Reviews and Blog Posts: Historical Fiction

The gods of Gotham

by Lyndsay Faye

DPL Rating:
5
Reviewer:
Beckyr
Reviewed on:
March 13, 2013
Tags:

Great historical novel and mystery rolled up in one. The setting is 1840s New York City, a place with lots of poor immigrants and suffering. Firefighters were volunteers and the police force was just getting established. The main character is one of the first "copper stars" on the new force....

In Praise of Mary Doria Russell

Submitted by Jennifer on September 7, 2011 - 4:42pm
in
Doc

Do you love literary fiction? Historical fiction? Science fiction? This author is a rare find - someone who can cross genres with ease, style, and literary merit. She has won many national and international awards for her work. If you haven't read her, you should!

Many years ago, I discovered The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell and loved it, but somehow with all of the other books on my list, I never revisited her work. Then, this year, Doc hit our featured titles table. I snagged a copy and devoured it in three days. It was so good, I was compelled to read every work of fiction she ever wrote.

Don't let a bad movie ruin a good book

Submitted by Jennifer on September 2, 2011 - 1:25pm
in

The moment I heard that Snow Flower and the Secret Fan was being made into a movie, I was thrilled.

I've seen so many good movies set in scenic places in China or by Chinese directors: Raise the Red Lantern; The Last Emperor; Ju Dou; Farewell My Concubine; Lust, Caution...

YA? Why Not?

Submitted by Becker on June 27, 2011 - 3:02pm
in
Huntress

It's no secret to fans of Harry Potter, Twilight, and The Hunger Games that teen books aren't just for teens any more. There are many reasons that adults are turning to YA literature, but mostly, it's because there are some great stories out there that have been marketed to young adults.

Whether you're wanting a great coming of age novel, a more succinct story, or want to be able to connect with a teen in your life through books, here are some authors to check out. Just like with adult books, not everything will appeal to you, but don't limit your reading just because something is in the teen section!

Scott Westerfeld: both a steampunk series and the dystopian Uglies series

If You Liked The Paris Wife by Paula McLain

Submitted by Tara on May 15, 2011 - 1:10pm
in
The Paris Wife by Paula McLain

The Denver Public Library is proud to be partnering with KWGN Channel 2 and other area libraries to facilitate the Everyday Book Club. The Everyday Book Club Selection for April was The Paris Wife by Paula McLain. Book club segments air on Mondays during the Everyday show’s 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. broadcast.

If you loved The Paris Wife (or are still waiting for your copy), you might also like:

Happy Birthday, William Shakespeare

Submitted by Tara on April 22, 2011 - 8:53am
in
Mistress Shakespeare by Karen Harper

Why is April 23rd a memorable date for Shakespeare lovers? William Shakespeare was born on April 23, 1564 and he died on April 23, 1616. Many novels have been written about his life, loves and family, with most drawing inspiration from the historical details that are known about this legendary playwright.

Fictional accounts of Shakespeare's Life:

Colorado Authors Visiting Schlessman

Submitted by Becker on March 24, 2011 - 7:45am
in
I see Your Dream Job

Got plans for the next 3 Saturdays? You do now — with the Fresh City Life My Branch Colorado Authors Series at the Schlessman Family Branch!

First up this Saturday, March 26 at 11 a.m. is Paula Reed, who writes historical fiction and romance. Her newest book, Hester, is a continuation of The Scarlet Letter that follows Hester Prynne to England and an encounter with Oliver Cromwell. Come and be carried away to the 17th century in this story of family, love, and desire.

Colorado Authors Series Presents: Paula Reed

Submitted by Becker on March 21, 2011 - 1:54pm
in

The Fresh City Life My Branch Colorado Authors Series presents Paula Reed on Saturday, March 26 at 11:00 a.m. at the Schlessman Family Branch.

Ms. Reed writes romance and historical fiction, and her latest release is Hester.

Historical Fiction Set in Ireland

Submitted by Tara on March 17, 2011 - 12:06pm
in

Celebrate Saint Patrick's Day all year long! If you are in the mood for a historical novel set in Ireland, the library has many titles ready to wet your whistle. Even when set against the realities of social and political turmoil, the love and laughter of the Irish people shine through.

Presidential Fiction

Submitted by Tara on February 17, 2011 - 10:02pm
in

Abraham Lincoln continues to enthrall writers, readers and historians. Lincoln once said, "The things I want to know are in books. My best friend is the man who'll get me a book I [haven't] read." Have you read these fictionalized accounts of Lincoln's extraordinary life?

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