ports – could only provision there as well, while a pirate ship could go anywhere the crew wanted. The pirates ran rings around the Navy – until their actions started having a detrimental effect on trade. The English and Colonial merchants back in Philadelphia and London were losing money and demanded to have something done about it. Governors such as Alexander Spotswood and William Dampier did just that – and with better equipped and more capable Navy Captains. The tobacco ship convoys from Virginia became better organized and then there came the American War of Independence, followed almost immediately by the Napoleonic Wars when the Navies of America and England became the elite service we are familiar with. No match for a pirate.

MZJ: Did a particular plantation figure in your presentation of Jesamiah's family home? Was Philippe based on anyone who actually lived?

HH:

No Phillipe is entirely made up – I had to have a thoroughly bad character to balance Jesamiah – although the story of the relationship between the two “brothers” developed of its own accord. When I set out to write Sea Witch, I had no idea of the events that unravel in the third Voyage, Bring It Close.

I have researched the plantations of Virginia, and along the Rappahannock, but no, la Sorenta is not a real place.

MZJ : How did you first become interested in writing historical fiction? Are you a history buff in general?

HH:

I hated history at school – it was taught in such a dull, boring manner. I only discovered history in my early twenties when I realized that King Arthur may have been a real person who lived in Post Roman Britain – I wanted to find out more abut him, and got hooked. And once bitten by the events of the past, it is not easy to lose the bug. After all, we are all a part of history – our ancestors, the mothers of our mothers, and fathers of our fathers, lived in the past. And how much of their DNA genetic memory has been passed down to us I wonder, for us to rekindle by revisiting the past – whether in fact or fiction?

For more about Helen Hollick and her truly amazing work you can her at:

Website: www.helenhollick.net

Facebook : www.facebook.com/helen.hollick

The Sea Witch page:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Helen-Hollick-Author/101822116574750

The Pirate's Are Coming ! Gearing Up For Helen Hollick

2011-07-16T21:58:00.000-07:00

click here : www.helenhollick.net for more information about the author, the book tour and all of Ms. Hollick's wonderful books

I am thrilled to be a part of Helen Hollick's 2011 blog tour! This will be my very first blog tour and I could not be any more thrilled that I was asked to participate. Helen Hollick is one of those writers who makes you want to know her better. Her attention to historical detail, well woven plots and full, rich characters all add up to books that you just never want to end.

The "Sea Witch" trilogy is the best that a pirate series can be. I may be a bit prejudiced, but I honestly believe that it has more plot depth than the ubiquitous "Pirates of The Caribbean" --- well Johnny Depp is good at whatever he does ! This is a wonderful series that I read with zest and thorough enjoyment.

Helen Hollick is a very well know author who has written other books that are equally enjoyable. I predict that very soon she will be as well known on this side of the big pond as she is in her native UK.

I'll be reviewing each book in the "Sea Witch" trilogy and will be interviewing Helen as well. We'll get to have some insight into her pirate-ological interests. Additionally, one lucky person will have a chance to win a copy of the first book in the series sent to them by Helen Hollick herself!

My reviews and interview will be on July 19,20 and 21. The tour is already underway though - and here is the lineup of reviewers who get to join in the fun.

Hope to see you here in a couple of days for your introduction to Helen Hollick and to this wonderful trilogy !

July 2…………………..Passages to the Past with Amy Bruno

July 4…………………..Scribbles! with Pauline Barclay
July 6…………………..Katzenhaus Books with Carolyn Schriber
July 7…………………..the Red Room with Christopher Gortner
July 8…………………..Deb’s Book Bag with Debbie Lester
(stop here also on the 15th and 22nd)
July 9……………………VVB32 Reads  with Velvet
(stop here also on the 14th, 20th, and 27th)
July 11……………The Long and the Short of It with Marianne and Judy
(stop here also on the 18th and 25th)
July 12……….. …..Richard’s Ramblings with Richard Denning
July 14…………………..VVB32 Reads  with Velvet
July 15……………………Deb’s Book Bag with Debbie Lester
July 16……………………Mrs Q Book Addict with Jennifer Robinson Quirion
(stop here also on the 23rd and 30th)
and…………………………Laura’s Reviews with Laura Gerold
(stop here also tomorrow, the 17th)
July 17…………………..Shelf and Stuff with Daphne
July 17…………………. Laura’s Reviews with Laura Gerold
July 18…………………..Rundpinne with Jennifer Higgins
July 18……………The Long and the Short of It with Marianne and Judy
July 19……………………Books by the Willow Tree with Marie Z. Johansen
(stop here also on the 20th and 21st)
July 20……………………VVB32 Reads  with Velvet
July 20………….Books by the Willow Tree with Marie Z. Johansen
July 21………….Books by the Willow Tree with Marie Z. Johansen
July 22……………………Laugh, Love, Write with Jessica Hastings
(stop here also on the 29th)
July 22…………………….Deb’s Book Bag with Debbie Lester
July 23………….Mrs Q Book Addict with Jennifer Robinson Quirion
July 24……………………..Books for Life with Linda Akerman
(stop here also on the 25th, 26th, and 27th)
July 25………………The Long and the Short of It with Marianne and Judy
July 25……………………..Books for Life with Linda Akerman
July 26……………………..Bibliophilic Book Blog with Monica Schroeder
July 26………………………Books for Life with Linda Akerman
July 27………………………VVB32 Reads  with Velvet
July 27………………………Books for Life with Linda Akerman
July 28 ….Helen Hollick’s Guests - Bronwen Harrison, music for a Sea Witch
July 29……………………….Laugh, Love, Write with Jessica Hastings
July 30……………Mrs Q Book Addict with Jennifer Robinson Quirion
July 31……………………….Historical Fiction with Carla Nayland
Unspecified…………………Bookworm’s Dinner with Wisteria Leigh
Unspecified………………… Floor to Ceiling with Amanda Rutter
Unspecified………………….A Writer’s Life with Christy English

45 Quilt Blocks Animals & 45 Quilt Blocks Flowers by Patrice Boerens

2011-07-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

These two new titles from Trice Boerens provide quilters with some unique, fresh options for adding flowers and animals to their quilt designs.

45 Quilt Blocks Animals introduce us to Deer, Fox, a new Scotty Dog, and Grizzly Bear plus 41 other fun, easy to make patterns. The patterns themselves are offered in two sizes to make using them in a variety of projects easier. Each pattern includes a full color photograph of the completed block along with well written instructions and piecing diagrams.The cutting templates are included in the back of the book and are easy to find as they are all number coded: block one = block one in the template pages.

45 Quilt Blocks Flowers offers some unique flower patters such as Blue Aster, Rose of Sharon, Blue Bonnets and Dutch Iris. Once again the color photos and well written instructions make completing the patterns a snap.

Holly Hocks !

These two entrancing books should hold wide appeal for quilters as well as for stitchers and mixed media artists who want ideas for adding flowers and animals to their work. Modestly priced and a lot of fun!

Ah! Jasmine!

One very cute cat patter for those of us who lives are run by fabulous felines!

The pattern pieces from the back of the book

Elephants and Monkeys join in the fun

Note: These titles were provided to me by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was provided

Quilt National 2011

2011-07-05T13:45:00.000-07:00

I always look forward to the release of Quilt National.This volume marks the collection in the 17^th biennial exhibit that highlights the best of the best on contemporary textile art.

This edition doesn’t disappoint! The art work is truly the best of the best and each page is worthy of time for appreciation. I had to add some photos of the pages – of course! Each one is "clickable" for a better view. The photography is brilliant. No one does photography better than Lark and this book is no exception to that rule. If you love textile art this is one of those "must have" books for your collection. Any stitcher, quilter, art quilter, or mixed media artist will find something to say "wow!" about. This book is a bargain and really is a keeper.

Two beautiful flowers interpreted in cloth and stitch. The dandelion on the right is incredible. I love dandelions and think they are highly underrated!

Apologies for the slight blue cast in these photos. I wait for sunny days and then still have issues ! What can I say?!

A seasonal interpretation that I find to be breath taking

This entry is from mypersonal favorite textile artists - Steen and Hough

note:
This book was provided to me by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was received.

"The Wild Rose" by Jennifer Donnelly

2011-06-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

Hardcover: 640 pages
Publisher: Hyperion (August 2, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1401301040

This is a book worth waiting a little for. I've been a fan of Jennifer Donnelly's book for some time and was pleased to be given an opportunity to read "The Wild Rose" early. The plot begins as the 19th century was drawing to a close and the chaos of World War I was just beginning. It's a love story as well as a cautionary history lesson. Thanks to historical fiction I have become interested in this period of history - which in the past had never held much interest for me. It truly was a Golden Age before the war split Europe apart and wreaked so much havoc in the lives of so many millions of people. So may lives were lost, so many dreams shattered.

"The Wild Rose" is a very well written book that is replete with intricate sub-plots and complex, well crafted, characters whose relationships cross and re-cross each other....all seamlessly presented and extremely readable.

The book follows the lives of a group of relatively upper crust Londoner's and the places that are highlighted in the book are Britain, France and the sands of Arabia. Some famous people are portrayed including Willa Alden who is based on the famous heroine, "Desert Queen", Gertrude Bell. Spotlighted is Willa's relationship with Lawrence of Arabia and her love of Seamus Finnegan. Willa is portrayed as a strong minded, self directed and thoroughly un-Victorian female while Seamus Finnegan (Seamie) is part of a well know British family who shares a love for mountainous adventures. Their love that was passionate, complicated, and star crossed. It would take pages to simply describe the complicated relationship that they shared.

Although there are many pages in this book I found that it read quickly. I was fascinated by Ms. Donnely's careful research that allowed her portrayal of historically correct glimpses of the fashions, mind set, morals, entertainments, foods and adventures of the time. This book is rife with well fleshed characters, intertwined relationships, excellent adventures and a solid taste for the historical importance of this amazing period of history - the sunset of the Golden Age and the beginning of the world's introduction to the real horrors of modern warfare.

note: this book was provided to me by the publisher for the purpose of any honest review. No other remuneration was received.

"Signature Styles Twenty Stitchers Craft Their Look" by Jenny Doh

2011-06-22T18:19:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 144 pages
Publisher: Lark Crafts (May 3, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1600597916
Product Dimensions: 10 x 8.5 x 0.5 inches

Jenny Doh and Lark books have another hit on their hands. "Signature Styles" will appeal to crafters and stitchers alike. Each spotlighted artist has a distinct style and all are bound to bring a smile to your face. I found a person who revels in one of my favorite colors (aside from gold-green I mean) orange! The projects in this book are sure to please; there's whimsical felt owls from Elsie Flannigan, a lettuce edged re-purposed sweater from Betz White (who seems to like orange), fresh, colorful country feel goodies from Serena Thompson, vintage-y lacey, feminine, wonderful fripperies from Bonzie & Ger and Sandy Stone's colorful re-purposing (the carafes full of fun buttons) is just a smattering of the fun you'll find in this new book from Jenny Doh and Lark.

The spot lighted artists

As with all books that Lark publishes the directions for the projects are well written, superbly illustrated and easy to follow. Each project includes a list of what you'll need to complete the project and, where needed, templates are included in the back of the book. Each featured artist has a page of their own with a photograph of them in their art making space, a list of what the essence of their style is, notes about what things they "can't live without" and hints about where they find the fun things that they include in their art.

Jenny Doh is a powerhouse of creativity.In my opinion she created the publishing phenomenon that is Stampington and, since leaving their she has spread her wings and really gone to even more success with the fabulous website Crescendoh.com. You can;t help but admire her passion for art of all sorts. She's encouraging and whimsical and just an all around amazing woman. Grab yourself a copy of this book (I've never been able to understand how Lark puts out such quality for such reasonable prices!), sit back and prepare to enjoy!


