4.26
Part of "Lowlands of Scotland" series
"Fair Is the Rose" by Liz Curtis Higgs is a captivating work of historical fiction that transports readers to 16th century Scotland. The story follows the journey of the young and fiery Rose Leslie, who, after being forced into an unwanted marriage, must navigate the treacherous political landscape of the time while also trying to maintain her own sense of self and identity. Higgs is a masterful storyteller, and she brings the world of 16th century Scotland to life in vivid detail. From the lush landscapes and bustling marketplaces, to the dark and damp castle dungeons, every setting is described with such precision and depth that readers will feel as if they have been transported back in time. But it is the characters that truly make this story shine. Rose is a complex and relatable protagonist, whose struggles and triumphs will resonate with readers long after they have finished the book. The supporting characters, including Rose's husband, her family, and the various nobles and commoners she encounters along the way, are equally well-developed and intriguing. One of the standout aspects of "Fair Is the Rose" is Higgs' ability to weave historical facts and events into the story in a way that feels seamless and natural. The book is clearly well-researched, and Higgs uses this knowledge to add depth and richness to the story, without ever overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details. Overall, "Fair Is the Rose" is a beautifully written and engaging novel that will appeal to fans of historical fiction, as well as anyone looking for a compelling and thought-provoking story. With its complex characters, vivid settings, and rich historical detail, this book is not to be missed...
Liz Curtis Higgs
Here Burns My Candle
If you enjoyed 'Fair Is the Rose', you may like 'Here Burns My Candle' by the same author. This book is the first in a series that explores the lives of Scottish sisters Elisabeth and Janet Kerr in the 1700s. With her characteristic attention to historical detail and richly drawn characters, Higgs weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and redemption that will keep you turning the pages.
Learn MoreColleen McCullough
The Thorn Birds
Fans of 'Fair Is the Rose' may enjoy 'The Thorn Birds' by Colleen McCullough. This sweeping family saga follows the lives of the Cleary family in rural Australia, particularly the forbidden love between Meggie Cleary and Father Ralph de Bricassart. With its vivid descriptions and complex characters, this book is sure to captivate readers who enjoy historical fiction with a touch of romance.
Learn MoreBarbara Kingsolver
The Poisonwood Bible
If you're looking for a book that explores the lives of women in a different historical context, consider 'The Poisonwood Bible' by Barbara Kingsolver. This novel tells the story of the Price family, who move to the Belgian Congo in the 1950s. With its richly drawn characters and vivid descriptions of life in Africa, this book is a powerful exploration of colonialism, religion, and family dynamics.
Learn MoreBarbara Kingsolver
The Lacuna
Another great choice by Barbara Kingsolver is 'The Lacuna'. This novel tells the story of Harrison Shepherd, a Mexican-American artist who becomes caught up in the political turmoil of the 1930s. With its lush prose and complex characters, this book is a richly rewarding read for fans of historical fiction.
Learn MoreSue Monk Kidd
The Secret Life of Bees
If you enjoyed the strong female characters in 'Fair Is the Rose', you may like 'The Secret Life of Bees' by Sue Monk Kidd. This novel tells the story of Lily Owens, a young girl who runs away from her abusive father and finds refuge with a group of beekeeping sisters in South Carolina. With its powerful themes of love, forgiveness, and sisterhood, this book is a moving exploration of the human spirit.
Learn MoreKathryn Stockett
The Help
Another great choice for fans of strong female characters is 'The Help' by Kathryn Stockett. This novel tells the story of black maids working in white households in Jackson, Mississippi during the 1960s. With its vividly drawn characters and powerful themes of race and social justice, this book is a moving exploration of the human condition.
Learn MoreKathleen Grissom
The Kitchen House
If you're interested in historical fiction that explores the lives of women in different social classes, consider 'The Kitchen House' by Kathleen Grissom. This novel tells the story of Lavinia, an Irish orphan who is sent to work in a Virginia plantation in the 1790s. With its richly drawn characters and vivid descriptions of life on a plantation, this book is a powerful exploration of race, class, and identity.
Learn MoreSue Monk Kidd
The Invention of Wings
Another great choice by Sue Monk Kidd is 'The Invention of Wings'. This novel tells the story of Sarah Grimké, a wealthy Charleston debutante who becomes an abolitionist and women's rights advocate, and Handful, her slave. With its powerful themes of race, gender, and social justice, this book is a moving exploration of the human spirit.
Learn MoreKathleen Kent
The Heretic's Daughter
If you're interested in historical fiction that explores the lives of women in different religious contexts, consider 'The Heretic's Daughter' by Kathleen Kent. This novel tells the story of Martha Carrier, who was accused of being a witch during the Salem witch trials in the 1690s. With its vividly drawn characters and vivid descriptions of life during the witch trials, this book is a powerful exploration of faith, fear, and the human spirit.
Learn MoreAnita Diamant
The Red Tent
Another great choice for fans of historical fiction that explores the lives of women in different religious contexts is 'The Red Tent' by Anita Diamant. This novel tells the story of Dinah, the daughter of Jacob and Leah, and her experiences as a woman in biblical times. With its richly drawn characters and vivid descriptions of life in ancient Israel, this book is a powerful exploration of women's lives in a patriarchal society.
Learn MoreSarah Dunant
The Birth of Venus
If you're interested in historical fiction that explores the lives of women in different artistic contexts, consider 'The Birth of Venus' by Sarah Dunant. This novel tells the story of Alessandra, a young woman who becomes an artist in Renaissance Florence. With its vividly drawn characters and vivid descriptions of life in Renaissance Italy, this book is a powerful exploration of art, love, and the human spirit.
Learn More