Conversations With Kav – Historical Eras + Giveaway

I’ve been thinking about Historical Fiction lately – specifically within the Christian Fiction genre. Thrilling over all the great reads out there but, also, lamenting a bit over the lack of variety offered when it comes to historical timelines.

And that got me wondering how authors and publishers go about deciding what’s hot…and what’s not…and how they predict which eras will be bestsellers. I mean, it’s a good two years between starting a book and finally getting it printed and available on bookshelves, so, what if that era is cooling off by release day?

Then I got to wondering if popular historical eras are only popular because that’s what is available to readers? And maybe publishers don’t realize we are a diverse group who might like variety in our fiction? And that includes settings away from North America for me. I guess I’m wondering if there’s a method to the madness that keeps some of my favourite historical time periods out of Christian Fiction.

Anyway — on to the conversational topic of the day. I have questions. You might have answers and, because we’re celebrating all things Historical today there’s a giveaway too. More about that at the end of this post, so keep your eyes peeled.

Historical Fiction Questions:

  • What are your favourite Historical Fiction eras?
  • What are your least favourite Historical Fiction eras?
  • What Historical Era would you like to see more of in Christian Fiction?
  • Oh — and will you follow a favourite author into an unfavourite era?

My Favourite Historical Fiction eras:

Regency. Really, is anyone surprised? I am addicted! Luckily it doesn’t look like it will go out of style any time soon. It’s easy to come by clean / closed door Regency Romances but a bit harder to find in the Christian Fiction genre. Laurie Alice Eakes comes to mind right away. She’s no longer writing in this genre but I have all of her Regencies on my keeper shelf.

And Julie Klassen too of course. Lady of Milkweed Manor was not only my first Christian Fiction Regency, but my first ever Christian Fiction Historical novel!

Depression era . These are harder to come by, but I’ve always been lured in by Depression era stories. I blame it on the Waltons and it’s idyllic down-home country charm! Sharlene Maclaren’ s River of Hope series is the perfect example of what I find so appealing in this timeline.

Late 1800s . Not sure why this time period appeals to me, maybe because things are starting to open up for women and there’s a bit more scope for independent heroines? Dawn Crandall has a fantastic series that I need to put on my reread list – The Everstone Chronicles. Four books that feature a complicated family – some brooding heroes, a hint of gothic flair and sinister subplots. Must refresh my acquaintance with the Everstones soon!

1700s – This time period doesn’t crop up that often and I usually think of Laura Frantz and Lori Benton as go to authors for this timeline BUT I recently came across Pam Hillman’s Natchez Trace series when I was organizing a book shelf and remembered how much I loved these books too. More books for my reread pile — and I’m thinking I should get to The Promise of Breeze Hill in March because there’s an Irish hero. Swoon!

My Least Favourite Historical Fiction Eras:

I’m almost afraid to say this but…the Civil War. I intensely disliked Scarlett O’Hara in Gone With the Wind and I’m afraid that experience has marred my enjoyment of this time period in fiction. 🙂 I will avidly avoid a Civil War era story with very few exceptions.

Also, the American Revolution. Not as unappealing to me as the Civil War, but not a huge interest for me either. Might be due to the fact that a lot of the historical books I read as a child and Young Adult were set during the Revolutionary War for some reason.

And Biblical Fiction isn’t hugely appealing to me either though I do make some exceptions and tend to like what I read in the genre but then still balk the next time one comes my way. I’m so contrary sometimes!

Historical Eras I’d like to see more of in my Christian Fiction:

  • Depression era
  • Middle Ages
  • War of 1812 from the British side (Bwahaha)
  • Vikings
  • The Troubles in Northern Ireland
  • Easter Uprising (Ireland)
  • Australia colonies

Will I follow a favourite author into an unfavourite era?

Ugh…maybe…possibly? It would depend on the author. Like I would follow Irene Hannon anywhere! Otherwise maybe if the book included another genre or trope I really love — like a mystery mixed in with the history.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

Answer any (or all) of these questions in a comment and include the title and author of a Christian Fiction Historical Novel set in one of your favourite eras and if your name is drawn, that’s the book you will win.

This giveaway is for a print or ebook copy. Winner’s choice.

US – available in print or ebook — winner’s choice

Canada – available in print or ebook or audible (if available) — winner’s choice

International – ebook copy if you have a US Kindle account.

89 thoughts on “Conversations With Kav – Historical Eras + Giveaway”

  1. First off, I can totally commiserate with the experience of balking at a genre, in spite of often enjoying it.

    As far as historical favorites… I tend to not be the biggest fan of historical fiction. In fact, that speaking very generally, this is one genre that I balk at, in spite of often enjoying what I read 😉

    I don’t really like war time settings. Some WWII titles interest me, but I hesitate because of the element of tragedy. I do feel like I see more WWII books than anything else (based on my library work and somewhat based on what I see in Christian fiction).

    I’m not sure if I have a favorite era to read. Maybe regency? But I haven’t read many to be sure. I like Jane Austen, but her books are definitely different than titles written today about the period. (Is Austen regency? Haha).

    Aside from that, I think it is a matter of liking an author or being intrigued by a synopsis. And I have “followed” an author to read a time period I don’t typically read (I read AD 30 and AD 33 by Ted Dekker, but these are honestly some of my least favorite of his books).

    For the giveaway opportunity, I have really been wanting to read more by Joanna Davidson Politano. If forthcoming books are on the table, my choice would be The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House. If it should already be available, I would choose Lady Jayne Disappears.

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    1. Interesting that you aren’t a huge historical fan. I love reading other genres too and can’t really claim historical as a favourite but I do read a lot of it (in my preferred eras of course!) But I equally enjoy contemporary and suspense and Amish and sometimes fantasy. Oh — here’s a historical angle you might not have thought of – fairy tale retellings. They are often set in a historical time period so I’m wondering if you would give them a pass? 🙂

      I think Austen is the classic Regency, though I’m sure she’d be appalled at what her novels have inspired over the decades since her publications. bwahahaha! Not the Regency world she lived for sure.

      For the giveaway I’ll go with Lady Jayne Disappears — so books already released. But you’ve just given me my first April book to add to my TBR! Eeeeppp. Can’t believe another Reader’s Choice Week is just around the corner! Good luck, Stephanie!

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      1. You raise an excellent point about fairy tale retellings! I think I would easily “forget” they are historical. Funny story about “following” an author. Margaret Peterson Haddix is one of my very favorite authors, and I remember feeling “tricked” in the middle of a series because it started out with time travel and turned into historical fiction. And yet there I was enjoying it 😉 this was back in college.

        By the way, I read about the temps in your comment below. That temperature is unfathomable to me out here in California. How DO you do it?

