"City Quilts" by Cherrie House

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"City Quilts" by Cherrie House is new book hot off the presses at C&T Publishing. Since I love quilts that are both simple and make use of solid color fabrics I knew from the beginning that this book would hold interest for me. Having grown up in New York City the photos in the book were quite evocative for me. I think that Ms. House did a remarkable job of designing simple but dramatic quilts reminiscent of every day city living images. Although I love using solid colors I think that the quilts in this book also lend themselves equally well to using prints.

The beginning of the book includes a well done section on the basics - I like everything about this book and am looking forward to beginning one of the patterns. Also included is an excellent section on color choices, a bit of theory  and tips on developing your ability to  "see" patterns in everyday sights. I have collected quite a quilt library over the years and so there are not that many new books that come out that I truly want to spend the money on to add to my ever expanding collection - but this one is a good bet for your permanent collection! I don't think it will disappoint!

Going on the premise that a picture really is worth a thousand words I have included scans of some the wonderful quilts in this book - and the great photos that led to the creation of the pattern!

"Fabric Dyer's Dictionary " by Linda Johansen

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remember that all photos may be double clicked for a closer look

This is a new book that arrived today from C&T Publishing. Despite the fact the the author, Linda Johansen, and I share a last name -I don't know her. Ratz! My favorite dyeing books have always been Anne Johnston's and Elin Noble's. I started dyeing cloth by using them and always refer back to them. This book has a new place next to these others in my library. This is a book that I really, really like. It is written clearly, concisely and is exceptionally well illustrated. The book is laid out well. The basics are, of course, covered in the beginning of the book with detailed handling and mixing instructions. She also goes over the importance of record keeping - something that I was never very good at doing. I just always loved the kismet of the process - I liked never knowing what would happen. She compares the clear, muted and black colors offered by both ProChem and Dharma Trading. It's a handy little table.

Each page details instructions for using fat quarters, half yards and yards of fabrics.

This is a nice, handy way to present the needed information.

The pages below are for creating a rainbow. She delineates the process for clear, muted and dark rainbow colors. Clear, concise and easy to understand.

Linda Johansen has had 5 books, I think it is, published through C&T Publishing. I am so pleased to have this as an addition to my dyeing library. I think it's a book that will please anyone who has an interest in hand dyeing their own fabrics. Available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, your wonderful local book store or directly through C&T Publishing.

The end of the book is devote to some specialty techniques; tie dying, rolling, patterning, layering, using dye powders and pleating and dipping

"The French Mistress" by Susan Holloway Scott

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Susan Holloway Scott is another author whose works I have become addicted to recently. The period that covers the reign of King Charles II (1630-1685) has only recently become interesting to me. For some reason the Jacobite era - and that of King Charles I have not interested me. King Charles II, however, seems like he was a very interesting fellow - albeit a notorious womanizer who kept so many mistresses that I can't imagine how he didn't lose count! The author has written a series of fascinating books that recount the stories of some of Charles' most famous mistresses. This one is a bout Louise de Keroualle, daughter of an impoverished French nobleman, who leaves her family's crumbling chateau to enter the service of Madame D'Orleans (sister of King Charles II) wife to King Louis' sadistic, cruel brother the Duc D'Orleans. Louise learns much of value at the French Court but her fresh, youthful beauty goes largely un-noticed in the lascivious court of King Louis XIV.

Louise remain largely alone until her mistress is allowed to visit her brother, King Charles, in England. The English Court impresses Louise as being very different than the French Court, much more relaxed and less formal. During their stay in England Louise forms an admiration and crush on King Charles. Upon their return to France her mistress dies unexpectedly from what is largely believed to have been a poisoning. Louise is suddenly cut adrift - not knowing where she will next be able to find a position. She cannot go home without having completed her task of securing an auspicious and wealthy marriage. Most of Madame's other maids-of-honor have already returned to their country homes - or have been taken in elsewhere. Louise waits.

Ultimately it Louis that decides to send Louise to the English Court as a spy and it does not take long for her to be noticed by his Majesty, King Charles. The book recounts the story of their love, how Louise rises to become Charles' maîtresse en titre  (favorite mistress), how she has a son by Charles - with Charles ultimately ennobling both mother and child. Louise becomes the Duchess of Portsmouth and her son Charles, among other titles, become the Duke of Richmond. The book also chronicles the political tensions of this era. Louise is scorned because she is both French and a Catholic. She considers returning to France but can;t leave "her Charles". Upon Charles death at only 54  and his death left Louise de Keroualle utterly devastated. Ultimately she does return to France and lives out her life for another 50 years after the death of "her Charles". She never marries.

