A Hero Born (Legends of the Condor Heroes #1) by Jin Yong, translated by Anna Holmwood, was available on Netgalley. I chose it because I wanted to try reading a Asian story written by an Asian author. It is the first book in a series that is described as epic. It is also historical fiction of a culture that is rich and vast. The story is large in every way. It is over 450 pages. The book begins with a Cast of Characters which list each major character's names and tells a little about them.
Guo Jing and Yang Kang were sworn brothers at their birth. Their fathers were heroes who were killed defending their country. Their mothers fled the area. The two boys ended up being raised by the two different powers. A Taoist priest searches for boys, to bring them together again as brothers and as fighting companions. The book reminded me of the great film The Seven Samurai. It was difficult for me to keep the locations, names, and allegiances straight. I had the same problem with Russian Literature in college. I think I need to listen to the audiobook. After that, I will have a better understanding of the book. I received a copy of the ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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I received a copy of The Companion by Kim Taylor Blakemore courtesy of Netgalley. I rated it four stars because Goodreads does not allow half stars. Otherwise I would have rated it 3 1/2 stars.. It is a very well written historical fiction novel. The novel is set in the mid-19th century. The main character, who is charged in a double murder, is Lucy Blunt. Lucy tells her story and it is left to the reader to decide her guilt or innocence. Anyone who enjoys historical fiction, unreliable narrators, and mystery will enjoy The Companion. |
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