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Showing posts with the label Historical Fiction

The Zookeeper's Wife: An unforgettable true story, now a major film

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In war-torn Warsaw, a zookeeper and his wife refuse to surrender...  Now a major motion picture starring Jessica Chastain and Daniel Brühl, Diane Ackerman's  The Zookeeper's Wife  is based on a remarkable true story of bravery and sanctuary during World War II. Perfect for fans of  Lion  and  Hidden Figures. 'I can't imagine a better story or storyteller.  The Zookeeper's Wife  will touch every nerve you have' -Jonathan Safran Foer, author of  Everything is Illuminated When Germany invades Poland, Luftwaffe bombers devastate Warsaw and the city's zoo along with it. With most of their animals killed, or stolen away to Berlin, zookeepers Jan and Antonina Zabinski begin smuggling Jews into the empty cages. As the war escalates Jan becomes increasingly involved in the anti-Nazi resistance. Ammunition is buried in the elephant enclosure and explosives stored in the animal hospital. Plans are prepared for what will become the Warsaw uprising. T

Caged - A Captivating Page-turner

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Twenty-two year old Lydia Jones lives at the top of the social ladder in the town of Riverwalk, Pennsylvania. She has spent the last four years of her life under constant scrutiny. She is weary of her ever present mask and secretly wishes to break free. Simon Partridge comes into her life one rainy evening when her father hosts a dinner party. Simon begins to show Lydia the freedom she once had and the love she deserves. Blossoming love is put to the test as jealousy, manipulative family members, and unexpected danger interrupts their lives. Can they survive the trials of life or will their love fail when a trip to New York becomes disastrous?   …Find out more… visit book page “Passionately Captivating” …publishedbestsellers.com

Be Blown Away!

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Treachery and Triumph - An Anthology of World War II Stories Editor Jeremy Moiser   Murder WAR? DEATH AND DESTRUCTION? VIOLENCE, HATRED, INEXPRESSIBLE GRIEF? PEOPLES PITTED AGAINST EACH OTHER, TO THE DEATH? WHY ON EARTH SHOULD I WANT TO READ ABOUT IT? THERE’S ENOUGH IN THE MEDIA EVERY DAY, SURELY? YES: BUT THIS IS DIFFERENT. In these pages, there is violence – impossible to avoid in an anthology dedicated to the memory of war – but there is also humour and romance, suspense and emotion, heroism and daring. The action is set variously in France, Britain, Eire, Kenya, Russia, Poland ... You are guaranteed hours of stimulation, enjoyment and fruitful relaxation with a book devoted to one of the defining events of our times. STARE INTO THE PAST WITH THE EYES OF THOSE GRIPPED BY ITS DRAMA. ... .. Find out more “ Exhilarating - be blown away ” …publishedbestsellers.com What is unique about the book? Treachery and Triumph - An Anthology of World War II

Experience the daunting majesty and dangers of the intricate British Columbia coast

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The Last Days Of George Vancouver, RN By Ron Palmer An account of George Vancouver’s life based on his journals edited by Canadian scholar W. Kaye Lamb   Britain's interest in the Northwest coast of America was enlivened during the late 18th century. Showing little regard to Spain's blanket claim for the whole coast from Cape Horn to the very north of America, Britain was determined to claim as their own, the fur trade and whaling industry, however this led to tensions and Britain prepared for hostilities. It was George Vancouver, in addition to his professional chart and surveying work, who carried out the diplomatic meeting with the Spanish commissioner on the terms of the Nootka Sound Agreement and negotiation with the Hawaiian chiefs for the islands to become a protectorate of Great Britain. Alas for all these credible achievements he was never recognised until long after his death.. .. Find out more

I was intrigued by the book-cover, illustrating a beautiful manor house...

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"I must confess I don’t read a lot of romantic fiction, being more of a blood and gore man myself, but I was intrigued by the book-cover, illustrating a beautiful manor house. Now, this was something I could get my teeth into! Like many people, visiting stately homes and gardens over the last two decades, has been one of my abiding passions. In addition to this, I do have a fascination for stories relating to World War Two, and from the very first page I was hooked. I don’t know how you could not like this all-too-short, glimpse into troubled times. I’m still a little baffled as to why the story had such a pull on me, but the simplicity of line and style made the chapters fly by, for a very easy read. The storyline concerns Sarah, a rich girl with the admirable ambition to become a nurse, and Joe, a young boy from a poor family. Their social and domestic situations could not be more different and they meet at a time when the whole world is in turmoil. Very soon Joe is whis

A gripping, wartime movie, sandwiched between the covers

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Alles Fur Deutschland By  Karl Brockmann An action-packed, wartime novel about the 1943 Eastern Front featuring retreating German front lines fragmented by a massive Russian offensive. Author Karl Brockmann says “The novel Alles Fur Deutschland originated from my deep interest in this part of our world history. I have been an active member of a WW2 re-enactment society for some years… Over the years I have met many colourful and interesting people including elderly veterans from both sides of the conflict. These gentlemen would often talk about all types of situations they found themselves, situations which most ordinary people could never imagine. It is from listening to these events that I have been inspired to finally put pen to paper and to write my first fictional wartime novel.” “A sweeping, action-packed, wartime movie, sandwiched between the covers” Ebook | Kobo | Google Play | Amazon Kindle | Apple iBook | Nook

