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Suswatibasu (1703 KP) rated God: A Human History in Books

Oct 4, 2017  
God: A Human History
God: A Human History
Reza Aslan | 2017 | Philosophy, Psychology & Social Sciences, Religion
7
5.0 (4 Ratings)
Book Rating
Historical context is fascinating but explanations fall short
I had a few issues with this book. No doubt the history of the various religions was absolutely fascinating, exploring polytheistic belief systems to its evolution into monotheism. However, the connections suggested between how God is seen to be humanized is not very clear, rather it seems to be a throwaway remark about two psychological concepts that force human beings to look at everything with human eyes. It is also not very clear in terms of its explanation on why God must be one and not many.

As an atheist/ agnostic reading this, the historical elements were more of interest as the philosophical aspect seems to fall short due to the lack of exploration on why God even became a concept.
  
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Merissa (12995 KP) rated Death & Maia in Books

Jun 13, 2025  
Death & Maia
Death & Maia
A. C. Jolly | 2025 | LGBTQ+, Paranormal, Romance, Science Fiction/Fantasy
6
6.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
DEATH & MAIA is a standalone story about a young woman beating a plague and trying to survive the best way she can. There are fantasy and historical elements to this story.

While I enjoyed the story, the writing style wasn't for me. There were parts that just didn't make any sense, and to be fair, I wasn't in a state of mind where I could dive deeper.

Some people will love this book, but it wasn't for me. Sorry!

** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 13, 2025
  
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Marylegs (44 KP) rated Dark Aemilia (UK Edition) in Books

Aug 14, 2019  
Dark Aemilia (UK Edition)
Dark Aemilia (UK Edition)
Sally O'Reilly | 2014
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
So I received Dark Aemilia from a Goodreads give away. All I can say is how lucky I was to receive such a good book, that otherwise I likely would not have taken a second glance at. This is a beautifully written piece of historical fiction. Which at its core, is a love story, between Aemilia Bassano and William Shakespeare. How their love blossomed and through many external factors was pulled apart. The book is laid out in acts and scenes like a play and tells the story from Aemilia point of view. I enjoyed being submerged in the Tudor London at the end of Elizabeth I reign. This book completely grabbed me from the start and had I had more free time I am sure I would have read this book in a day or two.

Unfortunately as I haven’t ever read historical fiction before I don’t really have any point of reference for comparison. But what I will say is that I thoroughly enjoyed how realistic this book felt, but still was able to bring in completely fictitious elements of magic and witchcraft. Sam O’Reilly has managed to bring in these elements, which appealed to my love of fantasy, without being over the top. I particularly enjoyed the time when London was under the grips of the plague and thought it was just so well written and explained. At no point did I feel lost in descriptions, I was there, with Aemilia and that poor woman just couldn’t catch a break.

There is ‘mature content’ it is an adult story of love, so yes there is sex. I personally have no issue with this and believe it to be an integral addition to this story. It is done well and doesn’t feel forced or overdone. I am struggling to put into words how much I enjoyed this book, I will read it again and I would recommend it. I will now even consider reading other historical fiction that I had not thought I would enjoy.
  
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Sensitivemuse (246 KP) rated Dreamland Burning in Books

Dec 22, 2018  
Dreamland Burning
Dreamland Burning
Jennifer Latham | 2017 | Fiction & Poetry, Young Adult (YA)
9
9.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Great Subject to Read on
I noticed a large trend in these kinds of books where it’s half in the present, and half in the past. It’s not a trend I particularly like as I adore historical fiction and mixing it with things happening in present day takes away the historical aspect, but I gave this book a chance. This one grabbed my attention because of the subject which interests me. I have not heard of the Tulsa Race Riot until I grabbed this book. It was an eye opener, and definitely something that can’t be ignored or forgotten.

The switch between Rowan and William is seamless and flows throughout the novel. Rowan attempts to figure out the mystery behind the skeleton while William’s story not only gives you the background information but also gives you the sense and the climate on how it was for African Americans back in those times. The historical aspects of the book is well written and gives you a good general idea.

At first, William doesn’t seem that all a likable character. As the plot progresses though, you change your mind as his behavior and outlook changes to something much more favorable. Rowan’s side of the story is interesting too. She’s been pretty much sheltered in a good, privileged life who is also suddenly awakened by recent events affecting herself and others around her. She’s a well written character as well, but I’d have to say I prefer reading William’s side of the story more as I found Rowan’s point of view dragged in a few areas of the story.

The plot overall is well done and interesting. The mystery and historical elements of the story also keeps the plot engaging and it’s a good educational read. Definitely something to read more into and a good subject to write about.