C.L.R. Peterson Blog
Book Reviews & More
How Powerful is an Ordinary Person?
How could a tobacco-chewing, defiant, small Polish peasant woman thwart the Nazis’ attempt to exterminate the Jews? My Mother’s Secret, a short historical novel, is based on the lives of Franciszka and Helena, a Polish mother and daughter recognized as “the Righteous among the Nations” in Israel.
When Librarians Were Spies
The Librarian Spy, by Madeline Martin, is a spy-filled World War II story set in Lyon, France, and Lisbon, Portugal.
Have You Discovered This Italian Masterpiece?
The Betrothed is an Italian literary masterpiece Italians revere, but most Americans have never heard of it. What’s so special about this nearly 200-year-old novel?
Great Historical Novels of the American West
As we in the northern hemisphere hope for signs of new life and spring, I’ve discovered a new (to me) author—Sandra Dallas, whose novels focus on common people often ignored by historians. I share brief reviews of two of her novels.
A Surprising Journey to Oregon’s Past
Imagine a captivating novel that involves pioneers migrating to the Oregon territory, Native Americans, and freed Blacks, with friendships bridging all three groups. In A Light in the Wilderness, author Jane Kirkpatrick weaves these topics in a fascinating way.
Seen Through a Servant’s Eyes
This month we review Emily’s House, a recent novel about Margaret Maher, an Irish maid in the Dickinson home and her relationship with Emily.
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!