C.L.R. Peterson Blog
Book Reviews & More
Wish you were a genius like Michelangelo?
When you hear the name of Michelangelo, what comes to mind? Painter of the Sistine Chapel in Rome? Sculptor of the monumental David statue, symbol of Renaissance Florence? Architect whose vision led to the completion of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome? Poet who wrote...
Detour off the beaten track…to Wales
LeAnne Hardy's new novel, Black Mountain Topics off the beaten track intrigue me, and a new novel, Black Mountain, fits the bill for its location as well as the story. Here’s why I enjoyed it: It took place mainly in rural Wales (not London, Paris, Rome…)Set in the...
Wanderlust Then and Now
First voyage around the World, by Antonio Pigafetta Imagine you lived in the 16th century and dreamed of seeing new sights—just like we do today, especially if we’ve spent more time at home than we’d have preferred. If you were a 16th-century European, how would you...
When Contagion Strikes
Compassion, cruelty, or escape? Why do people act in such different ways when confronted with threats of contagious disease? Ignorance of a disease’s cause sometimes led to extreme reactions. Spiritual beliefs also played a role. Both Catholic and Protestant...
Historical novels to enjoy during quarantine
Health and peace to you in these uncertain times! Since life has changed and many of us must spend our days isolated from people and our normal activities, I’m offering suggestions of some of my favorite titles of historical fiction set in Europe. Fortunately,...
Quarantine–whose genius idea ?
Old Venice map with quarantine islands in red Quarantines are in the news again, as nations around the globe isolate people suspected of carrying a contagious, sometimes lethal, illness. Believe it or not, quarantine is a practice that’s been around for over 500...
Get My New Short Story!
Verona, 1571.
When Caterina welcomes her husband’s brilliant student, Alessandro, into their home, she has no idea how he will heighten the danger her family faces as the Inquisition closes in.
Immerse yourself in rich historical detail and high emotional stakes in this dramatic story of danger and conscience!