I love this idea of using vintage carafes to store fun things like colorful buttons!

Note; this book was provided to me by the publisher for the sole purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was received.

"A Discovery Of Witches" by Deborah Harkness

2011-06-13T12:37:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

Hardcover: 592 pages
Publisher: Viking Adult; First Edition edition (February 8, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-0670022410

I've seen mixed reviews of this book and was curious about it. I don't often feel a sense of sadness when a book ends - but I did when this one ended. I loved this book! It's a creative, imaginative, fantastical work of fiction.

The book depicts world that is populated by humans, vampires, witches and demons. A academic witch who has turned her back on her familial (descendants of Salem, Massachusetts witches) witching powers becomes acquainted with a vampire in the Bodleian library at Oxford. He's a fascinating, handsome professor who has, among many, a good Scottish friend named Hamish - who's a demon. Witch and vampire fall for each in a big way - a big "no-no" in the world of 'creatures'. This forbidden love triggers the fury of the 'council' and, in a facile twist of prose, brings together an odd assortment of 3 witches, 3 vampire and 3 demons...all of whom make for a sub council dedicated to true love for all. The reluctant witch must learn to use her ancestral powers in order to survive the wrath that her romance has unleashed.

I can see where some readers might not be able to enjoy this book because they find the whole story implausible. It is, of course, implausible. Fiction is, almost by definition, generally, implausible. I read this book and thought of it not only as a truly imaginative work of fiction but also as allegorical ; where some loves are still considered taboo and where we still think that some sorts of people are blood suckers, demonic or spell casters. What I wanted from this book was entertainment - and I got that in spades. It's rollicking tale of love, sorcery and the coming together of all creatures in a common desire for good. What I don't understand is how a reader would not at least appreciate this book as the well crafted, thoroughly imaginative tale that it is. I think of it almost as a fairy tale for grown ups. A unisex fairy tale.

I liked this book so much that I also listened to the audible version - which makes the story all that much more enjoyable. It's perfectly narrated by the talented Jennifer Ikeda. Rumor has it that this will be a trilogy and I simply can't wait for the sequel to be in my hands.

This book is a love story and rollicking romp into the mind of a gifted writer. This book needs to become a movie. It would be fantastic! Okay - I've had my rave and will go back to my perusals.

I bought this book as well as the audible book.

"Masters: Book Arts" Curated by Eileen Wallace

2011-06-06T15:34:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 330 pages
Publisher: Lark Crafts (April 5, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1600594977
Product Dimensions: 9 x 8 x 1.2 inches

I must admit to being somewhat addicted to Lark's "Masters" series. I love the format, you can;t top the photography and the inspiration gained for a relatively small cost is priceless. Ever since art journaling has taken a larger part of my time I have been smitten with the idea of making journals and books. No. I haven't tried it yet because I am in the process of trying to figure out what addictions ( reading, painting, journaling, fountain pens, painting etc etc) to keep and which, if any, I can let others master allowing me to be an enthusiastic, happy consumer of the fruits of their efforts.

"Masters: Book Arts" includes some utterly amazing works of art. Things that I would never begin to think about - let alone consider creating. Do you love books? Journals? Calligraphy? Inspired creativity? Then this is a book that will bring you a lot of pleasure. It's truly a feast for the eyes - beautifully curated, spectacular photography and another hit for the "Masters' series!

Enjoy these photos taken from the book !

Have You Ever Bought A Book Twice - Or Wondered If You Already Owned A Book ?

2011-06-05T12:30:00.000-07:00

I haunt bookstores and book sellers on line. I am, and always have been, a bibliophile. There have been times when I walked the aisles of a book store and happily snapped up a copy of a book that sound just so good that I had to have it - only to discover that I already owned it. Now, if you love in an area that allows you to return or exchange the book that is not so much of a problem - just perhaps a small irritation. Then again having to go back to a book store seems like a good thing to me ! When you lie far away from any stores though - having a second copy of a book can prove to be more frustrating.

I have wanted to be able to catalog the books in my ever expanding library - but the thought and tediousness of the work seemed overwhelming to me - and of course I always figured that I had better things to do with my time that meticulously catalog my books manually. Enter the new age of scanners. There is a system of cataloging your books using a scanner. I found one program but it was $49.99 - plus you had to have a scanner and some additional software. Too rich for my pocket!

Enter Book Crawler. It is a nifty app that allows you to scan, sort and catalog your personal library. Chiisai is the app developer and you can find them at their website (highlighted link) or at the app store for all of $1.99. It works in conjunction with a free app call Pic2Shop. You scan in the bar code from your book and voila! You can create genres for your collection and sort in a number of ways. I am beginning by scanning in several - a dozen or so - at a time. Next will probably go shelf by shelf. My cataloging concern was answered in a low cost, easy and very effective way. Love this app !

no affiliation etc etc .. I am just happy to have found this little gem of an app

"She Wolves: The Queens Who Ruled England Before Elizabeth" by Helen Castor

2011-05-30T19:51:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

Hardcover: 496 pages
Publisher: Harper; 1St Edition edition (February 22, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-0061430763

I had eagerly awaited the release of this book and waited until I could take my time and read it slowly- taking notes if I wished. I wasn't disappointed! The book begins with a genealogy of the Tudor Succession and as Edward VI is dying. The book is an utterly fascinating, eminently readable, treatise about the tradition of female rulers prior to the time of Elizabeth I.

Included are:

Matilda: Lady of England 1102-1167

Eleanor: An Incomparable Woman 1124-1204 (long lived indeed!)
Isabella: Iron Lady 1295-1358

Margaret: A Great and Strong Laboured Woman 1430-1482

and, as the books returns to the time of the Tudors and the death of Edward VI, in "New Beginnings"

Mary and her disastrous marriage with Philip of Spain. The book ends as Elizabeth I is handed the reins of of government and becomes both the King and Queen of her kingdom.

Each section is preceded by a both a genealogy as well as a map of the Kingdom as it existed at that point in history. Very helpful while you are reading about the constantly changing boundaries of the various countries. The genealogies really made me realize how small the pool of available spouses for royal marriages really was at the time. Papal dispensations for consanguinity matters must have been a steady source of revenue for the Church! Ms. Castor has an uncanny ability to write non-fiction that reads as enjoyably as fiction. I was sorry when the book ended - wanting more of this truly riveting history. The struggle of female rulers really was the the beginning of the fight for women's rights and the fact that these amazing, talented, strong women managed to rule as they did is a wonder. I wonder how many modern women would have the tenacity and determination to breach the boundaries of proper 'etiquette' as these female rulers did. It boggles my mind at how strong and focused they must have been. No doubt they would be the sort of successful women who would, to this day, be called She Wolves, baracuddas, or another word that begins with the letter b----.

I wished that the book had more illustrations - but then I always wish that. I always want more images to pair with the words in a book. The included 8 pages of color images are well done - but more would have been better (of course!) This book will, I think, hold wide appeal to history buffs - especially those who are Anglophiles as I am, as well as for people who study women's rights and societal issues.

I will be on the pre-order list as soon as I hear about Helen Castor's next book !

"Big Little Felt Universe" by Jeanette Lim

2011-05-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Lark Crafts (March 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1600596759
Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 8.4 x 0.6 inches

This book is such fun! With this book you can, indeed, create your own felt universe populated with all manner of funny felted treasures!

As with all books from Lark the projects are extremely well illustrated and the written instructions are very clear. The book is broken down into sections. Cake, Camping, Plants, Holidays, Veggies, Office, Tools ... and more. All available to make your virtual felted world seem like the real thing. This book is unique, fanciful , creative and just plain fun. The details are quite spectacular and I can't imagine anyone not having fun just looking at this book - making the projects is the icing on the cake - and there's a recipe for icing in the book!

This book will, of course, appeal to felters but I think that it will also appeal to a wide range of crafters, and sewers. If I was a Mom I would have a great time making these little treasure for my children... providing them with their very own camp fire without the burn or scissors with the potential for cuts! This book is well done and thoroughly enjoyable !

This book was provided to me by the publisher for the sole purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was received.

  &nbsp;

"Elizabeth I" by Margaret George

2011-05-02T15:29:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

Hardcover: 688 pages
Publisher: Viking Adult (April 5, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-0670022533
Product Dimensions: 9.4 x 6.2 x 2.2 inches

One might think that reading through 688 pages is daunting but I tend to prefer longer novels - they allow me to really reside in the book and get to know the characters. One of my favorite female heroines is Elizabeth the First and one of my favorite historical novelists is Margaret George so I figured this would be a perfect combination - and I right!

The novel is co-narrated by Elizabeth herself and begins in 1588 as she enters late middle age . Co-narrator is her cousin, Lettice Knollys - the woman who had the audacity to actually marry the queen's main squeeze - Robert Dudley, The Earl of Leicester. Covering the last 25 years of Elizabeth's illustrious reign this book puts a very human face on the great Queen - complete with her need to keep notes to jog her memory, hot flashes that are troublesome, the sadness of the loss of more and more long time friends and trusted advisers.

The characters are rounded out, well developed and made very human - among the stand-outs are William Shakespeare, Francis Drake, Francis Bacon, Walter Raleigh, William and Robert Cecil and the indomitable Earl of Essex - Robert Deveraux, the step-son of Robert Dudley and the son of Lettice Knollys- who Elizabeth had taken under her wing and upon whom she had lavished many rewards and titles.

The book follows Elizabeth commitment - she is wedded to her country and it's people rather to any man of her choosing - and Lettice who lives a passion filled life of loves and losses. Lettice was banished from the Court upon her marriage to Robert Dudley and the book follows the querulous nature of their relationship and the gradual thawing of the Queen's displeasure as the pair meet on common ground - the garden of Hever castle - former home of their forbears - Anne and Mary Boleyn.

Also featured in the book is Elizabeth's life long friend and confident Catherine Knollys, wife of Sir Francis Knollys and daughter of Mary Boleyn (Lettice Knollys was Mary's grand daughter). Catherine, in the book, is considered the family peace maker. We feel the threat of the Spanish Armada and the Irish threat of the great O'Neill, Lord of Tyrone. All of the political fears and skirmishes of the time are brought to light almost like having a ear on history - like being a fly on the walls of Whitehall and Richmond Palaces. Riveting stuff!

This book is meticulously well researched and it paints a vivid image of what it must have been to be Elizabeth, The Virgin Queen. Historical details bring the period to life and the characters are almost 'touchable'. I loved this book and will, I think, choose to also listen the audible version. I found that Hilary Mantel's "Wolf Hall" really came thoroughly to life when I listened it...and think listening to this book might really highlight my delight with the book even more.

If anything - I would have liked this novel to go on longer. I savored the last pages of this book and was saddened when I finished the last page. It's a book I will, no doubt, re-read.

"Sherry Serafini's Sensational Bead Embroidery" by Sherry Serafini

2011-04-26T11:52:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

Hardcover: 128 pages
Publisher: Lark Crafts (April 5, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1600596728
Product Dimensions: 10.1 x 8.6 x 0.6 inches

Another 5 start crafting book from Lark. I've been interested in bead weaving - and have thought I would like to try my hand at it. This book is one of the best I've seen. The designs are original and gloriously beady. Bling in all the right places. Clear, well illustrated instructions are a hallmark of the way Lark does books - and this book is no exception to the rule. I can always count on being able to understand the way something is made when the photographs and written instructions are clear enough.

This is 'feast your eyes' book as well and instructional. Exquisite creations that will, I'm sure, make you want to adorn yourself with beaded beauties - and make gifts for your friends as well.

I hope these photos from the book are grist for your creative mill!

