Nicola here, talking about the Tudors. A few days ago I read an article about the huge number of historical fiction books set in the Tudor period. The author was suggesting that it was time to move away from the wives of Henry VIII and choose some different historical periods and characters to write about. Even Hilary Mantel, with her Booker Prize winning Tudor set novels is saying that we have reached “Tudor peak” and that the market is saturated.
As someone whose next book is a dual time period novel set in the present and… Yes, the Tudor era, this left me with mixed feelings. As a young reader, before I discovered Georgette Heyer and the Regency period, I had been drawn into reading historical fiction through the Tudors. My wonderful school history teacher, Mrs Chary, had brought alive the history of the period by telling it to us as a story and there was plenty to engage us.
Fortunately for me my grandmother had a vast collection of books I could borrow, including Brief Gaudy Hour 
by Margaret Campbell Barnes (about Anne Boleyn) and the golden-boxed collection of stories about the Wives of Henry VIII. I was hooked. Anne became my first historical heroine. I had a strict pecking order of favourite wives of Henry VIII with Anne at the top and Katherine Parr in second place.
The popularity of the Tudor period has not waned in all the time I’ve been reading about it and it is curious as to why, despite the richness of other places, characters and eras, writers return to it time and time again. Firstly I suppose there is the draw of Henry VIII and his soap opera of a life. He really does dominate the era with his flamboyant character and melodramatic marital parade. Then there is his daughter Elizabeth, a spectacular monarch, and the drama of the Spanish Armada. There is Henry VII and the victory of Bosworth Field, the tragedy of Lady Jane Grey, the Nine Days Queen, the boy king Edward, “bloody” Mary and a whole host of family rivalries, bloodshed and adventure, so there is a huge and colourful cast of characters to draw on, and real-life stories you could not make up.
The Tudor era provides plenty of scope to explore less well known characters too. One example is Catherine Filliol, first wife of Edward Seymour the Lord Protector, who features in Susanna Dunn’s book The May Bride. Another is Amy Robsart, wife to Robert Dudley the favourite of Elizabeth I. Mary Boleyn was also an inspired choice for Philippa Gregory to write about and it was fascinating to see Mary brought out from under Anne’s shadow.
Since then Philippa Gregory and others have worked backwards into the era of the Wars of the Roses and the medieval period of British history as well as exploring the lives of the more obscure characters of Tudor England, yet nothing seems to match the popularity of those Tudor royals.
In The Phantom Tree, the book I have coming out at the end of the year, I explore one of those lesser-known Tudor women. My heroine is Mary Seymour, bearer of a famous name, niece to one of Henry VIII’s wives and daughter of another. Mary’s story is shrouded in mystery and I wanted to tell it, or a version of it, since there is so little recorded history to draw on. I didn’t set out specifically to write a Tudor set book but was drawn to Mary’s story because I enjoy writing about historical mysteries. So whilst I name check Wolf Hall and the Seymours and even Anne Boleyn, it is Mary and her hidden history that I am exploring.
I think it is true that while the Tudors are compelling, there are other time periods and historical characters that are equally 
fascinating. The Stuart period surely provides just as much inspiration, and there has to be potential for a television version of the English Civil Wars or of the life of Elizabeth Stuart, the Winter Queen, and the fortunes of her 13 children in the style of “The Tudors.” (The title of The Winter Queen is just as good as The White Queen!) When I researched Elizabeth's story for House of Shadows I was riveted by the potential for a huge historical saga. Elizabeth was the intended beneficiary of the Gunpowder Plot, her story is one of love, war, bloodshed, escape and exile. She was a political leader and her court was a centre of culture. Of her sons, two became pirates, one married the richest heiress in France and a fourth killed a man in a duel. Of her daughters, one was a famous philosopher, one married a Prince of Transylvania and another was heir to the throne of England. But one of the reasons why I didn't write that book myself was because an editor told me that historical novels set outside of England are not popular and I would fail to sell the idea to a publisher.
Amongst the suggestions in the article I read for alternative historical figures whose stories could be told was Alice Chaucer, granddaughter of the famous poet Geoffrey, Emilie du Chatelet, a French mathematician, and the playwright Aphra Benn. But would any of them achieve the popularity of the wives of Henry VIII and if not why not? What is it that makes some eras and books perennially popular – the Regency is an example of this as well as the Tudor age – and others less so?
Are you a fan of Tudor-set books? Do you have a favourite? Would you like to see other characters from history have their stories told and if so, which would you choose?
Although Brief Gaudy Hour was also my first introduction to novels about the Tudors, these days I’m far more interested in Tudor women who were not queens. I was fortunate enough to be able to write six novels, as Kate Emerson, about lesser known women at Henry VIII’s court before the Tudor craze started to fade. Now I’m back to writing Elizabethan era mysteries with a fictional amateur detective, but I’m still adding mini-biographies to my online A Who’s Who of Tudor Women. It went over 2000 entries some time ago–lots of fodder for novels when the Tudors circle back into popularity again.
Although Brief Gaudy Hour was also my first introduction to novels about the Tudors, these days I’m far more interested in Tudor women who were not queens. I was fortunate enough to be able to write six novels, as Kate Emerson, about lesser known women at Henry VIII’s court before the Tudor craze started to fade. Now I’m back to writing Elizabethan era mysteries with a fictional amateur detective, but I’m still adding mini-biographies to my online A Who’s Who of Tudor Women. It went over 2000 entries some time ago–lots of fodder for novels when the Tudors circle back into popularity again.
Although Brief Gaudy Hour was also my first introduction to novels about the Tudors, these days I’m far more interested in Tudor women who were not queens. I was fortunate enough to be able to write six novels, as Kate Emerson, about lesser known women at Henry VIII’s court before the Tudor craze started to fade. Now I’m back to writing Elizabethan era mysteries with a fictional amateur detective, but I’m still adding mini-biographies to my online A Who’s Who of Tudor Women. It went over 2000 entries some time ago–lots of fodder for novels when the Tudors circle back into popularity again.
Although Brief Gaudy Hour was also my first introduction to novels about the Tudors, these days I’m far more interested in Tudor women who were not queens. I was fortunate enough to be able to write six novels, as Kate Emerson, about lesser known women at Henry VIII’s court before the Tudor craze started to fade. Now I’m back to writing Elizabethan era mysteries with a fictional amateur detective, but I’m still adding mini-biographies to my online A Who’s Who of Tudor Women. It went over 2000 entries some time ago–lots of fodder for novels when the Tudors circle back into popularity again.
Although Brief Gaudy Hour was also my first introduction to novels about the Tudors, these days I’m far more interested in Tudor women who were not queens. I was fortunate enough to be able to write six novels, as Kate Emerson, about lesser known women at Henry VIII’s court before the Tudor craze started to fade. Now I’m back to writing Elizabethan era mysteries with a fictional amateur detective, but I’m still adding mini-biographies to my online A Who’s Who of Tudor Women. It went over 2000 entries some time ago–lots of fodder for novels when the Tudors circle back into popularity again.
I’m kind of ambivalent when it comes to the Tudor period. The rulers themselves were pretty repulsive people, including Elizabeth, but it isn’t easy to rule a country and be a nice guy. The literary works I most admire about this period—Robert Bolt’s A Man for All Seasons, H.F.M. Prescott’s Man on a Donkey, John Gerard’s Autobiography of a Hunted Priest—deal with the Catholic-Protestant conflict, which is a subject generally avoided in Romance. On the other hand, that conflict is kind of hard to avoid.
So I remain ambivalent.
I’m kind of ambivalent when it comes to the Tudor period. The rulers themselves were pretty repulsive people, including Elizabeth, but it isn’t easy to rule a country and be a nice guy. The literary works I most admire about this period—Robert Bolt’s A Man for All Seasons, H.F.M. Prescott’s Man on a Donkey, John Gerard’s Autobiography of a Hunted Priest—deal with the Catholic-Protestant conflict, which is a subject generally avoided in Romance. On the other hand, that conflict is kind of hard to avoid.
So I remain ambivalent.
I’m kind of ambivalent when it comes to the Tudor period. The rulers themselves were pretty repulsive people, including Elizabeth, but it isn’t easy to rule a country and be a nice guy. The literary works I most admire about this period—Robert Bolt’s A Man for All Seasons, H.F.M. Prescott’s Man on a Donkey, John Gerard’s Autobiography of a Hunted Priest—deal with the Catholic-Protestant conflict, which is a subject generally avoided in Romance. On the other hand, that conflict is kind of hard to avoid.
So I remain ambivalent.
I’m kind of ambivalent when it comes to the Tudor period. The rulers themselves were pretty repulsive people, including Elizabeth, but it isn’t easy to rule a country and be a nice guy. The literary works I most admire about this period—Robert Bolt’s A Man for All Seasons, H.F.M. Prescott’s Man on a Donkey, John Gerard’s Autobiography of a Hunted Priest—deal with the Catholic-Protestant conflict, which is a subject generally avoided in Romance. On the other hand, that conflict is kind of hard to avoid.
So I remain ambivalent.
I’m kind of ambivalent when it comes to the Tudor period. The rulers themselves were pretty repulsive people, including Elizabeth, but it isn’t easy to rule a country and be a nice guy. The literary works I most admire about this period—Robert Bolt’s A Man for All Seasons, H.F.M. Prescott’s Man on a Donkey, John Gerard’s Autobiography of a Hunted Priest—deal with the Catholic-Protestant conflict, which is a subject generally avoided in Romance. On the other hand, that conflict is kind of hard to avoid.
So I remain ambivalent.
Hi Kathy! I have visited your Who’s Who of Tudor Women on a number of occasions and found it a very interesting and helpful resource. A number of the women in The Phantom Tree are mentioned on there, I think.
Interesting that you feel the Tudor craze has faded although I am sure it will come around and perhaps in a different form that suits those of us who prefer lesser-known stories.
Hi Kathy! I have visited your Who’s Who of Tudor Women on a number of occasions and found it a very interesting and helpful resource. A number of the women in The Phantom Tree are mentioned on there, I think.
Interesting that you feel the Tudor craze has faded although I am sure it will come around and perhaps in a different form that suits those of us who prefer lesser-known stories.
Hi Kathy! I have visited your Who’s Who of Tudor Women on a number of occasions and found it a very interesting and helpful resource. A number of the women in The Phantom Tree are mentioned on there, I think.
Interesting that you feel the Tudor craze has faded although I am sure it will come around and perhaps in a different form that suits those of us who prefer lesser-known stories.
Hi Kathy! I have visited your Who’s Who of Tudor Women on a number of occasions and found it a very interesting and helpful resource. A number of the women in The Phantom Tree are mentioned on there, I think.
Interesting that you feel the Tudor craze has faded although I am sure it will come around and perhaps in a different form that suits those of us who prefer lesser-known stories.
