Wednesday, April 25, 2012

BLOG TOUR: Hemlock by Kathleen Peacock (ARC Review + Giveaway)

Genre:Young Adult, Fantasy, Supernatural
Publication.Date  May 8th 2012
Pages:400
Published By:  Harper Collins  | 
WebsiteKathleen Peacock

Hemlock - Goodreads
My review copy:ARC received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Where to get:




Mackenzie and Amy were best friends. Until Amy was brutally murdered.

Since then, Mac’s life has been turned upside down. She is being haunted by Amy in her dreams, and an extremist group called the Trackers has come to Mac’s hometown of Hemlock to hunt down Amy’s killer: A white werewolf.

Lupine syndrome—also known as the werewolf virus—is on the rise across the country. Many of the infected try to hide their symptoms, but bloodlust is not easy to control.

Wanting desperately to put an end to her nightmares, Mac decides to investigate Amy’s murder herself. She discovers secrets lurking in the shadows of Hemlock, secrets about Amy’s boyfriend, Jason, her good pal Kyle, and especially her late best friend. Mac is thrown into a maelstrom of violence and betrayal that puts her life at risk.

Kathleen Peacock’s thrilling novel is the first in the Hemlock trilogy, a spellbinding urban fantasy series filled with provocative questions about prejudice, trust, lies, and love. (Goodreads)



"I stared into Jason's eyes, and for a split second I had that feeling you get when an elevator drops too quickly. You know there's a floor underneath your feet, but it feels like you're falling."
"Other girls had moms who made them peanut butter sandwiches and dads who read bedtime stories and checked under the bed for monsters. I had a mother who skipped out on me sometime before my first birthday and a father who was wanted for everything from gunrunning to selling peyote out of the trunk of his car."



     Dark, sexy, mysterious and deliciously addictive, Hemlock by Kathleen Peacock paints a frighteningly realistic world where werewolves are nothing more than regular humans affected by lupine syndrome, and the people who hunt them - even more fierce, unpredictable and dangerous than their prey. Full of underlying meaning, symbolism, profound messages, bloody secrets and thrilling developments, this book will blow your mind. Auuuuuuu!!!! 

It was our fault Amy was dead. All of our faults. 
The best friend who had bailed; the boyfriend who had been running late; the guy who hadn't answered his phone.
Six days ago a werewolf had killed Amy, and we were each to blame.

     Mac's best friend, Amy, was brutally murdered. Her body - shredded to pieces and discarded in a dark alley. A white werewolf was seen at the scene, the same one suspected of killing four other people, and infecting eight more with lupine syndrome. Now, the Trackers are in town and everyone is acting weird. People are both scared and desperate to hunt the white werewolf down, capturing and imprisoning as many others as possible in the process. Werewolves are evil, ferocious, unstoppable. They're not human, there is nothing human about them. All they feel is burning thirst for blood and hunger for flesh - they can't be reasoned with! But what if all that is not true? What if there's something entirely different going on in the eerie town of Hemlock? Haunted by the ghost of her dead friend and tormented by gilt, Mac's determined to do everything in her power to uncover the mystery behind Amy's death. 

