Suzanne Blue

Highs and Lows of British Life in the 19th Century

Reviewed: 01-07-22

I am usually not a fan of mysteries, but this book kept me interested throughout. First of all, I enjoyed the performance by Lindy Nettleton as the reader. The story has some bits of comic relief, which are needed. Not only are the murders, and those murdered, described in horrific detail, but the life of the poor in the streets of London are elucidated just as vividly. The male lead character is certainly not very likeable, but he is probably true enough to those men of the time period he is being modeled after. March, the female lead, is relatable, likeable and is also a true rendition of her sex in the 19th Century. Some have criticized this book for its lack of gender empowerment for women, when in fact the strict societal roles along gender lines are being described accurately in the story. March Middleton recognizes this and responds with a wit that had me smiling often throughout the book. As far as the detective work goes, the case is a little typical and so is the explaining how it all happens at the end (which is, I think, a little far fetched) but that is what mysteries are for. Do we read them because they are logical and realistic or do we read them for the entertainment? I prefer the latter and enjoyed this book because of it! I plan on listening to others in the series as well. Give it a try!

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Listen to Forge

Reviewed: 12-27-21

I am a big fan of Laurie Halse Anderson's historical fiction. She takes great care to get the details right, the characters deep and the primary source material accessible. Forge is the second book in a trilogy, but it can be read alone (you will want to go back and read Chains, though, because it is so good). I love Chains, the first book. Forge is different but also so good. There were parts of this story that were jaw dropping and kept me eager to get to my next listening session. There was a slight lul on the middle section but not enough to cause me to lose interest, yet I wish that particular part of history, the winter at Valley Forge soldier encampment, was delved into more by Anderson. Anderson is so good at showing that part of history, the human suffering; I was a little suprised that part was not as graphic as I have expected from her. In addition, there are some articulations on race that I am not sure would have happened in the 18th Century in quite the way they are expressed in the book, but in any case Anderson shows how these themes were a struggle even at the start of our nation and the hypocrisy of some of our founding principles. The horrible justifications of slavery, the dehumanization and gut wrenching behavior of enslavers, come to life in this story. This is exactly why Chains and Forge are so good. They expose. The story also shows the deep comradery that develops among soldiers so well, battle action is detailed in unique ways and the plot lines of Chains are continued and enriched. I cant wait to read the final book, Ashes.

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1 person found this helpful

Enjoyed this history....

Reviewed: 12-15-21

Very interesting, well presented and timely historical facts with, unfortunately, a present day connection. This podcast is going to be a regular for me!

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