Mary Jane D

I would highly recommend The Scavenger's Daughters as a quick easy read that kept me engaged. The writing is clean and crisp and the glossary at the end with the meaning of the Chinese words is helpful. The descriptions of the girls and the goings on in the town made it easy for me to picture the scenes. I particularly was impressed with the description at the beginning of Benfu's background and it drew me into the story. Anyone who is interested in the Chinese Cultural Revolution would appreciate the the setting. The book is based on fact and offers an uplifting story of true love on many levels. I will look forward to reading Book 2 of the series.

The Sisterhood covers a long time period alternating between present and past. I enjoyed the historical parts and the interesting characters that were developed. Just as I thought it was bogging down a bit a new character or situation would be introduced. I was a little disappointed in the ending and wanted more detail of the main character's connection. Catholics would disagree with the premise of the "new" Gospel.

I chose to read Murder at Rosamund's Gate because I like historical fiction. I don't normally read mysteries but the murder mystery made it all the more intriguing. The descriptions of daily life in 17th Century England, Newgate Prison, the court proceedings, horrendous punishments, and the plague were rich and historically accurate. The characters were well developed and believable. I kept trying to guess who the murderer was but didn't figure it out until almost the end. This book is a good read and I look forward to more adventures of Lucy Campion.