Charles left no legitimate heirs to his throne since his wife, the suffering and very patient Catherine of Braganza, was unable to have children . He did acknowledge a dozen children by his mistresses however. Five by Barbara Villiers (Lady Castlemaine) and his son by Louise deKeroualle (Duchess of Portsmouth). In fact, an interesting tidbit of information is that Princess Diana was descended from one of Charles illegitimate sons and, in the event Price William inherits the British Throne he will be the first monarch to be directly descended from King Charles II

As you may be able to tell. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am searching out more of Susan Scott Holloway's very entertaining and enlightening book to add to my reading collection !!

"Journal Junkies Workshop. Visual Ammunition For The Art Addict" by Eric M. Scott and David R. Modler

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I have kept written journals for more than 20 years, but at some point I realized that I wanted my journals to contain more images and color. I always had added copies of photographs to my journals - but I wanted to learn to make art in my books. Art that make me remember my feelings at the time more completely when I went back to review my journal books years later.

I have been doing visual/art journaling for several years now. Oddly enough I still keep a more private written journal but my visual albums are just as I had wanted them to be. I am still learning and growing though so I am always on  the lookout for new books about journals and art journaling. 

There  are so many wonderful techniques out there to learn! I learned about "The Journal Junkies Workbook" from a recommendation on Amazon - after all of the years that I have been using Amazon they have found some real winning titles that I have been glad to hear about from them.

I am a book sniffer and paper 'fondler'. If I am planning to use a book a lot I like to enjoy the feel of the paper, the scent of the paper and the typeface used in the book. This book utilizes a great quality paper with a smooth, semi-gloss finish. I have found that most titles published by North Light Books are really well produced. Great quality and very attractive.

 What I especially like about the techniques in this book is that they are, for the most part, simple techniques that are well executed and exceptionally well illustrated. A fast look at the Table Of Content
will give you a good idea about the scope of this book.  Check out the forward on page 7 written by Kathy Eldon - very moving. Most of the included techniques are pretty straight forward and not overly labor intensive - illustrating great ways to use generally easily available tools in inventive ways. I am truly enjoying this book and I think that you would like it too - if you have an interest in art, visual journals, art, journals, collage or mixed media design. 

"The Queen's Pawn" by Christy English

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I was delighted when I was given an opportunity to read and review this book!  Because there is such a dearth of information about Eleanor of Aquitaine I especially enjoy books that delve into what her life's story might have been. The additional high point of this book  is that it includes the story of Princess Alais (the 'pawn'), daughter of King Louis of France (who was also Eleanor's first husband) by a previous marriage. Alais is seldom a character in books since even less is known about her life than about Eleanor's.

Ms. English has done a stellar job at recreating a part of Eleanor's life - after she left King Louis and was married to King Henry.  Princess Alais was betrothed to Eleanor and Henry's oldest son Richard and she was sent to England to be brought up in the ways of the English Court prior to her marriage. She falls in love with her intended but feels betrayed when she discovers him in a compromising position with one of Eleanor's maids-of-honor. Ultimately Alias comes to feel betrayed by not only her fiance but also by Eleanor - who had adopted her as a daughter and who had loved her far beyond her role as a soon-to-be mother-in-law.

Alais soon seduces King Henry becoming his lover -  unseating even the powerful Rosamund Clifford in Henry's affections. This, then, is her revenge against Richard and Eleanor. Fast forward to a time when Eleanor has crafted a plan to have her three sons,Geoffrey, Henry and Richard to rebel against King Henry. Alais and Henry's relationship had become more tepid in the two years that they have been together. Alais, heavily pregnant with their child learns that Henry is about to move against Richard whom Alais still secretly loves. Rushing to Eleanor's rooms (where Richard , conveniently, is talking with his mother). Alais warns them of Henry's planned attack - thus saving Richard and returning to her long missed place in Eleanor's affections. Henry banishes Eleanor and holds her in various castles in the ensuing years while Alais is banished to a convent after miscarrying a daughter that she named Rose. The final chapters of the book deal with the time after Alis and Eleanor are effectively imprisoned - and the, after the death of Henry when they are both released by Richard. Richard ultimately marries  Berengaria of Navarre and what happens to Princess Alais is lost to the  annals of unrecorded history. It is thought that she perhaps returned to France.