Hi Kathy! I have visited your Who’s Who of Tudor Women on a number of occasions and found it a very interesting and helpful resource. A number of the women in The Phantom Tree are mentioned on there, I think.
Interesting that you feel the Tudor craze has faded although I am sure it will come around and perhaps in a different form that suits those of us who prefer lesser-known stories.
Thank you for your thoughts, Lillian. Yes, the politics are pretty brutal, I think, and you put your finger on it when you say it’s not easy to be a ruler at the time and be a nice guy. So true! I find the Catholic/Protestant conflict very interesting too and would like to write about recusants one day.
Thank you for your thoughts, Lillian. Yes, the politics are pretty brutal, I think, and you put your finger on it when you say it’s not easy to be a ruler at the time and be a nice guy. So true! I find the Catholic/Protestant conflict very interesting too and would like to write about recusants one day.
Thank you for your thoughts, Lillian. Yes, the politics are pretty brutal, I think, and you put your finger on it when you say it’s not easy to be a ruler at the time and be a nice guy. So true! I find the Catholic/Protestant conflict very interesting too and would like to write about recusants one day.
Thank you for your thoughts, Lillian. Yes, the politics are pretty brutal, I think, and you put your finger on it when you say it’s not easy to be a ruler at the time and be a nice guy. So true! I find the Catholic/Protestant conflict very interesting too and would like to write about recusants one day.
Thank you for your thoughts, Lillian. Yes, the politics are pretty brutal, I think, and you put your finger on it when you say it’s not easy to be a ruler at the time and be a nice guy. So true! I find the Catholic/Protestant conflict very interesting too and would like to write about recusants one day.
I definitely LOVE this post, Nicola. 🙂 I like Philippa Gregory’s books, especially The Other Boleyn Girl and The Queen’s Fool, but I’m always happy to read historical novels – and in the process of writing one myself, actually. It is set outside of England, actually, but I do hope I’ll manage to get it published eventually, since it deals with Dracula’s family (the real Dracula: prince Vlad III of Wallachia, not the vampire :p ).
I might have to run and hide after saying this, but I’ve always found the Victorian era closer to my heart than a Regency setting. I love many Regency novels, but not for being set in that period. I usually like the way a book is written, its characters, the atmosphere… Pride and Prejudice was one of the first Regency novels I read (the first one in English, anyway) and I loved Lizzie and Darcy etc, but I envisioned the whole thing and I disliked the fashion of the time, thinking those dresses made all the girls look pregnant and the men’s clothing was a way of making even the most handsome ones look like stiff sissies. (Sorry about that.) So… call me a ‘Victorian girl’, that’s my favourite setting – the Tudor period being second best, and then the early Middle Ages.
You’re making me anxious to read The Phantom Tree, which is extremely frustrating – because it’s more difficult for me to purchase it than for those who actually live in Britain. :p I’ll manage somehow – sooner or later. I just have to be patient.
You made me curious about that Transylvanian prince/ ruler. Bethlen Gabor, apparently. I can’t say a remember him from my history classes – and his name sounds Hungarian, so he must have been a Hungarian Transylvanian and not a Romanian Transylvanian – but this is clearly getting close to… home. :p Only a range of mountains separates Moldavia (where I live) from Transylvania.
Favourite characters from history… Hmm… Isabel de Castilla (I’ve read a couple of books about her, but I think some other author could do a better job), Stephen the Great of Moldavia (one of the main characters in my book), Boadicea/ Boudica, Queen Marie of Romania, Francis Drake, and… I feel I’m missing someone. I’ll make an additional comment later if I remember who he/she is.
I definitely LOVE this post, Nicola. 🙂 I like Philippa Gregory’s books, especially The Other Boleyn Girl and The Queen’s Fool, but I’m always happy to read historical novels – and in the process of writing one myself, actually. It is set outside of England, actually, but I do hope I’ll manage to get it published eventually, since it deals with Dracula’s family (the real Dracula: prince Vlad III of Wallachia, not the vampire :p ).
I might have to run and hide after saying this, but I’ve always found the Victorian era closer to my heart than a Regency setting. I love many Regency novels, but not for being set in that period. I usually like the way a book is written, its characters, the atmosphere… Pride and Prejudice was one of the first Regency novels I read (the first one in English, anyway) and I loved Lizzie and Darcy etc, but I envisioned the whole thing and I disliked the fashion of the time, thinking those dresses made all the girls look pregnant and the men’s clothing was a way of making even the most handsome ones look like stiff sissies. (Sorry about that.) So… call me a ‘Victorian girl’, that’s my favourite setting – the Tudor period being second best, and then the early Middle Ages.
You’re making me anxious to read The Phantom Tree, which is extremely frustrating – because it’s more difficult for me to purchase it than for those who actually live in Britain. :p I’ll manage somehow – sooner or later. I just have to be patient.
You made me curious about that Transylvanian prince/ ruler. Bethlen Gabor, apparently. I can’t say a remember him from my history classes – and his name sounds Hungarian, so he must have been a Hungarian Transylvanian and not a Romanian Transylvanian – but this is clearly getting close to… home. :p Only a range of mountains separates Moldavia (where I live) from Transylvania.
Favourite characters from history… Hmm… Isabel de Castilla (I’ve read a couple of books about her, but I think some other author could do a better job), Stephen the Great of Moldavia (one of the main characters in my book), Boadicea/ Boudica, Queen Marie of Romania, Francis Drake, and… I feel I’m missing someone. I’ll make an additional comment later if I remember who he/she is.
I definitely LOVE this post, Nicola. 🙂 I like Philippa Gregory’s books, especially The Other Boleyn Girl and The Queen’s Fool, but I’m always happy to read historical novels – and in the process of writing one myself, actually. It is set outside of England, actually, but I do hope I’ll manage to get it published eventually, since it deals with Dracula’s family (the real Dracula: prince Vlad III of Wallachia, not the vampire :p ).
I might have to run and hide after saying this, but I’ve always found the Victorian era closer to my heart than a Regency setting. I love many Regency novels, but not for being set in that period. I usually like the way a book is written, its characters, the atmosphere… Pride and Prejudice was one of the first Regency novels I read (the first one in English, anyway) and I loved Lizzie and Darcy etc, but I envisioned the whole thing and I disliked the fashion of the time, thinking those dresses made all the girls look pregnant and the men’s clothing was a way of making even the most handsome ones look like stiff sissies. (Sorry about that.) So… call me a ‘Victorian girl’, that’s my favourite setting – the Tudor period being second best, and then the early Middle Ages.
You’re making me anxious to read The Phantom Tree, which is extremely frustrating – because it’s more difficult for me to purchase it than for those who actually live in Britain. :p I’ll manage somehow – sooner or later. I just have to be patient.
You made me curious about that Transylvanian prince/ ruler. Bethlen Gabor, apparently. I can’t say a remember him from my history classes – and his name sounds Hungarian, so he must have been a Hungarian Transylvanian and not a Romanian Transylvanian – but this is clearly getting close to… home. :p Only a range of mountains separates Moldavia (where I live) from Transylvania.
Favourite characters from history… Hmm… Isabel de Castilla (I’ve read a couple of books about her, but I think some other author could do a better job), Stephen the Great of Moldavia (one of the main characters in my book), Boadicea/ Boudica, Queen Marie of Romania, Francis Drake, and… I feel I’m missing someone. I’ll make an additional comment later if I remember who he/she is.
I definitely LOVE this post, Nicola. 🙂 I like Philippa Gregory’s books, especially The Other Boleyn Girl and The Queen’s Fool, but I’m always happy to read historical novels – and in the process of writing one myself, actually. It is set outside of England, actually, but I do hope I’ll manage to get it published eventually, since it deals with Dracula’s family (the real Dracula: prince Vlad III of Wallachia, not the vampire :p ).
I might have to run and hide after saying this, but I’ve always found the Victorian era closer to my heart than a Regency setting. I love many Regency novels, but not for being set in that period. I usually like the way a book is written, its characters, the atmosphere… Pride and Prejudice was one of the first Regency novels I read (the first one in English, anyway) and I loved Lizzie and Darcy etc, but I envisioned the whole thing and I disliked the fashion of the time, thinking those dresses made all the girls look pregnant and the men’s clothing was a way of making even the most handsome ones look like stiff sissies. (Sorry about that.) So… call me a ‘Victorian girl’, that’s my favourite setting – the Tudor period being second best, and then the early Middle Ages.
You’re making me anxious to read The Phantom Tree, which is extremely frustrating – because it’s more difficult for me to purchase it than for those who actually live in Britain. :p I’ll manage somehow – sooner or later. I just have to be patient.
You made me curious about that Transylvanian prince/ ruler. Bethlen Gabor, apparently. I can’t say a remember him from my history classes – and his name sounds Hungarian, so he must have been a Hungarian Transylvanian and not a Romanian Transylvanian – but this is clearly getting close to… home. :p Only a range of mountains separates Moldavia (where I live) from Transylvania.
Favourite characters from history… Hmm… Isabel de Castilla (I’ve read a couple of books about her, but I think some other author could do a better job), Stephen the Great of Moldavia (one of the main characters in my book), Boadicea/ Boudica, Queen Marie of Romania, Francis Drake, and… I feel I’m missing someone. I’ll make an additional comment later if I remember who he/she is.
I definitely LOVE this post, Nicola. 🙂 I like Philippa Gregory’s books, especially The Other Boleyn Girl and The Queen’s Fool, but I’m always happy to read historical novels – and in the process of writing one myself, actually. It is set outside of England, actually, but I do hope I’ll manage to get it published eventually, since it deals with Dracula’s family (the real Dracula: prince Vlad III of Wallachia, not the vampire :p ).
I might have to run and hide after saying this, but I’ve always found the Victorian era closer to my heart than a Regency setting. I love many Regency novels, but not for being set in that period. I usually like the way a book is written, its characters, the atmosphere… Pride and Prejudice was one of the first Regency novels I read (the first one in English, anyway) and I loved Lizzie and Darcy etc, but I envisioned the whole thing and I disliked the fashion of the time, thinking those dresses made all the girls look pregnant and the men’s clothing was a way of making even the most handsome ones look like stiff sissies. (Sorry about that.) So… call me a ‘Victorian girl’, that’s my favourite setting – the Tudor period being second best, and then the early Middle Ages.
You’re making me anxious to read The Phantom Tree, which is extremely frustrating – because it’s more difficult for me to purchase it than for those who actually live in Britain. :p I’ll manage somehow – sooner or later. I just have to be patient.
You made me curious about that Transylvanian prince/ ruler. Bethlen Gabor, apparently. I can’t say a remember him from my history classes – and his name sounds Hungarian, so he must have been a Hungarian Transylvanian and not a Romanian Transylvanian – but this is clearly getting close to… home. :p Only a range of mountains separates Moldavia (where I live) from Transylvania.