"Sewn By Hand" by Susan Wasinger

2011-04-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

* * * *

Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Lark Crafts (April 5, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1600596681
Product Dimensions: 10 x 8.5 x 0.6 inches

As a real believer in the 'slow cloth' philosophy I was really pleased to see this book. I get tired by all of the advertisements that everything, seemingly, must " fast, fun and fabulous" - or some similar iteration of that sentiment. Going slowly is more meditative and, especially with sewn articles, you can really sew a it of yourself into what you make when you do it by hand

Table of Contents

This little gem of book is venerates both the art of slow cloth - sewing by hand - as well as the eco-friendly philosophy of recycling with aplomb. The projects are very well illustrated, fairly simple and eminently useful. Hand sewing makes the look.

Well illustrated dictionary of hand stitches

The table of contents says it all. A well illustrated dictionary of hand stitches is thorough and well done. I really like some of the included projects. A great apron (not some skimpy little thing) made from recycled button down shirts. Salvaged shirts make another appearance as very well thought out "cafe napkins" that make great use of the buttons on the shirt. Another favorite project I found is for a tote bag - that includes simple directions for making your great looking covered buttons.

A great apron made from recycled button down shirts

I think that this book should hold wide appeal to sewers of all persuasions - hand and machine as well as to eco conscious recyclers. The projects are useful, fresh and delightful. I also think this book is a great value. Both in monetary cost but also for the seriously good feeling that slow, hand sewn, cloth combined with serious re-purposing can bring to you.

Shirts are again highlighted in these wonderful cafe napkins

Perfect use for the buttons that are already on the shirt!

Fashion and function plus recycling - a win/win combination!

Making your own covered buttons tutorial

note: this book was provided to me by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was received

"Focus Letters Your World Your Images" from Lark Books

2011-04-19T11:13:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

Hardcover: 180 pages
Publisher: Lark Books (May 3, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1600597114
Product Dimensions: 7.1 x 7.1 x 0.7 inches

Lark Books ( an imprint of Sterling Publications) does such a great job with both their "Focus" and "500" series. These are, in a way, special interest publications, but I also think of them more like creative fodder for all artists. I love seeing the way different people view the world around them - and nothing really does that better than the "Focus" series. This Focus - Letters plays on one of my favorite things. I love letters in all of their glorious variations.

"B"

This book is a treasure house of letters - viewed any way that people find them. What I really appreciate about this series is that in looking at the photographs your own creativity is sparked. I often think "would I have noticed that?" or "what a great way to depict that!". Grab a copy of this modestly priced book and get your own creative juices going!

"T"

"M"

"E"

"Y"

Note: this book was provided to me by the publisher for the purpose of an honest reivew. No other remuneration was recieved

"Elizabeth and The Prince Of Spain" by Margaret Irwin

2011-04-19T10:42:00.000-07:00

* * * *

Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark (April 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1402229985

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Originally published in 1953 this was the last book in Margaret Irwin's "Young Bess" series. Because it was written in an earlier era the book is not a racy bodice ripper - something that I appreciate. It's not that I'm a prude - but I do get a tad tired of the "sex sells" philosophy- especially in relation to good historical fiction writing.

This book revolves around Philip of Spain's relationship with Elizabeth. The staunch Catholic, philanderer (depending on your point of view I guess) and husband of Elizabeth's half sister Queen Mary, lusted for Elizabeth. This aspect of Elizabeth's life provides a fresh point of view which I quite liked. I think Ms. Irwin did an excellent job of portraying the historical context and the book is rife with court life details. It's a book that I enjoyed reading and thinking about all of the "what ifs" made for some interesting "grist for the mill".

I don't believe that I have read the first two books in this series - but would like to. It's a good stand alone book but reading it in series might be worthwhile. Sourcebooks does such a great job of bringing back some of "the best of the best". This is another highly recommended read for all historical history fans - especially those of us who love Elizabeth I .

note: this book was provided to be by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review - no other remuneration was received

"Surface Treatment Workshop" by Darlene O. McElroy and Sandra D. Wilson

2011-04-17T11:33:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 144 pages
Publisher: North Light Books (May 3, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1440308246
Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.2 x 0.4 inches

I love this book! I was hesitant about it because the author's previous book "Image Transfer Workshop" is, in my humble opinion, one of the best books I've invested in (and I invest a lot in books!) and I wasn't sure that a new book could live up to that opinion. I am SO happy to report that this book is another home run, totally out-of-the-ball park winner of a book.

The lay out is very well considered and the instructions are superlative - perfectly illustrated with photos that relate directly to the image. I couldn't wait to begin experimenting! One of the things that intrigued me as I read through the book was a description of Venetian Plaster - something I had never heard of before - "...Venetian Plaster gives you a unique finish that cannot be replicated with any other medium....". A tall order in my opinion. I got some of this miraculous stuff though and experimented and now have a new favorite mixed media tool. You can see my experiment from using the instructions on my other blog - mzjohansen.blogspot.com .

I can't wait to try more surface treatments from this book. It's a must have for the bookshelf of artists of all sorts - especially for fine arts, mixed media artists and visual journalers. You just can't go wrong by buying this book!

"Ugly "Beauty Helena Rubenstein and the Belmished History Of Looking Good" by Ruth Brandon

2011-04-04T11:07:00.000-07:00

* * * *

Hardcover: 304 pages
Publisher: Harper (February 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-0061740404
Dimensions: 9.1 x 6 x 1.3 inches

This wasn't a book that I had anticipated reviewing here. It doesn't fit my "usual" categories - as quirky as they can sometimes be. I was offered this book to review and became intrigued by it enough that I decided to post my review.

The name Helena Rubenstein struck a chord with me - seems like I remember my grandmother using some of her cosmetics or something. I knew that she had been "the" woman in the beauty industry at one time. Since I have always been intrigued by the world of fashion and cosmetics - despite the fact that I am neither fashionable nor a heavy user of 'product' - I thought this book would be interesting - and it is!

The book is a dual biography of two of the early cosmetic industry's biggest names. Helena Rubenstein whose impoverished roots in Poland drove her to create one of the the largest cosmetics firms in the world. Her life as "Madame" was lived large around the world.'Madame' believed in working women and it was the money that working women made and spent on her cosmetics that made Helena Rubenstein the first female millionaire.

Her nemesis, Eugene Schueller was French and came from an extremely hard-working family of bakers who slaved from dawn to dusk to make the money that allowed for Eugene to attend the best of schools. Eugene was trained as a chemist and was paid 50 francs by a noted hairdresser of the day to find " a safe and reliable artificial hair dye" .. the rest, as they say, is history. Eugene became the founder of L'Oreal which ultimately took over the Helena Rubenstein company. Eugene's beliefs countered those of 'Madame' as he believed that women should be in the home - he used the 'beauty business' "as a source of cash to buy economic and political influence".

This is a book, however, not only about these two driven individuals but also about history. Through two World Wars these two complex people made their ways through the sometimes murky business of beauty, fashion and politics. The author, Ruth Brandon, has done an excellent job of presenting the lives of these two protagonists in relation to the historical events that were ripping countries and belief systems apart. It's a fascinating read that flows easily like a novel.

When I first picked the book up I had not intended to read it right then - I thought I would finish another book first. I became riveted to the story though. It's a fascinating view into the world of 20th century politics and into the lives of two mega humans - equally driven but for differing reasons.

An interesting tid-bit from the book is about the name. Eugene originally named his line of hair dyes L"aureole after a hair style that was popular in 1905. Soon afterwards he changed the name to what we now call L'Oreal.

"Vintage Jewelry Design Classics To Collect and Wear" by Caroline Cox

2011-03-28T11:09:00.000-07:00


*** * * * ***

I am delightfully book boggled right now.

What a delight to have piles of brain candy right before my eyes!

Hardcover: 224 pages
Publisher: Lark Crafts (April 5, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1600597145
Product Dimensions: 11 x 8.9 x 0.9 inches

I was thoroughly surprised when I opened this book. For some reason the title made me think it was more about designing jewelry - but as I paid more attention I became captivated by this gem of a book.It is, in fact, about jewelry design - the history of jewelry design! Most of you who have read my blog for awhile know that I am a history junkie - so this book was actually really up my alley! Although I don't wear a lot of jewelry myself I sure do appreciate it. Thanks to this book I can now identify the period style that most appeals to me. Who knows - when I win the lottery I may go in search of Belle Epoch jewels!

As you can tell from the contents page the book breaks down jewelry design into decades. What was fashionable during this time - and why was it fashionable? How the particular period of history influenced the design and appeal of fashionable jewelry. Fascinating!

As always Lark books are visually appealing. The layout and photography is always spot on. The author, Caroline Cox is a visiting professor at the London College of Fashion and the focus of her work "explores the relationship between fashion, beauty and culture". Ms. Cox is a lecturer and a cultural trends advisor. I can't think of much more interesting work

Lark layouts often seem to employ a grid such as in the photo above. I think this approach works very well -it gives the reader a glimpse of what the pages in the next chapter will cover. Here you can that the period covered is 1910- 1919, there is an example of the fashion, jewelry designs and art that was in vogue at the time

The books covers baubles, bangles, beads, gemstones of incredible value and beauty as well as examples of the fashions and art. Historical notes about well know jewelry designers are included - Faberge, Tiffany, Schlumberger, and Schiaparelli just to name a few. Want to know the history of Bakelite and celluloid? This is the book to grab and read. I love the photos in the book - of famous models, celebrities, high society folks and the titillating world of high fashion

I love the way the book ties everything together. Historical references refer to why certain styles, trends and materials came in to fashion when they did. That information is rounded out with a perfect collection of corresponding fashions, make-up styles and artistic works that defined the decade.

Am I little 'gushy' about this book? Yes! Why? Because it was such a delightful surprise and because it fits right in with my enjoyment of all things fashion, costume, and historical. This book will have a wide appeal I think because it does cover so much. It's perfect, of course, for jewelry designers and all of us who love gems and jewels, but it also will appeal to artists, designers, fashionistas and history buffs . I love this book and it does - for certain - have a spot in my permanent library!

note: this book was provided to me by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was received.

Twelve By Twelve: The International Art Quilt Challenge

2011-03-22T12:04:00.000-07:00


*** * * * ***

Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Lark Crafts (March 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1600596667
Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.3 x 0.6 inches

In my heart of hearts this is the sort of challenge I would love to be a part of! I was truly grateful when offered the opportunity to review this book. I know several of the artists whose work is beautifully portrayed and I applaud the wonderful job they have all done in the creation of their art and the design of this simply "must have" book.

The Mathematics theme page.

The book, is course, about the artwork, but it is also so much more. The idea was that twelve themes were chosen and each member of this 12 person group would make a 12 inch X 12 inch interpretation of the theme. All I can say is "WoW"! Themes included things such as chocolate, community, window, passion, shelter etc. The book is arranged so that one page provides small images of all twelve quilts with more in depth information about the quilts on the pages that follow. Each chapter also includes so much more information though - about meeting each other, how they explored the theme, how they approach the design process, their creative spaces and small, significant highlights about the the inspiration for their designs.

Meet the Artist information and so much more

As with all Lark books, the design of this book is a knock-out. The photographing is perfection. I have to give to Lark. When they do a book- they do it right. Yes, I am a tad prejudiced - but that happened long before I was given the opportunity to review some of their books. Lark makes it all happen.

A page that gives you information about tools and process. Potato Masher?!

The book also includes wonderful tutorials,inspirational glimpses, method/process information as well as tips and tricks about the artist's creative tools, paints, brushes and process.

Instructional and method tutorials are included.

I believe that this book will hold great appeal for art quilters and textile artists of course - but also for artists in general because it really highlights the creative process and will spark your own imagination providing you with creative ideas that will apply to whatever medium you choose to work in. You could follow the themes yourself and see what your interpretation would be. Explore the some of the tools and instructions and make them your own. Feast your eyes on the artwork. Sit back, relax and get your creative mojo going!