This book is a wonderful, well-researched look at life in a 13th century castle. The every day comes alive with well crafted, well researched glimpses at what a meal in the great hall would have been like - or what a solar or bed chamber might have looked like. Christy English also offers a concise history of the true facts at the end of the book, which I appreciated very much - it allows some perspective and also reveals how closely she did follow the true facts as far as possible. This book really allows the reader to escape into another world and that, to my way of thinking, is the mark of a really good read. I am looking forward to Ms. English's next book with eager anticipation!

Note: This book was provided to me for the purpose of review only. No other remunerations was received

" The Founding" Cynthia Harrod- Eagles

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I read this first book of the Morland Series after I read book two "The Dark Rose". Sourcebooks has done a wonderful job with the  re-issue of this series. The covers are much improved over the earlier editions that would have previously fallen into my "bodice ripper" if I had been asked to judge the books at that time.

This book covers the founding of the Morland Dynasty. The year 1434 during the War of The Rose. Eleanor Courtney, a young and beautiful ward of Lord Edmund Beaufort and his wife - another Eleanor, is betrothed to Robert  Morland of York - heir to a stapler  fortune (wool merchant) and a family of good standing. high standing. Eleanor is shocked that she, whose blood is royal stick, would be sent off to marry a man who she considered to be a mere 'farmer'. Her sights had been set higher - towards Prince Richard - an heir the England's throne.

The story weaves it's way through Eleanor's eventual love for Robert, the births and deaths of children, grand children  and great grand children. The lives of the family are intertwined with the rise and fall of princes and kings during the turbulent years of the War of The Roses. Loyalties are tested severely, lives  and loves are lost and found again. I found this book to be a excellent read. Fast moving, well developed characters, and fascinating history all tinged with love stories that are well presented and not at all "bodice ripperish' ! I am now hooked on this re-issued series and can't wait to read volume three " The Princeling".  If you go in search of these fine books - be aware that the older versions may have different titles - since they were originally published in Britain. Stick with the Sourcebooks editions and you can't wrong. Another word of caution - they are highly addictive and you will not want to read just one! Enjoy

'The Courtesan' by Diane Haeger

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As I have, I think, mentioned in the past, I seem to have become a real fan of Diane Haeger. I have not yet read a book of hers that I have not thoroughly enjoyed. "The Courtesan" was no exception!

This book follows the life of Diane DePoitiers,  favorite mistress of King Francoise 1st of France. As the story begins to unfold we are introduced to Diane, as the widowed Comtesse de Sancerre, is reintroduced to the Court soon after her elderly husband's demise. It is apparent that the Sancerre's left Court amid some cloud - as they had been apart from the Court for some time. As Diane returns the daily life at Court the King's current mistress, the infamous beauty, Anne d'Heilly, makes life utterly miserable for Diane. Disparaging, jealous and vicious, Anne was not about to let the King become interested in Madame de Sancerre.

Diane ultimately requests to be know by her former name, Diane de Poitiers. She rekindles her friendship with Francois' son, Henri - a young man who has few friends and who is plagued by depression, dark thoughts. Henri is disliked by his father and belittled by his brothers, but Diane sees a sensitive, good-hearted  young man lurking beneath the surface. The rest of the story, as they say, is history. Diane and Henri ultimately become lovers despite the age difference that causes them to become shunned by members of the Court and Francois himself. In a twist of  fate, through the deaths of his  male siblings, Henri becomes King Henri, marries the infamous Catherine D'Medici, a powerful woman who loves Henri, provides him heirs to the throne but still cannot secure his love. Diane remains the most powerful person in Henri's life, the one he turns to for comfort, discussion, and love. The book covers some fascinating "What if" conjectural scenes- such as 'what if' in order to protect Henri from Nostradamus' fateful prediction about the end of Henri's life- Diane and Catherine become odd co-conspirators to keep him safe?

I found that I could not put this book down once I started it! This novel follows history quite closely, but also has some areas of particularly well done "filling in the gaps".  I think it is one of Ms. Haeger's best books. Read this book ! I am sure that it will not disappoint you if you love great historical fiction.

My Macbook by John Ray

 My MacBook by John Ray

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This little gem of a book applies to Macbooks, Macbooks Pros, and Macbook Air computers. I have had my Macbook Pro for 3 years and and I can honestly say that learning my way around this amazing computer would have been faster and easier if I had this book as a resource at the beginning.

