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book cover image The Wool Translator

Review of The Wool Translator by Tim Schooley

Here’s my review of an outstanding historical novel that I read with an especially alert writerly eye, for reasons I explain in my post. The Wool Translator involves characters from medieval England, Paris, Bruges, Granada, and elsewhere who, at first, seem impossibly unrelated. Part of the enjoyment of this book is how they all come together into one plot, even though everyone wants to keep them apart. This is a good one.

statue of Gudea ruler of Lagash where 5,000-year-old tavern excavated

A 5,000-year-old Tavern

I’m struck by how often in my research–like when I read about this 5,000-year-old tavern in Mesopotamia–I discover signs that ancient people share a lot in common with us today. Moreover, this seemingly ordinary tavern’s excavation wreaked havoc on the prevailing theory of social structure in this ancient city. So much came from 19″ below the ground!

Book cover image Rust in the Root

Review of Rust in the Root by Justina Ireland

I think Rust in the Root is one of the most worthwhile books I’ve read recently, a fantasy twist on American history and the role of Black Americans. It’s entertaining as well as thought-provoking. I hope you enjoy my review.

Egyptian chariot like Nefertiti's chariot

Nefertiti’s Chariot

Writing historical fiction–even with some fantastical elements thrown in–requires careful use of accurate historical detail. I loved this discussion of Egyptian chariots and the surprisingly abundant evidence for women using chariots. So handy for my fiction!

Ramses exhibit gold mask

Ramses Exhibit, Gold of the Pharaohs

I spent a happy day at the exhibit, Ramses the Great and the Gold of the Pharaohs. I have some thoughts to share which I hope you’ll enjoy. Read on for Ramses, Egyptian gold, and taking a nuanced view of history and museum exhibits.

Fingerprints and archaeology

Fingerprints and Archaeology

We think of fingerprints as a tool of modern crime detection, but police experts are interpreting ancient fingerprints for archaeologists. I was surprised both by the range of projects and the information they could surmise.

book cover image Keeper of Enchanted Rooms

Review of Keeper of Enchanted Rooms, by Charlie Holmberg

This historical fantasy is both a magic-filled thriller with a delightfully creepy villain and a romance with hesitant Victorian “lovers.” There’s a house that’s truly out to get its owner, among other dangers that manage to be both funny and frightening. Read on for my review.