Swashbuckler with great attention to historical detail
930526
This is a great historical fiction with loads of swashbuckling Chinese kungfu action especially towards the end! It hooked my attention and wouldn't let me go, right from the start, and even the notes were captivating.

I am an art historian familiar with the Ming dynasty period, and what I really enjoyed about Jeremy's book were the small details about the material culture of the period, with his descriptions of the sights and sounds not just in imperial and royal surroundings, but even in the day to day life. Things such as Pu'er tea, the difference in the cuisines of the north and the south as our hero(ine)s travelled, etc etc. I was even impressed with the small nugget of geographical fact that yes, as Chinese ships sailed southwards, they would have sensed the change in climates very gradually (which is a fact lost to us who travel long distances by airplane today: arriving in the tropics from a temperate country, we would be slapped in the face with the change in temperatures as soon as we stepped out onto the tarmac or out of the airport!)

Great imagination and great use of historical and geographical facts make for a fantastic page turner. In fact, i kept thinking as I was reading it: I really hope there would be a TV series or a movie made out of this, this reads as well as screenplay! (So if there's any potential movie producers out ther reading this, my vote is YES PLEASE!!!)

So why not the full 4 stars then? I would have like to seen the editing tightened a bit: there are occasional typo and grammatical errors that distracted me from my enjoyment of the book. I also wondered about the tip in balance towards becoming a martial-arts story towards the end: I understand that action picks up towards the end, so there is more opportunity for kungfu fighting than in the earlier part of the book, but for me this gave the book two identities that were not quite consistent: is it historical fiction? or is it a martial arts book? under the hand of an experienced editor the two parts might have been blended a little more seamlessly.

still this is not to take anything away from an otherwise excellent first attempt :)one shot-one kill, as we say :D I would look forward to any of Jeremy's future books :)
1809937
Mike Crawshaw reveals delightful talent for confecting a galloping historical novel centred on events surrounding the Thirty Years War. His protagonist, caught up in self-doubt on occasion, nonetheless, is destined for greater things, begun during Weaponsmith, and cotinued in subsequent books.

The author enriches his work with a wealth of historical detail, and a fine grasp of 17th century warfare. The 'Wnter Queen', daughter of James IV/I, is treated kindly - not necessarily appropriate following the plundering of the Netherland's resources which she and her king undertook while guests of Frederick IV at Den Haag.

A tiny nitpick, Mike: the Dutch and Flemish never played hockey, but rather, Kolf, in three variants. See Golf Through the Ages, 600 Years of Golfing Art for details. Sub-editorial errors were minimal - a huge relief when confronted by the semi-illiterate garbage that floods digital publishing, today. Well done!
1925542
I spotted this while trying to find a book to use up the rest of my book store's gift card. The Title and description of the book caught my eye. I wasn't disappointed. This book reads like a novel at times. I learned a lot about the Barbary wars and the main players involved.

It is interesting how history tends to repeat itself, the United States fights a war against Piracy in the same region we are still experiencing threats from Pirates. I was appalled reading this book to find out how some of the key characters involved bungled their duties. There were true heroes and villains, battles, intrigue, familiar names and places, and action and suspense to constantly keep the reader involved.

If you want an entertaining read and to learn more about the U.S and the Barbary pirates read this book.
4622766
Excellent attention to detail. Luxurious settings and realistically woven plot.
 Caerwin and Marcellus take you on a journey in ancient Rome.
 Caerwin is captured by the Romans and taken as a slave for their leaders pleasure.
 Marcellus sees something in the wild young woman and he is set on making her his. When kindness doesnt move her, he realizes that he must use other means.
 Caerwin is determined not to give in to the handsome Roman but as they get closer, that seems like an impossibility.
 The author takes her readers on an amazing journey of passion and war. The description of settings and culture is captivating. Every little detail has been well researched and I think this is great for historical romances.
 Caerwin is young and at times quite stubborn, while Marcellus is mature and realistic as a Roman legate. The only thing missing for me was the sizzling romance which I think is underdeveloped on purpose since there seems to be another book to our couples story. There is heat and lust but the romance is not so prominent in this book. At least for me. I am very curious about where the author will take us from here.
 If you are looking for something different and realistic, then this is for you.
****4 Stars****
4948335
For a historical novel to hold my interest, it has to be good, so Sprig of Broom is excellent.  Based on the author's research into family genealogy, you will find characters who are well-developed and a sweeping story line in keeping with the historical period. The setting is so well drawn that you will feel the cold English castles,battlefields littered with the dying, nights in the presence of nature, courtesans teaching the arts of love  and dangerous journeys to the middle east.
From the beginning, I liked the bold, handsome main character, Geoffrey and found myself sympathizing with his youth and inexperience in his arranged marriage to Matilda, daughter of King Henry.  I was amazed at Geoffrey's loyalty to Matilda in the face of her cold and calculating personality, and at his fierceness in battle to protect her rights and the future of their children.

