Laura
Laura is a keen reader of historical fiction and mysteries with faraway and interesting settings, especially escapist stories with a touch (or more) of magic, and quirky nonfiction. Laura recommends...
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The Warm Hands of Ghosts
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Completely mesmerizing and atmospheric read about the horrors of World War I, what people sacrifice to survive, and the comfort we can find in others. Striking historical detail and rich characters. Highly recommend to readers of darker historical fiction who don't mind a little fantasy. -
Adventures in the Louvre
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Another wonderful look at Paris from Elaine Sciolino, this time taking readers to the Louvre. You get an intimate look at some of the works gracing its many halls, and a tantalizing look at the behind-the-scenes and politics of the museum. I could read an entire book about the firefighters tasked with protecting the museum. All but a few of the short chapters fully held my attention. The main distraction while reading is I had to keep stopping to look up images of places and works she described, so you'll actually want to keep your phone handy. Sciolino excels at giving just enough detail about history, art, or people to hook you, but not leave you feeling bogged down. A great read with short chapters so you can easily pick it up for just a little bit at a time. If you're looking for more Paris reads by Sciolino, I recommend checking out The Only Street in Paris next. -
The Good Liars
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An atmospheric and slightly eerie post-war historical mystery about a family that devolves into chaos as the secrets they thought they left behind with the war close in on their mansion. Perfect for fans of slightly darker British mystery shows (this would make a great BBC adaptation!). -
The Curse of Penryth Hall
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An atmospheric and engaging read about a slightly-scandalous young American who is trying to fly under the radar in England. When her employer sends her to Cornwall for a rare book delivery, she becomes entangled in the lives of the local gentry and the handsome folk healer as an ancient curse puts them in danger. -
A Deadly Endeavor
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Really enjoyed this new historical mystery set in 1920s Philly! I found the main characters to be a lot more substantial than those in other similar historicals, which made this a compelling read. Edie felt more realistic than other heroines, and I would love to read more about Gil. The Philadelphia setting was a nice change of pace, too, even if we don't get too much detail about it. While I guessed the culprit early on, it still felt like a page-turner. Will definitely read the next installment! -
Vampires of el Norte
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In 1840s Mexico, a pair with a complicated past must protect their land and loved ones from invading Americans and other deadly creatures. This read is the best of both worlds: a page-turner with beautifully-written characters.
Laura's Historical Mystery Picks