The artistic inspiration for their work comes front and center - or right or left!

Creative spaces are highlighted too

note: this book was provided to me by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was received. When I give 5 stars to a book I mean it!

"500 Raku: Bold Explorations of a Dynamic Ceramics Technique" by R.Hemachandra & J.Romberg

2011-03-14T16:49:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 420 pages
Publisher: Lark Crafts (March 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1600592942
Product Dimensions: 8 x 8 x 1.3 inches

This is the latest in Lark's pith-perfect 500 series. If you love objects the way I do then this is a series that you should investigate - because if you like it - there is "500" book for you - or will be soon!.

When Lark Crafts (a division of Sterling Publishing) provided me with the opportunity to review this book I had to chuckle to myself. There are times when the kind folks I communicate with at Lark seem to know my tastes better than I do! No one at Lark could possible have known what a bowl fetish I have! I collect bowls that I enjoy holding - it's such a satisfying shape. I have never thrown a bowl or vessel before but I know it must be magic - looks at the amazing results!

Raku is an ancient technique originating in 16th century Japan. I have always admired the array of effects that seem to be possible with this unique technique. The juror for this book was Jim Romberg who is the "master ceramist ... of the Eagleheart Center for Arts and Inquiry; Romberg headed the Ceramics Department of Southern Oregon University for two decades. " The editor is Lark's own Ray Hemchandra who has a lot of experience with all things beautiful - he heads the Beading and Jewelry division of Lark Crafts, among other things.

I wanted to provide you with some glimpses of the pages in this book - but I suddenly found that I could, quite easily, be photographing all of the pages! It's too difficult to select just a few. Who knew - surely not a non-potter like me - that Raku could produce the diversity of styles and beauty that are contained in the pages of this book.

The photos below are, therefore, a very small sampling of some of the pieces that grabbed my as I first opened the book. You will find delicate beauty, humorous whimsy, bold design and serene simplicity on the these pages. For some reason this "500" book has grabbed me a bit more than some of the titles - perhaps that's because I am not a potter by I admire the medium and covet the results of the art form. What's a bowl and vessel lover to do but continue to look through the pages of this book - and dream!

Enjoy the preview!

Note: my usual disclosure that this beautiful book was provided to me by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was received. I really do love this book!

"Sins of The House Of Borgia" by Sarah Bower

2011-03-08T11:10:00.000-08:00

* * * *

Paperback: 544 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark (March 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1402259630

I am always glad for the chance to read a new historical novel about the infamous Borgia clan. For a family that is reviled by history for their poisons,excesses,immorality and greed, there seems to be a dearth of books written about them. Books about the Borgias are certainly nowhere near as popular as the Tudors for instance.

"...I was so young then and confused lust with love as the young do ...."

"Sins Of The House of Borgia" follows the life of young Jewish woman, Esther Safarti. Her story begins in 1492. Young Esther and her Mother escape Toledo and the early years of the Spanish Inquisition by traveling to Rome to join her father (who, for some reason had all but abandoned Esther and her mother in Spain). When they reach the shores of Italy, Esther's mother dies on the beach. that they land on. The tale really begins on the beach that day. As a very fair skinned Jewess, Esther's fathers believes that she can 'pass' as a Christian. In his absence, her father has become an important banker in Rome and works for the rising star of the Catholic Church - Rodrigo Borgia. Rodrigo becomes the Pope Alexander VI and Esther's father arranges for her to become a lady-in-waiting to Rodrigo's illegitimate daughter, Lucrezia - the Duchess of Ferrara. - who will soon be married to her third husband - at twenty-one years of age. Esther is made to believe that this is what her mother would have wanted her to do. In this position Ether will be better able to attract a husband of good standing. The caveat will be that Esther is forced to convert to Christianity and assume the role of a 'converso'.

As a lady-in-waiting Esther must become another person. Her name is changed - first at Lucrezia's insistence to Donata. Soon afterward, Lucrezia's sadistic brother, Cesare, dubs her Violante. Unable to resist his allure, the newly re-named Violante surrenders herself to the violent, immoral charms of Cesare and, ultimately bears him a son. Cesare is a power hungry man who cares little for Violante and abandons (his real love lies elsewhere) her and his family in search of lands to conquer and power to wield. Through the course of of the book (the years of her service to the Borgia family from 1492 to 1507) and at the time of Cesare's death, the truth to the 'secret' of the Borgia sin unfolds. Esther, Donata,Violante realizes that she has been nothing more than a puppet - that her entire life in their household has been one lie after another.

One of the things I really enjoyed was the Epilogue of this book. It's short but exceptional and continues the story of Esther's life after she leaves Italy. The Epilogue in itself could well become another story - and it would be a fascinating one at that. I think I won;t say more about this part of the book because it really is the heart of the character - and you should read it for yourself!

This is a well crafted book that gives the true flavor of this hedonistic family. The politics, rivalries, sadism, and excesses of the Italian Renaissance are well described and the plot lines moves very smoothly. There a multitude of well fleshed out characters and, for this reason, it's a good book to savor more slowly than same. Ms. Bower has a real talent and I will be looking out for her next work. Ms. Bower has previously written short stories and was the UK editor of Historical Novels Review before turning her talents to writing this book.

note:

this book was provided to me by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was received.

"Painted Papers" and "Making Handmade Books" by Alisa Golden

2011-03-07T14:24:00.000-08:00

* * * * *

When I was offered to review both of these applaudable books I was quite excited. Alisa Golden is a well known maker of beautiful books and tantalizing artwork. Lark Crafts, an imprint of Sterling Publishers, is the publisher of some of the best art and crafting books on the planet - so when you put the two together you know you will end up with a "wow" item. These two titles prove the point.

"Painted Papers":

Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Lark Books (October 6, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1600595479

This is an utterly delightful book that packs an incredible amount of information into it's 176 pages.

I had planned to list the contents myself but found the information thoroughly delineated on Ms. Golden's web site - and she, obviously, can say it better than I can! This has become one of my favorite painting techniques books and I find that I refer to it often.

Contents: (I mentioned that this book is brimming with great information right?!)

1. Papers, Colors, and Tools

Papers and Boards
Drying Wet Paper Inks, Paints, and Other Media ( Ms. Golden's website has great information about F&W inks)
Pigments and Dyes
Acrylic Inks
Choosing Colors
Acrylic Paints
Watercolor Crayons
Gesso
Wheat Paste and Methylcellulose
Texture Paste
Brushes
Brush care
Other Marking Tools
Painting Supplies

2. Acrylic Inks

Recipes for Acrylic Paint Glaze
Creating "old" pages
Washes
Wet-on-Wet
Washes and Watercolor Crayons
Markmaking Experiment
Dropper and Dry-Brush Outlines
Multicolored Droppers and Dry-Brush Effects
Brush-handle Painting
Wood Grain
Marble
Layered Freehand Forms
Patterning
Word as Image

3. Gesso and Stencils

Gesso Resist
Granite
Gesso and Sgraffito
Basic Stenciling
Stencil-Making Supplies
Handmade Stencils
Multiple Stencils: Pochoir

4. Masking

Artist's Tape
Masking Film
Liquid Mask
Masked Borders

5. Paints and Paste

Paste Recipes
Paste Paper
Paste Paper Frottage
Collage
Surface Finishes for Painted Paper: Sanded, Waxed, Varnish, Gel Medium

6. Books and Projects (I think of this section as an entree to her next book reviewed below)

Diagram key
Bookmaking Tools
Origami Envelope
Circle Accordion Book
Album Accordion Book
Shikishi and Holder
Venetian Blind Book
Woven Accordion Book
Paper Slipcase
Two-As-One Book
Decorative Box

* * * * *

Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: Lark Crafts (January 4, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1600595875

As a nearly lifelong journal-er I have always appreciated papers and handmade books for both written and art journaling, but I can't say that I was ever tempted to make a book myself - before I saw this book that is! There are a lot books that claim to be 'complete' or 'compendiums' of techniques. To my way of thinking there are few books that actually live up to those merits. "Making Handmade Books" is one of those few titles that does not claim to be complete, replete or a compendium but succeeds in being all of that and more. No kidding! If you have ever been tempted ( or are even like me and didn't think that you were interested) to learn what making a handmade book would entail - this is the book to read. Ms. Golden once again manages to fill the pages of this book with so much, very complete, information that if you could only have one book about making books - this would be the one to choose. Once again the contents as written by Ms. Golden on her website tell the story of how much is included in this book far better than I could write.

Chapter 1: Materials and Methods

Tool Box
Paper
Tearing & Cutting Paper
Folding & Scoring Paper
Paper Selection
Boards
Adhesives
Sewing
Handling Content
Basic Terms
Traditional Order
About the Diagrams

Chapter 2: Folded Books

X Book
X Book with Pockets
Shorts Book / Ox-Plow Pamphlet
Pants Book Simple Accordion
Pants Book Simple Accordion with Tunnel
Snake Book
Storybook Theatre
Twist Card
Brush Book
Venetian Blind Book
T-Cut Book
House Card
Little Room Book
Guest Book
Crown Binding
Slot & Tab Book
Pocket Triangle & Diamond Book
Piano Hinge with Skewers

Chapter 3: Simply Glued

Perfect Binding
Album Accordion & Flutterbook
Alphabet Star Book
Concertina with Tabs
Miniature Tied Binding
Sewn & Tied Binding
Flower Fold
Accordion Book with Flower Fold Pages
Winged Book
Flag Book
Pocket Frame Book
Flag Book with Envelope Pages
Flag Book with Folded Pages
Flag Book with Fortunes
Tunnel Book
Endless Accordion
Tunnel Book with Continuous Sides
Miniature Tied Stick Binding

Chapter 4: Simply Sewn

Palm Leaf Book
Fan Book
Stick Binding
Ledger
Sidebound Book
Hard Cover for Side Binding
Single Signature Binding
Paper Bag Book
Tea Bag Book
Two-Sewn-As-One

Chapter 5: Scrolls & Accordions

Hand Scroll
Hanging Scroll
Double Scroll
Accordion-Fold Book
Miniature Tabbed Accordion
Layered Accordion Book
Accordion with Pockets
Accordion with Signatures
Back-to-Back Accordion Book
Back-to-Back Accordion Book with Tunnel
Circle Accordion

Chapter 6: Movable Books

Simple Pop-Up Card
Volvelle
Square Flexagon
Tetra-Tetra-Flexagon
Cross-Flexagon
Woven Accordion
Magic Wallet
Three-Panel Jacob's Ladder Book
Jacob's Ladder

Chapter 7: The Codex

Endbands
Western Multiple Signature
Crossed-Structure Binding
French Link Stitch
Multiple Signatures onto a Ribbon
Multiple Signatures with Rounded Spine
Secret Belgian Binding

Chapter 8: Codex Variations

Woven Codex
Exposed Stitch Book
Exposed Stitch Book with Beads
Bundled Stitch Book
Coptic Stitch / Curved Needle
Coptic with Accordion
Coptic with Paired Needles
Coptic with Fold-Out Pages
Altered Books & Hidden Objects

Chapter 9: Envelopes & Portfolios

Origami Pocket Envelope
Folded Envelope
Box of Circles
Window Envelope
Matchbook-Style Box
Paper Slipcase
Origami Wallet
Pocket Folder
Paper Portfolio
Stock Book
Stamp Wallet

Chapter 10: Cover Techniques

Soft Wrap Cover
Open Spine Soft Cover
Open Spine with Ribbon
Corners
Wrapped Hard Cover
Covering Separate Boards
Split Board
Hard Cover: Single Signature
Case Binding: Flat Spine
Hard Cover with Ribbon
Attaching the Book Block
Covering a Mistake
Distressed Book Covers
Recesses & Insetting a Title
Closures

Chapter 11: Boxes & Slipcases

Folded Slipcase
Covered Slipcase
Hardcover Portfolio with Ribbon Tie
Two-Piece Box or Candy Box
Partitions & Raised Trays
Theater Box
Clamshell Box

Chapter 12: Ideas & Concepts

Physical Layers
Conceptual Layers
Collaborations, Complilations & Exchanges
Wrapping It Up

Artists' Bios
About the Author

It has crossed my mind that I do a lot of reviews here that I give only high marks to and I thought perhaps you might wonder why this is so. I am not paid for my reviews - and so I am free to rank a book in whatever way I feel is the truth as I read it. I feel blessed to be able to receive these books to review and I try my best to do each book justice.