Sprig of Broom has moments of great tenderness, humor, and intrigue.  Whitfield has managed to spin a tale from history into something that is true to the history, but rounded into a visual feast for the mind.  I wasn't sure when I started that it would be my cup of tea, but it turned out to be so good I finished the whole pot in one setting.
3002347
This is a fast-moving story with fascinating historical background, part real and part fantasy. The characters are well-defined and the action is very believable. The character of the First People comes through clearly from start to finish. Readers will thoroughly enjoy this story.
1560976
Sir Walter Scotts Ivanhoe, set in the late 12th century England, is a truly epic story, with Sir Scott weaving an intricate tale of jousting tournaments, kidnapping, battles, a tragic love quadrangle with Ivanhoe, Rowena, Brian de Bois-Guilbert, and Rebecca, and so many more wild adventures.  I enjoyed this novel very much because fact-based historical fiction is one of my favorite genres.  Additionally, I loved Ivanhoe for its rich style of prose writing, which, while some might find tedious, I found thoroughly irresistible, a style that reminds one of Christopher Marlowes technique.  Scott attempts, and succeeds, in removing most of the historical inaccuracies, leaving a much more realistic and engaging story.  The remaining inaccuracies aside, Scott manages to create a rich, vibrant, and compelling cast of characters, full of depth with many different attributes; even the villains are not always portrayed as evil.  Scott also does not focus entirely on the titular character, Sir Wilifred of Ivanhoe, something that I appreciate, as too many novels today concentrate on the main character and only the main character, leaving the overall story wanting.  The last development that I really enjoy in this book is Scotts uncommonly sympathetic portrayal of the Jews.  In fact, the only event that I actually dislike is the reincarnation of Athelstane, an unnecessary turn of events that is quite distracting.  Overall though, I quite enjoyed Ivanhoe and hope to continue reading more of Sir Walter Scotts many creations.
3295364
This novel is rich in historical detail, in adventure, in magic, and in characters. I enjoyed every minute of the ride, and was particularly impressed by the subtlety of the point-of-view character, a strong swordsman, loyal captain, honorable man--who is also just a bit naive, a bit simple in his understanding of his world.  Asim's narration made his more clever friend Dabir seem even smarter and more capable, all without reducing Asim's charm in the least.  A terrific piece of work, and I can't wait for the next one!
2143061
A great read about Murphy's Law and sailing, Old Miami and Old Kingston, and uncommon men in an unusual era.  Works as both a great adventure story and a slice of swashbuckling, sailing world that while only a few decades ago, seems from another era.  I strongly recommend!
103196
AudioBook Review
Stars:  Overall  4  Narration 5 Story 4

Throughout history, England has long been a site for smugglers and privateers: an island with miles of coastline and small villages where making a living is difficult, the sea has always managed to provide a living.  Additionally, crown-sponsored privateers, and merchants with fleets of ships working both sides of the law were responsible for large fortunes being lost and won.  Much like bootlegging on this side of the world, often the luxury items were fine French brandies and wines, or other finely crafted import goods that were taxed heavily, or even illegal, depending on the political climate.  Set in the beginning of the Regency era, Captain Jacks woman manages to use smuggling and seafaring with dubious intentions to form the backbone of the story.

Kit is a brash and exuberant heroine: born to a title, she yearned for adventure and excitement that is rarely found in the lives of women of her class.  Donning mens clothing and disguising herself as a boy, she revels in late night gallops over the countryside: an activity decidedly frowned upon for women of her class.  When she inadvertently provides an escape for a small band of smugglers, they are fooled by her disguise, and install her as their leader.  While she knows of others engaged in similar ventures, she believes that her little corner of the coast is safe from interference from rivals, until Jack.

Jack is well-known to the smugglers and with his skill for piloting boats, his experience and his take no prisoners attitude he is a force to be reckoned with.  Well aware of the dangers that he faces, and perfectly willing to draw his sword, the first clash with Kit in her disguise is a revelation for him and her.  He instantly notices something is off about this boy, and finds himself curious about the woman behind the disguise.  Kit is seeing her dream pirate come to life: she is a woman and not immune to the vision that Jack presents, it is nothing but coincidence that he is the perfect replica of her dreams come to life.

Told in alternating first person points of view, the characters are built with solid voices and given breath that may not have appeared with a third person story.  While the WHO is always obvious, the fast paced switches in the latter half of the story do require a bit more concentration to not become muddled and unclear.  There is action and steam, and while the story feels familiar for the genre: noble woman bored with life takes dangerous chances and finds a man who is wholly inappropriate at first impression: Laurens adds twists and tweaks with detail and dialog to keep this story entertaining and engaging. It did slow somewhat in pacing and forward movement in the latter half of the story, a few choices for the characters seemed to leave them adrift for several chapters, but it was soon resolved as the story came to a close.

Narration in this AudioBook is provided by McAllister Lee, my first encounter with her narration.  Mellifluous and smooth, her diction and delivery are perfectly suited to this story: with an English accent that adds a sense of place, emotive pressure laid on words to push the emotion forward, yet never overbearing or showy.  Lee also has managed to use small changes in pitch and pacing that delineates the characters with subtlety, without feeling as if she has put on an affected voice or entered into caricature.  Ill be seeking out more titles with her as narrator!