This book covers it all from opening to closing and in a clear, concise, very well illustrated way.I recently upgraded my software from Tiger to Snow Leopard and this book even helped with this. Although there is enough technical date in the book to satisfy a techy type I think that the book is also well done enough that it is easy for a rank beginner to be able to use and learn from. It's an excellent reference book that now lives close to my Macbook Pro. I can highly recommend this book

 Create Your Own Blog: 6 Easy Lessons To Start Blogging Like a Pro" 

By Tris Hussey

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When I was given the opportunity to review this book I hoped that it would be interesting, but honestly was not expecting it to be that great. After all I have had a blog for years – but I was hoping to learn something new that I could use to make my blog(s) better. The bottom line is that I have already dog-eared, page marked and underlined lots of great information in this book! It’s excellent. I think that the “6 easy projects” part of the title is a bit misleading. To my way of thinking this is a book about how to build a blog – and/or how to build a better blog – I am not seeing the “6 easy projects”.
I have already learned so much from this book. In fact I have – within a week of reading this book- changed blog hosts, am trying an off line blog writer software and now understand far more about setting a blog up right. This book is chock full of information that will help you to start a blog from the ground up with some good understanding of what it all means and how it all works. Best of all it is an equally great book for a person like me who has had a blog for some time. I understand much more now – and am all fired up to learn more and make the blogs I have better. I’ve also subscribed the to the author’s blog.
This is a book that will help most any blogger… I highly recommend it and I have to admit that I never thought I would be ‘gushy’ over a book about blogs!
Note; This book was provided to me for reviewing purposes – no other remuneration was received.

"Create Your Own Blog: 6 Easy Projects To Start Blogging Like A Pro" by Tris Hussey

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When I was given the opportunity to review this book I hoped that it would be interesting, but honestly was not expecting it to be that great. After all I have had a blog for years - but I was hoping to learn something new that I could use to make my blog(s) better. The bottom line is that I have already dog-eared, page marked and underlined lots of great information in this book! It's excellent. I think that the "6 easy projects" part of the title is a bit misleading. To my way of thinking this is a book about how to build a blog - and/or how to build a better blog - I am not seeing the "6 easy projects".
I have already learned so much from this book. In fact I have - within a week of reading this book- changed blog hosts, am trying an off line blog writer software and now understand far more about setting a blog up right. This book is chock full of information that will help you to start a blog from the ground up with some good understanding of what it all means and how it all works. Best of all it is an equally great book for a person like me who has had a blog for some time. I understand much more now - and am all fired up to learn more and make the blogs I have better. I've also subscribed the to the author's blog.

This is a book that will help most any blogger... I highly recommend it and I have to admit that I never thought I would be 'gushy' over a book about blogs!


Note; This book was provided to me for reviewing purposes - no other remuneration was received.

"A Is For Apron" by Nathalie Mornu

I LOVE aprons and wear them whenever I cook - or craft for that matter too.  Nathalie Mornu has a talent for writing wonderful, well illustrated books and this one is no exception. he book offers a wealth of information about aprons and is plentifully illustrated with photos of wonderful vintage and new aprons. All styles are included: full aprons, half aprons, smock aprons, gardening aprons,5o's-ish aprons that are more fashion than function, aprons for children, flirty aprons - just all kinds of wonderful, wearable aprons!

Included is an excellent instruction section in the front of the book that covers apron construction basics and includes sections such as: making cool bias tape, inserting Rickrack in seams, flouncing, making yo-yos (yes for an apron!),mitering corners, fused applique, transferring designs, hemming, basics on embroidery stitches. Aside from the photographs of vintage quilts there is also an interesting section called "Aprons -A Short and Lively History". I saw some vintage apron patterns that I would love to get my hands on!

Each of the 25 apron projects in the book are very well illustrated and contain complete, easy-to-follow, directions. The back of the book contains the templates for the aprons with measurements and cutting instructions.

If you love aprons like I do this book would be a very welcome addition to your library!

'The Dark Rose' by Cynthia Harrod-Eagles 

from Sourcebooks Landmark

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I had never read any books by this author before having the lucky chance to review this edition of 'The Dark Rose' from Sourcebooks Landmark.  I am now hot on the trail of the first volume in the Morland Dynasty series and will, more than likely, become a devotee of this excellent author!

This book is based on a fictional family with the last name of Morland and the time from is during the reign of Henry VIII - this volume roughly covers the years 1513 to 1549. It is, more or less, a romance, although there is much much more to this story. The historical facts as presented are quite close to factual although the lives of this fictional family - think the Ewings of the old "Dallas" television series.

