Books matching: complexity of historical figures
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- #1
Save:A big, bold, and breezy ride through American history: part engaging storytelling, part unapologetic opinion piece. A must-read for fans of lively, conservative takes - but best paired with other perspectives for balance.
'A History of the American People' by Paul Johnson is a comprehensive look at American history from a conservative viewpoint. The book covers almost 400 years of American history, focusing on key moments and characters that shaped the nation. The writing style is engaging and informative, providing a balanced perspective that highlights America's greatness while acknowledging its flaws.
October 1997 - #2
Save:A Pulitzer Prize-winning, all-encompassing biography that makes George Washington feel both epic and real. Essential reading for history buffs, presidential biography fans, and anyone wanting to truly understand the founding of America - just be ready for a long but enlightening ride.
'Washington: A Life' by Ron Chernow is a comprehensive biography that delves into the life of George Washington, portraying him as a complex and multi-dimensional figure. Chernow's writing style humanizes Washington, shedding light on both his admirable qualities and his flaws. Through detailed research and engaging storytelling, Chernow captures the essence of Washington's character and his significant role in shaping American history.
THE CROWDED CAREER of George Washington afforded him little leisure to indulge his vanity or gratify his curiosity by conducting genealogical research into his family. As he admitted sheepishly when p...October 2010 A lively, sometimes chaotic, but highly entertaining romp through 500 years of royal bedroom drama. Not great for sticklers for scholarly rigor, but fantastic if you love accessible, gossipy, and fascinating history!
'Sex with Kings: 500 Years of Adultery, Power, Rivalry, and Revenge' by Eleanor Herman is a historical non-fiction book that delves into the scandalous and intriguing world of royal mistresses throughout European history. The book takes readers on a journey through the lives of various mistresses, exploring their relationships with kings, the power dynamics at play, and the impact these women had on politics and society. Eleanor Herman's writing style is described as engaging, witty, and filled with juicy details that bring the stories of these mistresses to life.
WE PICTURE THE ROYAL MISTRESS AS, FIRST AND FOREMOST, a sexual creature. She has a heaving bosom, a knowing smile, eyes sparkling with desire. Ready to fling her velvet skirts above her head at a mome...2004•320 pagesA gripping, cinematic account of the Mediterranean’s defining 16th-century battles, brimming with drama and intrigue - stellar for military history fans, though less satisfying for those seeking scholarly nuance or deep analysis.
Empires of the Sea by Roger Crowley is a historical account focusing on the intense battles for control of the Mediterranean during the 16th century. The book delves into the military, religious, and political conflicts between different nations, particularly highlighting significant events such as the Siege of Malta, the Battle of Lepanto, and the division of the Mediterranean between the Ottoman and Spanish empires. Crowley's writing style intricately details the day-to-day events of these battles, providing a vivid and engaging narrative that immerses readers in the world of international intrigue and historical events of the time.
Suleiman the sultan, by the grace of God, king of kings, sovereign of sovereigns, most high emperor of Byzantium and Trebizond, very powerful king of Persia, of Arabia, of Syria, and of Egypt, supreme...July 2008•362 pages- #5
Save:The novel 'The Virgin Widow' by Anne O'Brien is a historical fiction book centered around Anne Neville, the daughter of The Earl of Warwick 'The King Maker'. The story is narrated through Anne's eyes and explores her relationships with her parents, her sister, and Richard of Gloucester. The book delves into Anne's heartless marriage to the Prince of Wales Lancaster, her time as a kitchen maid, and her eventual union with Richard III. The writing style is described as being from a feminine point of view, with a focus on the romantic aspect of the story.
ISABEL whimpered. With creaks and groans the ship listed and thumped against the force of water as if it would be torn apart by the next wave, casting us into the depths. Isabel clapped her hands to h...November 2010•601 pages - #6
Save:A sweeping, detail-rich saga of remarkable women and the enduring spirit of liberty. Perfect for history fans ready to settle in for a long, rewarding read.