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      2. Wow, Margaret Peterson Haddix is a blast from the past! Loved her middle grade books and I’m sure I’ve missed a bunch of series since I stopped reading her. Hmmm…it’s Middle Grade March so now is a good time to check out my library’s children’s section. And good for her, tricking you into reading some historical fiction.

        Yes, well, clearly I did not fight the good fight against the cold today. We just layer up (and even my inner layers are fleece or flannel lined!) and then bundle up with down or thinsulate coats and thermal mittens and double layered toque (flannel lined again) and then I mostly trundle as opposed to walk because I’m so bulky. 🙂 ‘Course, it’s easier for people who have cars but I don’t. My feet are my transportation…or the bus, but waiting for a bus in this weather is brutal. I’d rather be walking.

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      3. Eeeep!!! I can’t imagine walking through that! Yes, at one point I had caught up and read most of MPH’s books, but she’s released a lot since then that I haven’t read. Something I find fun is that her first book came out the year I was born. So glad you’ve enjoyed her work, also!

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  2. I very much enjoyed your post. It sent me digging up my lists of favorite authors and favorite books. There aren’t any historical periods I avoid. I’ve always loved history and minored in history in college with concentrations on Tennessee history and English history. Unfortunately, I’ve forgotten most of that–sad, but true. I laughed, when you expressed your distaste for Scarlett O’Hara. Definitely not a nice person! But I loved the book and have read it at least twice. Melanie was my favorite character. (I think her name was spelled differently). I named one of my daughters Melanie.  I wish I had more time to read, but other things seem to keep me busy. I used to have time to read 50 or 60 books per year, but last year I only made it to 25. I guess that’s just part of aging. At least it is for me. Blessings, Kay Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” (NIV)

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    1. I love that you bring college history experience to your historical fiction reading. You might think you’ve forgotten a lot of it but I bet you get a sense when something is ‘off’ in a novel. At least we are in agreement about Scarlett! Didn’t they call Melanie Melly all the time? Or was that just in the movie. Ah well — she was a redeeming character for sure. Do you have a book you’d like to win in order to enter the draw, Kay?

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      1. I think they did call her Melly. Probably in both the book and the movie, but it’s been years since I read the book or watched the movie. Thanks for the offer of a chance to win a book. Honestly, I’m in the midst of doing a whole house declutter. This afternoon I just culled 21 books off my non-fiction shelf. I must pare down! Blessings, Kay

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  3. Interesting topic, Kav! There was a time (before FB & the fabulous Becky Wade) that all I read was historical fiction. I gobbled down every Civil War book I could find bc I was enamored with anything South. Now that I’ve lived here for 37 yrs, not so much.

    Civil War books are my absolute least favorite, along with the Roaring Twenties, Biblical fiction, and most WWII. I love Terrie Todd WWII fiction bc the war is in the background mostly.

    My faves are historicals set in Scotland, Australia (if you can find any), Ireland, & although no longer much of a colonial era fan, I’ll follow Laura Frantz anywhere! I especially love gothic Regency as well, such as Abigail Wilson & Hannah Linder’s books! Also looking forward to Joanna Davidson Politano’s next book. I think I’ve read just about all of hers.

    Would love to win: Never Forgotten by Hannah Linder

    Thanks for the giveaway opportunity!

    dianalflowers at aol dot com

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    1. Also want to clarify that although not a fan of Civil War fiction I do love southern contemporary books such as T.I.Lowe’s & Rhonda McKnight’s!

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      1. I find it funny that’s I’m drawn to Southern Contemporary Fiction too being Canadian and all, but, for some reason I am! Especially love listening to a well narrated book where they get the accent right.

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      2. You ought to hear my accent. lol You’d never know I was raised on the west coast with this Southern twang I have now! lol It tends to rub off on you when you’ve lived in the South for almost 40 yrs.

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      3. According to you, Kav, Stephanie, & another reader friend I need to try Patricia Raybon’s series. Not liking about mild swear words in Tea’s books, though. No one around me cusses and I’m not used to that. That’s all I heard from my alcoholic father when I was a kid and I just don’t like it…mild or not.

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    2. Oohhh, great reminder here – I have only read two Hannah Linder books. Must support our Christian Fiction Regency authors! There are ten of her books listed on Good Reads though I’m not sure if all of them have been released yet. Still, I best get cracking.

      There was a time over a decade ago where it seemed like every historical fiction book (slight exaggeration) was set during the Civil War. So frustrating for me at the time. It does have me wondering about saturating the market and then turning readers off. The same thing is happening now with WWII fiction, though I honestly can never get enough of them and a lot of other readers seem to feel the same way. I can see how it would be frustrating to readers who aren’t a fan though.

      I’m with you on the Roaring Twenties but I wouldn’t mind a book set away from all the flashy parts of that era – flapper girls, speak easies, mobsters etc. Ohhhh, except I adore Patricia Raybon’s Annalee Spain mysteries and they are set in 1920s. But they are mysteries and told from a totally different perspective so maybe that’s why.

      Australia is a hard one for Historical Fiction – at least in the Christian genre. Dorothy Adamek is the only author that comes to mind and I think she’s only written two books. She’s an Australian author too. Now I’m off to research Australian authors and see if I can come up with any more. Mostly I think they tend to write contemporary and often set in the states. I wonder why that is? I’d love to read more about Australia in any time period.

      It was fun chatting with you, Diane. Good luck!

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      2. Dorothy Adamek’s books were awesome. Wonder if she’s going to write again? Juliette Duncan writes Australian CF. Mostly contemporary, but she has a historical series. I have the 1st two, not sure when the 3rd one is releasing. I saw the title on FB somewhere, but see no sign of it on Amazon. It’s been over a yr since I saw it, I’m thinking.

        Hannah Linder has a new book coming out in Nov, so we have some time to catch up. lol if I’m not mistaken I’m two behind.

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      3. Sarah, are Tea Cooper’s books Christian fiction or clean reads? When I’ve seen them on NetGalley I think they’re labeled general fiction.

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      5. I’ve heard good things about Tea Cooper’s books. She publishes in the US with Thomas Nelson, but not labeled as Christian Fiction. I think she’s a general market author in Australia. I’ve tried a few but there was some mildish language and I just wasn’t in the mood. Mind you, I picked them up thinking they were Christian Fiction so that likely coloured my tolerance. And I’m learning that words I might find objectionable aren’t considered swears at all by other readers or even other countries. So who knows?