First of all, I am fortunate to work with several publishers that seem to understand what interests me. Since I love to learn and love to try new things this does allow a lot leeway about what might interest me! However, I seldom accept a book if I don't initially have high expectations. My time is precious to me (and each passing year makes it more and more precious!) and so I try to only accept books for review that I have a pretty good idea I will really enjoy to begin with. This applies to fiction, non-fiction as well as to arts/crafts. I like to accept books to review that I know I will most likely want to add to my permanent library. I am very fortunate to have 'met' the authors and publishers that I work with - they have all enriched my life with the books they allow me to read and review. That's why you will mostly only see 4 and 5 stars here.... I guess you say I am picky - and what a wonderful thing to be able to be! Many years ago I managed books stores and this blog has allowed me to have more fun with books than I have had since moving on to a different career years - and a lifetime- ago!

Post Script: As for my admiration of all things Lark - that's my honest opinion too. I was a Lark fan long before I was offered the opportunity to review some books for them! They just do it right!

(I added a link for another great little Lark book from their Studio Series that I reviewed in an earlier post)

Win a Copy of " The Tudor Throne" by Brandy Purdy

2011-02-23T13:28:00.000-08:00

Best selling author and writer of excellent Tudor Era historical fiction, Brandy Purdy, is offering us a chance to win a copy of her latest, soon to be published, novel - "The Tudor Throne ". This book will be published in the UK as "Mary and Elizabeth".

Head over to Brandy's blog for your chance to get your hands on a copy of this great new book!

I reviewed her last book, "The Boleyn Wife"....And thoroughly enjoyed it!

"It Happened One Bite" by Lydia Dare

2011-02-20T13:15:00.000-08:00

* * * *

Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (March 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1402245077

Some of you may remember when I reviewed another book by this talented team "The Taming Of The Wolf" . If I was going to make a choice to buy - or not buy- these books based on the covers alone I can guarantee that they would not have made into my house. I am not, or so I have thought, a romance, bodice-ripper kind of gal. Lately, however, I have come to realize that many of my beloved historical fiction books are considered to be 'romance' books by those who are in a position to 'know' these categorizing details. I suppose then that it should come as no surprise that a very enjoyable book could also lurk between these rather tawdry covers. These are covers that make me want to consider buying a cover so that others won't see what I am reading!

"It Happened One Bite" is another utterly delightful romp into a romantic land where regular folks can inter-marry and co-mingle with beautiful and handsome werewolfs (lycans) ,vampyers and witches. This paranormal romance series is a delight; a rollicking romp through a world of romantic possibilities where every one's 'gifts' are appreciated and considered worthy.

Beautiful witch, Blaire Lindsey's brother Aiden inherits a key to the family inheritance of Briarcraig Castle in the Scottish Highlands. Unbeknownst to Blair,e this is the ancestral home of the "battle-born" witches. Blaire's mother was a battle-born and Lindsey inherited the battle-born legacy from her. Blaire had no knowledge about this family castle and found it odd that her mother had not passed down any information about it before her death. Blaire has heard rumor that the castle is haunted and, as soon as she and brother's enter the old rooms they feel a strange force at work.

Blaire's brothers, Aiden and Brannock, did not inherit the same witchy qualities as Blaire has. They go about exploring the castle and the town; planning the cleaning and refurbishing of it and meeting and greeting some of the highland locals - even inviting two lovely young women and their father to dinner at the castle. No matter that the family does not, as yet, have a staff or operable kitchen. In the blink of a witches eye they're off to town to hire staff, a cook and supplies. In the meantime Blaire has discovered a locked basement room and, more to the point, she has heard odd sounds coming from the room.

What follows this puzzling discovery is a delightful tale of witches, battling vampyres (male and female) and werewolves (lycans) - that can all, when the proverbial chips are down, work together for the greater good. A love story between the last of the great battle ground witches and her vampyre love, James, Lord Kettering! There is a lot of action, love, and interaction of the species contained in the pages of this book - all of it thoroughly delightful -dare I say spell binding !

This series and these authors make me smile - and I want to read more of their inventive, rollicking good tales. If you can get away from the cover this is a truly entertaining, delightful book to while away a couple of the hours. You can't help but find yourself totally bewitched by the fun and imagination of it all!

Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher for the sole purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was received

Shaper Of Seattle" by William H. Wilson

2011-02-13T12:07:00.000-08:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 231 pages
Publisher: Washington State University (September 30, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-0874223019

This review is long overdue much to my chagrin. Last year, as part of a Green Books campaign through EcoLibris, I was provided with a copy of this book. I chose this book because I live near Seattle and because it is the history of a place that always calls to me. I feel that we have to know where we have been in order to know where we're going - or where we even want to go. The same holds true for the history of a place.

This book follows the life of Reginald Heber Thompson, Seattle's city engineer 1892-1911, and his vision of what Seattle was. Reginald was born in 1856 and his career path was quite set by 1877. The story of Seattle is intertwined with the life of Reginald Thompson - and a fascinating story it is. Born in the East Thompson began his westward trek in 1877 when he took a train that landed him in Healdsberg, California to teach. He spent four years there before arriving in Seattle by steamer in 1881. By 1884 he was appointed to the position of City Surveyor and, in 1892 he became the City Engineer.

The first things that Reginald Thompson tackled as Seattle's City Engineer were the desperately needed clean water supply and power plant. Thompson found solutions to these and more problems that plagued the young city. Throughout his career Thompson continued to build upon Seattle's infrastructure. He dredged waterways, reclaimed tidal flat lands, and installed bridges, tunnels and pavement. Though not without problems, Thompson's tenure as City Engineer proved to have been instrumental in developing the wonderful City Of Seattle into the Emerald City that many of us enjoy today.

Aside from being a 'green' book this is also a volume filled with wonderful photos and maps of old town Seattle. This is not only the story of a man it is also the story of one of the Country's great cities - and of a time in history when the formation of Seattle reflected a more general westward migration . This book will appeal to Seattle and Washington residents of course, but it will hold strong appeal to all history, especially Western history, fans.

"I Am The Chosen King" by Helen Hollick

2011-02-12T16:34:00.000-08:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 592 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark (March 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1402240669
SYNOPSIS: The forgotten story of England’s last Saxon King.

I find Helen Hollick's writing to be magical. As a confirmed lover of all things European ,and of the 15th and 16th centuries, I didn't think that I would have much interest in the earlier history of Britain, let alone 11th century Saxon Britain------ that is until I read "The Forever Queen".

"I Am The Chosen King" begins in England in 1044 and follows the time line and lineage put forth in "The Forever Queen". The first chapter begins as Queen Emma "The Forever Queen" still powerful at 54 years of age, watches as her firstborn, recently returned from exiled, son, Edward, is crowned King of England. Emma doesn't believe that the rather too delicate Edward (known as the Confessor) is fit to be King. She believes that he is as "as shallow and incompetent as his father, Athelred (Emma's first husband) had been.." . In this chapter we are also introduced to a young Earl, Harold Godwineson....thus begins the story of King Harold - the chosen King; the last Saxon King of England.

In this wickedly good read, Helen Hollick brings to life the Battle of Hastings from the English point of view "....and brings to life ... the story of the last Saxon King, revealing his ... love, determination and proud loyalty...shattered by the unforgiving needs of a Kingdom. Forced to give up his wife and risk his life for England, the chosen king led his army into the great Battle of Hastings in October 1066 with all the honor and dignity that history remembers of its fallen heroes...." . This last sentence is from the endpapers on the book and, I think, spells out the theme of the book better than I could paraphrase it!

Much of the action in this book is centered around battle preparations for the Norman invasion and the Battle of Hastings in October 1066. Harold, who became King after the death of Edward in January 1066, is married a beautiful commoner named Edyth. Because this is not a politically advantageous marriage he becomes pitted against his powerful family. In France, a bastard duke's son, William of Normandy, has become besotted with power and has set his sight on conquering England

This book is historically based and I think that Helen Hollick can well be called an expert on this time period. It has totally opened my eyes to this pivotal period in history when the shaping of England was, truly, in the balance. This is also a book that weaves history with romance and warfare in nearly equal measure. It's a book's that I simply have to re-read. That's how much I like it. It is, perhaps, not as much of a romance as "The Forever Queen" but, then again, the times surrounding the Battle of Hastings (fought at Senlac Hill near Hastings, East Sussex, England) were difficult and romances would have been, I think, been forced to a back burner as preparations for war were made.

I am now a confirmed fan of Saxon England! I am grateful to Ms. Hollick for bringing this fascinating period of history to lovers of great historical fiction. I will eagerly await more from this gifted writer. This book will, I think, appeal widely to fans of historical fiction, romance and, more to the point, those interested in the history behind the historic Battle of Hastings. There is much to be enjoyed in this book - and much history to read about on the side!

Stamped Metal Jewelry by Lisa Niven Kelly

2011-01-24T11:22:00.000-08:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Interweave Press; Pap/DVD edition (July 27, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1596681772
ISBN-13: 978-1596681774

My most recent interest has been metal. I love embossing metal foil and, I suppose, stamping metal was a logical progression. I want to learn some wire wrapping techniques (thanks to a necklace that I fell in love with on a jaunt to Roslyn, Washington last Fall). I am fighting to restrain myself from becoming enamored with jewelry making, but I wanted a book that would teach me a bit about the ins and outs of stamping metal to use in my mixed media work. I happened upon the most excellent website called Beaducation. Lisa Niven Kelly is the owner of the site and I found that she had recently published this little treasure of a book called "Stamped Metal Jewelry". You know I had to have it!

This book is exactly what I needed. It comes completed with a nifty instructional DVD. The book covers all of the basics about tools, gauges of metal and metal wire, dapping, riveting, applying patinas, hole punching and drilling, oxidizing, annealing and polishing metals. That's just the beginning! The projects in the book follow a logical progression - an easy introduction to the basics and then moving on to more involved concepts. The book is very well illustrated with clear, concise photographs and written instruction that follows along with the photos. I dislike books that have photo instruction separated from the written instructions - making you flip back and forth to correlate the written instructions with the photographs. This book is really well done in that area. The projects are not only instructive but they are also things that you will enjoy making and wearing. The author does suggest that your first attempts at stamping be done on less expensive metals like copper before moving on to precious metal work. That is good advice because there is, most definitely, a bit of "stamping" curve to learn - since things like pressure, tilt (no!) and hammer weight can all affect the quality of your finished impression.

Below: One the first projects in the book

This is one of those ah-ha! kind of books that would be a really good addition to the library of any artistically minded person - because who knows where this path could lead you! I love this book - and Lisa's website is one of the best I have ever been on. No matter what your artistic medium is you should do yourself a favor and check it out !

What an amazing bracelet!

This is one of the last projects in the book - and it is exactly where I want to go!

Water Paper Paint by Heather Smith Jones

2011-01-23T11:42:00.000-08:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 156 pages
Publisher: Quarry Books (January 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1592536557
ISBN-13: 978-1592536559

I have found myself wanting to use watercolors in my work but have little to no experience in how to use them. Anybody can put paint and water to paper but to make it interesting can be another whole thing. I wanted a basic book - I have no aims to become a professional watercolor artist - something that would tell me more than I already knew - but not so so much that I would be overwhelmed by the

information. I chose this book to try and I glad that I did because it fits the bill perfectly for me!