The Women of Chateau Lafayette by Stephanie Dray is a historical novel that weaves together the stories of three courageous women living in different time periods, all connected to the Chateau Lafayette. From the French Revolution to World War II, the book follows the lives of Adrienne Lafayette, Beatrice Chanler, and the fictional character Marthe Simone, showcasing their strength, courage, and resilience in the face of war and adversity. The book is praised for its detailed historical settings, well-rounded characters, and the interwoven storylines that captivate readers from beginning to end.
I’ve almost made it, I think, pedaling my bicycle faster when I see the castle’s crenelated tower at the summit. I’ve ridden past yellowing autumn farmland, past the preventorium’s dormitories for boy...March 2021•575 pages - #7
Save:'The Twilight Zone' by Nona Fernandez is a novel that delves into the dark history of Chile under General Augusto Pinochet's regime. The story follows a soldier who confesses his involvement in torturing people and the consequences he faces for speaking out. Fernandez weaves together fiction and history, exploring the impact of political turmoil on individuals and society, while also incorporating elements from the iconic TV show 'The Twilight Zone'. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of a Chilean journalist, blurring the lines between reality and imagination as she investigates the past atrocities and their lingering effects.
I imagine him walking down a city street. A tall man, thin, black hair, bushy mustache. In his left hand is a folded magazine. He grips it tightly, seeming to draw strength from it as he walks. I imag...March 2021 - #8
Save:The Hemingses of Monticello is a rich and thorough account that delves into the complex relationships within Jefferson's shadow family, shedding light on the ties that bind in a multi-ethnic society. The book provides a voice to all involved and explores the blurred lines and drama within the close-knit circle of individuals, offering a fascinating insight into the Old South's culture of immense hypocrisy and moral dilemmas.
ELIZABETH HEMINGS BEGAN life when America was still a colonial possession. She lived through the Revolution in the home of one of the men who helped make it and died during the formative years of the...2008•869 pages - #9
Save:A rich, thorough, and insightful journey into the life of Alexander - rewarding for serious readers and history lovers, but may feel heavy or technical for those after a quick or easy read.
'Alexander the Great' by Robin Lane Fox is a non-fiction biography that delves into the life and conquests of the legendary figure, Alexander the Great. Lane Fox's writing style is described as beautifully written, perceptive, and fluent, showcasing his historical scholarship and psychological insight. explores Alexander's personality by analyzing his exploits and stories, shedding light on the political structures, society, and cultures of the Greek and Persian civilizations during that era. Through Lane Fox's detailed account, readers get a glimpse into the daily and yearly workings of these ancient civilizations, providing a rewarding and informative read for those interested in history, military, and classical history.
Lane Fox's portrayal of Alexander showcases a blend of detailed practicality and wild ambition, highlighting the conqueror's Greek influence, adoption of Persian imperial style, and strategic military decisions. is praised for its psychological analysis of Alexander, political intrigues of the time, and descriptions of the peoples, cultures, and economies of the regions Alexander conquered. Despite some formatting issues in certain editions, readers find the book engaging, informative, and intellectually stimulating, making it a valuable read for both those new to Alexander's life and those already familiar with the era.
The occasion was planned for magnificence, and the guests were meant to find it to their liking. The Macedonian kings had long claimed to be of Greek descent, but Greeks had not always been convinced...1973•580 pages - #10
Save:An original, lyrical, and slightly wild gothic tale - equal parts heart, history, and haunting. Definitely worth a try for fans of unconventional narrators and historical fiction with a magical twist.
Briefly, A Delicious Life by Nell Stevens is a novel that weaves together the lives of historical figures George Sand and Chopin with a paranormal twist, narrated by a 14-year-old ghost named Blanca. The book explores themes of unrequited love, voyeurism, and the impact of indifferent parenting on a person's life. The writing style is described as original, intelligent, and subtly witty, with a mix of flashbacks and present-day events that are easy to follow.
July 2022