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      6. BTW we were discussing being behind on Hannah Linder’s books. Just heard something cool! Was listening to the Selah Awards finalists on FB & Hannah Linder is a finalist for her book THE GIRL FROM THE HIDDEN FOREST!! That’s one I’m behind on. Also more of our fave authors or would like to read authors were named finalists!! 😃

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  4. What a fun topic to discuss! I enjoy 1700’s, 1800’s and 1900’s up until about WW1, the time my grandparents would have been young. I have pictures of my grandfather in his WW1 uniform. I’m not a fan of WW2 for some reason ever though there’s an abundance of authors writing them. I can’t stand the word N*zi and don’t want to read anything that refers to it. So many novels during this time period are heartbreaking and I just don’t want that in my “happy place” reading. I’ve even enjoyed some 1500’s books but there just aren’t as many of those. Kathleen Morgan wrote some good ones after she became a Christian in her Highland Hills series. And of course, Tamara Leigh and her 12th century books are very good too. I guess I’m all over the place, if I hear about a good book in any of these time periods I’ll try it.

    I understand your Civil War and Revolutionary War aversion. I’m not a fan of war books in general, but Lynn Austin’s Refiner’s Fire Civil War series and Marylu Tyndall’s Surrender to Destiny are 2 of my favorite historical series, so who can figure it out?! I’ll be honest and say I did not like Tamera Alexander’s With This Pledge, it was just too graphic for me. I don’t know if I’ll ever tackle the 2nd book, Color of Truth.

    I don’t mind Regency, just not as much of a fan of the ones with a gothic vibe, you know cliffside deaths and shadowy castles where tortured souls live.

    Like you I’d follow Irene Hannon wherever she ventures. However even though Sudsan Warren is one of my favorite authors I didn’t follow her into Rembrandt Stone time travel crime thrill collaboration she did with James Rubert and her son David Warren as David James Warren, not my thing.

    I like Biblical fiction with a caveat, they have to be written really well. I read everything of Tessa Afshar and Connilyn Cossette. Heather Kaufman is a new favorite after reading Before the King. I’d like to backtrack and read her Up From Dust debut for the giveaway opportunity.

    That’s all I have time for before church, but I’ll check back in to the discussion later 🙂

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    1. Oh dear, this is where I have to confess that I’m staying home from church today. It’s -28 with the windchill and I am just so over winter (we had another huge dumping of snow yesterday) so between the sidewalks not being navigable and the freezing cold, I’m staying home and watching online. Online services are both a blessing and a curse — so wonderful for people who can’t get out to church but so tempting for people who can but don’t and I’m afraid I’ve fallen into that category more than I care to admit this winter.

      I love that you are all over the place with your eras, Tracey. A well rounded reader is just what I’d expect from my ace reporter. 🙂 How else can you deliver our bookish news without bias? bwahahaha!

      And yes, I can see how WWII novels might not feed your ‘happy place’ reading. I’m still drawn to them though. Particularly appreciate the way Sarah Sundin writes them. Not sure how to describe it but they aren’t overly graphic yet she still manages to convey all the desperate emotions. But there’s always hope and laughter too. A nice mix and it’s so inspiring to read about characters who stand up for what they believe in.

      For some reason I’m thinking the Civil War and the Revolutionary War books I have read were much more graphically detailed and battle centred then the WWII ones.

      Eeeep! Regency with a gothic vibe including those cliffside deaths (let’s call it what it usually is – murder) and shadowy castle with tortured souls (living of course) always appeal. Especially if the tortured soul is a brooding hero (with a kind heart, of course.)

      You mentioned Irene Hannon and I got a bookish thrill because I think her newest Hope Harbor novel comes out in a month. Squuuueeeaaaappppp!!!!

      My library has Heather Kauffman’s first book on order so I got brave and put it on hold. I think that’s the same one you’ve just mentioned – Up From Dust? Good luck, Tracey!

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      1. I think -28 is like -18F, that’s a no, not at all! I need it to be 25-30F to go out! You amaze me going out walking or by bus in that weather!

        I can’t wait for Irene’s Sunrise Reef! Irene also just released the cover of her next Fall suspense with this summary, “Undaunted Courage series, OUT OF TIME! I think it perfectly captures the creepiness that runs through this story, which features a century-old mystery, a remote estate, a hidden treasure, a dying language, and suspicious deaths.”

        Oh, and I wanted to tell you when we were talking about National Park books, better get to that Karen Barnett redwood book by Sept. Her next book about Zion National Park is scheduled for 9/25, saw it on FB. Kregel doesn’t give much early info on their books, but I sure wish they would. I have to stalk author pages for my info, lol.

        Thanks for the giveaway Kav! tracey14567 at gmail.com

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      2. Ooh I love the brooding, dark heroes of gothic Regency as well. With a Jane Eyre vibe! Or Wuthering Heights. I don’t blame you for doing internet church, Kav. Especially since you walk! I know you’re ready for Spring.

        Tracey, I’m sorta with you on WWll books. I’ve never read a Sarah Sundin book so I’m surprised I read Terrie Todd’s. Hers are different than any I’ve tried so far. Even If We Cry takes place during WWll, but is set in Canada. What a great book!

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      3. Sunrise Reef — you heard it here first, folks a new Irene Hannon romantic suspense as well.. 🙂 But we have to wait until the end of April for Sunrise Reef to release. Ah well, bookish anticipation is fun too. Ha! I’m so glad you are an author cyber stalker, Tracey. I actually just started Karen Barnett’s book – Where Trees Touch the Sky. It’s a dual timeline so that’s an extra bonus!

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      4. Diane, we can swoon together over our brooding Gothic heroes. 🙂 All of Terrie Todd’s books are set during Word War II but from the Homefront so I bet you’d love all of them. I read the books she traditionally published but had no idea that she had gone on to do her own indie books so I have more catching up to do!

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  5. What are your favourite Historical Fiction eras?

    Love the ones I can kind of relate to.  In that, I mean that of my parents and grandparent from either the stories they have told or my wondering what it was like for them during that time.  And then I have to add that I love a well written Regency tale also.

    What are your least favourite Historical Fiction eras?

    While an old Army brat, I’m not fond of blood and gut war stories.  And not fond of any era that the author hasn’t put in the time to research for details for the story.

    What Historical Era would you like to see more of in Christian Fiction?

    While I love the time frame of my parents, I would love to see more in the timeline of my grands and great grands – so middle 1800’s to the beginning of the 1900’s.

    Oh — and will you follow a favourite author into an unfavourite era?

    Yes, I would!  If I love the author’s writing style, knowing the work and detail into making her stories not only interesting but accurate, I would definitely follow them into a new to them timeline or one I’m not fond of.  If nothing else but to see if they can change my mind about that era.  😊

    It’s during the beginning of one of my favorite era’s and it’s a case of following an author whose books I love.  That would have to be Tamera Alexander with her book FROM A DISTANCE.  Not only to I admire this author’s books, but this book deals with a photographer, which you know I would immediately be drawn to.  😊  It’s on my TBR list and would love the opportunity to read it.  Thank you for the fabulous chance to win a copy!

