C.L.R. Peterson Blog
Book Reviews & More
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...
Who saved England from Spanish conquerors?
Spanish Armada galleass What if the Spanish Armada had invaded England in 1588? If Spain had conquered England and deposed Queen Elizabeth I, our lives would surely be different today: The Protestant Reformation probably wouldn’t have enduredSpanish explorers would...
Those Stubborn Waldensians!
“The stubbornest bunch of people you would ever want to meet“—a Waldensian family, as described by a contemporary descendant. Who were the Waldensians, and why did they become so stubborn? In about 1170, Peter Waldo, a merchant in Lyon, France, was inspired by...
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!