Favourite characters from history… Hmm… Isabel de Castilla (I’ve read a couple of books about her, but I think some other author could do a better job), Stephen the Great of Moldavia (one of the main characters in my book), Boadicea/ Boudica, Queen Marie of Romania, Francis Drake, and… I feel I’m missing someone. I’ll make an additional comment later if I remember who he/she is.
King Sejong the Great (of Joseon), King Daemus(h)in of Goguryeo, and Queen Seondeok of S(h)illa.
King Sejong the Great (of Joseon), King Daemus(h)in of Goguryeo, and Queen Seondeok of S(h)illa.
King Sejong the Great (of Joseon), King Daemus(h)in of Goguryeo, and Queen Seondeok of S(h)illa.
King Sejong the Great (of Joseon), King Daemus(h)in of Goguryeo, and Queen Seondeok of S(h)illa.
King Sejong the Great (of Joseon), King Daemus(h)in of Goguryeo, and Queen Seondeok of S(h)illa.
Thank you, Oana-Maria. I think a novel about the real “Dracula” would definitely have appeal! People love to hear the real story behind certain names and ideas.
Interesting that you like Victorian era books first, then Tudor. We all have our favourites! There is such a wealth of eras and characters to choose from.
Princess Henrietta Maria married Sigismund of Transylvania so yes, a Hungarian Transylvanian. I would love to know more of her story. By all accounts it was a love match and he was devastated when she died only 6 months after the wedding.
I like you list of characters! I love reading about Boudica. Many thanks for the other suggestions – more research for me!
Thank you, Oana-Maria. I think a novel about the real “Dracula” would definitely have appeal! People love to hear the real story behind certain names and ideas.
Interesting that you like Victorian era books first, then Tudor. We all have our favourites! There is such a wealth of eras and characters to choose from.
Princess Henrietta Maria married Sigismund of Transylvania so yes, a Hungarian Transylvanian. I would love to know more of her story. By all accounts it was a love match and he was devastated when she died only 6 months after the wedding.
I like you list of characters! I love reading about Boudica. Many thanks for the other suggestions – more research for me!
Thank you, Oana-Maria. I think a novel about the real “Dracula” would definitely have appeal! People love to hear the real story behind certain names and ideas.
Interesting that you like Victorian era books first, then Tudor. We all have our favourites! There is such a wealth of eras and characters to choose from.
Princess Henrietta Maria married Sigismund of Transylvania so yes, a Hungarian Transylvanian. I would love to know more of her story. By all accounts it was a love match and he was devastated when she died only 6 months after the wedding.
I like you list of characters! I love reading about Boudica. Many thanks for the other suggestions – more research for me!
Thank you, Oana-Maria. I think a novel about the real “Dracula” would definitely have appeal! People love to hear the real story behind certain names and ideas.
Interesting that you like Victorian era books first, then Tudor. We all have our favourites! There is such a wealth of eras and characters to choose from.
Princess Henrietta Maria married Sigismund of Transylvania so yes, a Hungarian Transylvanian. I would love to know more of her story. By all accounts it was a love match and he was devastated when she died only 6 months after the wedding.
I like you list of characters! I love reading about Boudica. Many thanks for the other suggestions – more research for me!
Thank you, Oana-Maria. I think a novel about the real “Dracula” would definitely have appeal! People love to hear the real story behind certain names and ideas.
Interesting that you like Victorian era books first, then Tudor. We all have our favourites! There is such a wealth of eras and characters to choose from.
Princess Henrietta Maria married Sigismund of Transylvania so yes, a Hungarian Transylvanian. I would love to know more of her story. By all accounts it was a love match and he was devastated when she died only 6 months after the wedding.
I like you list of characters! I love reading about Boudica. Many thanks for the other suggestions – more research for me!
Our Queen Marie was Queen Victoria’s granddaughter. 😉
And at some point I think (hope) you’ll read my novel about Stephen the Great. 😀
I’m sure you’ll find the Korean kings and queens fascinating, too. 🙂 The more I learn about ancient and early medieval Korea, the more amazed and… humble I feel. Lots of people revere ancient and medieval China, ignoring the Korean achievements. I love their history, their myths and legends, and their strength – as a nation (without being a fan of the K-pop culture :p )
Our Queen Marie was Queen Victoria’s granddaughter. 😉
And at some point I think (hope) you’ll read my novel about Stephen the Great. 😀
I’m sure you’ll find the Korean kings and queens fascinating, too. 🙂 The more I learn about ancient and early medieval Korea, the more amazed and… humble I feel. Lots of people revere ancient and medieval China, ignoring the Korean achievements. I love their history, their myths and legends, and their strength – as a nation (without being a fan of the K-pop culture :p )
Our Queen Marie was Queen Victoria’s granddaughter. 😉
And at some point I think (hope) you’ll read my novel about Stephen the Great. 😀
I’m sure you’ll find the Korean kings and queens fascinating, too. 🙂 The more I learn about ancient and early medieval Korea, the more amazed and… humble I feel. Lots of people revere ancient and medieval China, ignoring the Korean achievements. I love their history, their myths and legends, and their strength – as a nation (without being a fan of the K-pop culture :p )
Our Queen Marie was Queen Victoria’s granddaughter. 😉
And at some point I think (hope) you’ll read my novel about Stephen the Great. 😀
I’m sure you’ll find the Korean kings and queens fascinating, too. 🙂 The more I learn about ancient and early medieval Korea, the more amazed and… humble I feel. Lots of people revere ancient and medieval China, ignoring the Korean achievements. I love their history, their myths and legends, and their strength – as a nation (without being a fan of the K-pop culture :p )
Our Queen Marie was Queen Victoria’s granddaughter. 😉
And at some point I think (hope) you’ll read my novel about Stephen the Great. 😀
I’m sure you’ll find the Korean kings and queens fascinating, too. 🙂 The more I learn about ancient and early medieval Korea, the more amazed and… humble I feel. Lots of people revere ancient and medieval China, ignoring the Korean achievements. I love their history, their myths and legends, and their strength – as a nation (without being a fan of the K-pop culture :p )
I even know hangul, the Korean alphabet created during King Sejong the Great’s reign. 🙂
They’d probably write your name like this: 니컬러 고오닠 or like this: 니커울러 고오닠 . But they’d normally say your family name first, so: 고오닠 니컬러/니커울러 .
I even know hangul, the Korean alphabet created during King Sejong the Great’s reign. 🙂
They’d probably write your name like this: 니컬러 고오닠 or like this: 니커울러 고오닠 . But they’d normally say your family name first, so: 고오닠 니컬러/니커울러 .
I even know hangul, the Korean alphabet created during King Sejong the Great’s reign. 🙂
They’d probably write your name like this: 니컬러 고오닠 or like this: 니커울러 고오닠 . But they’d normally say your family name first, so: 고오닠 니컬러/니커울러 .
I even know hangul, the Korean alphabet created during King Sejong the Great’s reign. 🙂
They’d probably write your name like this: 니컬러 고오닠 or like this: 니커울러 고오닠 . But they’d normally say your family name first, so: 고오닠 니컬러/니커울러 .
I even know hangul, the Korean alphabet created during King Sejong the Great’s reign. 🙂
They’d probably write your name like this: 니컬러 고오닠 or like this: 니커울러 고오닠 . But they’d normally say your family name first, so: 고오닠 니컬러/니커울러 .
And my name is: 울류 와나 마리아 :p
And my name is: 울류 와나 마리아 :p
And my name is: 울류 와나 마리아 :p
And my name is: 울류 와나 마리아 :p
And my name is: 울류 와나 마리아 :p
I have never been a fan of Tudor times, although I have read many of the books, admire them, and remember them. But I don’t believe I pick books for their periods and settings. I mostly pick by authors these days. Or by recommendation from other readers. ANY era has interesting characters and interesting bad characters.
I abhor many of the actions of the two greatest Tudors — Henry VIII and Elizabeth. But when you look at their actions and compare them to what was going on in the rest of Europe at the time, they are truly less villainous than their fellow monarch.
Henry was mainly powered by attempting to prevent a return to the generations-long civil Wars of the Roses. Since he succeed it doesn’t seem so dangerous to us, but it was definitely NOT a false worry in Henry’s time. Yes, he wasn’t “nice” but he had more valid fears and acted less arbitrarily than did many rulers of his time.
Elizabeth was evading being undermined by the popes, who had both France and Spain in their corner, and who were determined to regain territory and civil power over a country they had thrown away in their arrogance. I seriously doubt any lesser woman would have managed what she achieved during her reign. She was also far more tolerant about Catholic worshipers in England, than the Popes were ever tolerant about Protestants during that period.
Having defended Henry and Elizabeth, I truly do not like them, but do enjoy some stories set in their times.
I have never been a fan of Tudor times, although I have read many of the books, admire them, and remember them. But I don’t believe I pick books for their periods and settings. I mostly pick by authors these days. Or by recommendation from other readers. ANY era has interesting characters and interesting bad characters.
I abhor many of the actions of the two greatest Tudors — Henry VIII and Elizabeth. But when you look at their actions and compare them to what was going on in the rest of Europe at the time, they are truly less villainous than their fellow monarch.
Henry was mainly powered by attempting to prevent a return to the generations-long civil Wars of the Roses. Since he succeed it doesn’t seem so dangerous to us, but it was definitely NOT a false worry in Henry’s time. Yes, he wasn’t “nice” but he had more valid fears and acted less arbitrarily than did many rulers of his time.
Elizabeth was evading being undermined by the popes, who had both France and Spain in their corner, and who were determined to regain territory and civil power over a country they had thrown away in their arrogance. I seriously doubt any lesser woman would have managed what she achieved during her reign. She was also far more tolerant about Catholic worshipers in England, than the Popes were ever tolerant about Protestants during that period.
Having defended Henry and Elizabeth, I truly do not like them, but do enjoy some stories set in their times.
I have never been a fan of Tudor times, although I have read many of the books, admire them, and remember them. But I don’t believe I pick books for their periods and settings. I mostly pick by authors these days. Or by recommendation from other readers. ANY era has interesting characters and interesting bad characters.
I abhor many of the actions of the two greatest Tudors — Henry VIII and Elizabeth. But when you look at their actions and compare them to what was going on in the rest of Europe at the time, they are truly less villainous than their fellow monarch.
Henry was mainly powered by attempting to prevent a return to the generations-long civil Wars of the Roses. Since he succeed it doesn’t seem so dangerous to us, but it was definitely NOT a false worry in Henry’s time. Yes, he wasn’t “nice” but he had more valid fears and acted less arbitrarily than did many rulers of his time.
Elizabeth was evading being undermined by the popes, who had both France and Spain in their corner, and who were determined to regain territory and civil power over a country they had thrown away in their arrogance. I seriously doubt any lesser woman would have managed what she achieved during her reign. She was also far more tolerant about Catholic worshipers in England, than the Popes were ever tolerant about Protestants during that period.
Having defended Henry and Elizabeth, I truly do not like them, but do enjoy some stories set in their times.