    2clowns at arkansas dot net

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    1. I love the idea of having a connection to your fiction through your parents and grandparents — kind of building on their stories. That must make reading historical fiction that much more satisfying. And good point about author research needing to be solid. I know I shouldn’t take everything in my fiction as truth but I do expect the author to be true to events and social mores of the time. I appreciate reading author’s notes where they expand a bit on their research — and also confess what they might have tweaked a bit. I don’t mind a bit of creative licence but I don’t want history rewritten for the sake of a story.

      I like the mid 1800s – 1900s as well. So much was happening during that time — from industrialization, the awakening of social justice issues, women’s rights — and it’s fascinating to read about how people adapted and we grew as a society….and ways we failed too. Lots of scope for imagination for authors.

      Like your adventurous heart for era hopping with a favourite author, Kay. Good luck!

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  6. I read both Christian and Non-christian historical fiction. Kristin Hannah is my favorite non-christian when it comes to historical that she writes. I would have to say that Sarah Loudin Thomas is one of many who write christian historical that I enjoy. These tangled threads is my choice. cheetahthecat1982ATgmailDOTcom

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  7. I have often had similar questions. I absolutely love all the eras written about, but there are some I wish was more written about.

    When you said Viking though there is a new CF author this year who has a 3 book series(4 is coming soon) about Vikings. The Huntress by Carrie Cotten is book 1. Id also love to read it as Vikings fascinate me(so if I win this would be my book☺️) and I love the Viking Quest series by Lois Walfrid Johnson as a kid and still read them to this day.

    Other areas I’d like written about is The Underground Railroad. Battles and fights of the civil war don’t interest me as much as the men and women who fought for life silently and never went on a battlefield.

    Vikings of course.

    WW2 from the German side. Although Anne Perreault does have a series on that(Leaving My Fathers House Series) but that’s the only one I’m aware of.

    More diverse Biblical fiction. Like there are a lot of popular women of the Bible and they seem to keep writing about the same ones. I’d love to read some more of the lesser known and more traumatic ones such as Tamar the Daughter of David.

    I would honestly love to read more about WW1. Seems everything is about WW2 LOL

    As for Depression era does Sarah Loudin Thomas have some? Not sure on that but thought I’d throw that thought out there.

    i would follow a favorite author almost anyway. Like Roseanna White. Not a fan of fantasy but she is releasing one this year called Awakening(reminds me of Ariel tbh) and I’m determined to read that just because I love Roseanna that much lol.

    Thnx Kav! sarahdar0801ATgmailDOTcom

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    1. Hi Sarah. I think you missed my question above so I’ll repeat it here. Thanks! Are Tea Cooper’s books Christian fiction or clean reads? When I’ve seen them on NetGalley I think they’re labeled general fiction.

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      1. Well I haven’t read her latest few but they are definitely clean and categorized by me as CF.

        She is published by Harper Muse which is considered a clean/Christian company and her books are also found on Christianbook.com(which is where I first heard of her)

        There isn’t much in the way of faith content, but it’s a clean read much similar to Tyndale nowadays.

        It’s a debate between authors and readers what makes CF and how much faith content. But to me it doesn’t matter☺️ hope this helps!

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      2. Thanks, Sarah. That helps a lot! Especially knowing that CBD sells them because they don’t sell anything that’s not CF! Not that I’m aware of anyway.

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    2. Wow, I have never heard of The Huntress series by Carrie Cotten! It sounds like a mix of things – even tagged as fantasy and early Middle Ages (a time period I totally forgot to mention and would love to read more about.) Plus vikings in the second book. Whoa — this whole series is going on my TBR. Thanks, Sarah!

      Yesssss to the Underground Railroad. Not enough books featuring that aspect of history – both on the American and Canadian side. Re. WWII Germany — have you read Saving Amelie by Cathy Gohlke? It’s amazing and includes a cameo by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. I think I have to reread that book. Must hunt down my copy.

      So agree with you about the reoccurring women heroines in biblical fiction. Though, if I do read this genre I usually prefer the hero and heroine to be fictional and any historical person a secondary character. But I don’t read enough biblical fiction to really have a say. 🙂

      My favourite Sarah Loudin Thomas book is her debut – Miracle in a Dry Season – and I thought it was depression era but it’s 1954…another time period I’d like to see more of though.

      Yes to following Roseanna M. White anywhere….even into a fantasy realm! That should be interesting! Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Sarah. Good luck!

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  8. I like historical fiction, but don’t love it, even though I read a decent amount of it. I feel like there is a lot set in war times (Liz Tolsma, Johnnie Alexander, Amy Lynn Green, Terrie Todd, Jocelyn Green), I know there are more, but that’s off the top of my head. I prefer the late 1800s, early 1900s, and tend to stay away from things before the 1800s, with a few Biblical fiction exceptions. I also prefer the books to have humor in them. I have been trying to stay away from war books for quite a while now, things are just too stressful. Have a great rest of your weekend!

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    1. Yes, war stories can be tough reads. I intersperse them in between other genres so things don’t get too heavy. Can’t help feeling that it’s important to remember the history of our world wars and the heroics of ordinary people though. That’s what keeps me going back to them. Happy Reading, Cindy!

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  10. Another great topic to consider! It seems logical that a reader might not be as interested in certain eras if their country or even region or family/ancestors were not involved. Because of my genealogy hobby and my family background, with many in the states/territories during the late 1600’s into mid 1700’s, I find American historical settings “relatable”. As an example, one of my families was living in what became a Civil War battlefield park, with diaries indicating hand to hand fighting in their yard and home. I do find fewer books set in the 1700’s than in the 1800’s and, in the last probably 6 years, a heavy publication of WWII stories. I enjoy reading about the expansion into frontier areas, as I have traced family through some of those scenarios, plus also tracking later family through the Civil War era and then WWII. I have heard so many stories about the Great Depression and WWII. Sarah Sundin was writing excellent and well researched stories about WWII before it became a “popular” topic. Her new release is on my wish list. I guess history is personal to me, so that is probably one of the reasons I enjoy it more than contemporary or suspense fiction. And, Scarlett, to me, wasn’t designed to be likable but instead was a pivotal part of the Pulitzer Prize winning novel. Melly was my favorite character in that story, soft-spoken but strong.

    Was just noticing your comment above about a cameo appearance by Dietrich Bonhoeffer in Saving Amelie.  I read a fascinating book about him a year or so ago.

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    1. You have such a rich family history, CC! Love that your ancestors actually kept records and your family kept their stories alive across the generations. It’s interesting to look back over the years and see what was popular in Christian Fiction Historicals. Used to be just biblical fiction and what I call ‘prairie romances.’ So glad publishers and author ventured into other eras as well. And yes, Sarah Sundin is the queen of WWII fiction as far as I’m concerned.

      RE Scarlett — my problem is that I need to like the main characters in my books. I have to emotionally connect with them on some level and it was just not happening with Miss “I’ll think about it tomorrow..’ Bwahahaha!

