Books matching: detailed historical research
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:Life Mask by Emma Donoghue is a historical novel set in late 18th century England, focusing on the intertwined lives of three main characters - Ann Damer, Eliza Farren, and Lord Derby. The book delves into the complexities of their relationships, the political backdrop of the time including the French Revolution, and the societal pressures faced by the aristocracy. Donoghue's writing style is praised for seamlessly blending history and fiction, creating dimensional characters based on historical facts while incorporating modern idioms to make the narrative effortless to read.
SEVERAL of our Correspondents have written to enquire exactly what is meant by that familiar phrase, the World. Allow us to reply that those who must ask the nature of the Beau Monde (alias the Qualit... - #2
Save:'A Single Thread' tells the story of Violet Speedwell, a 38-year-old surplus woman navigating life after the devastation of WWI. With both her fiancé and brother lost to the war, Violet seeks independence from her controlling mother by moving to Winchester. There, she becomes involved with the Broderer's Guild, a group of women who create intricate embroidery for the cathedral. Through her newfound friendships and involvement in the community, Violet begins to forge a new identity and purpose for herself amid the societal challenges faced by women in the interwar period.
The writing style of Tracy Chevalier is noted for its engaging and informative nature, providing a rich historical backdrop that immerses readers in the world of embroidery and bell ringing. The narrative is described as quiet and slow-paced, allowing for deep character development and exploration of themes such as independence, community, and the struggles of surplus women. While some readers found the plot's pacing lacking, others appreciated the detailed depiction of the characters' lives and the historical context, making it a thoughtful reflection on women's experiences during a transformative time in England.
The shusher, an officious woman sporting a helmet of grey hair, had planted herself squarely in the archway that led into the choir, Violet’s favourite part of Winchester Cathedral. The choir was righ... - #3
Save:The Man on a Donkey by H.F.M. Prescott is a historical novel set during the reign of Henry VIII, focusing on the Pilgrimage of Grace rebellion against the dissolution of the monasteries. The book intricately weaves together fact and fiction, portraying historical figures like Robert Aske and Lord Thomas Darcy alongside imagined characters. Through Prescott's detailed and vivid writing, readers are immersed in the religious and political turmoil of 16th-century England, exploring themes of faith, power, and loyalty. The narrative unfolds slowly, building a complex tapestry of characters and events as the rebellion unfolds and the characters' fates intertwine.
The writing style of H.F.M. Prescott in The Man on a Donkey is praised for its meticulous historical research and rich storytelling. The author's use of authentic language and descriptive prose transports readers to the Tudor period, capturing the essence of the era. The novel delves into the personal lives and motivations of its characters, from the blind adoration of Julian Savage for Robert Aske to the conflicted beliefs of the heretic priest Gib Dawe. Prescott's narrative skillfully blends historical accuracy with imaginative storytelling, creating a compelling and immersive reading experience.
'Admiral of the Ocean Sea: A Life of Christopher Columbus' by Samuel Eliot Morison is a comprehensive biography that retraces Columbus' voyages and delves into his strengths, successes, weaknesses, and failures. Morison's detailed and engaging narrative provides a complete picture of Columbus, dispelling myths and misconceptions while capturing the excitement and adventure of the era. The book covers various aspects such as the rivalry between Portugal and Spain, the importance of the Catholic Church, shipping technology, encounters with natives, and Columbus' personal struggles and achievements.
- #5
Save:'The Spymistress' by Jennifer Chiaverini follows the story of Elizabeth Van Lew, a Union supporter living in Richmond, Virginia during the Civil War. Through meticulous research, Chiaverini portrays Van Lew as a courageous woman who risks her life to aid Union captives and support the abolition of slavery. The novel delves into the challenges Van Lew faced, her spy activities, and her dedication to the Union cause, offering a unique perspective on the Civil War era.
T he Van Lew mansion in Richmond’s fashionable Church Hill neighborhood had not hosted a wedding gala in many a year, and if the bride-to-be did not emerge from her attic bedroom soon, Lizzie feared... 'Jesse James: Last Rebel of the Civil War' by T.J. Stiles delves into the life of Jesse James, challenging the traditional image of him as a hero and portraying him more as a product of intense political times and media manipulation. Stiles uses primary sources to argue that James was not the Robin Hood figure he was believed to be, but rather a product of the Confederacy and the brutal conflict during the Civil War. The author paints a detailed picture of Missouri before and after the war, showcasing the outlaw against the backdrop of historical events and political struggles.