I love the feel and the smell of books - and have been known, on occasion, to not by a book it if the paper feels off. The paper binding this book s feels like watercolor paper. In the book Heather Smith Jones does cover the basics of watercolor paper - how to 'stretch' it (affix it to a surface so that it will not buckle when you paint) and what the surfaces of various papers are like. The books also has an excellent, short version, of how watercolor paints are created and how to branch out and make your own paints should you want to. There is an explanation of what all of those little numbers and letters on the paint tubes mean as well, what mediums to use and why.

The projects include the fare you might expect in a beginner book :

how to work wet into wet and wet onto dry.
developing a palette and using one of a variety of different pallets for your work
using color
adding textures with things like salt, sprays (with a straw),lines, bubble wrap, paper towels etc
painting with watercolors around a drawing as well as using backgrounds before a drawing
working from a photograph
art cardshttp://hrsmithjones.blogspot.com
assembalges
creating negative shapes
collage

You get the idea. Yes, it's basic but it also contains a wealth of usable information for folks like me who want the basics presented in an intelligible manner and suitable for a wide variety of mixed media work and textile art. I am very pleased with my purchase of this book - and think it would make a great addition to your artist's library as a mixed media or textile artist. I am sure that conditioned watercolor artists might be bored - but for me this was the perfect book. Just what I had hoped for !

"Real Life Journals. Designing and Using Handmade Books" by Gwen Diehn Published by Lark Books

2011-01-17T12:44:00.000-08:00

* * * * *

Hardcover: 180 pages
Publisher: Lark Books; (August 3, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1600594921
ISBN-13: 978-1600594922
Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 9.3 x 0.9 inches

Gwen Diehn is one of my favorite journal artists. She is the author if the "Decorated Page", among others, which is one of my all time favorite books about journaling.

Real Life Journals is mostly about the business of making and designing journals for your artwork. I have to confess that I am not that tempted to make my journals - but this is probably one of the most creative, well written and illustrated, book son the subject that you will find. That being said, aside from the construction of the journals the book includes a lot of creative, useful tid-bits about the art of journaling itself.

The inside front flap includes a mini-book-in-a-pocket-titled "Choose Your Own Bookbinding Adventure. The enclosed booklet is a very handy that leads you through the basics by asking questions and then a "if yes turn to page____, if no, turn to page___" formula that I like a lot. The back flap provides an excellent foldout chart entitled "Book Binding Essentials" - and it explains, just as it says, the basics to get you going on your journal". This is an extremely well presented, well thought out volume. I am always particularly pleased with the format and high quality of Lark Books. When they publish a book - they make everything pretty special.

The table of contents pretty well spells it out:

Design Inventory

Personal Journals

The Basics

Bookbinding Instruction (16 different methods)

Cover Instructions

Journals Past and Present

What the Tale Of Contents does not tell you about, however, is the wealth of ideas for journaling that the book includes. Watercolor, pencil, writing paired with sketches - so many great ideas on how to fill the pages of the journal that you make. I love this book - as I do all of Gwen Diehn's work. If you want to start your own journaling adventure this is the book to get. It's chock full of information and ideas that are beautifully presented. Just paging through the book can make you happy - and motivated.

For me journaling is a way to to gauge where I am by being able to see, and read about, where I've been. Journaling gives a perspective on my life that I find invaluable. I bet it would be for you to! Check out the price too - it's a real bargain now!

Note:

I am honestly not sure if this book was provided to me by the publisher (since I do review books for Lark from time to time)for the purpose of an honest review - or if I purchased the book myself (which is what I think I did). Either way, my review is honest - I loved the book!

FOCUS: PASSAGES Your World, Your Images from LARK BOOKS

2011-01-11T12:58:00.000-08:00

* * * * *

Series: FOCUS
Publisher: Lark
Published: October 2010
180 pages
ISBN: 1-60059-680-0
ISBN13: 9781600596803
$14.95 US
$17.95 Canadian
Hard
7 X 7

It has taken me too long to get to this review because I get the lost in the pages of this little gem every time I open it. I've always "had a thing" about portals and doorways. They have such an allegorical place in my heart...sort of like circles which I have adopted as my personal 'signature'.

This is a particularly lovely small book of photographs - a collection of the most wonderful portals and doorways in all of their mysterious and fanciful guises. The weather is too wet and dark to facilitate great photos but I have added a few that may give you an idea of what's on the pages of this delightful little tome.

As always Lark Books does an exceptional job with photography and design. From the 'carved' portal on the cover to the last page of photographs - this book is a great diversion for a gray, cold day. If pathways, portals & doorways intrigue you, as they do me, this book is most definitely for you!

note:
this book was provided to me by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was received

Petty Magic: Being the Memoirs and Confessions of Miss Evelyn Harbinger, Temptress and Troublemaker by Camille DeAngelis

2011-01-10T21:09:00.000-08:00

* * * *

This book was a departure for me because I seldom read general fiction anymore, despite having been previously smitten with suspense novels and thrillers, I have become very comfortably ensconced in the historical fiction genre and the informative pages of arts & crafts books. That being said the description of this book was intriguing and I had to give it a try.

I also have to be honest. I didn't think I was going to like this book when I first got my hands on it - despite the tantalizing description. Initially, I thought it might be a bit too glib for my taste but within a few pages I was hooked. This is a magical tale of white witches, espionage (during WW11, love, liaisons & family- an utterly delightful fantasy. Ms. DeAngelis has such a pure, quirky imagination! I ended up not being able to put the book down, but devoured the story page by delightful page. I loved it and it was, indeed, a magical mystery tour through the author's eyes.

Imagine: a earthy witch named, appropriately enough, Eve. Eve falls in love with a mortal man during WW11 when they worked together against the Nazis. Her love is lost in a mere mortal sort of way, leaving Eve to carry on. The reader is introduced to Eve at the ripe, but not necessarily old, age of 149. The catch is that, with enough "oomph", Eve is able shed her older skin - allowing her to become youthful once again. Seducing young mortal men works fine as a diversion to her 'golden' years until one day she meets a young man who reminds her of departed love. Could it be that he has "come back" for her?

This is one of the most imaginative, rollicking fun books that I have read in some time. A delightful departure from the mundane world of every day. Richly whimsical and off beat - this book is a little gem.

"The Tudor Secret : The Elizabeth 1 Spymaster Chronicles" by C.W. Gortner

2011-01-08T17:49:00.000-08:00

* * * *

I am a real fan of C.W. Gortner's work and was thrilled to be given an opportunity to read and review this latest book. This volume, the first of a chronicle series, introduces us to the character of Brandon Prescott. Brandon was found as a newborn and was taken into the Dudley household by their herbalist and nurse, Alice. The Dudley family is wealthy, powerful& avaricious. Close to the boy King - Edward VI - the Dudleys have wielded their power over the throne and are poised to keep Henry VIII's daughters Mary and Elizabeth from ever reaching the throne by marrying their youngest son, Guilford, son to Lady Jane Grey (daughter of Henry VIII's sister, Mary). Jane was, of course, later called the 9 days queen - which tells you what happened to the grand Dudley scheme.

Brandon is brought up in the midst of the Dudley family; treated as an orphan and scape goat of the Dudley boys, but, when the family is away at Court, Brandon has access to the many books owned by the Dudleys and schools himself in languages and history. Suddenly Brandon finds himself packed up and on the way to Court to serve as Robert Dudley's squire as payment for his upbringing. As soon as he is presented at Court he quickly becomes embroiled in a game of power and politics. An overheard comment that he "bears the mark of the Rose" brings back the pain of not knowing who his mother. Brandon wonders what the comment - and the hidden birthmark on his thigh- mean. Does someone know who his family is? Brandon begins to search for answers to his lineage. He learns to live by his quick wits. When he is introduced to the Lady Elizabeth he quickly becomes aligned with her & aids her as she seeks to gain access to her dying brother, Edward, in order to say good-bye. Access to the dying boy king was rigorously controlled by the Dudley clan, but Brandon plots a scheme to allow Elizabeth to see her brother. Along the way, Brandon is kidnapped, and ultimately brought to the home of William Cecil who sets him a task and enmeshes him in the world of spycraft. Sir Fracis Walsingham is portrayed as a shadowy figure whose presence adds to the winding turns of the plot. The true heir to the throne of England after Edward is Mary, and she finally discovers that her brother has died - the Dudleys did not make that information public for some time after his death - and gathers her forces to march on London to reclaim her crown from Guilford Dudley and Jane Grey.

This book is not as large a book as C.W. Gortner's earlier historical novels about Juana of Castile (The Last Queen) and Catherine de Medici (The Confessions of Catherine De Medici), nor is it, perhaps, as historically based. That being said, it does, indeed, carry the true flavor of the time,speaks of real persons, events and history and you don't have to reach reach too far to see how the plot could have been plausible. Who is Brandon Prescott (answered in the book)? How does he come to work for William Cecil and what will his next assignments be? This book really sets up the series and I can't wait for the next volume!

This is another winner for Mr.Gortner and I am now eagerly awaiting the next book in this chronicle series! Any C.W. Gortner fan, historical fiction fan or Tudor fan will be thrilled with this excellent read!

PS: If you have not yet read C.W. Gortner's other books - give yourself a present and read them. They are both 5 star'ers in my book ! Historically accurate, incredibly well written - just great reads!

note: this book was provided to me by Amazon for the purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was received.

"Drawn To Stitch" by Gwen Hedley

2011-01-02T13:46:00.000-08:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 144 pages
Publisher: Interweave Press (October 12, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1596682337

This book was a holiday gift from DH - it had been on my "wish list" for some time but it was worth the wait! Gwen Hedley is a well known surface designer and embroiderer. Her previous book was called "Surfaces For Stitch" -is now also on my "wish list"!

This is a book about creative vision. How to interpret the world around you as being ripe with possibilities for stitching. From photo, to drawing to stitching by both machine and by hand Ms. Hedley's vision takes you on a visual journey. You will begin to see so many every day surfaces as possibilities for translation into stitch. The book is visually powerful, beautifully photographed and well thought out. Each chapter takes from the progression of thought, photograph, drawing and stitching.You will discover new ways to interpret your environment and discover new opportunities for creative challenges.

This book will, I believe, appeal to a wide variety of artists :quilters, embroiderers (machine and hand), visual journalers, mixed media artists, photographers, as well as color and textural artisans will find the techniques pertinent. There is much to delight and explore in this book and I think most creative minds will find something of interest among the pages.

Yep - it's a 5 star for me - and I think it would be for you too.

"The Winter Sea" by Susanna Kearsley

2010-12-28T13:01:00.000-08:00

* * * * *

Paperback: 544 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks, Inc. (December 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1402241376
Genre: Historical Fiction/ Romance
Source: Sourcebooks

I knew that this was going to be a special book in the first pages. Most often it takes me 20-50 pages to convince me that I am going to want to blaze through a book - but this one was different. "The Winter Sea" is, indeed, both a historical novel as well as a romance. The book comes with a "side order "of very well done paranormal, genetic memory, interest thrown in for good measure.

Basic Plot:

A well know historical fiction writer, Carrie McClelland, travels to Scotland to research the material for her book in progress and to get a feel for the area where the main action will take place. Her main character is Sophia Patterson, named for an ancestor who, coincidentally, had lived in Scotland in the early 18th century and had been an relative of the Duchess of Slains castle. The Duchess was an instrumental figure in the times of the Jacobite rebellion and, Sophia resided with at Slains Castle at this time.

The book is really two stories in one: the 'old 'story playing out during 1708 and the Jacobite rebellion, the 'new' in present day Scotland.