      I know a movie about Dietrich Bonheoffer was recently released but I don’t have access to any streaming services so I haven’t seen it. Heard it was really good though. My church library does have a number of biographies about him so that will be what I check out next from them.

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  11. I love historical fiction! My favorite is definitely regency, but I also love WWII and late 1800’s. I would love to see more books set during the Spanish Flu, as well as the roaring twenties!
    Julie Klassen writes some of my favorite regencies. I haven’t yet read Shadows of Swanford Abbey, so that’s my pick!

    manderley23 at gmail dot com

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    1. the Spanish Flu epidemic — seems like I’ve read a book or two on that subject. Of course, I can’t remember titles or authors right now. Sigh. yay for Julie Kalssen. I have her latest Sisters novel on my TBR. So many great books clamouring to be read all at the same time! Good luck, Kimmy!

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  12. I love all kinds of historical eras. I can’t choose one over another. There are so many great historical ones out there. But I shy away from Biblical, although once I crack the book, I am hooked. I have read Angela Hunt, Conni Cossette and Tessa Afshar. Also just read the second book by Jamie Ogle.
    Like others, I would follow Roseanna White anywhere. I read a contemporary by Elizabeth Camden and was very pleasantly impressed.
    An Australian Regency Author is Carolyn Miller. I have to admit that I haven’t followed her to contemporary yet, because I don’t care for sports stories much.
    I came across another Regency author but don’t know if she is Christian or Just Clean read: Jennifer Wright. One of her books is An Inconvenient Letter. Amazon says Clean Regency and YA.

    If I win I woukd like Where Trees Touch The Sky by Karen Barnett. I have four of her books but….. I need to read them!
    Historical is my favorite genre.
    paulamarys49ATgmailDOT com

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    1. I’m reading your choice book right now! Woot! And I’m excited that you were impressed by Elizabeth Camden’s contemporary – that one is on my TBR right now too. I have soooooo many books to read!!!!!! Oh yes, I forgot that Carolyn Miller started out writing historicals. I think of her as contemporary romance author now. Thanks for the reminder. She’s a great Australian author…mind you her settings re in England.I’ve heard of Jennifer Wright too but I haven’t read anything by her yet. I think she’s just closed door though.She’s on my authors to ‘meet’ this year. Good luck, Paula!

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  13. I have not found an era I don’t like, with the exception if the roaring 20’s. I don’t know why, but I don’t like it.

    I’d love to win The Indigo Heiress by Laura Frantz. She is amazing in whatever she writes.

    kathrynlvossATgmailDOTcom

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    1. I think the roaring 20s is an era a lot of us are iffy about. Maybe because most books concentrate on the unsavoury aspects of this era like the flappers and speak easies and mob activity etc. Good luck, Kathryn!

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  14. I love Historical Christian Fiction and my favorite eras are WWII Era because my daddy was a WWII veteran, Civil War Era because I’m from a state with lots of history all around me ( I’ve been reading the Spies of the Civil series by Sandra Merville Hart), several years ago I fell in love with Biblical Fiction, and Depression Era. I actually can read anything that has history involved. I also love dual time lines that involve a historical era. I think I would read anything Sarah Sundin writes. I have my eye on her new release Midnight on the Scottish Shore. leliamae54(at)aol(dot)com

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    1. That’s the only Sarah Sundin book I have left to read. Love her books. It’s great that you can make a personal connection to different eras — must enhance your reading enjoyment so much more.I think dual timelines are a great way to introduce reluctant historical readers to the genre. They used to be so rare but they’ve become so popular now. Love that genre too. Good luck, Lucy!

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  15. I’m not sure that I have a favorite era, as I really enjoy most anything from Colonial forward. Mostly, I think I enjoy books that are new and different, like when the author focuses on a fascinating but obscure bit of history (Elizabeth Camden is great at this), and I especially enjoy reading books about other cultures–I wish we could have more of it! Kimberly Duffy’s books with a strong Indian connection were fascinating.

    I almost never read biblical or medieval fiction. If a favorite author went there, I’d for sure try it at least once (I kind of feel that way about historical authors who dip contemporary–like they’re pursuing a lesser era, but I’ve generally enjoyed those too). I admit, I get a little tired of WWII and Civil War–there’s so much out there that it’s hard to keep fresh. I’d like to see more complexity or something new, especially with WWII where so many countries across the world were involved, but one primarily hears about Europe.

    For a late 1800’s book taking place in another culture: Every Word Unsaid by Kimberley Duffy

    rdalquist AT gmail DOT com

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    1. Oh, that’s a great point – about authors who highlight an obscure bit of history. I’m always amazed when I find a WWII novel with yet another angle I’ve never heard of. But yes, you’re right, it’s mostly Europe or Britain based. There’s just so much about history that we don’t know. I’ve read Kimberly Duffy’s first two books so it’s time for me to catch up before her backlist gets unwieldy. Good luck, Rachael!

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  16. Kav, Thank you for this interesting topic. Historical fiction is my 2nd favorite genre following my first love of mystery suspense. With that being said, I adore historical mysteries. Civil War era is my least favorite.

    I would love to win a copy of While the City Sleeps – Elizabeth Camden.

    psalm103and138atgmaildotcom

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  17. Great topic and lots of interesting comments from everyone. I’ve only become a daily reader (bookworm) over the last few years and started out reading only contemporary books, lots of Denise Hunter, Becky Wade, Susan May Warren. Once I read my first historical book I found I loved them too. I enjoy all the different time periods I’ve read, but so far I’m not drawn to biblical or medieval stories.

    I would most likely read a book based on who the author is rather than a particular time period of the story. I love Roseanna White, Elizabeth Camden, Laura Frantz, Jennifer Deibel, Sarah Sundin, Julie Klassen among others and have read their most recent books and had to have them in my library 🙂

    My pick would be The Fur Trader’s Lady by Gabrielle Meyer, because I love her Timeless series.

    Sandyavery at comcast dot net

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    1. Interesting that you would go by author as opposed to time period. Shows you are a true blue follower of your fave authors and with the list you gave, I can see why! I’m excited to read Elizabeth Camden’s first contemporary release this week. I have loved all her historicals so we see how the genre hop goes. Good luck, Sandy!

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  18. Favorite historical eras, definitely Medieval, Viking and Ancient Roman😍 Least favorite, probably WWII🫤 I’d definitely love to see more set in my favorite eras, plus Pilgrim setting and just historical in more exotic locales in general (India, etc.) And I’ve followed favorite authors with mixed results! Some into great success and some into utter disaster, lol!
    One that I sooo want to read is The Viking by Carrie Cotten🤩

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    1. Yes to the exotic locales — there’s a whole world out there I need to armchair travel to! You’re the second one to mention Carrie Cotten. I’m taking that as your entry for this giveaway? Good luck, Elly!