The book is replete with romance, marriages, deaths, forbidden loves, natural disasters, crop failures, intrigues with the royal family (think Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Katherine Parr), rebellions, religious disputes - this book has it all  - and presents it all with a flair and believability that sets this author's talents apart from many other historical fiction writers. The book is founded on a fictionalized family but the events and history that surround this family are definitely based on good, hard historical facts.

It appears that this is a reprint of this excellent book - and some of the older covers are ones that I probably would not have considered buying in the past. I like this cover and I think it suits the book well.

Below are two other, older covers that I unearthed. The one on the right is the more recent, and better of the two IMHO, whilst the one on the left is one I most likely would not have thought to buy way back when I was managing a bookstore!

I'm off to go in search of other volumes in this series. I don't believe that any historical fiction enthusiast will be disappointed in reading this excellent historically based novel!It's due for release in July I believe and can be pre-ordered easily - and often with a discount - on Amazon or through your  very important local bookstore.

This tidbit from Wikipedia on dark or black roses:

In the 18th century, the language of flowers became popular. In this code, black roses to most people signify death, or hatred. But it also means farewell. Black rose means revenge to a foe or wanting to kill someone. However, because a black rose is virtually impossible to procure, it can also mean pure love. A black rose can also mean rebirth, though this is less known.

Disclosure Note:

This book was provided to me by the publisher for review. No other remuneration was involved.

"Pretty Little Mini Quilts" by Ray Hemachandra, Larry Shea (Editor) and Lark Books

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Please remember that all photos can be double clicked for a larger view !

"Pretty Little Mini Quilts" is the latest Lark Book from the "Pretty Little..." line. These books are always little treasures that contain an eclectic assortment of whatever the "Little Book" is covering. The book itself is a comfortable to hold size of 8.24 inches X 8.25 inches (20.955cm X 20.955cm). The book's description "...more than two dozen talented designers create 31 mini quilts that look to the past as they rush forward to a fresh future...". An apt description since the books contains the best of traditional, what I like to call 'traditional with a twist, and whimsical art quilts. There really is something for everyone in this lovely little book!  None of these small art works is larger than 36 inches (91.4 cm) in length or height.

The basics pages covers everything that you might need or want to know about how to create your own mini masterpiece. Covering what basic sewing tools you will require (measuring tape, scissors,pins, tailor's chalk, rotary cutter and mat etc etc. All types of quilting materials (cottons, linen, fleece felts, interfacings, fusible webs) are covered as is a really comprehensive section on quilting techniques that covers both machine and hand stitching and how to build a quilt; piecing, attaching borders, appliqueing, embroidering etc. A jam packed how to section that is condensed yet very thorough.

Each quilt pattern relates the things that are needed to make the quilt, the finished size, and detailed instructions for each step of the quilt journey!  This is a small book that packs a lot of enjoyment between its pages. You will find yourself returning to it often for a fresh idea or a new technique. I think it would make a welcome addition to any fiber, quilt and/or textile enthusiast! It's available at Amazon - or at your very important, local, bookstore.

This is another in the 'Pretty Little" series. I've had this book for several years and love it ! I

was pleased and excited when I was offered the opportunity to review "Pretty Little Quilts" !

My friend Sarah Smith has this wonderful little quilt called the "Elusive Batiky Bird" in the book.

Here is an example of what a wonderful mini quilt made from a traditional pattern !

This fabulous portrait quilt is by Susan Lewis Storey

This one I consider tradition (applique) with a twist (the wonderful labyrinth)

Traditional paper piecing lends itself artfully to the making of a mini quilt!

Embroidery lends itself to one of my favorite whimsical little quilts in the book! 

It's by Aimee Ray

Disclosure Note:
This book was provided to me by the publisher for review purposes only - no other remuneration was received

500 Art Quilts: An Inspiring Collection of Contemporary Work . A Must Have Book For Any Fiber Enthusiast

Front Cover

Back of the Book

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500 Art Quilts is another delicious book published by one of my all time favorite art/craft publishing houses, Lark Books.  I had so hoped to be able to submit a piece for consideration for this book - but this year health issues kept me from being as aware of deadlines as I should have been and I lost the opportunity. I am thrilled, however, to have been given the opportunity to review this book because I knew that it was going to be a really important library addition.