     When it comes to YA novels featuring popular supernatural creatures (like vampires or angels), in most of the cases I end up being disappointed or at least not entirely satisfied. Werewolves are no different. It's very rare to come across a werewolf novel that would be good. It's even more rare to find one that would be thrilling and thought-provoking. And finding a werewolf book that would be realistic, thematically poignant and emotionally harrowing? That's just virtually impossible. And yet there's Hemlock. An absolute GEM of a book. A werewolf novel that is not so much a supernatural thriller, but rather a bone-chilling mystery, with elements of drama, romance, urban fantasy and paranormal. Kathleen Peacock created a world that is entirely original, yet very believable at the same time. I believed in her werewolves. They didn't seem like some weird mythical creatures, they seemed real, painfully authentic, and at times more humane than humans themselves. In fact, I don't even think about this book as a werewolf novel at all - Peacock's werewolves are metaphors for all things and people misjudged, alienated, wrongly accused and ostracised. Victims of prejudice - feared and hated for being different than the rest of the society. And the Trackers are not the mighty saviours in this scenario. They're the bullies, the inquisitors. Cold, rabid, discriminating, with hearts poisoned with hate and spite, they're a vivid example of everything that's wrong with modern society. Yes, I find Hemlock to be a very three-dimensional read, with layers upon layers of world and character building. Yes, it's absorbing and entertaining, full of tension, and with a swiftly moving storyline that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Most of all, though, it will make you stop and ponder the many issues it brings to vivid light. It has the capacity to both excite and inspire. Hemlock is full of lessons. It's no cheap thrill. It's a memorable book, and one that should be taken seriously, as it really has something important to say. 

     From the very first pages of this book, I felt drawn into the world Kathleen Peacock so magnificently crafted. I love dark and creepy, and Peacock does it really well. I found myself connecting to the characters in more than one way. The author did a really great job depicting their pain, fear and guilt. Mac's internal struggle was very convincing and therefore absolutely heartbreaking, her grief and desperation - spilling from every page. It wasn't, however, overwhelming or overdone. Mac didn't just sit around feeling sorry for herself and depressing everyone around - she took action, decided to find the murderer herself, and she focused all her energy on it. I really liked that about her. 

     Overall, this was a really great book. Much better than I ever expected it to be. I devoured it in just one day, literally couldn't put it down and then thought about it long after. I strongly recommend this book to everyone!






About Kathleen

Kathleen spent most of her teen years writing short stories. She put her writing dreams on hold while attending college but rediscovered them when office life started leaving her with an allergy to cubicles.

Hemlock, her first novel, will be released on May 8th by Katherine Tegen Books/HarperCollins

Twitter: @kathleenpeacock

Author Interview with Kathleen Peacock

E: Evie 
K: Kathleen
E: Welcome to Bookish Kathleen! Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to join us here today! Your upcoming YA novel, Hemlock, is a stunning and wildly compelling debut – a perfect blend of murder mystery, supernatural and romance! Would you mind telling us who or what inspired you to write it?
K:  *blush* Thanks so much for having me!
It was actually inspired by the song “It’s Been Awhile” by Staind. I was listening to it while walking to work and had an idea for a scene that would become the basis of the book.
E: How would you describe it in 5 words?
K: Werewolves! Murder most foul! Kissing !
E: Hemlock features a cast of vibrant characters that are very well-drawn and easy to connect with. Were any of them inspired by people in your own life? Which of your characters do you feel is the most like you?
K: Thank you! I’m so glad people are connecting with the characters!

Sadly, I didn’t have a Kyle or Jason in high school, and none of the characters are based on people I know in real life.

Of the characters, I definitely think Mac is the most like me. I’m not brave or resourceful like she is, but I have a hard time telling people how I feel. It can take me a long time to open up, and I sometimes come off as a bit guarded or aloof.
E: What was the most difficult part of the novel for you to write?
K: I love romantic movies and books, but I find romantic scenes really hard to write. I have one poor friend who has probably seen multiple drafts of every kissing scene I’ve ever written.
E:  Have you always wanted to become a writer? At what point in your life did you decide that this was the right career path for you?
K: For most of my childhood and teens, I wanted to be a writer. I put that dream on hold for a number of years after high school (largely, I think, out of fear) and then rediscovered it when I started blogging.
E: How do you approach writing a new novel? Are you a plotter or a pantser?
K: I’m a pantser turned plotter. I find it easier to work with mystery plotlines if I have an idea of what clues are getting dropped when.
E:  Do you ever experience writer’s block? If so, how do you deal with it?
K:  I think everyone experiences writer’s block. Sometimes, I need to get away from the computer for a few hours. Other days, I have to keep my butt in the chair and plow through a few pages. Sadly, it can be hard to figure out which option will work.
E:  What advice would you give to aspiring authors interested in writing YA novels?
K: Have faith in yourself and love what you do.
Read often and read widely.
Read YA but also read outside of YA.
E: What’s next in line for you? Are you working on a new project now? When can we expect the next book in the Hemlock Series?
K: I’m currently working on the second Hemlock book (which I think will be released next year). There will be one more Hemlock book after that.
E:  Which of your favorite books would you recommend everybody to read?
K: The Princess Bride by William Goldman. Most people have seen the movie, but a lot of people don’t realize it’s based on a terrific book.