This is a longer book, 400 pages to read, some 13 hours for audio, but it was an engaging and entertaining listen, well worth the time.

I received an MP3 download from the publisher via AudioBook Jukebox.  I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
4204590
This book was given to me as a birthday gift, and although it is not of my usual genre, I was pleasantly surprised!  The story line moves right along, not missing a beat.  It is very evident in the great attention to detail that the characters and time period have been well-researched, and the author is really enjoying himself as he leads the reader through the various escapades.  I predict more sequels!
4602545
Wonderful and rich characters.  The time period is woven with historical fact that engages the reader. So happy to see a story that both the hero and heroine have flaws
3928065
If you want a rollocking adventure novel with pirates in search of treasure than this is the book for you! Niamh Murphy promises a swashbuckling romance and she sure delivers. There is plenty of action on the high seas, quite a bit of betrayal, rum and the lash and all that good stuff you find aboard a ship in the 1800's. And then we have our two heroines, Cat and Lily, who start out as enemies but slowly develop feelings for each other. I really liked the character of Lily Exquimelin, she had gumption :-)

I think the author knew her subject material well. She clearly did her research and it shows. I had to get used to her very detailed description of people and places at first. I was afraid it would bog down the narrative but luckily it didn't and the scenes flowed nicely in my head (like watching Pirates of the Caribbean or Erroll Flynn in Captain Blood :-).

Our two main characters Cat and Lily were apart for 40% of the book before they meet, but it was believable as they came from different paths to eventually end up on the same ship together. No insta-love and I can only applaud that! The chapters alternate between Cat and Lily pov.

I read this pirate adventure with my Book Club Buddy D. and we had a lot of fun. And you may lay to that matey, Yarrr!

* I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
4403476
Tom Dulaney has written a brief, fast-paced historical novel regarding the arrival of British forces on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay in 1777. The protagonists are a pair of nineteen-year-old twins, a young man and a young woman, who are engaged as spies for the Continental Army. The story is told mostly through the eyes of Christy Freemont, the young lady, who has disguised herself as a young man in order to take an active part in the rebellion. Initially full of romantic notions of warfare--gallantry, courage, self-sacrifice, and all that--she is gradually sobered by the realities of the conflict. Her cousin Theo is an officer arriving with the British (although his heart is with the patriots). She, her brother, and their companion, Roger, encounter several people who have relatives fighting both for and against the king. Gradually, she learns of and witnesses both the dehumanization and the deterioration of ethics and morality that affect either side in such a conflict.

Mr. Dulaney is a skillful writer who creates both character and incident with a deft hand. For example, the heavy squall that overtakes the British fleet in the Bay is a fine example of both description and narrative, and the portrait of the British General Howe is delightfully vivid and well done. Mr. Dulaney has obviously done his research, as well, for the dialog is rich in both historical and geographical information without making the characters sound pedantic.

As a relatively short piece of historical fiction, this is top-notch. The pace is brisk, the details historically accurate, the characters sympathetic and well drawn, and the tension sustained throughout. In addition to the text, Mr. Dulaney provides a sort of annotated bibliography of sources for those whose interest in the topic goes deeper than reading historical novels. If historical fiction is your meat and the American Revolution an area of particular interest, you can't go wrong with this one.
1975221
James L. Nelson has has mastered the knack of adding flesh to the bare bones of history. His style is to weave a fast moving story based on the lives of real characters. His intimate knowledge of the language of the sea and the time period of the story engulfs the reader into the swashbuckling world of piracy and war.
4748116
Rome Unbound: Whispers of Rebellion is a swashbuckling historical adventure with everything you could ask for a light read.

The book stars Verus a veteran centurion who has just been transferred to Britain from Judea on his own request, in search of adventure at the outskirts of the Empire. Just prior to his arrival a Roman fort has been sacked by a force of Britons who have risen up to rebellion.

The British barbarians have risen in rebellion with a great number of tribes united under the banner of a British chieftain named Calgacus.

The book follows Verus as he -along with his superiors- try to fight off the rebellion of the British tribes, in their effort they are helped by some tribes loyal to them. The book doesn't fail to introduce an impressive Barbarian daughter with whom Verus develops a romance.

The book has everything you could ask of a swashbuckling adventure with sword and fist fights, battles with clever ploys and chases through the woods.

Being a short book it makes for a quick read and the pages flow without much issue.

The first part of the book has the writer using unnecessarily too many Latin terms to describe the various parts of the Roman uniform and such, without explaining what each term means. That and a few errors like calling the city of Egypt Alexandra instead of Alexandria serve to spoil the mood a bit. But if you manage to keep those of your lenses the rest is satisfying.
1195811
Historical novels are my jam, and this one is a well written one. The author did a great job of translating the events of Christophe and the main protagonist into a more modern, palatable adventure. The historical accuracy is to be expected, and I found myself lavishly taken away to a exotic time and locale. The waning days of the pirates, the Black Emperor, and Princess of the Indies were all great backdrops and characters. There were some tense moments in the story, but it only made the read that much more enjoyable. Great book.