Carries rents a small cottage from a local man , Jimmy Keith (who retains the decided burr of the local dialect) who has two sons, Stuart and Graham. Both sons begin to fall in love with Carrie - although only one of the sons 'feels right'. As Carrie's research intensifies, and her need for for more information increases, she calls on her father to fill in details about their ancestor's story. Gradually as her research and writing, as well as her love interests, progress, Carries finds herself swept up in more than just words on on paper. She finds herself caught in a time warp of sorts. Her flashes of insight feel more like memory than writing and her love for one of the brothers feels more compelling than just a present day love interest. As Carrie writes her book she finds that she is, in fact, recounting her own story - a story that began during the Jacobite rebellion and a love that has lasted through time. Her flashes of deja vu are more than just images - they are images that are filled with remembrance and as real to her as her present day life as a writer

Susanna Kearsley is an amazing writer. She weaves the two plots flawlessly and fluidly. Well researched history about the Jacobite rebellion and it's main characters blend effortlessly with present day information about Scotland. What a gifted writer Ms. Kearsley is! This is one book that I wish had gone on - it took me away and put me in with the characters. I couldn't put it down - what more can a book do for a reader?

If you have never read anything by Susanna Kearsley this is THE place to start. What a treat you will have before you! Her previous work 'Mariana' is another well crafted, slightly other worldly novel that had much the same effect on me as I read it. Oh! I want more from this author!

I can compare my enthusiasm about this book to my love for other authors such as Sarah Dunnett, Sharon Kay Penman, Susan Higginbotham and Vanora Bennett to name just a few.

Note: this book was provided to me by the publisher for the sole purpose of honest review. No other remuneration was received

"The Queen Of Last Hopes (The Story of Margaret of Anjou)" by Susan Higginbotham

2010-12-13T13:04:00.000-08:00

* * * *

First of all I have to confess that Susan Higginbotham's books are among my favorites in historical fiction. I am not associated with either the author or the publisher, Sourcebooks Landmark. I am just a happy reader!

This book follows the story of Margaret of Anjou - also known as the "mother" of the house of Lancaster- and her marriage to King Henry VI who, after 8 years of marriage descended into the oblivion of madness and religious obsession- leaving the rule of his country to Margaret . Margaret in turn protected the interests of her son, Edward of Lancaster and refused to accede to the claims of the Yorkist faction. Margaret's fight to win the rights of her son and the Lancaster line led to her becoming a vilified woman during her life and history has not been any kinder.

Susan Higginbotham's novel brings the life of this rare, female ruler, into focus and sheds a kinder light on the history of this strong woman. Although the outcome of her life still brings to mind a domineering, and inflexible woman, this book provides us with a sense of the back story to Margaret's fierce determination - even in the face of defeat. King Henry is portrayed as religious devotee and his mental frailty paints a portrait of a sensitive man not strong enough to be King. Edward is a pliable youth whose life is cut terribly short through his mother's staunch fight to preserve the House of Lancaster at all costs.

As with all of her books, Susan Higginbotham's research is impeccable. Her grasp of the the characters and their place in history is remarkable. British historical figures, with their many titles and names, can read like a quagmire at times. I have never been able to sort them all out but Ms. Higginbotham grasps all of the nuance, names and titles and makes them easy to follow though the narrative.

In this book, rather than the dominatrix of Britain, Margaret of Anjou is portrayed as good - almost too nice. Most likely the reality of her character probably lies somewhere between vilification and saint hood. I thoroughly enjoyed this book - as I have all of Susan Higginbotham's work. I couldn't put it down. It should have wide appeal to anyone who loves historical fiction - especially British historical fiction!

note: this book was provided to me by the publisher for the purposes of an honest review. No other remuneration was received.

"Child of The Northern Spring" by Persia Woolley

2010-12-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

* * * * *

I seem to be hitting a streak of 5 star reads. Then again I generally chose to read books that I hope will reach that mark - so that might be the reason I have so many winners! This book is, most assuredly, a winner.

"Child of the Northern Spring" is book one of the Guinevere Trilogy where the Legend begins. Written by Persia Woollsey this is a thoroughly new view of the Arthurian Legend as seen from the perspective of Guinevere. It is, in my opinion, the best variation on this theme that I have read - dare I say that I enjoyed this book better than the classic by T.H. White's 'The Once and Future King" (to whom Ms. Woolley pays homage in her well writeen 'author's notes')?Yes! I have to confess that I found T.H. White's book a tad difficult to get into. This books sweeps you away from the very first page.

You will find a remarkable vision of Guinevere - passionate, strong and independent. Not quite forced into the marriage with Arthur as choosing it as the least of several less appealing choices we watch their romance and mutual respect develop as the pages turn. You will find Merlin - somewhat less prominent than in other versions and perhaps a bit less menacing although no less mysterious. Of course you also discover another variation of the Lady of The Lake, Morgan Le Fey, as well as Sir Gawain and the rest of the cast of strong Arthurian figures.

I have to admit to never having been enthralled as I wanted to be with the Tales of Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table - I think it was just a period of history that never set my wheels turning. The Dark Ages come to light in this book. Ms. Woolsey brings light to the to this time period and she paints vivid images of what life was like at the time of the 'Celtic Renaissance' when the many Celtic tribes revolted against marauding Anglo-Saxons. The author describes these the men of these tribes as a " rugged, wild, stormy lot with a long tradition of queens who were co-rulers with their husbands" (also from the Author's Notes).

This book just took me back in time - a time machine in my hands. Yes, this may sound a bit over the top but I truly loved this book and am eagerly awaiting the release of the next two books in this trilogy; "Queen Of the Summer Starts and " Guinevere, Legend in Autumn". All published by Source Books/ Landmark. This has become one of my favorite historical books. If you love historical fiction, the Arthurian Legends, early British History or just a completely enjoyable journey back in time - this is a book that you should be wanting to read!

Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was received

"Katherine The Queen" by Linda Porter

2010-12-04T12:06:00.000-08:00

* * * * *

First - apologies for the odd formatting of this post - too many broken spaces! I edited it from a word doc and this is the odd result!

Katherine Parr is really an interesting figure - a woman who was ahead of her Tudor time. She was highly intelligent, well educated and well read - and she survived her oft married husband - Henry VIII.

There has not been that much written about her life however - until now. This book is a really well written, thoroughly researched and utterly captivating glimpse into the life of this remarkable Queen. Linda Porter has a remarkable way with biographies. They come to life under her pen. I have been a life long fan of historical fiction - based on British history. Some time ago I decided that I wanted to fill in the fictitious gaps with non-fiction. This book reads as easily as fiction. It's a pleasure - not pedantic, not dry - but completely easy and pleasurable to read. It took me only a few days to read this book and it is a book that will remain in my collection.

The book covers :

The early life of Katherine Parr,

Her two previous marriages (I had not heard much about the first before reading this book)

How she made her way into Court life and how Henry decided to make her his sixth life

Her relationship with Henry's three children and her own step-daughter from her second marriage (another fact that had not registered in my head before)

How she narrowly missed being another statistic for murdered Queens of England.

Her life after Henry's death.

Life with Thomas Seymour and the kerfuffle with Princess Elizabeth and Thomas Seymour.

Her death giving birth to her longed for child.

This book covers it all and does so in a most enjoyable way. If you are an Anglophile as I am this book is, simply, a must read. It's a should read for anyone who enjoys biographies, British Royalty and British history.

"From Print To Stitch" by Janet Edmonds

2010-11-28T15:33:00.000-08:00

* * * * *

remember that all of the photos can be double clicked for a larger image

I have been so fortunate of late to be able to review some truly amazing books. I think I am slowly getting back in line and feel more up to reviewing some of these treasures. This one truly deserves five starts - as did Angie Hughes book that I reviewed on this blog on October 10th of this year. I apologize for the glare in most of the pictures but the day was dark and very wet and taking the book outside would have made for even worse results I think!

"From Print To Stitch" by Janet Edmonds, published by Search Press - is one of those books that you know you will be returning to time and time again. If you love cloth and love to print and stitch (as the title says) then this is a book that should be in your library.

Ms. Edmonds previously published book was called was called "Beginners Guide to Embroidered Boxes" and now I am afraid that I have to get this one too - her work is so exciting. The contents page of "From Print To Stitch" is a good introduction to fabulous techniques that lurk within the book's pages. She thoroughly covers materials and tools, how to develop a theme in your work and a short but very well done lesson on color and color theory.

The next section is on printing and the topics include: block printing, lino cuts, mono printing and how to make great impressions from found objects. Naturally the next section is about stitching. Hand stitching and machine stitching. One of my favorite sections in this part of the book is her gallery of hand stitches. Lots of grist for the artistic mill in here.

The techniques for working with lino, sponges and a host of other easily found printing methods are thoroughly explained and photographed with step-by-step instructions. In this section of the book I am especially fond her use of collagraph prints and I am eager to give this a try. The author describes collagraph as "made from a block that is created from low tech collaged material". Can you spell play day?! This book is just chock full of really fun techniques that are bound to spark your creativity and give your many hours of fun - you may not look at plain cloth in the same way again. Yes. I am really enjoying this excellent book!

The photo below on the right highlights one of my favorite techniques from the book - a variety of stitch worked button hole rings that Ms. Edmonds worked over a variety of forms - look that texture!

"The Passionate Brood" by Margaret Campbell Barnes

2010-11-23T13:58:00.000-08:00

* * * *

I have to admit to enjoying each book that I have read of Margaret Campbell Barne's. "The Passionate Brood" is a reprint - another excellent reprint by Sourcebooks Landmark - and I am so pleased that they did bring this excellent novel back! This book was first published in 1944 under the original title of "Like Us They Lived". To my way of thinking this is, more or less, true - the more things change the more they (and we ) stay the same. There have been many reprints lately that have stirred up memories of the books I grew up hiding under the covers with a flash light as a child. to read later into the night that officially allowed (yes, I am truly very myopic to this day!) My love and passion for this particular time period were originally written in the 40's and 50's. This book concentrates on the time frame of 1189-1199 when the Crusades were in full swing and many knights and men of means left for long periods of time fight in the lands of Outremer- thus the strong women they left behind were, in effect, the rulers of their husbands lands in many cases.

This particular book recounts the friendship of King Richard the Lionheart and, one is lead to believe, his boyhood friend Robin (later to become the Robin Hood of so many legends). The book is introduced as a novel of King Richard and Robin and yet Robin's strongest appearances in the book are at the beginning - and at the end of the book. Perhaps this is the true way it all went - the case in point does not make it a totally implausible theory even though the reality of Robin Hood, to my knowledge, had never been proven. I like the way Robin is presented in this book and it makes for a certain conceivability that I believe is lacking in some other historical novels that bring Robin into their pictures.

2010 is, I think, the year of Eleanor - Eleanor of Aquitaine - because there have been so many excellent title released that have been written about with this powerful and enigmatic woman. "The Passionate Brood" also brings Eleanor into the picture as a strong, powerful and capable female heroine,and we are also introduced to Eleanor's daughter Johanna (Richard's beloved sister) and Richard's wife, Berengaria of Navarre. Filled with the ruthlessness that was Richard's style during his sojourn in the 3rd crusade and his dispassionate murder of thousands of Saracens this book teams with the passion of the birth of the British Isles. Indeed, I think it can easily be construed that the history of Richard The Lionheart and the beginning of England history are as intertwined as can possibly be.

The Plantagenets have always been a personal favorite family of mine - as far as British history goes - and I think Ms. Barne's did an able job of conveying the ruthlessness of times and the sometimes greatness of Richard the Lionheart. Although Robin Hood seems to play a very secondary role in this book I think the role that he was given is pivotal to an understanding of Richard and his personality. As I mentioned, although it has never been proven there is much conjecture that Robin Hood was at some point in Richard's life a friend - and from that point of view I think the books clearly reads well for the part Robin might have had in the destiny of Britain.

