Read 8/21/08 Entry 14+ Oh, what took me so long to read this book? It is marvelous. I want to fondle it and hug it to my chest like a Chula. Reminiscent of The Adventures of Kavalier and Clay - on a superficial level, because it is set in the same era, but also because of the sheer love of words that the author has, the love of the story. Beautiful, beautiful. A story for all ages.
Carted around from one distant family member to the next since her parents death when she was young, Hattie has never had a home to call her own. Then, one day she receives a letter from a long lost Uncle who has left her his claim in the wild Montana territory. Hattie has 10 months to "prove up" on her claim which means a whole lot of back-breaking work, and the strength to continue on even when times seem like they are never going to get better. A solid historical fiction novel with a strong female lead that'll be an inspiration to anyone who has ever had to take on monumental tasks that didn't seem possible.
Finished August 11, 2008.
Read 7/23/08 (ages 12+ for fornication, corpses, disturbing themes) V. engaging story! If you liked - The Midwife's Apprentice, How the Hangman Lost His Heart, Incantation by Alice Hoffman etc. BASED ON A TRUE STORY!
A medieval murder mystery set during the First Crusade at the siege of Antioch.
Ages 10+ (animal sacrifice, prostitutes, some language)
Read 7/10/08 (ARC) Good for fans of 'Devilish' or 'Rhymes with Witches' - a pleasant ending where nothing is wrapped up neatly. If you want to learn more about the Manson family murders and trial, read "Helter Skelter."