I have never been a fan of Tudor times, although I have read many of the books, admire them, and remember them. But I don’t believe I pick books for their periods and settings. I mostly pick by authors these days. Or by recommendation from other readers. ANY era has interesting characters and interesting bad characters.
I abhor many of the actions of the two greatest Tudors — Henry VIII and Elizabeth. But when you look at their actions and compare them to what was going on in the rest of Europe at the time, they are truly less villainous than their fellow monarch.
Henry was mainly powered by attempting to prevent a return to the generations-long civil Wars of the Roses. Since he succeed it doesn’t seem so dangerous to us, but it was definitely NOT a false worry in Henry’s time. Yes, he wasn’t “nice” but he had more valid fears and acted less arbitrarily than did many rulers of his time.
Elizabeth was evading being undermined by the popes, who had both France and Spain in their corner, and who were determined to regain territory and civil power over a country they had thrown away in their arrogance. I seriously doubt any lesser woman would have managed what she achieved during her reign. She was also far more tolerant about Catholic worshipers in England, than the Popes were ever tolerant about Protestants during that period.
Having defended Henry and Elizabeth, I truly do not like them, but do enjoy some stories set in their times.
I have never been a fan of Tudor times, although I have read many of the books, admire them, and remember them. But I don’t believe I pick books for their periods and settings. I mostly pick by authors these days. Or by recommendation from other readers. ANY era has interesting characters and interesting bad characters.
I abhor many of the actions of the two greatest Tudors — Henry VIII and Elizabeth. But when you look at their actions and compare them to what was going on in the rest of Europe at the time, they are truly less villainous than their fellow monarch.
Henry was mainly powered by attempting to prevent a return to the generations-long civil Wars of the Roses. Since he succeed it doesn’t seem so dangerous to us, but it was definitely NOT a false worry in Henry’s time. Yes, he wasn’t “nice” but he had more valid fears and acted less arbitrarily than did many rulers of his time.
Elizabeth was evading being undermined by the popes, who had both France and Spain in their corner, and who were determined to regain territory and civil power over a country they had thrown away in their arrogance. I seriously doubt any lesser woman would have managed what she achieved during her reign. She was also far more tolerant about Catholic worshipers in England, than the Popes were ever tolerant about Protestants during that period.
Having defended Henry and Elizabeth, I truly do not like them, but do enjoy some stories set in their times.
I’m particularly fond of Elizabethan England, not so much of Henry VII, Mary, or Edward. Henry VIII is fascinating in many ways, but also tiresome. Can’t abide Mary Queen of Scots. Elizabeth is one of my favorite historical “characters” along with Athelstan, the Venerable Bede, and St. Hilda of Whitby. I read Victorian-set mysteries and romances, but prefer the Regency to the Victorian setting. The Victorians were such incredible hypocrites. 🙂
I’m particularly fond of Elizabethan England, not so much of Henry VII, Mary, or Edward. Henry VIII is fascinating in many ways, but also tiresome. Can’t abide Mary Queen of Scots. Elizabeth is one of my favorite historical “characters” along with Athelstan, the Venerable Bede, and St. Hilda of Whitby. I read Victorian-set mysteries and romances, but prefer the Regency to the Victorian setting. The Victorians were such incredible hypocrites. 🙂
I’m particularly fond of Elizabethan England, not so much of Henry VII, Mary, or Edward. Henry VIII is fascinating in many ways, but also tiresome. Can’t abide Mary Queen of Scots. Elizabeth is one of my favorite historical “characters” along with Athelstan, the Venerable Bede, and St. Hilda of Whitby. I read Victorian-set mysteries and romances, but prefer the Regency to the Victorian setting. The Victorians were such incredible hypocrites. 🙂
I’m particularly fond of Elizabethan England, not so much of Henry VII, Mary, or Edward. Henry VIII is fascinating in many ways, but also tiresome. Can’t abide Mary Queen of Scots. Elizabeth is one of my favorite historical “characters” along with Athelstan, the Venerable Bede, and St. Hilda of Whitby. I read Victorian-set mysteries and romances, but prefer the Regency to the Victorian setting. The Victorians were such incredible hypocrites. 🙂
I’m particularly fond of Elizabethan England, not so much of Henry VII, Mary, or Edward. Henry VIII is fascinating in many ways, but also tiresome. Can’t abide Mary Queen of Scots. Elizabeth is one of my favorite historical “characters” along with Athelstan, the Venerable Bede, and St. Hilda of Whitby. I read Victorian-set mysteries and romances, but prefer the Regency to the Victorian setting. The Victorians were such incredible hypocrites. 🙂
Interesting that Oana Maria Uliu prefers the Victorian esthetic to the Regency, as I have the opposite taste. When I think Victorian, I think far too many ruffles and flounces on women’s clothing, far too much facial hair on the men (don’t understand why anyone thought handlebar mustaches and center parts were flattering) flocked wallpaper, and dark, dark rooms. Neither of us is right; it’s just our personal taste.
Interesting that Oana Maria Uliu prefers the Victorian esthetic to the Regency, as I have the opposite taste. When I think Victorian, I think far too many ruffles and flounces on women’s clothing, far too much facial hair on the men (don’t understand why anyone thought handlebar mustaches and center parts were flattering) flocked wallpaper, and dark, dark rooms. Neither of us is right; it’s just our personal taste.
Interesting that Oana Maria Uliu prefers the Victorian esthetic to the Regency, as I have the opposite taste. When I think Victorian, I think far too many ruffles and flounces on women’s clothing, far too much facial hair on the men (don’t understand why anyone thought handlebar mustaches and center parts were flattering) flocked wallpaper, and dark, dark rooms. Neither of us is right; it’s just our personal taste.
Interesting that Oana Maria Uliu prefers the Victorian esthetic to the Regency, as I have the opposite taste. When I think Victorian, I think far too many ruffles and flounces on women’s clothing, far too much facial hair on the men (don’t understand why anyone thought handlebar mustaches and center parts were flattering) flocked wallpaper, and dark, dark rooms. Neither of us is right; it’s just our personal taste.
Interesting that Oana Maria Uliu prefers the Victorian esthetic to the Regency, as I have the opposite taste. When I think Victorian, I think far too many ruffles and flounces on women’s clothing, far too much facial hair on the men (don’t understand why anyone thought handlebar mustaches and center parts were flattering) flocked wallpaper, and dark, dark rooms. Neither of us is right; it’s just our personal taste.
I’ve got three books written by Queen Marie of Romania herself. (There is a wonderful memoir as well, but I don’t have it in English. 🙁 )
I can send them to you by email or facebook PM, if you want me to. Just let me know. 🙂
I’ve got three books written by Queen Marie of Romania herself. (There is a wonderful memoir as well, but I don’t have it in English. 🙁 )
I can send them to you by email or facebook PM, if you want me to. Just let me know. 🙂
I’ve got three books written by Queen Marie of Romania herself. (There is a wonderful memoir as well, but I don’t have it in English. 🙁 )
I can send them to you by email or facebook PM, if you want me to. Just let me know. 🙂
I’ve got three books written by Queen Marie of Romania herself. (There is a wonderful memoir as well, but I don’t have it in English. 🙁 )
I can send them to you by email or facebook PM, if you want me to. Just let me know. 🙂
I’ve got three books written by Queen Marie of Romania herself. (There is a wonderful memoir as well, but I don’t have it in English. 🙁 )
I can send them to you by email or facebook PM, if you want me to. Just let me know. 🙂
And as for the Tudor period, I think it’s fascinating because so much happened. Can’t read anything about Henry VII because I read Josephine Tey’s “Daughter of Time” when young and took violently against the first Tudor king. Henry VIII is fascinating, but after reading Mantel’s “Wolf Hall” I realized that the mortality rate for those nearest the king was extraordinarily high. His propensity for anticipating the Queen in Alice in Wonderland rather set me against reading more about him. That said, I am working my way through the Tudor-set Matthew Shardlake mysteries by C.J. Sansom.
And as for the Tudor period, I think it’s fascinating because so much happened. Can’t read anything about Henry VII because I read Josephine Tey’s “Daughter of Time” when young and took violently against the first Tudor king. Henry VIII is fascinating, but after reading Mantel’s “Wolf Hall” I realized that the mortality rate for those nearest the king was extraordinarily high. His propensity for anticipating the Queen in Alice in Wonderland rather set me against reading more about him. That said, I am working my way through the Tudor-set Matthew Shardlake mysteries by C.J. Sansom.
And as for the Tudor period, I think it’s fascinating because so much happened. Can’t read anything about Henry VII because I read Josephine Tey’s “Daughter of Time” when young and took violently against the first Tudor king. Henry VIII is fascinating, but after reading Mantel’s “Wolf Hall” I realized that the mortality rate for those nearest the king was extraordinarily high. His propensity for anticipating the Queen in Alice in Wonderland rather set me against reading more about him. That said, I am working my way through the Tudor-set Matthew Shardlake mysteries by C.J. Sansom.
And as for the Tudor period, I think it’s fascinating because so much happened. Can’t read anything about Henry VII because I read Josephine Tey’s “Daughter of Time” when young and took violently against the first Tudor king. Henry VIII is fascinating, but after reading Mantel’s “Wolf Hall” I realized that the mortality rate for those nearest the king was extraordinarily high. His propensity for anticipating the Queen in Alice in Wonderland rather set me against reading more about him. That said, I am working my way through the Tudor-set Matthew Shardlake mysteries by C.J. Sansom.
And as for the Tudor period, I think it’s fascinating because so much happened. Can’t read anything about Henry VII because I read Josephine Tey’s “Daughter of Time” when young and took violently against the first Tudor king. Henry VIII is fascinating, but after reading Mantel’s “Wolf Hall” I realized that the mortality rate for those nearest the king was extraordinarily high. His propensity for anticipating the Queen in Alice in Wonderland rather set me against reading more about him. That said, I am working my way through the Tudor-set Matthew Shardlake mysteries by C.J. Sansom.
I was fascinated by the Tudors in junior high, but got over that. I seem to remember a book by Margaret Campbell Barnes about Richard III that started me on a War of The Roses craze. I wouldn’t mind reading more about the English Civil War. I don’t think I’ve run into anything set then since Sylvia Thorpe.
I was fascinated by the Tudors in junior high, but got over that. I seem to remember a book by Margaret Campbell Barnes about Richard III that started me on a War of The Roses craze. I wouldn’t mind reading more about the English Civil War. I don’t think I’ve run into anything set then since Sylvia Thorpe.
I was fascinated by the Tudors in junior high, but got over that. I seem to remember a book by Margaret Campbell Barnes about Richard III that started me on a War of The Roses craze. I wouldn’t mind reading more about the English Civil War. I don’t think I’ve run into anything set then since Sylvia Thorpe.
