Rated of 5
by Judy B. (Cedar Falls, IA) THE HOUSE OF VELVET AND GLASS
I couldn't wait for the next cliff hanger to resolve itself. The characters, complex, and enjoyable kept me turning pages to know more about them. Historical details made the novel feel like nonfiction.
Rated of 5
by Kristen H. (Hagerstown, MD) The House of Velvet and Glass
I enjoyed reading this book by Katherine Howe. The characters in the book are described very well. As I have read in her first novel, The Physick book of Deliverance Dane, she ties in the lives of the characters extremely well. Once again, this author has written a great historical novel and I would recommend this book for book clubs or anyone that would enjoy a great historical read. I am glad that I was able to read this first impression book, thank you for the opportunity.
Rated of 5
by Marcia M. (Woburn, MA) The House of Velvet and Glass
In The House of Velvet and Glass author Katherine Howe takes readers back to the early 1900s of Boston and, as further background, to the opium dens of China in the late 1800s. Readers travel through the eyes, thoughts, and actions of Sibyl Allston as she learns truths about her family and deals with the ever-changing reality of a new century--all in the tragic shadow of the sinking of the Titanic.
This reading experience, for me, started slowly. It took a good 100 pages to become invested in these characters and their stories. There were times that I wanted the story to just move along; other times, I loved the long, descriptive paragraphs that put me right into the front parlor of a Beacon Hill mansion.
All in all, I rate this a solidly positive reading experience, and I thank the First Impressions program at BookBrowse for making the ARC of The House of Velvet and Glass available to me.
Rated of 5
by Sandra G. (Middleton, WI) Top-notch historical fiction
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Every time I had a few spare minutes I wanted to get back to it. I would ordinarily not choose a book with a paranormal subplot, but Sybil's experiences were riveting. The elegant writing style, the rich language, and the masterful character development all added to the pleasure of reading. The wonderfully vivid visual imagery brought both people and places to life. This novel is a winner on all levels!
Rated of 5
by Bink W. (Sopchoppy, FL) Wonderful characters and atmosphere
I enjoyed this book equally as much as her first and found the writing style consistent. She really brings one into the periods of history with accurate details and invention. The narrative goes between youth and old age as well as timelines before and after the sinking of the Titantic. Well worth the read if you enjoy historical fiction with a bit of romance.
Rated of 5
by Debra V. (Kenosha, WI) Possible Bestseller
Really enjoyed iThe House of Velvet and Glass/i by Katherine Howe. I liked the way it moved from the present to the past telling more than one story and helping you understand the characters emotions. I liked the dating of the chapters so that you knew instantly what story was being told. Also liked the Afterword at the end and totally agree with the author's conclusions about that period in history. I will definitely read this author again, and would recommend to book clubs.
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of 5
by Judy B. (Cedar Falls, IA) 
of 5
by Marcia M. (Woburn, MA) 
