Rated of 5
by Marsha S. (Nags Head, NC) Accidents of Providence
I found Accidents of Providence very compelling because of the topic and the way it is written. The author's style of writing puts you right into the place with vivid descriptions of the sights, sounds, and smells of the period. The topic was extremely interesting to me because it is based on the historical facts of infanticide and the Levelers movement in 17th century England, both of which I was unaware until reading this book. The intense affair between Rachel and William Walwyn brings the characters to life in a very human way.
This would be a good book for a group discussion, and the topic should be carefully considered by those in our society today who are seeking to curtail women's rights.
Rated of 5
by Maribeth King (Highland Mills, NY) Accidents of Providence
For the most part, I thoroughly enjoy historical novels. This book however was rather superficial providing some background within which the story evolves. I found the characters not well developed and some rather strange, ie Walwyn's wife, Anne. The story itself became more improbable as it went on so that it was less of a historical novel and more of an imaginary tale and sometimes it seemed like the writer was trying to make it a bit mysterious. This is my first book review for BookBrowse and I was so excited to participate. Unfortunately reading this small book became somewhat of a chore. I am curious to see what others have to say. I thank you for the opportunity.
Rated of 5
by Freya H. (Phoenix, AZ) Accidents of Providence
Mediocre is the word to describe this book. The story line had no real interest for me, and, while I felt sympathy for Rachel, the rest of the characters did nothing to capture my imagination. I would not recommend to my fellow Book Club members.
Rated of 5
by Shirin M. (Beverly Hills, CA) Accidents of Providence
A page turner that transports you back to England in the seventeenth century. Set amidst Puritanical rule, the author creates a very real place filled with the sights, sounds, and smells of the time. A fast paced plot and vividly drawn characters make this an engrossing read. Historical fiction fans will certainly love this book. It would also appeal to those interested in individualism and the evolving role of women in a society where the rules are stacked against them. A great choice for book clubs; much to discuss and even more to ponder over.
Rated of 5
by Linda N. (Dallas, TX) History in Novel form
An unplanned pregnancy resulting in the death of the child as a result of an affair at any time is difficult, but one set in the historical context of the mid 1600s when social conventions backed by law treated this as a crime punishable by death makes for an intriguing even if the depth of the characters seems to be less credible.
Rated of 5
by Kathleen W. (New Brighton,, MN) "Everyone loved a good hanging day"
Welcome to London, circa 1649. Smell the squalor of Newgate prison. Investigate the relationship between hangman and accused on the way to Tyburn hanging tree. Look over YOUR shoulder in the midst of religious intolerance in the time of Oliver Cromwell. Stacia Brown (Accidents of Providence) weaves a darn good tale involving a romance/mystery plot but most importantly, her descriptive ability is wonderfully evocative of this time in British history. After finishing reading (and wanting to take a shower?) pose to yourself the question asked of you by the author, "What is it that love requires of each of us?" My only disappointment with the book was that there was no attempt to replicate the vernacular of the 17th century British citizens in this novel. Surely this is a shame considering how admirably Brown succeeds on every other level. No matter...Read it!
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of 5
by Marsha S. (Nags Head, NC) 
of 5
by Maribeth King (Highland Mills, NY) 
of 5
by Freya H. (Phoenix, AZ) 
of 5
by Kathleen W. (New Brighton,, MN) 
