Which book should be February 2009 Book of the Month?

[Ash]

That does sound interesting; Ive been interested in the early Norman days for a while, and would like to read more about the tapestry (and someday actually go and see the real thing!). So if my selection doesn't go, this one would be fine

BTW Is it possible to go to the old site to see discussions of past BOTM selections? Or are they totally gone?

[boswellbaxter]

[quote=""Ash""]That does sound interesting; Ive been interested in the early Norman days for a while, and would like to read more about the tapestry (and someday actually go and see the real thing!). So if my selection doesn't go, this one would be fine

BTW Is it possible to go to the old site to see discussions of past BOTM selections? Or are they totally gone?[/quote]

Last time I looked, they were still there.

[Susan]

[quote=""chuck""]"Needle in the Blood" sounds interesting.....the little I know about Bishop Odo....He was not a lovable character especially after the conquest enacting the Norman way....I am interested in the Bayeux Tapestry so I will try to hold my piece until I get a chance to read it......[/quote]

I voted for A Question of Truth, which I read a few weeks ago. Needle in the Blood has been in my TBR pile for quite some time, so I would read that next if it is picked. Company of Liars also interests me and I think I will purchase it next time I buy books. If it is the BOTM, my next purchase will be sooner rather than later.

[cw gortner]

I voted for "Signora Da Vinci" because I read an ARC recently and was asked to blurb it; it's truly a marvelous novel that brings Renaissance Florence to vibrant life, plus it's the perfect "discussion" book because of all the interesting issues it raises.

I read "Needle in the Blood" this year and it is superb, one of the best written novels I've had the pleasure to enjoy. Likewise, Sarah Bower's "Book of Love" is magnificent. I'd follow her anywhere.

I finished "Company of Liars" over the Xmas holiday and was enthralled: it's dark and unexpected. Though promoted as a "Canterbury Tales" the resemblance is superficial; Karen Maitland's storyline is quite unique. I was surprised to read that some reviewers found it relentlessly grim. Go, figure. I loved the tone and will definitely read more by her.

[annis]

"Needle in the Blood" is on my TBR list as well- I'm fascinated by the period of English history around the Norman Invasion.. I've just finished re-reading Sheelagh Kelly's "Jorvik", which is the story a an Anglo-Norwegian warrior called Sigurd. In his lifetime he sees many kings come and go, from Ethelred to Harold Godwinsson- it was a turbulent period.
Just for fun, here's an animated version of theBayeaux Tapestry

[Divia]

[quote=""cw gortner""]I voted for "Signora Da Vinci" because I read an ARC recently and was asked to blurb it; it's truly a marvelous novel that brings Renaissance Florence to vibrant life, plus it's the perfect "discussion" book because of all the interesting issues it raises.

[/quote]

Hmm now I really want to read it. But alas I dont think it will be for the BOTM

[cw gortner]

[quote=""Divia""]Hmm now I really want to read it. But alas I dont think it will be for the BOTM [/quote]

Well, Sarah Bowers' Needle in the Blood is also a wonderful choice. I just steeped in that book; her use of language is mesmerizing. "Signora da Vinci" is marvelous, too, so if you get a chance, do check it out.

In any event, both these authors are alive! (I have this thing about the Plaidy/Lofts/Barnes/Heyer re-issues. While more's the merrier, the sad truth is dead authors don't need royalties )

[cw gortner]

[quote=""annis""]"Just for fun, here's an animated version of theBayeaux Tapestry[/quote]

Love this!

[Ash]

[quote=""cw gortner""] (I have this thing about the Plaidy/Lofts/Barnes/Heyer re-issues. While more's the merrier, the sad truth is dead authors don't need royalties )[/quote]

True, but live readers need more wonderful books!

[cw gortner]

[quote=""Ash""]True, but live readers need more wonderful books! [/quote]

Yes, that's true, too; I didn't think of that.

I just tend to think that re-issuing previously popular, late authors' works means less chances for an aspiring new hf author to break in, as re-issues are usually safer bets for publishers. However, if the re-issues sell well, that can also spur interest, so I guess it's a yin/yang thing.