Kathleen, thank you so much for joining us today!  
I loved Hemlock so much and am looking forward to reading the next instalment in the series!
I am a fan!


Huge THANK YOU to Shannon from Harper Collins Canada for the opportunity to read and review this wonderful book!


❤ ❤ ❤GIVEAWAY❤ ❤ ❤ 

I'm giving away my lightly read ARC of Hemlock!

Enter through Rafflecopter below!
Open to: INTERNATIONAL
Ends: May 20th
(ENTER AFTER THE PAGE BRAKE -> click: read more!) 

BLOG TOUR: SELA by Jackie Gamber (Review)

Genre:Young Adult, Fantasy
Publication.Date  March 16th 2012
Pages:284
Published By:  Seventh Star Press  | 
WebsiteJackie Gamber

Sela - Goodreads
My review copy:E-copy received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Where to get:




Peace was fleeting. Vorham Riddess, Venur of Esra Province, covets the crystal ore buried deep in Leland's mountains. His latest device to obtain it: land by marriage to a Leland maiden. But that's not all.

Among Dragonkind, old threats haunt Mount Gore, and shadows loom in the thoughts of the Red who restored life to land and love. A dragon hunter, scarred from countless battles, discovers he can yet suffer more wounds.

In the midst of it all, Sela Redheart is lost, driven from her home with only her old uncle to watch over her. As the dragon-born child of Kallon, the leader of Leland's Dragon Council, she is trapped in human form with no understanding of how she transformed, or how to turn back.

Wanderers seek a home, schemes begin to unfurl, and all is at risk as magic and murder, marriage and mystery strangle the heart of Esra. A struggle for power far older and deeper than anyone realizes will leave no human or dragon unaffected.

In a world where magic is born of feeling, where the love between a girl and a dragon was once transformative, what power dwells in the heart of young Sela? (Goodreads)



"Our minds are as easily fooled as our eyes," Layce said. "Sometimes, what we're protecting is all on the inside."
"She's a creature of the wilds, like her father. And his father. Just because she looks human doesn't mean her wanderings can be tamed out of her because they're inconvenient."


   When asked by Seventh Star Press to participate in the blog tour for the second book in Jackie Gamber's Leland Dragon Series, Sela, I didn't think twice before immediately jumping on board with it. I have read and absolutely loved the first novel in the series, Redheart, and knew that I simply couldn't afford to miss the sequel. Having devoured and been totally blown-away by Redheart, I expected a lot from this book. I couldn't wait to be taken back to Leland, revisit the treacherous mountains, vast fields of green, and familiar villages. Most of all, I was anxious to be reunited with all my favourite characters, fly high in the sky with all the majestic, colorful dragons, and soak up the beauty and freshness of Gamber's world. I can't even begin to describe how happy this book made me - it's a breathtaking, magnificent fantasy book, so rich in atmosphere, so vibrant and emotionally engaging, so full of character, passion and magic - it's virtually impossible not to fell in love with it. Once again Jackie Gamber delivers, and she does it with style, power and irresistible charm.