I was fascinated by the Tudors in junior high, but got over that. I seem to remember a book by Margaret Campbell Barnes about Richard III that started me on a War of The Roses craze. I wouldn’t mind reading more about the English Civil War. I don’t think I’ve run into anything set then since Sylvia Thorpe.
I was fascinated by the Tudors in junior high, but got over that. I seem to remember a book by Margaret Campbell Barnes about Richard III that started me on a War of The Roses craze. I wouldn’t mind reading more about the English Civil War. I don’t think I’ve run into anything set then since Sylvia Thorpe.
I don’t mind long sideburns or short beards, but I dislike handlebar moustaches, too. I’m more into the ‘Mr Thornton played by Richard Armitage’ type of look, but in some cases I like short beards even better.
As for ruffles and flounces, it depends on the woman wearing the dress. It’s the silhouette that I like. I’ve seen those types of silhouette as my ideal since early childhood (no idea why) and I’ve always liked small, dark rooms with a lot of heavy furniture (especially beds :p , grand desks, bookcases, and immense armchairs). https://media.colettehq.com/2012/11/silhouettes.jpg
I don’t mind long sideburns or short beards, but I dislike handlebar moustaches, too. I’m more into the ‘Mr Thornton played by Richard Armitage’ type of look, but in some cases I like short beards even better.
As for ruffles and flounces, it depends on the woman wearing the dress. It’s the silhouette that I like. I’ve seen those types of silhouette as my ideal since early childhood (no idea why) and I’ve always liked small, dark rooms with a lot of heavy furniture (especially beds :p , grand desks, bookcases, and immense armchairs). https://media.colettehq.com/2012/11/silhouettes.jpg
I don’t mind long sideburns or short beards, but I dislike handlebar moustaches, too. I’m more into the ‘Mr Thornton played by Richard Armitage’ type of look, but in some cases I like short beards even better.
As for ruffles and flounces, it depends on the woman wearing the dress. It’s the silhouette that I like. I’ve seen those types of silhouette as my ideal since early childhood (no idea why) and I’ve always liked small, dark rooms with a lot of heavy furniture (especially beds :p , grand desks, bookcases, and immense armchairs). https://media.colettehq.com/2012/11/silhouettes.jpg
I don’t mind long sideburns or short beards, but I dislike handlebar moustaches, too. I’m more into the ‘Mr Thornton played by Richard Armitage’ type of look, but in some cases I like short beards even better.
As for ruffles and flounces, it depends on the woman wearing the dress. It’s the silhouette that I like. I’ve seen those types of silhouette as my ideal since early childhood (no idea why) and I’ve always liked small, dark rooms with a lot of heavy furniture (especially beds :p , grand desks, bookcases, and immense armchairs). https://media.colettehq.com/2012/11/silhouettes.jpg
I don’t mind long sideburns or short beards, but I dislike handlebar moustaches, too. I’m more into the ‘Mr Thornton played by Richard Armitage’ type of look, but in some cases I like short beards even better.
As for ruffles and flounces, it depends on the woman wearing the dress. It’s the silhouette that I like. I’ve seen those types of silhouette as my ideal since early childhood (no idea why) and I’ve always liked small, dark rooms with a lot of heavy furniture (especially beds :p , grand desks, bookcases, and immense armchairs). https://media.colettehq.com/2012/11/silhouettes.jpg
It has always rather irritated me that Queen Mary is called Bloody Mary when Henry VIII and Edward VI killed far more “heretics” as did Elizabeth, though she generally called the crime treason. The same thing was going on all over Europe.
I think one of the reasons for the popularity of the Regency period is that it is one of the few times in history when there wasn’t any kind of ideological slaughter going on.
It has always rather irritated me that Queen Mary is called Bloody Mary when Henry VIII and Edward VI killed far more “heretics” as did Elizabeth, though she generally called the crime treason. The same thing was going on all over Europe.
I think one of the reasons for the popularity of the Regency period is that it is one of the few times in history when there wasn’t any kind of ideological slaughter going on.
It has always rather irritated me that Queen Mary is called Bloody Mary when Henry VIII and Edward VI killed far more “heretics” as did Elizabeth, though she generally called the crime treason. The same thing was going on all over Europe.
I think one of the reasons for the popularity of the Regency period is that it is one of the few times in history when there wasn’t any kind of ideological slaughter going on.
It has always rather irritated me that Queen Mary is called Bloody Mary when Henry VIII and Edward VI killed far more “heretics” as did Elizabeth, though she generally called the crime treason. The same thing was going on all over Europe.
I think one of the reasons for the popularity of the Regency period is that it is one of the few times in history when there wasn’t any kind of ideological slaughter going on.
It has always rather irritated me that Queen Mary is called Bloody Mary when Henry VIII and Edward VI killed far more “heretics” as did Elizabeth, though she generally called the crime treason. The same thing was going on all over Europe.
I think one of the reasons for the popularity of the Regency period is that it is one of the few times in history when there wasn’t any kind of ideological slaughter going on.
http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/c/conservation-victorian-wedding-dress/
http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/c/conservation-victorian-wedding-dress/
http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/c/conservation-victorian-wedding-dress/
http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/c/conservation-victorian-wedding-dress/
http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/c/conservation-victorian-wedding-dress/
While I like the Tudor period, I do think it has been overdone. Likewise with the Regency and Victorian time periods. Stella Riley has written some good books set during the English Civil Wars. It makes me wonder why more books aren’t set during that time period. I’ve also been enjoying some books set during the Georgian period. Another interesting time period would be the civil war in the 1200s between Stephen and Matilda’s factions, and Henry II’s reign. I guess we all have our favorite time periods, but it is good to branch out to other eras.
I always thought that one reason I like the Regency period was because of the cultural changes happening (agricultural vs industrial, etc.). There was also that little conflict with Napolean and all those lovely spy stories.
While I like the Tudor period, I do think it has been overdone. Likewise with the Regency and Victorian time periods. Stella Riley has written some good books set during the English Civil Wars. It makes me wonder why more books aren’t set during that time period. I’ve also been enjoying some books set during the Georgian period. Another interesting time period would be the civil war in the 1200s between Stephen and Matilda’s factions, and Henry II’s reign. I guess we all have our favorite time periods, but it is good to branch out to other eras.
I always thought that one reason I like the Regency period was because of the cultural changes happening (agricultural vs industrial, etc.). There was also that little conflict with Napolean and all those lovely spy stories.
While I like the Tudor period, I do think it has been overdone. Likewise with the Regency and Victorian time periods. Stella Riley has written some good books set during the English Civil Wars. It makes me wonder why more books aren’t set during that time period. I’ve also been enjoying some books set during the Georgian period. Another interesting time period would be the civil war in the 1200s between Stephen and Matilda’s factions, and Henry II’s reign. I guess we all have our favorite time periods, but it is good to branch out to other eras.
I always thought that one reason I like the Regency period was because of the cultural changes happening (agricultural vs industrial, etc.). There was also that little conflict with Napolean and all those lovely spy stories.
While I like the Tudor period, I do think it has been overdone. Likewise with the Regency and Victorian time periods. Stella Riley has written some good books set during the English Civil Wars. It makes me wonder why more books aren’t set during that time period. I’ve also been enjoying some books set during the Georgian period. Another interesting time period would be the civil war in the 1200s between Stephen and Matilda’s factions, and Henry II’s reign. I guess we all have our favorite time periods, but it is good to branch out to other eras.
I always thought that one reason I like the Regency period was because of the cultural changes happening (agricultural vs industrial, etc.). There was also that little conflict with Napolean and all those lovely spy stories.
While I like the Tudor period, I do think it has been overdone. Likewise with the Regency and Victorian time periods. Stella Riley has written some good books set during the English Civil Wars. It makes me wonder why more books aren’t set during that time period. I’ve also been enjoying some books set during the Georgian period. Another interesting time period would be the civil war in the 1200s between Stephen and Matilda’s factions, and Henry II’s reign. I guess we all have our favorite time periods, but it is good to branch out to other eras.
I always thought that one reason I like the Regency period was because of the cultural changes happening (agricultural vs industrial, etc.). There was also that little conflict with Napolean and all those lovely spy stories.
Oops, I added a century. Stephen, Matilda, and Henry II were in the 1100s.
Oops, I added a century. Stephen, Matilda, and Henry II were in the 1100s.
Oops, I added a century. Stephen, Matilda, and Henry II were in the 1100s.
Oops, I added a century. Stephen, Matilda, and Henry II were in the 1100s.
Oops, I added a century. Stephen, Matilda, and Henry II were in the 1100s.
Have you read Mary Jo and Jo Beverley’s medieval novels?
Have you read Mary Jo and Jo Beverley’s medieval novels?
Have you read Mary Jo and Jo Beverley’s medieval novels?
Have you read Mary Jo and Jo Beverley’s medieval novels?
Have you read Mary Jo and Jo Beverley’s medieval novels?
How wonderful that you have made such a thorough study of their history, Oana-Maria, and found it so fascinating. I think I can become quite narrow in the things we read and it is always interesting to branch out.
How wonderful that you have made such a thorough study of their history, Oana-Maria, and found it so fascinating. I think I can become quite narrow in the things we read and it is always interesting to branch out.
How wonderful that you have made such a thorough study of their history, Oana-Maria, and found it so fascinating. I think I can become quite narrow in the things we read and it is always interesting to branch out.
How wonderful that you have made such a thorough study of their history, Oana-Maria, and found it so fascinating. I think I can become quite narrow in the things we read and it is always interesting to branch out.
How wonderful that you have made such a thorough study of their history, Oana-Maria, and found it so fascinating. I think I can become quite narrow in the things we read and it is always interesting to branch out.
Thank you for the comments, Sue. I imagine that being a Tudor monarch was a thankless business! the politics were so tricky that ruthlessness had to be a way of life. As you say, we need to see them in the context of their time. Perhaps I have a soft spot for the “old” books such as those by Jean Plaidy and Margaret Campbell Barnes simply because I read them when young, plus they were such great storytellers.
Thank you for the comments, Sue. I imagine that being a Tudor monarch was a thankless business! the politics were so tricky that ruthlessness had to be a way of life. As you say, we need to see them in the context of their time. Perhaps I have a soft spot for the “old” books such as those by Jean Plaidy and Margaret Campbell Barnes simply because I read them when young, plus they were such great storytellers.
Thank you for the comments, Sue. I imagine that being a Tudor monarch was a thankless business! the politics were so tricky that ruthlessness had to be a way of life. As you say, we need to see them in the context of their time. Perhaps I have a soft spot for the “old” books such as those by Jean Plaidy and Margaret Campbell Barnes simply because I read them when young, plus they were such great storytellers.
Thank you for the comments, Sue. I imagine that being a Tudor monarch was a thankless business! the politics were so tricky that ruthlessness had to be a way of life. As you say, we need to see them in the context of their time. Perhaps I have a soft spot for the “old” books such as those by Jean Plaidy and Margaret Campbell Barnes simply because I read them when young, plus they were such great storytellers.