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  19. Oh…..such a lovely topic Kav, you know CF historical fiction is my absolute FAV!! So let’s just dive right into the conversation, shall we?

    What are your favorite Historical Fiction eras?

    You should know the answer to this one because I am the same….Regency all the way! When I first discovered Julie Klassen, she introduced me to the era with her book The Apothecary’s Daughter & I’ve been hooked ever since. I think my absolute favorite of hers is The Dancing Master….whew, I had to hold the book with oven mits, lol!! Lots of sparks happening. From there, I’ve read many other author’s who write in this era (Erica Vetsch, Michelle Griep for example). For me, I think my favorite range is anywhere from mid-1800’s to maybe early 1900 depending (before 1920).

    What are your least favourite Historical Fiction eras?

    I’ve not read too many books set before 1800, but I’m pretty comfortable sticking with my range mentioned above. However, I have read the Natchez Trace series by Pam Hillman (Breeze Hill has a dreamy hero you will drool over….just saying). Maybe I just haven’t yet discovered enough books in the 1700’s or so to make a good judgement call on hat.

    Let’s see, least favorite (again I’m with you) civil war, WWI or WW2…or honestly any war. I don’t know why, but I have a hard time getting into them. I know Sarah Sundin writes many of these & she has high praise for her books, maybe I’ll venture into one of them some day.

    What Historical Era would you like to see more of in Christian Fiction?

    That’s a hard question because I tend to stick with what I’m comfortable with. I don’t veer too far off of what I love to read in historical. Maybe Robin Hood type ones or Medieval?

    You mentioned Viking, there is a book I read a long time ago that featured Vikings but for the life of me I can’t remember either the author or the book! I really dislike when I do that. BUT….there is an author who comes to mind and that’s Heather Day Gilbert. It looks like she’s written a few of those type books….she also wrote the Barks & Bean Cafe Mystery series.

    Oh — and will you follow a favorite author into an favorite era?

    That really depends on the subject matter, setting or era. I have read books by favorite authors in different genres (Irene Hannon or Suzanne Woods Fisher for example), and loved each one. Still not sure I would follow a favorite author into a war era one for example. Hard question for sure!

    For the giveaway, I’ll stick with my favorite author & a book I’ve yet to read 🙂 The Secret of Pembrooke Park by Julie Klassen. Thanks for the chance to win & play a bit of catch-up!

    teamob4 (at) gmail (dot) com

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    1. Yay – Regency for the win. I have a Julie Klassen on my TBR right now! I just rediscovered Pam Hillman’s Breeze Hill series this weekend when I was shelving (aka trying to cram more books onto the shelf!) It went on my reread list ’cause I remember how much I loved it. And it’s a less popular time period too.

      Thanks for the tip about Heather Day Gilbert’s Viking series. I’ll have to look into that. Like you, I know I’ve read a few but I can’t remember them. Know it was at least ten years ago though.

      Maybe we need to have a conversation about genre hopping one Sunday. There’s lots of angles to look at and I wonder how it works for authors. Do they feel trapped once they’ve made it with a certain genre? Maybe more so in traditional publishing….my mind is whirring with thoughts. Best save them for later. Thanks for sharing your POV, Trixi — good luck!

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      1. Thinking more about this, lately I’ve been switching from Regency era to Oregon Trail/ Wagon Train books. So that’s another time period to add to my list 🙂

        I do so enjoy a story featuring people “taming the West” as they say! Certainly can’t imagine doing it in real life though….it was difficult, long, and not an easy trail with weather, disease (both man & beast), lack of water (or too much as in rain), animal attacks, hostile Indians & the like. There were some pretty hardy people back then!

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  20. I’m finding myself reading more contemporary than I used to, but I still love historical fiction. Regency is always a go-to, one I discovered in my high school library with Dolly Blanchard’s Fortune by Marnie Ellingson. I love that there’s an abundance of clean and Christian books in the genre now.

    I also love pioneer stories due to my heritage, and cowboy stories because my dad always read Louis L’Amour books. I read several and always enjoyed the ones with a female character and romance included.

    I’d love to read more from the 1700’s. When I read books by Laura Frantz, Lori Benton, and others, I learn so much!!! It’s an era I didn’t learn very much historical details about in school, so I feel like these books give me an education as well as being entertaining.

    One that stands out to me is Anna’s Crossing by Suzanne Woods Fisher- 1700’s and Amish, when members of the faith are emigrating to America. I’d love a print copy for my shelves!

    Thanks for the fun discussion Kav!

    colorvibrant at gmail dot com

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    1. Love that you got hooked on Regencies early. And yes, such a blessing to have so many great authors writing in the genre now. That’s largely thanks to Shadow Mountain and….can’t remember the name of the other publisher, but I think it’s an imprint of Shadow Mountain? Anyway, it seems a lot of our current clean Regency authors started out there.

      Westerns weren’t something I thought about when I was making my fave list but I have enjoyed them for sure — Mary Connealy, Karen Witemeyer etc. And I find the 1700s intriguing — lots of scope for storytelling without a lot of the later politics and issues. The books I’ve read set in that time period were more about establishing a homestead, wilderness survival and the pros and cons that come from creating a community out of strangers.

      Loved Anna’s Crossing! Good luck, Heidi!

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  21. Kav, I like most historical time periods but am not drawn to the Viking era or biblical fiction. I like meaty reads so war-time stories are favorites, and the 1700s are also a favorite as I love both Laura Frantz and Lori Benton books. And I would follow Laura Frantz to any era 🙂 Since her time period is a real favorite, for my giveaway choice I’ll say The Fur Trader’s Lady by Gabrielle Meyer. I’ve been hearing lots of good things about it and I haven’t read one of her books yet. Thanks for the fun giveaway! 🙂

    ckbarker at gmail dot com

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  22. What are your favourite Historical Fiction eras?

    I enjoy a lot of eras but I’ve always liked western historical set books (mid to late 1800s?) since that’s what originally got me started in reading Christian fiction. Just to name a few more, I also enjoy WWII era (it reminds me of my grandparents), Regency, and Gilded Age.

    What are your least favourite Historical Fiction eras?

    It depends on how the book is written, but I don’t typically like anything set older than the 1800s. The culture is just so different that it’s hard to relate with… I’m also not a fan of books set during tragic events like the Titanic or 9/11, I feel like I already know the ending and am not going to like it. The tragic event can take place during the book, but I don’t like the whole book to be leading up to the event. It keeps me anxious throughout the book.

    What Historical Era would you like to see more of in Christian Fiction?

    I would really like to read more from the Great Depression era, too. There were some fascinating events that took place within the 1930s that could make for an interesting book such as Prohibition or the Dust Bowl out in Western America. I would also like to have more WWII era books set in the  Pacific Theater since that’s where both my grandfathers fought. 