    I won't lie, I was a bit surprised when I first learned about Redheart not being a stand alone novel, but rather a first in a planned trilogy. Why? Because it ended so perfectly! I didn't see what could possibly be added to the story without making it seem forced and overdone. Jackie ended her first book in a way that was perfectly satisfying, sensible and seemingly final. The main story - Kallon and Riza's story - was concluded. Yes, the author left a small opening for a possible follow up (mainly because of Blacklaw's disappearance - and when a bad guy walks away, we all know that he's going to be back with a vicious revenge plan, and sooner rather than later), but I honestly didn't think it necessary to explore further what already seemed explored enough. So what does Gamber do? She does something utterly brilliant! She turns her trilogy into a saga, adding a whole new generation of characters, enriching the plot, making it even more twisty and intense, and - which is even more fantastic - she tells the whole thing from human's perspective, focusing mainly on Sela, her feelings and adventures. I loved it. I think I loved it even more than Redheart. It was just as thrilling and exciting as the first book, but, thanks to the clever mix of familiar (well-known characters, settings, mythology, political issues, etc) with brand new (new generation of characters, new threats and mysteries, shift in the narrative and many more), it turned out to be even more captivating, mesmerizing and utterly fantabulous.

     I was totally exhilarated to once again meet Orman Thistleby and Jastin Armitage - my two favorite Redheart's characters, but at the same time, I was just as happy to be introduced to a whole new palette of intriguing personalities. Jackie Gamber did a phenomenal job expanding the already wonderful world, and filling it up with even more fascinating protagonists. At the same time, even though there were many more characters to keep track of, I never had any problem following the story. Gamber dynamic prose is both easy to comprehend and quite rich in descriptions. She makes it easy for the reader to lose themselves in the story, and knows exactly which words to use to fuel their imagination. The resulting narrative is not only swift moving and flavourful, but also perfectly balanced.

     I really love Gamber's version of dragon world. Some may find it odd - after all these are dragons with social structures and politics, dragons who not only fly and breathe fire, but also paint, write chronicles, bake, etc - but to me this world is nothing short of pure delight. So fascinating and original! And I really enjoyed seeing it again, this time through Sela's eyes. Sela's character really brought this story to life, made it more complex and poignant, and added a whole new layer of emotions. I never expected this book to be so moving and thought-provoking, and it was! It's not just a gorgeously told fantasy, filled with mythical creatures and sparkly magic, it's - perhaps most of all - a wonderful coming of age story, a very interesting portrayal of family pulled apart by difficult circumstances, and a tale of young woman trying desperately to discover her identity.

     All in all, Jackie Gamber's Sela is an amazingly imaginative novel. Delicate, dramatic, and absolutely dazzling, it's a beautifully written tale of young girl discovering her place in the world, and one definitely worth picking up!









For full blog tour schedule please click here!


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About the Author
Evie is the Blogger behind Bookish. She enjoys reading many different genres, especially YA, Paranormal, Contemporary Fiction and Fantasy.
She loves talking to authors and is always happy to welcome them for interviews, and guest posts. She also likes spreading the love for awesome books and  chatting with fellow book-worms.
You can find Evie here: Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Shelfari | The Library Thing

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers (Review + GIVEAWAY)

Genre:Young Adult, Historical Fiction, Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal
Publication.Date  April 3rd 2012
Pages:549
Published By:  Houghton Mifflin Harcourt  | 
WebsiteRobin LaFevers | 

Grave Mercy - Goodreads
My review copy:Finished copy received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Where to get:



Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf?
Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.

Ismae's most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?



"The master of more plots than a whore has lovers has been neatly caught in someone else's."
"When we are guided by His will, killing is a sacrament."




     Powerful, dangerously compelling, action packed and beautifully written, Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers is a mind-blowing and eye-popping read that is sure to entertain even the pickiest readers. As far as YA fantasy/paranormal novels go, this is one of my top favourites. With her eloquent prose and excellent world building, LaFevers delivers a deliciously unique, dark and magical page turner. A book so sparkly, fresh and mesmerizing, it's impossible not to fell under its charm - especially if you like intelligent, well-thought out and truly original plot lines. Are you still reading this review??? You should be ordering your own copy by now!