Thank you for the comments, Sue. I imagine that being a Tudor monarch was a thankless business! the politics were so tricky that ruthlessness had to be a way of life. As you say, we need to see them in the context of their time. Perhaps I have a soft spot for the “old” books such as those by Jean Plaidy and Margaret Campbell Barnes simply because I read them when young, plus they were such great storytellers.
A very interesting collection of characters, Dean. I don’t know much about Athelstan but am going to talk about him in a few weeks by an author who has recently brought a book out.
I agree Henry VIII was fascinating. I don’t like him at all but there is no denying that he makes for an interesting character study!
A very interesting collection of characters, Dean. I don’t know much about Athelstan but am going to talk about him in a few weeks by an author who has recently brought a book out.
I agree Henry VIII was fascinating. I don’t like him at all but there is no denying that he makes for an interesting character study!
A very interesting collection of characters, Dean. I don’t know much about Athelstan but am going to talk about him in a few weeks by an author who has recently brought a book out.
I agree Henry VIII was fascinating. I don’t like him at all but there is no denying that he makes for an interesting character study!
A very interesting collection of characters, Dean. I don’t know much about Athelstan but am going to talk about him in a few weeks by an author who has recently brought a book out.
I agree Henry VIII was fascinating. I don’t like him at all but there is no denying that he makes for an interesting character study!
A very interesting collection of characters, Dean. I don’t know much about Athelstan but am going to talk about him in a few weeks by an author who has recently brought a book out.
I agree Henry VIII was fascinating. I don’t like him at all but there is no denying that he makes for an interesting character study!
Absolutely, Susan! And I agree about the facial hair but it is having something of a renaissance at the moment so as you say, it’s all about fashions. I think I would have found the dark, heavily ornate furnishings of the period overwhelming!
Absolutely, Susan! And I agree about the facial hair but it is having something of a renaissance at the moment so as you say, it’s all about fashions. I think I would have found the dark, heavily ornate furnishings of the period overwhelming!
Absolutely, Susan! And I agree about the facial hair but it is having something of a renaissance at the moment so as you say, it’s all about fashions. I think I would have found the dark, heavily ornate furnishings of the period overwhelming!
Absolutely, Susan! And I agree about the facial hair but it is having something of a renaissance at the moment so as you say, it’s all about fashions. I think I would have found the dark, heavily ornate furnishings of the period overwhelming!
Absolutely, Susan! And I agree about the facial hair but it is having something of a renaissance at the moment so as you say, it’s all about fashions. I think I would have found the dark, heavily ornate furnishings of the period overwhelming!
Oh, I can identify with that, Susan! The Daughter of Time set my attitudes towards the Tudors too. I think it is an irony that Richard has been vilified by Shakespeare and to an extent “history in general” whilst Henry VIII was heavily into quasi-judicial murder! I have enjoyed the Shardlake books very much, though. How fortunate that our feelings about the Tudors don’t necessarily spoil a good book, but could in fact add to it!
Oh, I can identify with that, Susan! The Daughter of Time set my attitudes towards the Tudors too. I think it is an irony that Richard has been vilified by Shakespeare and to an extent “history in general” whilst Henry VIII was heavily into quasi-judicial murder! I have enjoyed the Shardlake books very much, though. How fortunate that our feelings about the Tudors don’t necessarily spoil a good book, but could in fact add to it!
Oh, I can identify with that, Susan! The Daughter of Time set my attitudes towards the Tudors too. I think it is an irony that Richard has been vilified by Shakespeare and to an extent “history in general” whilst Henry VIII was heavily into quasi-judicial murder! I have enjoyed the Shardlake books very much, though. How fortunate that our feelings about the Tudors don’t necessarily spoil a good book, but could in fact add to it!
Oh, I can identify with that, Susan! The Daughter of Time set my attitudes towards the Tudors too. I think it is an irony that Richard has been vilified by Shakespeare and to an extent “history in general” whilst Henry VIII was heavily into quasi-judicial murder! I have enjoyed the Shardlake books very much, though. How fortunate that our feelings about the Tudors don’t necessarily spoil a good book, but could in fact add to it!
Oh, I can identify with that, Susan! The Daughter of Time set my attitudes towards the Tudors too. I think it is an irony that Richard has been vilified by Shakespeare and to an extent “history in general” whilst Henry VIII was heavily into quasi-judicial murder! I have enjoyed the Shardlake books very much, though. How fortunate that our feelings about the Tudors don’t necessarily spoil a good book, but could in fact add to it!
Hi Janet! Was it “The King’s Bed” that you read about Richard III? I think that was about Richard’s illegitimate son. I must see if I still have my copy. That was one of my War of the Roses books too along with We Speak No Treason by Rosemary Hawley Jarman.
I wrote one book set in the English Civil War and I also enjoy reading – and writing – that period.
Hi Janet! Was it “The King’s Bed” that you read about Richard III? I think that was about Richard’s illegitimate son. I must see if I still have my copy. That was one of my War of the Roses books too along with We Speak No Treason by Rosemary Hawley Jarman.
I wrote one book set in the English Civil War and I also enjoy reading – and writing – that period.
Hi Janet! Was it “The King’s Bed” that you read about Richard III? I think that was about Richard’s illegitimate son. I must see if I still have my copy. That was one of my War of the Roses books too along with We Speak No Treason by Rosemary Hawley Jarman.
I wrote one book set in the English Civil War and I also enjoy reading – and writing – that period.
Hi Janet! Was it “The King’s Bed” that you read about Richard III? I think that was about Richard’s illegitimate son. I must see if I still have my copy. That was one of my War of the Roses books too along with We Speak No Treason by Rosemary Hawley Jarman.
I wrote one book set in the English Civil War and I also enjoy reading – and writing – that period.
Hi Janet! Was it “The King’s Bed” that you read about Richard III? I think that was about Richard’s illegitimate son. I must see if I still have my copy. That was one of my War of the Roses books too along with We Speak No Treason by Rosemary Hawley Jarman.
I wrote one book set in the English Civil War and I also enjoy reading – and writing – that period.
Unfortunately it’s such a catchy sort of soubriquet for Mary, isn’t it. Ill-founded but memorable, and history written by the other side. That’s a very interesting point about the Regency. Ideological conflicts have so seldom been absent in our history.
Unfortunately it’s such a catchy sort of soubriquet for Mary, isn’t it. Ill-founded but memorable, and history written by the other side. That’s a very interesting point about the Regency. Ideological conflicts have so seldom been absent in our history.
Unfortunately it’s such a catchy sort of soubriquet for Mary, isn’t it. Ill-founded but memorable, and history written by the other side. That’s a very interesting point about the Regency. Ideological conflicts have so seldom been absent in our history.
Unfortunately it’s such a catchy sort of soubriquet for Mary, isn’t it. Ill-founded but memorable, and history written by the other side. That’s a very interesting point about the Regency. Ideological conflicts have so seldom been absent in our history.
Unfortunately it’s such a catchy sort of soubriquet for Mary, isn’t it. Ill-founded but memorable, and history written by the other side. That’s a very interesting point about the Regency. Ideological conflicts have so seldom been absent in our history.
Many thanks for suggesting Stella Riley’s books, Karen. I will look out for those. I think the English Civil War period is a really great backdrop with so much potential. The Anarchy would also be really interesting. The only books I’ve read set in that era are Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael mysteries.
Many thanks for suggesting Stella Riley’s books, Karen. I will look out for those. I think the English Civil War period is a really great backdrop with so much potential. The Anarchy would also be really interesting. The only books I’ve read set in that era are Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael mysteries.
Many thanks for suggesting Stella Riley’s books, Karen. I will look out for those. I think the English Civil War period is a really great backdrop with so much potential. The Anarchy would also be really interesting. The only books I’ve read set in that era are Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael mysteries.
Many thanks for suggesting Stella Riley’s books, Karen. I will look out for those. I think the English Civil War period is a really great backdrop with so much potential. The Anarchy would also be really interesting. The only books I’ve read set in that era are Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael mysteries.
Many thanks for suggesting Stella Riley’s books, Karen. I will look out for those. I think the English Civil War period is a really great backdrop with so much potential. The Anarchy would also be really interesting. The only books I’ve read set in that era are Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael mysteries.
I’d love a story of playwright Aphra Behn and the arts in the Reformation setting. Seems to me, that’s an exciting but underrepresented period in historical fiction. Not to mention a strong female voice waiting to be heard!
I’d love a story of playwright Aphra Behn and the arts in the Reformation setting. Seems to me, that’s an exciting but underrepresented period in historical fiction. Not to mention a strong female voice waiting to be heard!
I’d love a story of playwright Aphra Behn and the arts in the Reformation setting. Seems to me, that’s an exciting but underrepresented period in historical fiction. Not to mention a strong female voice waiting to be heard!
I’d love a story of playwright Aphra Behn and the arts in the Reformation setting. Seems to me, that’s an exciting but underrepresented period in historical fiction. Not to mention a strong female voice waiting to be heard!
I’d love a story of playwright Aphra Behn and the arts in the Reformation setting. Seems to me, that’s an exciting but underrepresented period in historical fiction. Not to mention a strong female voice waiting to be heard!
What about Ken Follett’s Pillars of the Earth (+ sequel)?
What about Ken Follett’s Pillars of the Earth (+ sequel)?
What about Ken Follett’s Pillars of the Earth (+ sequel)?
What about Ken Follett’s Pillars of the Earth (+ sequel)?
What about Ken Follett’s Pillars of the Earth (+ sequel)?
I seem to remember that that was a huge doorstep of a novel! It was televised here a while ago and was very good.
I seem to remember that that was a huge doorstep of a novel! It was televised here a while ago and was very good.
I seem to remember that that was a huge doorstep of a novel! It was televised here a while ago and was very good.
I seem to remember that that was a huge doorstep of a novel! It was televised here a while ago and was very good.
I seem to remember that that was a huge doorstep of a novel! It was televised here a while ago and was very good.
Yes, absolutely, Mary. I would love to read that too!
Yes, absolutely, Mary. I would love to read that too!
Yes, absolutely, Mary. I would love to read that too!
Yes, absolutely, Mary. I would love to read that too!
Yes, absolutely, Mary. I would love to read that too!
Of the “old books” I only read Philippa Gregory. When television re-upped her fame, I kept telling Bob about her books. I’ve never forgotten them. On the other hand, I’ve never returned to them either.
I think it’s mostly a matter of personal taste. I just don’t care much for those times.
And by the way, I just remembered Ida Tarbell? whose romance about Henry VII’s sister was one of the first romances I ever read. Again, I don’t go back, but in this case it’s because she is too much a writer of her period (late 19th, early 20th century).
Of the “old books” I only read Philippa Gregory. When television re-upped her fame, I kept telling Bob about her books. I’ve never forgotten them. On the other hand, I’ve never returned to them either.
