Historical Novels

"With poise and restraint, Rilla Askew's historical novel 'Prize for the Fire' tells the brilliant, multifaceted story of an intelligent, virtuous, and indomitable woman." -- Foreword Reviews

Our longtime book reviewer makes some page-turning suggestions for book lovers of all sorts -- and for those who might be shopping for book lovers.

This novel explores the Plymouth Colony as well as America's first murder.

The celebrated historical novelist died last week at age 70.

Mei, a teenage girl in 1960s China, becomes Mao Zedong's protégée as well as his lover -- and also a heroine of the Cultural Revolution -- in this captivating historical novel.

"Recommended to fans of Paula McLean's 'The Paris Wife' and anyone who enjoyed Hemingway's 'A Moveable Feast.'" -- Booklist

"A sure bet for readers of personal war stories and those who want to know, 'What about the women and children?'" -- Booklist

Page-turners for the beach, the pool, the lake, the hammock, and/or that cozy sofa near the air-conditioning unit.

Mei, a teenage girl in 1960s China, becomes Mao Zedong's protégée as well as his lover -- and also a heroine of the Cultural Revolution -- in this captivating new novel.

"Recommended to fans of Paula McLean's 'The Paris Wife' and anyone who enjoyed Hemingway's 'A Moveable Feast.'" -- Booklist