For those of you who may not be aware of Lark books - their publications are always beautifully produced. They use high quality paper that even feels nice in your hand. I am a book sniffer and feeler and Lark books are always a pleasure to hold and page through. Perhaps one of the most important things is that Lark's photography is second to none in my opinion. Every Lark book that I have ever owned has been a keeper. Amazingly, for all of the high quality that goes into every Lark book they pricing is remarkable reasonable. No, I am not affiliated with Lark - other than having the opportunity to review this book - just a very happy book hoarder.

This 8 inch square (20.32 cm) 432 page book is filled with art - textile/quilt art - in all of it's myriad forms and fantastical colors. 346 quilt artists are represented in this book .The quilts were juried by the quilt world's own Karey Bresenhan, founder and President of Quilts,Inc. To note just a few of the artists that are included: Pamela Allen  -  Alice Beasley - Jane Burch Cochran  -  Judith Content  -  Chiaki Dosho  -  Noriko Endo  -  Caryl Bryer Fallert  -  Jamie Fingal  -  Linda Gass  -  Jenny Hearn  -  Judy Coates Perez  -  Yvonne Porcella  -  Susan Shie  -  Jen Swearington - Sarah Smith - Diana Bracey & Stacy Hurt.  The best of the best are included in this book that spans works from 1989 to 2008. The book includes a wide variety of topics;  portraits, landscapes, dream works, pictorial, abstracts, traditional with a twist and an even wider variety of techniques. 

This book is simply a must have book for any textile art enthusiast. It's a book that you will return to again and again for inspiration and enjoyment. There are quilts that with energize you , quilts that will calm you, quilts that will make you think and quilts that will make you say "WoW"!  Get this book - you won't be disappointed!

Sarah Ann Smith

Stacy Hurt

Left: Eileen Doughty  Right: Ludmila Aristova

Diana Bracey

Dottie Moore

Disclosure Note:
This book was provided to me by the publisher for review purposes only - no other remuneration was received

Between Two Queens by Kate Emerson

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Between Two Queens is the first of Kate Emerson’s books that I have read – but it  will not be my last ! I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I personally think that the cover that was chosen for this book is somewhat deceptive - to me it makes the book appear to be a bit - oh I don't know - I suppose the word I want is tawdry. More like a inexpensive romance novel than the good historical fiction that it really is. Then again I do pay more attention to cover selections than perhaps I should!

The novel recounts the story of the two Bassett sisters, Nan (Anne) and Cat (Catherine).

The sisters parents, Honor Grenville and step-father Arthur Plantagenet, Lord Lisle are from Calais, the last English toehold in France, where Lord Lisle is the deputy. In 1537 both sisters are brought to Court in the hopes of being chosen to be a Maid of Honor to Queen Jane Seymour. Nan, the somewhat more vivacious of the two is chosen while her sister is taken in by Lady Rutland where she lives in a less glittering but more stable home.

England ,during this time ,is newly protestant but challenges, plots and protests against the new religion are rampant; Court is rife with intrigue, suspicions, greed, power & sex. Nan is ambitious and hopes that her new post as a Lady-in-Waiting will make it possible for her to meet and marry a man of substance – and she is glad to be free of the constrictions that her mother, Honor, placed up her while she lived in Calais. Nan also leaves behind the attentions of a handsome servitor to her step-father – Edward Corbett. Nan has feelings for Corbett but his prospects in life leave much to be desired for a woman who dreams of money and power. Unfortunately Nan’s new position is obtained just days before Queen Jane is confined awaiting the birth of her child – and Nan is forced to become confined with the Queen – thwarting her excitement over her new position and the glittering life at Court it promised. When Queen dies from puerperal fever Nan is set adrift with no real position and no real home. Her hopes of meeting a suitable gentleman are quashed – for the moment.

Ultimately King Henry VIII takes an interest in Nan and they have a short lived flirtation and Nan remains at Court to once again become a lady-in-waiting to Queen Anne of Cleves and then enters the household of Henry’s next Queen, Katherine Howard. Ultimately Nan becomes a friend to Katherine Parr and remains at Court during her reign. Throughout her many different positions in the Court Nan is admired by a much younger man, Wat Hungerford. Although Nan is interested and faltered by the young man’s attentions she rejects him as an appropriate suitor because of both his age and the fact that his family’s lands and titles had been confiscated by King Henry – Wat simply had no prospects. The books successfully weaves the story of this relationship throughout it’s pages – not overpowering the story in any way but definitely adding to the pleasure of reading the book.