'Sharks That Walk on Land' | 'To Boldly Go' - Readers' personal note to the author, Ron Palmer

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"I thoroughly enjoyed your book: ‘Sharks That Walk on Land’ and I finished reading it yesterday as I could not put it down. Well done." Captain (Navy) Cedric Steele MsM, CD. " Just finished your book 'Sharks That Walk on Land', and I'm writing to say how much I have enjoyed it. Needless to say it is one of those books that one wishes would never end, and I must say that I have never read a better book on this subject." Dave. (Dr. Naismith) "Re: To Boldly Go. What an adventure. It was so interesting to read about all your tribulations and moments of joy as you sailed the seas despite the frustrations, time and money it often caused you." Pam Brookes, Mission BC. "Re: To Boldly Go. I wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed your writing and admired your courage to do such a journey and overcome so many obstacles that a life at sea must present. I also really appreciated the little history lesson and quote at the beginning

A review of 'The House That Jack Built’, by Irene Truman, a critical reviewer for the Bronte Gazette.

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The House That Jack Built | Fiction: Historical / adventure "Much of this novel is semi-autobiographical. John Butler constantly cared about keeping a written account of his life with the intention of making it available to the public. An admirer of Charlotte Bronte John was particularly inspired by her novel ‘Jane Eyre’ the life of a 19th century governess. Jack Forest, the main protagonist in ‘The House That Jack Built’ finds adventure, self fulfilment and love whilst working as a teacher in 20thcentury post war Britain, as Jane Eyre did within the classrooms of 1840’s England. Jack is creative, caring and passionate. In spite of being left behind when his colleagues leave for war service he takes the opportunity to train as a teacher, facing battles within rural and urban classroom walls. Jack’s teaching career starts soon after the end of the second world war with its rationing and coming to terms with peacetime.

A great review of 'A Ticket to Tewkesbury' by Rebecca D. Elswick

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"If you love a good mystery, then what could be better than a 50 year old letter that leads the main character, Julie, on an adventure to find the person who was supposed to receive this love letter? The one thing that Julie discovered from the letter was that it had been written by a soldier returning home after the end of the World War II to a nurse in Cleethorpes. They had met at a rehabilitation hospital in Kent and fell head over heels in love. With her husband in tow, Julie travels to East Coast holiday resort of Cleethorpes. Here they discover much more than who should have received the letter. They discover dark secrets that hark back to the Third Reich. If their discoveries fall into the wrong hands, the very foundation of the British government could be destroyed." Neal James is the author of five books: 'A Ticket to Tewkesbury' , 'Short Stories - V1' , 'Two Little Dicky Birds' , ' Threads of Deceit ' & ' Full Marks 

A review by Jude Ouvrard - "a good read and the end left me wanting more"

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"I enjoyed reading this novel so much because of the author's talent to create the perfect plot. I liked all the twists and different directions he was taking me. Definitely a page turner! I couldn't put it down. The author has the ability to write description that made me feel like I was part of the story. I could see everything the author wanted me to see, like in a movie. It's well written and the characters all perfectly described. It's definitely a book that I will read again. It was a good read and the end left me wanting more. I recommend this book to everyone! Two thumbs up!"   Neal James is the author of five books: 'A Ticket to Tewkesbury' , 'Short Stories - V1' , 'Two Little Dicky Birds' , ' Threads of Deceit ' & ' Full Marks '. Paperback | Waterstones | Amazon UK Ebook | Kobo |  Amazon Kindle | Apple iBook  | Txtr  

Secrets of a School Teacher

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The Life that Jack Built By  John Butler A fascinating and heart-warming tale that is personal, historical and humorous with moments of passion and fear. It is the early 1940s; Jack is a young man leaving university at odds with himself. He tries to make a career in banking but finding himself a square peg in a round hole, so he decides to enter the teaching profession which takes him to urban and rural schools in post war Britain. This is the story of his many escapades. It is the tale of how he handles work, romantic attachments and manages to wriggle out of the tightest of situations.  Then suddenly opportunity knocks for him–it is an opportunity you’d have to be mad to take–he takes the plunge, but at the end he is in for a surprise. .. .. Find out more  
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"I enjoyed reading this novel so much because of the author's talent to create the perfect plot. I liked all the twists and different directions he was taking me. Definitely a page turner! I couldn't put it down. The author has the ability to write description that made me feel like I was part of the story. I could see everything the author wanted me to see, like in a movie. It's well written and the characters all perfectly described. It's definitely a book that I will read again. It was a good read and the end left me wanting more. I recommend this book to everyone! Two thumbs up!"   Neal James is the author of five books: 'A Ticket to Tewkesbury' , 'Short Stories - V1' , 'Two Little Dicky Birds' , ' Threads of Deceit ' & ' Full Marks '. Paperback | Waterstones | Amazon UK Ebook | Kobo |  Amazon Kindle | Apple iBook  | Txtr  