     "I bear a deep red stain that runs from my left shoulder down to my right hip, a trail left by the herbwitch's poison that my mother used to try to expel me from her womb. That I survived, according to the herbwitch, is no miracle but a signed I have been sired by the god of death himself."

     Ismae's mother tried to kill her even before she was born. Unwanted and unloved, she was raised by her abusive father, who did not for a moment believe her to be his own daughter. He thought her to be a daughter of Death Himself, and treated her accordingly - with raw temper and meaty fists. Ismae never knew love, kindness, warmth of family home, nor the feeling of belonging. After being sold into marriage, desperate to escape a lifetime of abuse and humiliation, Ismae manages to run away with the help of a priest. She finds refuge at the convent of St. Mortain, where those sired by Death are trained and prepared to serve as executors of His will. For the first time in her life, Ismae allows herself to believe that she has found her place in the world. Little did she know that what she thought to be a beginning of a new life filled with purpose and meaning, is in truth a dangerous, sticky web of lies and political intrigues.

     This novel was outrageously good. Action packed, atmospheric, dark, addictive - it's nothing like I've ever read before. In short: it was simply spectacular. LaFevers accomplished something magnificent here - she wrote a fantasy novel set against a vague yet fascinating historical background, with elements of paranormal, adventure and romance. A novel that is just unbelievably unique, sparkly and tantalizing. Both thematically exquisite and emotionally absorbing, Grave Mercy is a treasure. It has killer nuns, a strong and independent heroine that is skilled in dark arts and extremely hard to kill, a vibrant palette of diverse characters, rich and thrilling mythology, and - on top of everything else - an intelligent and obviously well thought-out plot line.

     LaFevers' prose is lush and flavourful. The narrative is swift, seemingly effortless, and crackling with tension. I found myself immediately drawn into the world that the author so magnificently crafted, mesmerized by the eerie and mysterious atmosphere, and ultimately fascinated by the many secrets and intrigues. While it's not exactly a book that you'll breeze through in one sitting (mainly due to its volume and level of sophistication), it's definitely one that you'll savour and appreciate, especially if you're a fan of high fantasy and epic adventures.

     Ismae is a wonderful heroine and I had an amazing time following her adventures. I enjoyed getting to know her better. She had one incredibly tough life. Her story moved me in ways I didn't at all expect, made me feel for her, cry for her, and cheer for her. Despite the physical abuse she endured as a child, and the internal struggle that followed her joining the convent, she stayed strong, managed to keep it together, and never lost hope. To me, Ismae is an inspiration and a role model. She's the living proof that if you believe in yourself, you can survive just about anything. Kudos to Robin for creating such a fabulous, believable and powerful character.

     In the end, all my raves and compliments are not enough to fully convey how wonderful a novel Grave Mercy really is. It's not your typical YA fantasy book, it's something deeper, more meaningful and complex than what YA industry got us accustomed to. Yes, this book provides you with phenomenal entertainment, makes you swoon over its character and keeps you guessing till the very end, but it also carries many profound messages and teaches you something valuable about life. Grave Mercy does not disappoint, so don't hesitate to pick it up.

 


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GIVEAWAY 


Thomas Allen & Son has generously offered to give away a GORGEOUS finished copy of Grave Mercy to one lucky Canadian winner!

(Thank you so much, Anita!)

Enter through Rafflecopter below!

Open to: CANADA
Ends: April 30th

(ENTER AFTER THE PAGE BRAKE -> click: read more!)


The Dressmaker by Kate Alcott (Review)

Genre:Historical Fiction, Romance
Publication.Date  February 1st 2012
Pages:306
Published By:  Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group (Canada)  | 
WebsiteKate Alcott

The Dressmaker - Goodreads
My review copy:Finished copy received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Where to get:



Just in time for the centennial anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic comes a vivid, romantic, and relentlessly compelling historical novel about a spirited young woman who survives the disaster only to find herself embroiled in the media frenzy left in the wake of the tragedy.

