Ramblings about some books that I have enjoyed
Catherine Merridale’s Moscow Underground is a richly layered, ambitious novel that plunges readers into the treacherous underworld of Stalinist Moscow—both literal and political. Set against the backdrop of the 1934 construction of the Moscow Metro, the story weaves together history, intrigue, and personal reckoning with a historian’s depth and a novelist’s flair. At its heart … Continue reading Moscow Underground
Conn Iggulden once again proves himself a master of historical fiction with Tyrant, the second novel in his epic trilogy chronicling the rise of Nero and the slow, sinister unraveling of Rome’s soul. This is historical storytelling at its absolute finest—gripping, intelligent, and darkly compelling. The Roman emperors—Caligula, Claudius, and Nero—are vividly brought to life … Continue reading Tyrant
The Death of Shame is a masterclass in historical crime fiction. Ambrose Parry delivers a brooding, atmospheric tale set in 1854 Edinburgh, where the cobbled streets are as shadowed by secrets as they are by fog. This is not just a gripping mystery—it's a stark, unflinching look at the inequalities and injustices that plagued Victorian … Continue reading The Death of Shame
A Masterful Portrait of Ambition and Humanity The Cardinal by Alison Weir is an absolutely riveting triumph of historical fiction. With her blend of meticulous research and narrative flair, Weir breathes vivid life into one of the Tudor era’s most enigmatic figures—Cardinal Thomas Wolsey. This is not just a political biography in fictional form; it’s … Continue reading The Cardinal