The loyalties of Nan’s family are called into question after a plot is discovered and they are imprisoned. It falls on Nan’s shoulders to clear their names and restore the family’s good name. This becomes another fascinating sub-plot.

I could go on but should stop before I give the whole book away! As you can perhaps tell, I really did enjoy this book and am looking forward to now reading Kate Emersons other books. I read one review that called this book Tudor lite – and in some ways I concur. This is, after all, historical fiction – not non-fiction. The book does, however, contain mostly historically correct information. One feature that I especially liked about this book is the section in the back called “ the who’s who of the Tudor Court” which provides abbreviated biographical sketches of the characters in the book. Also included are an interview with the author and an excellent reading group guide. Anyone interested in British history, the Tudors and good historical fiction will thoroughly enjoy this book I think.

Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Sewing and fabric Crafts

 

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I have to admit to being a real admirer of almost all things Martha Stewart-ish. I am no champion house-keeper nor am I a crafting wizard but I do always enjoy the Martha Stewart Magazine and website. In this age of wonderful craft & sewing books -I think that any book that would dare to call istself a 'crafting encyclopedia' would have to be pretty darn sure of itself and this encyclopedia does not disappoint. As always with Martha Stewart products, the instructions are well written & beautifully illustrated. You can find information and "how-to's" about a wonderful, very wide, variety of crafts. General sewing, specialty sewing, embroidery of all kinds,quilting ,applique, printing, dyeing, and many, many other types of craft projects are included in this very well done book. In addition to the book a CD included that contains many templates and patterns that can be printed out . Also included is an extensive reference guide for all kinds of great sewing and crafting suppliers, equipment and fun things.

This book is, I believe, an excellent addition for any sewer, crafter or "Martha wannabe". Well done, clear, colorful and highly informative! I should perhaps add that this book is not an in-depth sort of book but I think that it gets you where you want to go with most all of the instructions and projects.


Disclosure Note:
This book was provided to me by the publisher for review purposes only - no other remuneration was received

To The Tower Born By Robin Maxwell

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I thoroughly enjoyed To The Tower Born by Robin Maxwell. I did not want to stop reading it !

The story follows the lives of Nell Caxton , the  daughter of William Caxton (the man who brought he first printing press to England) and of her best friend Elizabeth (Bessie)  - daughter of Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville. The book follows the period right before and after the death of Edward IV. It chronicles the chaos that ensued as Richard III grabbed for the reigns of England; ostensibly imprisoning and later murdering his nephews (the Princes in the Tower) and forcing Elizabeth Woodville and her family into the sanctuary of Westminster Abbey. This book has it all: history, family feuds, greed, political  conniving, love,

I found this to be an absorbing read – with well defined characters and well executed plot that never lagged. The narration is in chapters by both Nell and Bessie. I found Nell to be an interesting character but perhaps a bit too cold – then again perhaps that is exactly how a highly educated, independent woman of the time had to be in order to  survive and prosper. Nell’s lover (a chaste love I should mention) was Antony, Lord Rivers who Richard also had executed for allegedly conspiring to take over the protectorate of his nephew Edward. Bessie is enamored with her uncle Richard III whose was married at the time to Anne (Neville).

The Last Boleyn by Karen Harper

I have been reading a lot of books by Karen Harper recently and I have to admit to thoroughly enjoying each and every one. What a gifted author she is! "The Last Boleyn" was originally titled "Passion's Reign" and I am not at all sure that I would have chosen to read it with that title. I have that ingrained aversion to lusty title's that shelving Harlequin novels in a book store left me with !

"The Last Boleyn" is the tale of Mary Tudor - five years a mistress to Henry VIII before Anne; faithful wife and mother after Henry. Although I had perhaps heard this before I had not registered the fact that the family name had, in fact, been 'Bullen' prior to Anne's Franophile-ization of her family name to the more readily familiar 'Boleyn'. Mary Bullen inherited her mother's more delicate blonde coloring - heritage of her lofty Howard lineage. I have always been of the impression that 'father' Boleyn was a power hungry, ladder climbing syncophant in the court of Henry VIII....a man who would pander his female children to his best advantage. Nothing I have read over the years has really change that opinion - even taking the vagaries of that time period into account.