Yes, I am a huge fan of Margaret Campbell Barnes - and yes, I think you should buy and read this excellent novel. I doubt you would regret it one bit !

Please note: this book was provided to me by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was received

"The Forever Queen" by Helen Hollick

2010-11-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

As most of you who have followed my reviews for any length of time know I am a real European history buff - especially British history. I have to admit, however, that I have never known much about the early history of Britain and very little about Anglo Saxon history. Therefore, I was quite happy to have been given an opportunity to read "The Forever Queen" whose time frame is 1066. Weaving a plot with many diverse characters, warring factions in areas that no longer even exist and a very involved plot takes great skill and dexterity to to well - the reader, after all, must be able to follow along. Helen Hollick has pulled this technical feat off with adroitness.

The story of "The Forever Queen" recounts the history of Queen Emma, who, although her story is shrouded in a place where the life of a of women, even a queen, had little value in recounting- is a story that is fascinating, compelling and thoroughly enjoyable and instructive. When people use the word instructive it gives a sense of dryness I suppose but I use the word 'instructive' as one of living history - wonderful readability, enthralling and excellent historical story telling.

The author notes that Queen Emma's history is even harder to accurately piece together that that of the later, but better know, Queen Eleanor of Aquaintaine. Emma was of Norman birth - a link between the factions of the Normans and the English. Emma's true name was Alfgifu, but she seems to have preferred to keep and use her given name of Emma for all but State and official documents.

Emma was married early, in 1022, to the cruel Aethelred - as a King he was, useless. corrupt and ineffective at ruling. As a man he was even more cruel - I think all in all I would consider him a misogynist. From the author's notes we read that "....Emma is the only woman to have been an anointed, crowned and reigning queen to two different Saxon Kings, yet she is barely known in history...". After the death of King Aethelred II in 1016 Emma re-married , albeit cautiously, to the Danish King Cnut (the Great) had been born about 994 and was crowned King in 1014. His brother, Harald become the King of the Danes at this time as well. . For a fascinating historical synopsis of King Cnut see Wikipedia.For additional details on King Cnut and Queen Emma have a look here. The author, in her very well done Author's notes also comments that during the Victorian times King Cnut's name was anglicized to Canute to sound more realistically English.

It is said that King Cnut - who Emma came to love, admire and respect very much had a daughter by a previous mistress that he brought to England to live at Court. Queen Emma had a son King Aetherlred, Edward, who was begotten by more of a rape than an act of love. He was known to torture small animals as a youth and was ultimately sent to the North to become King of the Danes to keep him away from Queen Emma - who he disliked - but Cnut never wanted her to know that truth. Edward ruled the Danes with the ruthlessness by which he had become known. A daughter was born to King Cnut by a earlier mistress whom he brought to England. It is said that Edward allowed her to be drowned in a mill race he watched - it was after this occurence that he was sent to Denmark. As a a side note - Queen Emma is the great aunt of the famous William the Conqueror.

As you may be able to guess by now I thoroughly loved this book. It provided me with so much well researched early history of Britain that I had never known about - or had chosen not to read about I suppose. Helen Hollick is, in my opinion, a master story teller who carefully researches her subjects. Most all of her book is true from a historical point of view and, where people, places , names or events have been changed she notes that in her well done Author's notes. For a period in history that has so little factual information written about it I am astounded at what an amazing book has resulted.

I think that anyone who is a fan of medieval and/or Anglo-Saxon history owes it to themselves to read this book. Once you start - you will not want to stop. There is, of course, a tremendous amount of history in this book but it also includes information of what sorts of medicines were used by the common people - or the royal ones too for that matter. There is also a entirely strong vision of what the feudal system was like at the time as well as how the continuous wars and political instability of the region had such a deleterious effect on this part of history. This book paints a vivid portrait of the time as well as of a Queen who has had such a lasting effect on the history of England. It's truly an amazing book that I am very grateful to have read!

Go get your copy! I can't imagine that you would regret it!

disclosure note: This book was provided to me by the publisher for the sole purpose of review. No other remuneration was received.

5.25 inch (13.3350 cm) Treasures From Lark Studio Series

2010-11-04T17:02:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

please remember that you can double click on all of the photos for closer up views!

Four of the delicious titles offered.

These books are little treasure trove of inspiration. I really enjoy each and every one. These books are chock-a-block filled with color, form, innovation, simplicity, unique complexity and complete originality originality. I decided that some photos would indeed, speak a million words in reviewing these books. The covers are all unique and I love the size of the books - but you have to seem soeme of the insides in order to really get an idea of the joy that each is filled with.

tile

pendant

pendant - perfect for the season -

I had thought I would post this on Halloween until surgery interrupted my posting schedue!

pendant

Ah! now this chairs looks interestingly comfortable!

colorful and lush

These hand made books are just amazing -

sparking my own imaginition to maybe give a handmader journal a try

one book

What a totally unique concept to the idea of bookmaking!

Open and fold.

I just could not resist the lovely stitching on this one!

A joyful fairly tale of a book!

OOPS - my favorite tile at the last...how'd that happen ??!!

Now how affordable are these little luxuries?!

disclosure note these books were supplied to me for the purpose of an honest review. No other remuneration was received

"Taming The Wolf" by Lydia Dare

2010-10-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

* * * *

'Taming The Wolf' is touted as a paranormal , Regency, historical, romance. I might question the historical part, although this book does have a good historical flavor. Generally speak I don't / won't read strictly romance novels - since my long ago years as a bookstore manager left me cold to 'Harlinquin-esqe' bodice ripper sort of books. Of course they did always sell well and we seemed to sell out of Barbara Cartland books very quickly.

Lydia Dare is actually a writing team - and they do a wonderful job I should add. When I saw this book I was really wondering how I was going to be able to read it - the cover screamed bodice ripper and my blood ran cold. I thought that I would let Sourcebooks down and not be able to read the book!

I was really wrong! Once I began reading I had to zip through this fiendishly enticing little tome. What could be more charming than a combination of witches, werewolves and love? The books follows the romance of Caitlin (a witch whose speciality is seeing people's futures) and Lord Brimsworth , a/k/a/ Dashiel or Dash, who, as luck would have it, in a moment of wanton desire during a full moon, marked Caitlin with a playful nip on her neck.- thereby marking her as his mate for life. Alas and alack, Caitlin has no plans to include Lord Brimsworth in any future life of hers ....she cannot see his future at all. in her coven, Caitlin's gift is to see the future lives that people will lead. Another witch, Elspeth has the power to create weather, while another member can heal all sickness' an ills. The intrepid Lord B., knowing that he must romance Caitlin or live a life alone since Caitlin was already marked as his -follows his lady love to Scotland. Along the way he meets - and growls at - a suitor of Caitlin's -gets counseling from an elder fellow Lycan (werewolf) and has a variety of wolfish adventures that one can only imagine!

After their arrival in Scotland Dash asks Caitlin's father for permission to marry his daughter ,and only child. Caitlin's father quickly agrees to Dash's suit and gives his blessing for their union. Thankfully by this time Caitlin has allowed herself to fall for the handsome , fleet footed brute after she discovers that her mother (a witch herself) had also not been able to see her father's future. It's all in the subtle signs I guess!

This book was an unexpected delight. A fluff book that was thoroughly enjoyable - and well written. It was a real head's up for me to not judge a book by it's proverbial, bodice ripper, cover! II simply had to give this book 4 stars for it's originality and fast paced fun! If you want a light read that is filled with imaginative fun that takes place in an unusual world where werewolves are Lords and witches are multi-talented and are generally accepted - get a copy of this quirky little gem!

Note:This book was kindly provided to me by Sourcebooks/Casablanca for the sole purpose of honest review. No other remuneration was received

Sometimes The Best Laid Plans....

2010-10-18T21:08:00.000-07:00

The steps that I use to go to and from work ... I'll be back there soon

I had several planned reviews that I thought I would have had time to post. No such luck! For any of my readers, publishers or authors who are looking for promised reviews.... I am going to be a bit behind due to back surgery tomorrow.

I promise that all reviews will be posted as soon as I can once again put fingers to keyboard and write something that won't embarrass myself !

See you soon.

"Stitch, Cloth, Paper & Paint : Mixed Media Ideas and Inspiration" by Angie Hughes

2010-10-10T17:08:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

I am very fortunate that Search Press sent this book to me for review. I say fortunate because I get to drool over the book but also because, when I stopped to look at my own library, I was astounded at how many books I own that are from Search Press. Their books are lushly illustrated and always so well done.

"Stitch, Cloth, Paper and Paint" could not have arrived at a better time for me personally. I was feeling somehow 'unfaithful' to my quilting roots by becoming so enamored with paper lately - this book happily combines all of the things I love working with.....cloth, paint and paper.

Angie Hughes is a name I have known - she writes often for a favorite magazine - Cloth, Paper Scissors. Her work is dynamic, colorful and terribly well executed. She describes herself as an embroiderer. The book opens with a thorough description (with photos) of the material selection that she utilizes most frequently - both what she calls 'base' fabrics and 'decorative'. Next up are great descriptions, that I especially appreciated, about paper and cardstock. A section that is chock full of information about her use of embellishments and paints is included as well. I really enjoy reading about Angie Hughes process - a section that is well illustrated and contains a full of description of her techniques for reparing the base fabric, and then layering tissues and other fabrics round out the first part of the book.

Other sections of the book - all equally well done include:

machine stitching

hand stitching

adding paints

making your own embellishments from many varied materials

Detailed instructions are provided for several really good projects that combine all of the techniques covered in the book. They include a "Sunflower" book wrap, fabulous "Indian Artifact" and one of my favorites a "Sundial Triptych" that I want to try making soon - and it somewhat unusual for me to want to make something directly from a process sort of book.

If you get the idea that I really liked this book, you are correct. It is worthy of the 5 stars I gave it and it is a book that I don't think any artist or mixed media aficionado would regret adding to their library.

Note: this book was provided to me by Search Press for the purpose of an unbiased review. No other remuneration was received.

"Ultimate Jewelers Guide" by Joanna Gollberg

2010-09-20T12:10:00.000-07:00

* * * * *

please remember that all photos may be double clicked for a larger image

I am generally a bit skeptical when I see a book that touts itself as 'the complete' or 'the ultimate' guide to whatever subject is being discussed within it's pages. Having had he pleasure to review books for Lark over some time has given me an insight however - yes, there can be rather complete - or dare I say - ultimate guides. I was especially interested to see what the pages of this book held since my new metal mania has hit me hard. Mind you, I can't see myself making jewelry - but I have also learned to never say never as, with me at least, one never knows! This book, much to my delight has many pages devoted simply to using metal, annealing metal, working metal and finishing mental - all great information for a newly born, metal fascinated, being that I am. This book includes ample discussions of tools - varieties and suggestions for using; gem settings and styles of cuts; metal working techiniques such as hammering, firing, annealing - truly this is a book that gives you all of the information you might need to begin your journey into the world of making jewelry. At the time I was not sure what I would think about this book - but now I know. It is a lovely, beautifully presented book that definitely is assured of 5 stars in my opinion! It is, in fact an 'ultimate 'source for all things jewelry making related! Well worth having in your library!

I had wanted to know more about the repousse technique - and here it is right in the pages of this book!

Tools and how to use them correctly

Just what I needed - information about heating and annealing metals!

More tool time - my favorite time. I have always had a deep affection

for tools and gadgets thanks to my engineer father

Hammering metal - more info that was right up my current alley!

Ah! Gems...would that I could afford to play with these beauties! If you want to and can afford to though this book manages to tell you all you need to know about it to get started.

note:

This book was provided to me by the publisher for the sole purpose of an honest review.

No other remuneration was received