Scarlet Lion

In this sequel to the Greatest Knight, William Marshall is now a powerful Earl. The writing and story are great and I love this book. I was so caught up in what would happen to him, balancing family, crazy English kings, French and Irish assets- I didn't dare look him up on Wikipedia to see how his life ended, I couldn't wait to find out. This was a fun and engaging read, another historical fiction to remind me how blessed I am. Although things may feel difficult at times I'm grateful to know I don't daily risk losing everything at the whim of a volatile king. The perspective is so refreshing and I loved this book and will surely read it again.

Greatest Knight

The Greatest Knight by Elizabeth Chadwick was recommended by Sharon Kay Penman. It follows the amazing rise of William Marshall, who was nearly sacrificed as a hostage by his father and through his merits becomes one of the greatest knights and most politically powerful men in all of England. I loved learning about him (his is said to be the inspiration for Knight's Tale's William Thatcher, too) and Eleanor of Acquitaine of course. The characterization of the Angevin's was so interesting and makes me wonder how it really was (seems like they were all a little hot tempered and back stabbing if you ask me!) This book made me proud to have named my son William and hope he would be as brave, true, and chivalrous someday.

Drums of Autumn

Drums of Autumn, book 4 in the Outlander series, lived right up the previous novels. Set in Colonial America, Claire and Jamie have a world of opposition they happily face together. It's inspiring and a good reminder that we really are so blessed and need to give back. I loved the descriptions of medical knowledge and practice, cultural differences and the historical backdrop. Frank's letter of confession at the end literally haunted my dreams last night when I finished the book- thinking about it's implications and what the future will hold for the characters I have come to love. Can't wait for the next one (it's ready at the library tomorrow!)

Voyager

The third book in the Outlander series, I devoured Voyager in about 2 days (impressive considering I was still there for my kids!) When Claire learns Jamie might have survived the battle of Culloden, she goes back to search for him. The travel through Edinburgh and the Indies was fascinating, funny, and at time terrifying. Now a physician, Claire helps many but is faced with the reality that she often can't help those that are closet to her. This book was a joy and I loved it, even if it made me feel like my comfortable, 21st life was kind of vain. I need to find more ways to serve and help others.

Dragonfly in Amber

The second Outlander book, Dragonfly in Amber tells the tragic story of the Scotish rising in 1745. Knowing the disastrous results from the future, Claire and Jamie attempt to save their countrymen by preventing the rising. The time spent in France was interesting and reminiscent for me. Their relationship was lovely, of course, though real enough with the challenges and trials. I laughed and cried the whole time. Will read it again!

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

Last October, I attended a book signing for Sharon Kay Penman. One of my favorite authors, I couldn't miss it. Diana Gabaldon 'hosted' and they answered questions, talked about the writing process, and their favorite characters. Diana was gracious and witty and I bought this special edition of her book that started it all- Outlander. With the holidays and everything I didn't get to reading it until the week of Christmas. Once I started, I COULD NOT put it down. The story follows Claire, a nurse in post WWII England as she is accidentally sent back in time to 18th century Scotland. With her medical knowledge and historical information, she seeks to help those around her and find her way back to her own time. Along the way, daring Jamie Fraser becomes her friend, forced husband, lover, and confidant. I loved their relationship and willingness to courageously help each other. The second I finished this I picked up the next.. and the next. All I can say is I have a lot of laundry to fold and my floors need to be mopped, but it was worth it!

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

I reread HP7 last summer, in time for the last movie to come out. It was so fun to read this time since I wasn't in a rush to find out what would happen to my favorite characters! The feel of the urgency and importance of their actions was really thrilling and I couldn't wait to see how it all went down again (if if I already, mostly, knew!) Can't wait to read them all again and relive the awesome journey.