Mary was sent to the French court at an early age - as lady-in-waiting to Henry's sister Mary during her short lived marriage to the aging French King. Upon the King's death Mary remains at the French Court attendant upon Mary and beguiled by the new French King Francois I. Anne Boleyn joins Mary at the French court for a time until Mary returns to England as a teenager - and becomes an integral part of the Court of Henry VIII. The book chronicles Mary's marriage to the cold, calculating William Carey - a husband who accepts the King's advances towards Mary as a way to accrue fame and fortune for himself. During her marriage to William Carey Mary has son  and, although she always claimed that he was William Carey's son - there has always been speculation that her son was, in fact, the progeny of Henry VIII .Mary is, ultimately, drawn to the jaded courtier William Stafford - a man whom she will ultimately marry in secret after the death of William Carey.

 

The odd thing about Mary Boleyn's story is that she was always derided by her family for not asking Henry for more - for not expecting more from him as his mistress. Anne was the rapacious sister . Oddly enough though it is Mary, and not Anne, who ultimately lives to a goodly age and retires from Courtlife with both her head and her happiness intact - thank largely, I am led to believe thanks to the love of Will Staford.

 

In contrast, this novel with that of Phillipa Gregory's book "The Other Boleyn Girl" - which is also narrated from Mary's point of view. I enjoyed both of these book tremendously, but I think that in some ways I prefer Karen Harper's work. I think that Ms. Harper follows the history very closely and she also managed to  keep me turning the pages of this book late into the night. Best bet - read both books because I think that the story of Mary Boleyn is truly a very good one !

"The Borgia Bride" by Jeanne Kalogridis

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I had had this book on my shelf for a bit and decided it was time to read it. I'm glad I did. This novel follows the life of a Bride to the powerful Borgia family. Ms. Kalogridis' summary of the book states:

"...THE BORGIA BRIDE is a sumptuous historical novel of passion, betrayal, scheming and incest, set in the Vatican during the 15th century, one of the most exciting, violent and also sensual times of European history. The plot and characters are based on actual historical personages and events..."

I agree that this book is, to my mind, unique. I have not read many books that focus on the political turmoil of the 15th century in Italy. Oddly enough I have always thought that it was Lucrezia Borgia who had the reputation for using the family recipe for poison. Read this book for another theory!  I sailed through the first part of this book - reading late into the night. Mid story slowed a bit for me - but the pace picked up again for a rousing final quarter of the book. The characters in The Borgia Bride are well crafted and carried through a plot that is well thought out expertly crafted with many unusual twists and turns. 

This book makes me want to read all of Ms. Kalodridis' titles. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would have gone for 5 stars - except for the lag midway through. I don;t think that you would regret reading this fine novel - it's appeal would, obviously, be for anyone who enjoys historical fiction - especially for 15th century Italy - but it would also please any lover of well crafted, fast paced fiction!

Ms. Kalogridis has an excellent website too - have a look : http://jeannekalogridis.com/

"The First Princess Of Wales" by Karen Harper

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I must surely be on a Karen Harper binge! After reading "The Queen's Governess" by Karen Harper last week I decided to read another or her titles, "The First Princess of Wales". I was not disappointed. Although this paperback, published n 2006, sports a hefty 624 pages I have finished it in several days of "bedtime" reading. I have never been a fan of romance novels but it appears that I must be becoming one! I remember when I managed bookstores that I would cast derisive looks at the Harlequin Romance series when they arrived to be shelved. Now here I am reading a book whose title was once "Sweet Passion's Pain"! arghhhh!

This book tells the story, albeit, highly fictionalized, story of Joan of Kent (29 September 1328 – 

7 August 1385)- beloved of Edward, the 'black prince' of Wales15 June 1330 – 8 June 1376). Set during the tumultuous period when threat of war with France was always on the immediate horizon, the tale includes all of the "biggies": love, betrayal, seduction, intrigue, family feuds and war.

I have read reviews of this book that say that it is "over-written"& "historically flawed". I can agree with both of the assessments to a degree. The book is written in a very easy to read style - there are no

pedantic interpretations of history here - and I have read as real historical fiction. In that light I found this book to be an easy, delightful read - and yes, a romance at that. I do think that it offers a true flavor of the period although the hero and heroine are depicted rather as the quintessential lover's -as if Ms. Harper distilled the essence of what a romantic hero and heroine might be.

Was this book worthy of any rewards? No. Was it worthy of a few idle hours of escape? Definitely! If your are looking for a truly historical account of Joan of Kent and her love Prince Edward, look to another venue - but for escapism and distraction I think this is a fine, most enjoyable journey of a read! Ms. Harper even postulates an interesting and amusing historical reason for the term "knights of the garter"!