A Stirring Tale of Love, Heartbreak and Religious Sectarianism Set in Ireland and Canada

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Between Two Dusks By  Annie Coyle Martin   This heart-tugging story closely recreates the atmosphere of 1950s Ireland and is the sequel to ‘To Know the Road’ published in 2011. It is the 1950s in Dublin, Protestant Lizzie Wynne meets and falls in love with Finn, a young Catholic doctor, they are confident that religion will be no barrier to love in a changing Ireland. But the past has a way of catching up with you when you least expect it. Finn discovers Lizzie’s past and family background, unknown even to her–it changes everything. Lizzie escapes to Canada in search of a new life, but questions about her past remain and only a trip back to Ireland may resolve them. Will Lizzie ever discover the truth about who she really is? .. .. Find out more    

Dudgeon's Bridge: Civil war novel may shake your knowledge of history

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Dudgeon's Bridge | Fiction / Historical | Kent Messenger feature by Adrian L. Youseman English soil, so treasured, hasn’t always been a green and pleasant land. The times when life was cheap and governments were proved with butchery and bloodshed, are, in reality, only a few hundred years behind us. The history we take for granted is littered with the prejudices of originating scholars and the editing of the victors from any given age. The 17th century Civil War split families and towns, killing by proportion more English men than WW1 and WW2 combined. History has polished its account to let us believe that somehow it was the birth of our democratic nation, but this was no rite. Dudgeon’s Bridge takes you through these times. A boy is born into a town beset by the worst of these troubles and must struggle to make his mark, whilst trying to look after his family. We know too well in today’s world that one simple life can change the world we know, but little of those in t

Historical saga that’s even stranger than fiction

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Dudgeon’s Bridge By  Adrian L. Youseman   The 17th century Civil War split families and towns, killing by proportion more English men than WW1 and WW2 combined. The history we take for granted is littered with the prejudices of originating scholars and the editing of the victors from any given age. History has polished its account to let us believe that somehow it was the birth of our democratic nation, but this was no rite. Dudgeon’s Bridge takes you through these times. A boy is born into a town beset by the worst of these troubles and must struggle to make his mark, whilst trying to look after his family. This is the account that’s waiting to be told, for the monstrosity of war creates its children and just like so many of them, the truth is so often the first to be orphaned! . .. Find out more  

Sharks That Walk On Land - The Trailer

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Sharks That Walk On Land | Ron Palmer | Fiction / Historical A superbly written historical fiction based on an authentic account of the events leading up to the tragic death of Captain James Cook. ...Sail with Captain Cook in this rousing sea adventure novel!

Book Savvy Spotlight on Peter Good

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Bringing you exclusive interviews with authors featured in the Book Savvy Newsletter. Our Guest is Peter Good * Enjoy the interview. Q1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your book 'The Creator's Diet'? I'm a Q1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your book 'Ndlovu-The White Elephant'? I was born in Kenya. Lived in the 'outbacks' of Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, before going to Rhodesia in 1958. I joined the BSA Police Force in 1959 - serving till 1967. The book is about a retired ex-police constable, who commits a murder, flees the country, but returned as the leader of a terrorist gang. He is on a diabolical mission, he is wily and ruthless, but he has one fear - a recurring dream in which he is crushed and gored by an elephant, that appears white in colour, and remembers that the police officer that is after him, was given the name NDLOVU - meaning elephant by the local chief as he never forgot a criminal till he caught him.

Book Savvy Spotlight on Chris R. Pownall

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Bringing you exclusive interviews with authors featured in the Book Savvy Newsletter. Our Guest is Chris R. Pownall * Enjoy the interview. Q1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your book 'Onwards and Upwards'? I am a 67-year-old retired industry-marketing director, residing in Worksop, Nottinghamshire. I have been married to my wife Pat for 42 years. We have two children and four grandchildren. I grew up in the Cheshire village of Bosley and following an engineering apprenticeship and a brief spell in the Merchant Navy, I joined the James Walker Group as a technical sales representative, this was the beginning of a forty-year career. My second book 'Onwards and Upwards' is a sequel to my memoirs 'Funny How Things Work Out', containing more humour from various facets of my life, it also includes other subjects and my opinions about modern day life compared with 60 years ago. Travel is very important to me, therefore I've includ

A stirring story of forbidden passions, dark secrets and family honour

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Set in Regency England A summer evening’s chance encounter throws together two people of opposite social class who, despite a natural mutual attraction, should never have met. Kathryn Fitzpatrick is a lady, the daughter of a much-respected gentleman. The Fitzpatricks are loved and revered throughout English society, yet Kathryn has never conformed. She is impulsive, ruled by her heart. When she meets Duncan Brown, a lowly gardener on her father’s estate, a special love is ignited and her life begins to spiral out of control. Unspeakable secrets, hidden scandals, blackmail and dark passions convolute and Kathryn’s life is manipulated for selfish gain… …Find out more… Author Victoria Hinton says: “It was a difficult road to travel and paved with a myriad of obstacles; but as all true romanticists know, true love will always prevail...” Historical romance story brought to life by skilfully crafted characters. “A sweeping heart-tugging page-turner” …publishedbestsellers.com ..