Tess, an aspiring seamstress, thinks she's had an incredibly lucky break when she is hired by famous designer Lady Lucile Duff Gordon to be a personal maid on the Titanic's doomed voyage. Once on board, Tess catches the eye of two men, one a roughly-hewn but kind sailor and the other an enigmatic Chicago millionaire. But on the fourth night, disaster strikes. 

Amidst the chaos and desperate urging of two very different suitors, Tess is one of the last people allowed on a lifeboat. Tess’s sailor also manages to survive unharmed, witness to Lady Duff Gordon’s questionable actions during the tragedy. Others—including the gallant Midwestern tycoon—are not so lucky. 

On dry land, rumors about the survivors begin to circulate, and Lady Duff Gordon quickly becomes the subject of media scorn and later, the hearings on the Titanic. Set against a historical tragedy but told from a completely fresh angle, The Dressmaker is an atmospheric delight filled with all the period's glitz and glamour, all the raw feelings of a national tragedy and all the contradictory emotions of young love.



Only a few days ago, she wanted nothing more than to be the fabulous Lucile. All that she had dreamed about and hoped for had been delivered to her. She had moved into the orbit of the woman she most admired.
She took a deep breath, trying to resist the echo of her father's voice in her head: Don't put on airs, he always scolded. You're a farm girl, do your job, keep your head down. You get decent enough pay; mind you don't wreck your life with defiance.




     A beautifully written, moving and mesmerizing novel, The Dressmaker by Kate Alcott elegantly weaves facts and actual historical figures into a fabulous story of new beginnings, determination, talent, passion and love. Breathtaking and glamorous, it's not only a riveting account of Titanic's fatal voyage, but also a spellbinding exploration of what happened to the survivors after the tragedy. Classy and deliciously readable, it's a book that will draw you in with its addictive atmosphere, swiftly moving story line and totally absorbing passages.

     Tess Collins has always dreamed of becoming a professional dressmaker. She's got all it takes to be one of the best: determination, precision and talent. Now all she needs is a fresh start, someone who will give her a chance to prove herself. Tired of working as a lowly maid, and being constantly mistreated and underpaid, she decides to quit her job and try her luck somewhere else. When an opportunity presents itself for her to travel to America, Tess does not think twice. Hired to be a personal maid by the world's famous designer, Lady Lucille Duff Gordon, she boards the breathtaking Titanic - her heart filled with excitement, expectations, and hopes for the future, not for a moment expecting this journey to end so tragically, and not only because of the sinking itself, but also everything that followed after.


   It wasn't until I finished reading this book and - itching to read more about the sinking of Titanic and the fates of its survivors - started researching the past, that I found out Lady Duff Gordon, as well as her husband, Cosmo, and sister, Elinor Glyn were all historical figures. Their story - from them being in a lifeboat that only had 12 people in it (including the crew), all the way to the devastating trial - absolutely and painfully authentic. I quickly became fascinated, craving to learn more about the book's intriguing historical backdrop, Lucile's fabulous and world-famous designs, and - perhaps most of all - about her flambuouant personality. Kate Alcott's book was undoubtedly very thoroughly researched. Her account of the events - impressively accurate, detailed and lively. With her exceptionally captivating prose, and simple yet descriptive language, she really brought all the characters and locations to vivid life, allowing us to travel back in time to 1912. And what's even more amazing in my opinion, is the fact that not only we can re-live the tragedy of Titanic's sinking, but also look far beyond that, to see what happened to the survivors, and how that one unforgettable night changed their lives forever.