    Oh — and will you follow a favourite author into an unfavourite era?

    I will absolutely follow a favorite author even if I don’t typically like the era. Generally speaking, if I have a favorite author, it’s because they have such a gift with storytelling that just makes every book worth reading!

    As for a book I would choose, probably Counterfeit Love by Crystal Caudill.

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    1. Interesting — the Gilded Age hasn’t been mentioned before, I don’t think. I’m on the fence about that era — I’ve read a couple of series that were really good though so I’m not sure why. Maybe because it’s always about the flashy wealthy and it gives me billionaires of the time vibes. Except I swoon over a duke in a Regency so that makes no sense. 🙂

      I get where you are coming from about tragic events. If they are uses as a starting point or a way to show how the hero and heroine overcome something tragic I’m more on board…but I still want a happily ever after for them even if that isn’t realistic. I think that’s one of the reasons I’m not keen on biblical fiction if it’s about an actual person from the bible — I already know the ending!

      Yay — I’m with you on the Great Depression, plus there were some innovative work projects in the National Parks and for the horseback librarians which I always find fascinating.

      Love your enthusiasm for following fave authors who have cast their storytelling spell on you no matter the genre! Good luck, Bridget!

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  23. I enjoy a lot of different historical time periods. I’m not too crazy about Biblical, unless it’s Conni Cossette’s books. They’re amazing! For me, it usually depends on the author and the premise, but historical fiction is definitely my favorite genre.

    A. L. Sowards has a new medieval series, The Balkan Legends. It’s excellent. Her book, A Waltz with Traitors, is also very good. It’s a World War I story set in Russia.

    I also like Sian Ann Bessey’s books. She has some Viking ones, The Call of the Sea and A Kingdom to Claim (they’re both excellent), and also some Georgian era ones. She’s got a new one coming out next month that’s a time-slip one–A Time Traveler’s Masquerade. I’ve really enjoyed all of hers that I’ve read.

    whthomas13 at yahoo dot com

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    1. Ohhh, A L Sowards is a new to me author! Her books look really good. Thanks for sharing that. I have read one of Sian Ann Bessey’s Viking books. I need to check out her back list. And I’d heard about the time slip novel coming out in April. I’m excited for that one. Happy Reading, Winnie!

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    • What are your favourite Historical Fiction eras?

    World War II and the Great Depression

    • What are your least favourite Historical Fiction eras?

    I don’t have a least favorite. My favorite genre to read is historical fiction.

    • What Historical Era would you like to see more of in Christian Fiction?

    The Great Depression

    • Oh — and will you follow a favourite author into an unfavourite era?

    Yes!

    I would love to read “Midnight on the Scottish Shore” by Sarah Sundin!

    mzlpanda (at) aol (dot) com

    Thank you!

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    1. Yay! Another Depression Era fan. And another adventurous fan who will follow her fave authors anywhere! 🙂 I actually have Midnight on the Scottish Shore on my TBR right now. Eeeeeepppp!!!! I am a huge Sarah Sundin fan. Good luck, Alisha!

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  25. I don’t know that I have favourites or UN-favourites (new word!) but I do know one thing for sure — I must be in the right mood to read historical. My concentration level has to be more en pointe.

    Going by what I have read, I definitely favour 1800s and forward. I’ve only read one regency (don’t hurt me!) and one biblical fiction so far. I enjoyed both though so I will be reading more.

    I SHOULD be interested in the Viking stories. I am a descendent on my father’s side but I’ve yet to read one. I have zero interest in anything to do with pirates.

    Would I follow a favourite author into a time period that doesn’t appeal? I guess I would because I read Across the Ages by Gabrielle Meyer and one timeline is pirates. Lol! (I had a reading challenge prompt for pirates and was so relieved that I could use her book for that one.)

    For me, it isn’t so much about the time period but whether or not the story appeals to me or intrigues me.

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    1. Wait…wwwwhhhattt…only one Regency? Thud! No worries, I’m fine, my fainting couch was handy but…oh my…only one Regency. I can’t imagine….Ohhhh, you have Viking in your blood. That’s a neat ancestry! And we haven’t mentioned pirates yet — not exactly an era but they did operate on the high seas during a certain time period, right? Christian Fiction pirate stories are few and far between — congrats on finding one for your challenge prompt! Happy Reading, Tammy!

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  26. My favorite eras to read are the 1800s, the late 1700s, regency, and WWII. Honestly anything written by, Karen Witemeyer, Tamera Alexander, Sarah Sundin, Grace Hitchcock, Michelle Griep, and about 5 other authors; Whatever era they’re writing becomes my favorite!😜

    I can’t seem to love Medieval set books, and I’m not a huge fan of anything set after the 1950s, although I can still read them. I’ve never read a biblical fiction, because I feel like it wouldn’t be my cup of tea, though I am tempted after reading the positive reviews on some.

    It’s not so much of an era that I’d love to see, as it is occupations or settings; Such as detectives, Pinkerton agents, doctors, loggers, and/or books that are (partially) set at sea (like a MaryLu Tyndall).

    My initial answer would be “yes I’ll follow them!” however, I like historical fiction more than modern day (with the exception of suspense). So if they were to write a now-a-day book I would still add it to my TBR pile, I just wouldn’t read it as soon as it came out. 😊

    In regards to the giveaway I would pick “A Beautiful Disguise” by Roseanna M. White

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    1. I’m pretty sure I haven’t read anything by Grace Hitchcock yet but I keep hearing about her lately…must be a sign. The 60s and 70s aren’t typical decades we find in our CF and I can see why you’d be hesitant. The fashions alone are cringey enough. 🙂 But I would love more focus on the Civil Rights Movement.

      Love me a good Pinkerton agent story! Especially if it includes romance and swashbuckling sounds fun too. Interesting that you enjoy contemporary suspense but not straight contemporary romance. I used to heavily favour historical but not I’m pretty much 50/50 between the two. Good luck, Sabrina!

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  27. Comment for why I read Historical Fiction genre

    Laurie Alice Eakes! Looking back at Goodreads, I had starred five in a row of her books ~ and Laura Frantz, same. I could have written the same comment as you did for Julie Klassen; also, my first read! I have all of her books. I look forward to her revised tenth anniversary edition of Lady Maybe coming in May.

    Joanne Bischof DeWitt, love her Appalachian series. She has a beautiful writing style. She portrays emotion and the scenery along the way. Lonnie and Gideon stayed long after closing her books (The Cadence of Grace series). I have a long list of authors I enjoyed. Nancy Moser became a favorite. I loved reading about immigrant families and the skills they brought. Other favorite reads ~ wagon trains and exploring their new lands with them. Learning more about the building of the railroad and brave people going where they never had been. Mail order brides.