I think it’s mostly a matter of personal taste. I just don’t care much for those times.
And by the way, I just remembered Ida Tarbell? whose romance about Henry VII’s sister was one of the first romances I ever read. Again, I don’t go back, but in this case it’s because she is too much a writer of her period (late 19th, early 20th century).
Of the “old books” I only read Philippa Gregory. When television re-upped her fame, I kept telling Bob about her books. I’ve never forgotten them. On the other hand, I’ve never returned to them either.
I think it’s mostly a matter of personal taste. I just don’t care much for those times.
And by the way, I just remembered Ida Tarbell? whose romance about Henry VII’s sister was one of the first romances I ever read. Again, I don’t go back, but in this case it’s because she is too much a writer of her period (late 19th, early 20th century).
Of the “old books” I only read Philippa Gregory. When television re-upped her fame, I kept telling Bob about her books. I’ve never forgotten them. On the other hand, I’ve never returned to them either.
I think it’s mostly a matter of personal taste. I just don’t care much for those times.
And by the way, I just remembered Ida Tarbell? whose romance about Henry VII’s sister was one of the first romances I ever read. Again, I don’t go back, but in this case it’s because she is too much a writer of her period (late 19th, early 20th century).
Of the “old books” I only read Philippa Gregory. When television re-upped her fame, I kept telling Bob about her books. I’ve never forgotten them. On the other hand, I’ve never returned to them either.
I think it’s mostly a matter of personal taste. I just don’t care much for those times.
And by the way, I just remembered Ida Tarbell? whose romance about Henry VII’s sister was one of the first romances I ever read. Again, I don’t go back, but in this case it’s because she is too much a writer of her period (late 19th, early 20th century).
I used to be so interested in the Tudors in my teens, when Other Boleyn Girl was first released, but I think it’s been played out these days–I feel like every other historical novel I see has to do with the Tudors. It’s kind of on par with the over saturation of World War Two here in the United States. So whenever I come across a book that doesn’t take place in those eras and it sounds intriguing, I really look forward to reading it.
The Winter Queen would be an amazing subject. Who cares if it doesn’t take place in England? Elizabeth Chadwick’s The Summer Queen didn’t touch England and it was great. Frankly, we need more historical novels taking place in other places.
I used to be so interested in the Tudors in my teens, when Other Boleyn Girl was first released, but I think it’s been played out these days–I feel like every other historical novel I see has to do with the Tudors. It’s kind of on par with the over saturation of World War Two here in the United States. So whenever I come across a book that doesn’t take place in those eras and it sounds intriguing, I really look forward to reading it.
The Winter Queen would be an amazing subject. Who cares if it doesn’t take place in England? Elizabeth Chadwick’s The Summer Queen didn’t touch England and it was great. Frankly, we need more historical novels taking place in other places.
I used to be so interested in the Tudors in my teens, when Other Boleyn Girl was first released, but I think it’s been played out these days–I feel like every other historical novel I see has to do with the Tudors. It’s kind of on par with the over saturation of World War Two here in the United States. So whenever I come across a book that doesn’t take place in those eras and it sounds intriguing, I really look forward to reading it.
The Winter Queen would be an amazing subject. Who cares if it doesn’t take place in England? Elizabeth Chadwick’s The Summer Queen didn’t touch England and it was great. Frankly, we need more historical novels taking place in other places.
I used to be so interested in the Tudors in my teens, when Other Boleyn Girl was first released, but I think it’s been played out these days–I feel like every other historical novel I see has to do with the Tudors. It’s kind of on par with the over saturation of World War Two here in the United States. So whenever I come across a book that doesn’t take place in those eras and it sounds intriguing, I really look forward to reading it.
The Winter Queen would be an amazing subject. Who cares if it doesn’t take place in England? Elizabeth Chadwick’s The Summer Queen didn’t touch England and it was great. Frankly, we need more historical novels taking place in other places.
I used to be so interested in the Tudors in my teens, when Other Boleyn Girl was first released, but I think it’s been played out these days–I feel like every other historical novel I see has to do with the Tudors. It’s kind of on par with the over saturation of World War Two here in the United States. So whenever I come across a book that doesn’t take place in those eras and it sounds intriguing, I really look forward to reading it.
The Winter Queen would be an amazing subject. Who cares if it doesn’t take place in England? Elizabeth Chadwick’s The Summer Queen didn’t touch England and it was great. Frankly, we need more historical novels taking place in other places.
I love the Tudor period!! It will NEVER be time to move on from it 😉
I love the Tudor period!! It will NEVER be time to move on from it 😉
I love the Tudor period!! It will NEVER be time to move on from it 😉
I love the Tudor period!! It will NEVER be time to move on from it 😉
I love the Tudor period!! It will NEVER be time to move on from it 😉
I do enjoy the Tudor period but I’m more interested in the common people than the kings and queens. That said I did an on-line course lately about Richard 111 and that period of time and I loved it. Even though I had read Josephine Tey’s novel, Daughter of Time I kind of felt sorry for Richard by the time I had the course done. My favourite era is Regency and I like Medieval times. There’s so much history to write about. I’m looking forward to your new book Nichola. Love dual time lines and time slip novels.
I do enjoy the Tudor period but I’m more interested in the common people than the kings and queens. That said I did an on-line course lately about Richard 111 and that period of time and I loved it. Even though I had read Josephine Tey’s novel, Daughter of Time I kind of felt sorry for Richard by the time I had the course done. My favourite era is Regency and I like Medieval times. There’s so much history to write about. I’m looking forward to your new book Nichola. Love dual time lines and time slip novels.
I do enjoy the Tudor period but I’m more interested in the common people than the kings and queens. That said I did an on-line course lately about Richard 111 and that period of time and I loved it. Even though I had read Josephine Tey’s novel, Daughter of Time I kind of felt sorry for Richard by the time I had the course done. My favourite era is Regency and I like Medieval times. There’s so much history to write about. I’m looking forward to your new book Nichola. Love dual time lines and time slip novels.
I do enjoy the Tudor period but I’m more interested in the common people than the kings and queens. That said I did an on-line course lately about Richard 111 and that period of time and I loved it. Even though I had read Josephine Tey’s novel, Daughter of Time I kind of felt sorry for Richard by the time I had the course done. My favourite era is Regency and I like Medieval times. There’s so much history to write about. I’m looking forward to your new book Nichola. Love dual time lines and time slip novels.
I do enjoy the Tudor period but I’m more interested in the common people than the kings and queens. That said I did an on-line course lately about Richard 111 and that period of time and I loved it. Even though I had read Josephine Tey’s novel, Daughter of Time I kind of felt sorry for Richard by the time I had the course done. My favourite era is Regency and I like Medieval times. There’s so much history to write about. I’m looking forward to your new book Nichola. Love dual time lines and time slip novels.
The King’s Bed it was, Nicola! What’s your Civil War title? I need to find it.
The King’s Bed it was, Nicola! What’s your Civil War title? I need to find it.
The King’s Bed it was, Nicola! What’s your Civil War title? I need to find it.
The King’s Bed it was, Nicola! What’s your Civil War title? I need to find it.
The King’s Bed it was, Nicola! What’s your Civil War title? I need to find it.
The best books I ever read about the Stephen/Matilda Era were by Roberta Gellis. Bond of Blood, The Sword and the Swan give you a real fee for the times and the difficulties of leaving through them!
The best books I ever read about the Stephen/Matilda Era were by Roberta Gellis. Bond of Blood, The Sword and the Swan give you a real fee for the times and the difficulties of leaving through them!
The best books I ever read about the Stephen/Matilda Era were by Roberta Gellis. Bond of Blood, The Sword and the Swan give you a real fee for the times and the difficulties of leaving through them!
The best books I ever read about the Stephen/Matilda Era were by Roberta Gellis. Bond of Blood, The Sword and the Swan give you a real fee for the times and the difficulties of leaving through them!
The best books I ever read about the Stephen/Matilda Era were by Roberta Gellis. Bond of Blood, The Sword and the Swan give you a real fee for the times and the difficulties of leaving through them!
I totally agree with you, Michelle, and would love to write that book! I’ve read may great books set in other countries. The history is fascinating to explore. It’s just a question of persuading teh publishers!
I totally agree with you, Michelle, and would love to write that book! I’ve read may great books set in other countries. The history is fascinating to explore. It’s just a question of persuading teh publishers!
I totally agree with you, Michelle, and would love to write that book! I’ve read may great books set in other countries. The history is fascinating to explore. It’s just a question of persuading teh publishers!
I totally agree with you, Michelle, and would love to write that book! I’ve read may great books set in other countries. The history is fascinating to explore. It’s just a question of persuading teh publishers!
I totally agree with you, Michelle, and would love to write that book! I’ve read may great books set in other countries. The history is fascinating to explore. It’s just a question of persuading teh publishers!
LOL, Shannon! I certainly agree there will always be a place for great Tudor-set books!
LOL, Shannon! I certainly agree there will always be a place for great Tudor-set books!
LOL, Shannon! I certainly agree there will always be a place for great Tudor-set books!
LOL, Shannon! I certainly agree there will always be a place for great Tudor-set books!
LOL, Shannon! I certainly agree there will always be a place for great Tudor-set books!
Thank you so much, Teresa! You raise a really interesting point about the common people versus the kings and queens. It seems as difficult to get publishers to accept stories of “ordinary” people as it does to get them to step outside the popular eras. We’ve seen that with the Regency as well.
Thank you so much, Teresa! You raise a really interesting point about the common people versus the kings and queens. It seems as difficult to get publishers to accept stories of “ordinary” people as it does to get them to step outside the popular eras. We’ve seen that with the Regency as well.
Thank you so much, Teresa! You raise a really interesting point about the common people versus the kings and queens. It seems as difficult to get publishers to accept stories of “ordinary” people as it does to get them to step outside the popular eras. We’ve seen that with the Regency as well.
Thank you so much, Teresa! You raise a really interesting point about the common people versus the kings and queens. It seems as difficult to get publishers to accept stories of “ordinary” people as it does to get them to step outside the popular eras. We’ve seen that with the Regency as well.
Thank you so much, Teresa! You raise a really interesting point about the common people versus the kings and queens. It seems as difficult to get publishers to accept stories of “ordinary” people as it does to get them to step outside the popular eras. We’ve seen that with the Regency as well.
I adore books and I adore history so I tend to embrace books that have a bit of it all. That said, I definitely enjoy Regency period and also WWII periods (LOL yes, large gap there). Tudor I could give or take as a choice. I, like a pp, really prefer books about the little people, the forgottens, and the rarely mentioned more than the books based on kings and queens and the political giants. Maybe it’s because my ancestry and lineage are all the people who don’t get mentioned in the history books but those that do couldn’t make it without us? I’m just thankful that so many of you write novels with historical bases (or ones that dip into it), I enjoy them so much more than a contemporary novel any day of the week.