     I really enjoyed following Tess' adventures. I found her quite likeable and genuine. She was full of burning passion and knew exactly what it was she wanted to do with her life. I admired her perseverance, loyalty, dedication and spirit, but also the fact that she wasn't afraid to stand up for herself and fight for her future. Good-natured, forgiving, patient and understanding, she was easy to connect with. I found myself cheering for her, wanting her to achieve her dream and become a well-appreciated designer - she worked hard for it and absolutely deserved it. Tess was a fictional character, but to me she was no less real than Lady Duff Gordon or Cosmo. Her fears, dreams and hopes for the future were universal ones - anyone who ever wanted something really badly, and worked hard to achieve it, will find themselves relating to Tess' story.

     What I loved the most about The Dressmaker, is the fact that Kate Alcott didn't focus on Titanic's sinking. After all, as fascinating and bone-chilling as it is, we all know the story by now, and dedicating yet another book to the famous ship's maiden's voyage would be utterly pointless and redundant. Thankfully, Kate Alcott decided to explore something that is no less exciting and thrilling than the tragedy itself - everything that happened AFTER. And there was a lot to write about. The trials, accusations, bribery, unexplainable cruelty of those who did not go back to try and save more people from certain death. Alcott wrote about morality, retribution, guilt, bravery, socially unacceptable behaviour and its consequences. This book is not so much a story of Titanic and it's passengers, as it is a study of human nature and trial of human soul. It's brilliant. It shines a whole new light on the story, exploring the pain, heartbreak and loss that was not caused by Titanic's collision with the iceberg, but by human decisions and actions.

     I had a fabulous time reading The Dressmaker. If you could only read one book about Titanic and it's passengers - pick this one. Absolutely and utterly masterful, Kate Alcott's novel has everything you'd expect from a good read: compelling settings, fascinating characters, emotionally engaging and thrilling plot line, elements of drama, romance and action, and - perhaps most of all - a historically accurate account of events surrounding and following the sinking of Titanic. I strongly recommend this book to everyone!



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>>A Walk in The Past<<


About Lady Lucille Duff Gordon:

She was born Lucy Sutherland in 1863. After a failed marriage, she began to support herself by making dresses in her home. By 1894 she had opened her own shop in London and designed under the name 'Lucile' 

In 1900, she married her business partner Sir Cosmo Duff-Gordon, who helped her to manage and grow her business into a worldwide success. 'Lucile' designs developed a following of wealthy women including royalty and popular actresses of the time, and the Lucile company eventually opened salons in New York, Paris and Chicago by the early 1900s. Lucy also designed the clothing for Theater productions and silent movies.

Lucy is said to be the first designer to stage a runway fashion show with live models that she trained to walk in her clothing. She wrote fashion columns for newspapers and Harper's Bazaar for many years during the teens. She also did a ready-wear collection that was sold by mail order through Sears around in the late teens. Young designers like Howard Greer and Edward Molyneux worked for her. She designed elegant daywear, eveningwear and lingerie.

Another part of her fame involves the Titanic. Lucy & Cosmo were passengers on the Titanic, she was even referenced in the Titanic movie as being the designer of 'naughty lingerie' . Lucy, her secretary and Cosmo were in a lifeboat that only had 12 people in it, including several crew men. Money changed hands between Cosmo and the crew men. Cosmo was accused of bribing the crew men to let him on the lifeboat but the Duff-Gordons claimed that the money was a generous gift to help the crew men until they found new jobs.

In the late Teens, Lucy lost the rights to her own name in a legal battle. A restructuring of the Lucile company was done, and Lucy lost control of the designs and was unhappy with the quality of the clothing being produced. She left the company that she founded in the early 1920s and it failed shortly after.
In London, she designed for a small private clientele under the name Lady Duff Gordon for a short time. After the death of her husband, she was said to be struggling financially. She died at age 71 in a London nursing home in 1935.




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About the Author
Evie is the Blogger behind Bookish. She enjoys reading many different genres, especially YA, Paranormal, Contemporary Fiction and Fantasy.
She loves talking to authors and is always happy to welcome them for interviews, and guest posts. She also likes spreading the love for awesome books and  chatting with fellow book-worms.
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