Back in fictional time
359386
"Lord of the Rings" was the climax. Silmarillion was the Bible. And the Histories of Middle-Earth series is the big stack of history books. Author J.R.R. Tolkien wrote a vast fictional history of Middle-Earth, and the first five volumes of the Histories are compiled here.
The evolving backdrop of stories about Elves, Men, and the rich tapestry of fictional history is shown here, such as earlier versions of the legendary romance of Beren and Luthien, or the history of the Valar. Not the finished product of "Silmarillion," but older drafts riddled with footnotes and commentary from Tolkien's son Christopher. What's more, it includes linguistic evolution, exquisite poetry, and a time travel story that evolved into something much greater.
It takes a certain amount of geeky dedication to read these books. They are not light reading, and it takes knowledge of the final material to understand their significance. In many of the stories, there is greater detail than is found in the Silmarillion. And in many cases, there are huge differences, such as the mortal Beren originally being an Elf. (Which changes the whole story of Beren and Luthien, and also how we see their distant descendants, Aragorn and Arwen)
Fans of "Lord of the Rings" and "Silmarillion" will undoubtedly enjoy seeing how the unrivalled fantasy stories came to be. Not for newbies, but fascinating for major fans and anyone who likes seeing how Tolkien's writing evolved.
4390667
I read this book in the mid-1960's and I had an interest in re-reading it thinking I remembered the story line. Other than being aware that it was about an alternate history, I was rediscovering the story and finding that I had forgotten how it developed. It was a slow and somewhat confusing start for me but the further I got into it the harder it was to put down. I have a Kindle app on my phone so I was reading a page here and there whenever I could. The storyline really makes you think about how things turned out the way they did and realize that some small changes in the right (or wrong) place and time could drastically change outcomes. And given how this was written in 1962, the alternate history within the alternate history was developed with where that time period appeared to be headed. I thoroughly enjoyed re-discovering this gem.
162518
This is a fast paced time travel novel going back to 57AD.  A mix of history, religion, romance.  Somewhat short on physics.  I doubt anyone could precisely pinpoint the whereabouts of Paul in 57AD .  However it was an enjoyable read that I would highly recommend to anyone who likes time travel novels.
2765724
Intertwined plot linking contemporary times to European history....Well written, compelling fiction...Loved being transported back in time..History and mystery!!!  A MUST read!
1713683
I really enjoyed this book. It was an interesting look back into history, meshed with the mystery and action stories set in modern day. I was easily drawn into the characters and their stories. I hope others enjoy this book as much as I did.
123920
Good imagination, well thought out plot. Worth reading.
Author tries to bring you back to all those days... Where was I and what was I doing??
4105063
I enjoyed reading this book because I am from the area that they talked about in their story. My children attended the same school and I  was able to go back in time. Thanks for the memories.
3122616
I enjoy reading in this time period. It has some history that makes it very interesting with compelling and interesting characters
2211952
This was a well written book. It incorporated fictional accounts to tell a historical truth. I loved the audio book. It transported me back in time.
2422276
this book reads fast, is fun to read and takes you back to a time that just wasn't but should have been..............
557146
Interesting that it has gone back in time. Fun to remember how things worked prior to cellphones and internet. Less action but still a good read
656904
I enjoyed being reintroduced to all the relationships involved and the historical moments.
The author did a good job bringing the reader into the struggles of the times.
711935
I'm getting ready to visit Egypt and was pointed towards these books.  They are a little dated having been written in the 70s I think, and the story takes place at the turn of the last century, but I really enjoy them!  Just kinda put the European Supremacy in the "back in the day" bucket. It helps that our main character is more enlightened than her compatriots!
490360
It was interesting to read about so many places I am familiar with in Souderton (named Telforton) in the book. It was like re-living a piece of my childhood during the late 70's and early 80's. I almost think I should have been a character in the story!
603818
If you are into the contemporary gets warped to another world/time/dimension this is a fun read. The story style is a little dated but still a fun read if you want some old school fantasy.
1958688
It was actually very interesting to take a step back in time and to see things through the eyes as a young female detective working in a man's world.  The plot was creative, the characters believable and enjoyable .
3355735
just love Francine's writing. She uses the Bible to tell fictional stories that make you feel like you are back in time.