    Michael R. Phillips ~ the seashore, the moors, and cliffs in the Secrets of the Shetlands series. To sum it up, I would say I appreciate all of the research the authors do to take us to places to uncover the past far beyond what we may have learned in school.

    Here’s my giveaway choice for today: Carry Me Away (Blue Wren Shallows #2) by Dorothy Adamek – Crabapple House Publishing, November 5, 2019

    Kathleen ~ Lane Hill House kathleen[dot]e[dot]belongia[at]gmail[dot]com

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    1. Yes to Laurie Alice Eakes. Adore her Regencies and even her more recent romantic suspense with Love Inspired but her Historical books are keepers for sure. You’ve prompted me to check out Joanne Bischof DeWitt’s website and I realize I’m missing a lot of her books. Loved the ones I have read so I guess I better get on that. Thanks for the prompt! In fact you’ve given me a number of authors to check out backlists. Ahhhh….more on my TBR list! lol Good luck, Kathleen!

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  28. Favorite Historical Fiction Era:  I would say that I like WWII (in small doses), Regency and sometimes Victorian. (Ahhhh….Michelle Griep).  I really couldn’t give a reasonable explanation as to why these are my favorites.  Some of it is probably just because it was a kinder, gentler era (minus the wars).  People weren’t slammed for their actions like they are these days.

    Least Favorite Historical Era: It has to be Civil War, Revolutionary War, and Biblical fiction. I think that is because the gruesome descriptions of early medical procedures always seem to slip in.  Yuck!  The reason I am not drawn to Biblical Fiction is that I don’t want to get confused by fictional characters when reading my Bible.

    Historical Era I’d Like to Read More:  Depression Era but I have tried one and couldn’t handle the way kids were treated and did a DNF.  I might be drawn to one of your Viking ideas!  I’ve never read any of those.

    Would I Follow An Author into an Unfavorite Era:  Like you, it would depend on the author.  I would follow Jaime Jo Wright, Michelle Griep or Abigail Wilson anywhere.  Elizabeth Camden surprised me in an awesome way with Summerlin Groves.  It was cool to see her out of her historical element moving to contemporary, and just knocking it out of the park!  And then you have Pepper Basham who writes rom coms, Appalachian historical, Freddie & Grace mysteries (which are historical, I suppose) the Skymar series (which are rom coms, but there is a princess!). I love her versatility!

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    1. I forgot my book title & e-mail because the conversation is so good! Midnight on the Scottish Shore by Sarah Sundin

      perrianne (DOT) askew (AT) me (FOT) com

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    2. Oh, yes, Victorian is a fave of mine too. And, yikes, but I just checked out Of Gold and Shadows by Michelle Griep — I got so many fantastic historical novels that all came in around the same time. I’m feeling the pressure to get them read!

      I think your point about Biblical fiction is something a lot of readers worry about. I tend to go for fictional characters in biblical fiction rather than fiction about biblical characters when I venture out of my comfort zone, partly for your reason and partly because I hate knowing the ending of a book before I’ve read it. Bwahahaha!

      I have Summerlin Groves on my TBR right now too. Gasp! I’ve never had so many stellar books stacked up waiting to be read all at one time. The poor babies are giving me the side eye every time I walk by. I need to read faster! 🙂

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  29. Great topic, Kav! It was really interesting reading all of your comments and insights, as well as other follower comments. Historical fiction and suspense are my two favorite genres to read. I enjoy most every time period of historical fiction except I really don’t get into reading the pioneer  and Viking time periods and biblical fiction. My favorite historical time periods to read are the 1800’s and early 1900’s, as well as WW II. Would I branch into a time period I really don’t enjoy if it was one of my favorite authors? I’d probably give it a try. 

    For the giveaway, I would like to choose:  Across the Ages (Timeless Book #4) by Gabrielle Meyer. I really enjoy reading dual timelines. 

    Alison Boss

    nj(dot)bossman(at)gmail(dot)com

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    1. I’m amazed at how many of us are not biblical fiction fans! I thought I was all on my lonesome. Love that your are willing to follow a fave author into the unknown! I’ve had great success doing that as well as some misses. Doesn’t hurt to try though, right? Good luck, Alison!

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  30. I’m not sure what my favorite era is. Lately I have been loving all the historical fiction stories taking place in Scotland. If I had to choose a book to win…. Laura Frantz Indigo Heiress is one Ive been eyeing.

    Blessedmommy3x AT gmail DOT com

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  31. Great questions!! My favorite eras are Medieval/Viking, Regency/Victorian, Pre-Revolution 1600’s-1700’s, The Roaring’20’s, The Great Depression, and WWII. I also enjoy the early western expansion and Gold Rush (leaving the known for the unknown in a Conestoga wagon and homesteading). 

    My least favorite is Civil War era. And it’s not because I haven’t read great books about it (Tamera Alexander and Jocelyn Green have some great books I’ve enjoyed). It’s because it confuses me! The locations are just all over the place, and the different names for each side…I just get them mixed up. It all started in history class in school!

    Biblical fiction is my second least favorite, which is kind of weird, because I’ve loved almost every book I’ve read set in biblical times. Tessa Afshar, Connilyn Cossette, Mesu Andrew’s, and now Heather Kaufman are amazing. It just takes me forever to decide to pick them up and read!

    I’d love to see more books about pirates, Viking/Medieval, westerns in general (ranches, homestead, horses, etc.), Korean War, Vietnam. And of course, more historical (any era) from Scotland, Ireland, and England. 

    I’d follow Laura Frantz and Jocelyn Green to wherever their stories take me!

    I’d love to win Midnight on the Scottish Shore by Sarah Sundin—she’s a must read for me!

    Karen

    kcrhoadesATroadrunnerDOTcom

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  32. Wow, Karen, you have an eclectic reader’s heart when it comes to historical eras. And now that you’ve mentioned the Gold Rush — I don’t think I’ve read any CF with that theme. It would be interesting.

    Your Civil War comments — I love it!!!! I am so the same way…I can never keep straight what each side is called. Or what colours they wear. And when a historical general is mentioned without any context I have no clue which side they are on. It’s just too much work to keep track of things to enjoy the fictional side. lol And you are exactly like me when it comes to Biblical Fiction — enjoyed most of what I’ve read but avoid new books like the plague.

    Yes to Ireland and Scotland history! For some reason (maybe because authors are writing for a North American audience and know we aren’t versed on the historical details) but it’s easier to follow the historical parts – even if I know nothing about that particular timeline. That goes for European countries too.

    The Korean War is an interesting addition I hadn’t thought of. Publishers seem to prefer centuries ago history to the more modern kind which is a shame because we can learn so much from it all.

    I’m about read to start in on Midnight on the Scottish Shore this weekend — so stay tuned next week for a giveaway if your name doesn’t crop up this time. Good luck, Karen!

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