I adore books and I adore history so I tend to embrace books that have a bit of it all. That said, I definitely enjoy Regency period and also WWII periods (LOL yes, large gap there). Tudor I could give or take as a choice. I, like a pp, really prefer books about the little people, the forgottens, and the rarely mentioned more than the books based on kings and queens and the political giants. Maybe it’s because my ancestry and lineage are all the people who don’t get mentioned in the history books but those that do couldn’t make it without us? I’m just thankful that so many of you write novels with historical bases (or ones that dip into it), I enjoy them so much more than a contemporary novel any day of the week.
I adore books and I adore history so I tend to embrace books that have a bit of it all. That said, I definitely enjoy Regency period and also WWII periods (LOL yes, large gap there). Tudor I could give or take as a choice. I, like a pp, really prefer books about the little people, the forgottens, and the rarely mentioned more than the books based on kings and queens and the political giants. Maybe it’s because my ancestry and lineage are all the people who don’t get mentioned in the history books but those that do couldn’t make it without us? I’m just thankful that so many of you write novels with historical bases (or ones that dip into it), I enjoy them so much more than a contemporary novel any day of the week.
I adore books and I adore history so I tend to embrace books that have a bit of it all. That said, I definitely enjoy Regency period and also WWII periods (LOL yes, large gap there). Tudor I could give or take as a choice. I, like a pp, really prefer books about the little people, the forgottens, and the rarely mentioned more than the books based on kings and queens and the political giants. Maybe it’s because my ancestry and lineage are all the people who don’t get mentioned in the history books but those that do couldn’t make it without us? I’m just thankful that so many of you write novels with historical bases (or ones that dip into it), I enjoy them so much more than a contemporary novel any day of the week.
I adore books and I adore history so I tend to embrace books that have a bit of it all. That said, I definitely enjoy Regency period and also WWII periods (LOL yes, large gap there). Tudor I could give or take as a choice. I, like a pp, really prefer books about the little people, the forgottens, and the rarely mentioned more than the books based on kings and queens and the political giants. Maybe it’s because my ancestry and lineage are all the people who don’t get mentioned in the history books but those that do couldn’t make it without us? I’m just thankful that so many of you write novels with historical bases (or ones that dip into it), I enjoy them so much more than a contemporary novel any day of the week.
I’m surprised more authors don’t make use of the Great Fire of London in novels. But I don’t think I could ever tire of Tudor, it’s a great dramatic era.
I’m surprised more authors don’t make use of the Great Fire of London in novels. But I don’t think I could ever tire of Tudor, it’s a great dramatic era.
I’m surprised more authors don’t make use of the Great Fire of London in novels. But I don’t think I could ever tire of Tudor, it’s a great dramatic era.
I’m surprised more authors don’t make use of the Great Fire of London in novels. But I don’t think I could ever tire of Tudor, it’s a great dramatic era.
I’m surprised more authors don’t make use of the Great Fire of London in novels. But I don’t think I could ever tire of Tudor, it’s a great dramatic era.
Wasn’t Aphra Benn a secondary character in Diana Norman’s “The Vizard Mask”? Loved that book. Also had one of my favorite opening lines ever: “Penitence Hurd and the plague arrived in London on the same day.”
Wasn’t Aphra Benn a secondary character in Diana Norman’s “The Vizard Mask”? Loved that book. Also had one of my favorite opening lines ever: “Penitence Hurd and the plague arrived in London on the same day.”
Wasn’t Aphra Benn a secondary character in Diana Norman’s “The Vizard Mask”? Loved that book. Also had one of my favorite opening lines ever: “Penitence Hurd and the plague arrived in London on the same day.”
Wasn’t Aphra Benn a secondary character in Diana Norman’s “The Vizard Mask”? Loved that book. Also had one of my favorite opening lines ever: “Penitence Hurd and the plague arrived in London on the same day.”
Wasn’t Aphra Benn a secondary character in Diana Norman’s “The Vizard Mask”? Loved that book. Also had one of my favorite opening lines ever: “Penitence Hurd and the plague arrived in London on the same day.”
Wasn’t that a brilliant opener, Susan/DC? I love that book too – one of my all time top historical novels. I read about Aphra Benn in The Female Wits by Fidelis Morgan. That is a non-fiction book but her Countess Quartet books are fiction set in that period and are great!
Wasn’t that a brilliant opener, Susan/DC? I love that book too – one of my all time top historical novels. I read about Aphra Benn in The Female Wits by Fidelis Morgan. That is a non-fiction book but her Countess Quartet books are fiction set in that period and are great!
Wasn’t that a brilliant opener, Susan/DC? I love that book too – one of my all time top historical novels. I read about Aphra Benn in The Female Wits by Fidelis Morgan. That is a non-fiction book but her Countess Quartet books are fiction set in that period and are great!
Wasn’t that a brilliant opener, Susan/DC? I love that book too – one of my all time top historical novels. I read about Aphra Benn in The Female Wits by Fidelis Morgan. That is a non-fiction book but her Countess Quartet books are fiction set in that period and are great!
Wasn’t that a brilliant opener, Susan/DC? I love that book too – one of my all time top historical novels. I read about Aphra Benn in The Female Wits by Fidelis Morgan. That is a non-fiction book but her Countess Quartet books are fiction set in that period and are great!
Thank you so much, StephanieL. It’s a very fair point that it’s the people who make history more often than the rulers but so seldom have their stories told.
Thank you so much, StephanieL. It’s a very fair point that it’s the people who make history more often than the rulers but so seldom have their stories told.
Thank you so much, StephanieL. It’s a very fair point that it’s the people who make history more often than the rulers but so seldom have their stories told.
Thank you so much, StephanieL. It’s a very fair point that it’s the people who make history more often than the rulers but so seldom have their stories told.
Thank you so much, StephanieL. It’s a very fair point that it’s the people who make history more often than the rulers but so seldom have their stories told.
Thanks, Karin. Yes, the dramatic potential of the Great Fire would be huge. I do have an idea for a book set then. One day…
Thanks, Karin. Yes, the dramatic potential of the Great Fire would be huge. I do have an idea for a book set then. One day…
Thanks, Karin. Yes, the dramatic potential of the Great Fire would be huge. I do have an idea for a book set then. One day…
Thanks, Karin. Yes, the dramatic potential of the Great Fire would be huge. I do have an idea for a book set then. One day…
Thanks, Karin. Yes, the dramatic potential of the Great Fire would be huge. I do have an idea for a book set then. One day…
“Another interesting time period would be the civil war in the 1200s between Stephen and Matilda’s factions,”
Karen, have you read Ellis Peters’s Brother Cadfael mysteries, set in exactly that period. Wonderful books. If you haven’t read her, you’re in for a treat — a wonderful glom lies before you.
“Another interesting time period would be the civil war in the 1200s between Stephen and Matilda’s factions,”
Karen, have you read Ellis Peters’s Brother Cadfael mysteries, set in exactly that period. Wonderful books. If you haven’t read her, you’re in for a treat — a wonderful glom lies before you.
“Another interesting time period would be the civil war in the 1200s between Stephen and Matilda’s factions,”
Karen, have you read Ellis Peters’s Brother Cadfael mysteries, set in exactly that period. Wonderful books. If you haven’t read her, you’re in for a treat — a wonderful glom lies before you.
“Another interesting time period would be the civil war in the 1200s between Stephen and Matilda’s factions,”
Karen, have you read Ellis Peters’s Brother Cadfael mysteries, set in exactly that period. Wonderful books. If you haven’t read her, you’re in for a treat — a wonderful glom lies before you.
“Another interesting time period would be the civil war in the 1200s between Stephen and Matilda’s factions,”
Karen, have you read Ellis Peters’s Brother Cadfael mysteries, set in exactly that period. Wonderful books. If you haven’t read her, you’re in for a treat — a wonderful glom lies before you.
Yes and with some lovely romance mixed in with the mystery!
Yes and with some lovely romance mixed in with the mystery!
Yes and with some lovely romance mixed in with the mystery!
Yes and with some lovely romance mixed in with the mystery!
Yes and with some lovely romance mixed in with the mystery!
I am late to this blog but have to mention Sharon Kay Penman who has been writing historical novels about Britain before the Tudors for many years. Her first book was (I believe) the The Sunne in Splendor: A Novel of Richard III. It is a must-read for those who are interested in Richard. She wrote a trilogy on the Welsh Princes (Llewelyn the Great and his progeny), and many novels about Henry II, before and after his reign, his progeny. They are compelling reads, with wonderful end-notes. She has also written some mysteries about a man who works for Eleanor of Aquitaine.
I too agree that some novels about the 17th century would be great…and I like the Georgian period also.
I am late to this blog but have to mention Sharon Kay Penman who has been writing historical novels about Britain before the Tudors for many years. Her first book was (I believe) the The Sunne in Splendor: A Novel of Richard III. It is a must-read for those who are interested in Richard. She wrote a trilogy on the Welsh Princes (Llewelyn the Great and his progeny), and many novels about Henry II, before and after his reign, his progeny. They are compelling reads, with wonderful end-notes. She has also written some mysteries about a man who works for Eleanor of Aquitaine.
I too agree that some novels about the 17th century would be great…and I like the Georgian period also.
I am late to this blog but have to mention Sharon Kay Penman who has been writing historical novels about Britain before the Tudors for many years. Her first book was (I believe) the The Sunne in Splendor: A Novel of Richard III. It is a must-read for those who are interested in Richard. She wrote a trilogy on the Welsh Princes (Llewelyn the Great and his progeny), and many novels about Henry II, before and after his reign, his progeny. They are compelling reads, with wonderful end-notes. She has also written some mysteries about a man who works for Eleanor of Aquitaine.
I too agree that some novels about the 17th century would be great…and I like the Georgian period also.
I am late to this blog but have to mention Sharon Kay Penman who has been writing historical novels about Britain before the Tudors for many years. Her first book was (I believe) the The Sunne in Splendor: A Novel of Richard III. It is a must-read for those who are interested in Richard. She wrote a trilogy on the Welsh Princes (Llewelyn the Great and his progeny), and many novels about Henry II, before and after his reign, his progeny. They are compelling reads, with wonderful end-notes. She has also written some mysteries about a man who works for Eleanor of Aquitaine.
I too agree that some novels about the 17th century would be great…and I like the Georgian period also.
I am late to this blog but have to mention Sharon Kay Penman who has been writing historical novels about Britain before the Tudors for many years. Her first book was (I believe) the The Sunne in Splendor: A Novel of Richard III. It is a must-read for those who are interested in Richard. She wrote a trilogy on the Welsh Princes (Llewelyn the Great and his progeny), and many novels about Henry II, before and after his reign, his progeny. They are compelling reads, with wonderful end-notes. She has also written some mysteries about a man who works for Eleanor of Aquitaine.
I too agree that some novels about the 17th century would be great…and I like the Georgian period also.