IN THE BLIND man’s memory, the river ran west. It was in the spring of 1846 when young Francis Parkman had first looked on the Missouri, and he had seen clearly that its wide and silty waters flowed e...- #7
Save:Lincoln's Dreams by Connie Willis is a historical fantasy novel that follows the story of Jeff, a researcher for a Civil War novelist, who meets Annie, a woman tormented by dreams that seem to be those of General Robert E. Lee. The book alternates between historical facts about the Civil War and the present-day efforts of Jeff to understand and stop Annie's troubling dreams. As the plot unfolds, Jeff becomes entangled in a journey to uncover the meaning behind Annie's dreams and prevent them from causing her harm, all while exploring themes of duty, love, and the connection between dreams and reality.
The writing style of Connie Willis in Lincoln's Dreams combines meticulous research with a gripping narrative that delves into the complexities of dreams and their significance. The novel expertly weaves together historical accuracy with a modern-day setting, creating a compelling story that explores the impact of the Civil War on individuals and the enduring mysteries of the human psyche.
They bred such horses in Virginia then, Horses that were remembered after death And buried not so far from Christian ground That if their sleeping riders should arise They could not witch them from th... - #8
Save:'Indianapolis: The True Story of the Worst Sea Disaster in U.S. Naval History and the Fifty-Year Fight to Exonerate an Innocent Man' by Lynn Vincent narrates the tragic events surrounding the heavy cruiser USS Indianapolis, from its crucial role in World War II to its harrowing sinking by a Japanese submarine. The story delves into the ship's history, the circumstances leading to the disaster, the heroic acts of survival, and the subsequent fight for justice and exoneration of Captain McVay. The writing style is detailed, engaging, and meticulously researched, providing a gripping and emotional account of one of the darkest chapters in naval history.
On the cruiser’s bridge, Captain Charles McVay had the conn, with Admiral Raymond Spruance tracking the action from his high bridge chair. Both men wore khaki shirts, tieless, and soft garrison caps. ... - #9
Save:'The Secret History of Wonder Woman' by Jill Lepore delves into the fascinating life and relationships of William Marston, the creator of Wonder Woman, as well as the intertwining of his feminist views and unconventional domestic life. Through detailed research and storytelling, the book explores Marston's career as a psychologist and inventor, shedding light on the origins of the iconic superheroine and the feminist movements of the early 20th century. Lepore's writing style captivates readers by uncovering the complex dynamics between Marston, his wife Elizabeth Holloway, and their unconventional relationship with Olive Byrne.
The book weaves a narrative that not only reveals the origins of Wonder Woman but also offers insights into the rise of feminism, polyamory, and subversive messaging in comic books. Readers are taken on a journey through the evolution of feminist movements, from the suffragette era to the post-World War II era, highlighting the significant roles played by Marston and the women in his life. Lepore's meticulous attention to detail and engaging storytelling style make 'The Secret History of Wonder Woman' a compelling read for those interested in the emancipation of women and the history of this beloved superhero.
Constantine's Sword: The Church and the Jews by James Carroll is a thought-provoking and controversial history that delves into the roots of antisemitism in civilization, particularly focusing on the relationship between the Roman Catholic Church and Judaism. The book traces the history of religious warfare between Catholicism and Judaism, highlighting the damaging effects of institutional hostility and the implications of anti-Semitism in the long history of the Western Catholic Church. Through a blend of history, memoir, and theology, Carroll maps the two-thousand-year course of the Church's battle against Judaism, exploring themes of faith, history, and culture.
Constantine's Sword is a dense and engaging book that offers a profound examination of the Church's conflict with Judaism, tracing the arc of the narrative from Christ's crucifixion to the Holocaust and beyond. Carroll's writing is captivating and evocative, weaving together historical research with personal reflections to create a work of singular power and urgency. The book calls for a fundamental rethinking of the deepest questions of Christian faith, urging readers to confront the past and forge a new future based on honesty and reconciliation.
THE CROSS IS MADE of stout beams, an intersection of railroad ties. It stands in a field of weeds that slopes down from the road. The field is abutted on one side by the old theater, where gas caniste...
