My all time unputdownable book is The Far Pavilions by MM Kaye. I had small children at the time, which is code for being sleep deprived, but nonetheless I stayed up literally all night to get to the ending. Amazing.
I LOVED Airs Above the Ground and was beyond thrilled to see the white stallions at a big restaurant called "Medieval Times." I also loved Waiting for Willa -- the atmosphere, and the red herrings!
I loved Mary Stewart books. Her best were those she wrote about the Arthurian legend and Merlin in particular, The Crystal Cave, The Hollow Hills, The Last Enchantment, and The Wicked Day.
I recently read “The Crystal Cave” and then afterwards I listened to “The Hollow Hills” on Audible. I VERY much enjoyed it! The narrator was so good, I didn’t want it to end! I’ve read all of Mary Stewart’s books (thanks to my mom for having them) except the Arthurian ones, which I’m reading now. “The Last Enchantment” is next.
I love Mary Stewart, but I prefer her non-Arthurian ones. My favorites are the ones set in or near Greece. This Rough Magic, The Moon spinners, and My Brother Michael are all favorites.
My favorite historical novelist is Dorothy Dunnett, whose Lymond Chronicles series and her Nicolo Rising series are brilliant. She was a genius, able to weave historical events with fictional characters who are fascinating, complex, unpredictable, intelligent, and witty. The two series are interconnected. The Lymond Chronicles should be read first, although chronologically, it takes place 80 years after the Nicolo Rising series. Her language is rich, and her training as a portrait artist allows her to describe in vivid detail the events, characters, and settings of her novels. Her first novel, Game of Kings, was published in 1962. I highly recommend her.
She is the grand dame of historical writers... I've read them all three times and hope to read them at least once more before I die (I'm 76 now). Hardly any of these UA-cam reviewers ever seems to cover her... extremely sad.
Angela's Ashes, a memoir by Frank McCourt, 1996. It made me laugh, it made me cry. My memory fails me constantly but I still remember the name of that book.
I forgot about Susan Howatch. I read the books as they were published (could not wait for the next one) and was a big fan of her writing. Thank you for reminding me of some great reading!
“Thank goodness, I found a fan of Susan Howatch! She is my all time favorite author and I am always surprised and disappointed when her name is not known to other readers! Her books were my companions, beloved and treasured to this day! She wrote in a style where every chapter’s ending left you with burning questions as to where those next perilous words/journey would lead;the most engaging characters ever devised! I’ve never given any of her books away (as I have many) and like dear friends bring them out periodically to re-read sections that are so well composed that my admiration is never diminished or found wanting!
I agree…The Far Pavilions was an unforgettable read and though I certainly didn’t do it in one "sit down”…it was far, far too long, when I wasn’t able to be reading due to daily chores, I was thinking about it!
My older sister liked Mary Stewart so I read them. Very evocative. She was so good at painting pictures with words. I was always impressed with her writing style.
This was very enjoyable. I like to be reminded that, in addition to books currently being published, many good books have been written in decades past. Thank you so much.
You have chosen some of my favourite authors. They stand the test of time. I remember Susan Howatch’s “Casselmara”, the first book of hers I ever read. Just wonderful. I think I have read every one of her books.
That copy of Mary Stewart took me way way back..my mother had a lot of her books and I devoured them all as soon as I was old enough. They were also extremely atmospheric, you could feel the heat and dust of the locations.
I too loved Mary Stewart as a 20 something. Along with your choice, another favourite of mine was Airs Above the Ground. Amongst other adventures the heroine experienced were included the famous white stallions of Vienna.
I was at Winchester Cathedral one evening for Vespers Service when they said the cathedral would be closed to the public the next day for a recording of the choir! Immediately I thought of Joanna Trollope (and the fact her great xx uncle was Anthony, one of my favorite writers).
So fascinating that you start with Mary Stewart and that so many comments respond to this author. I was fortunate enough to read only one of her books in my 20’s and I remember it today at 70 as a deliciously suspenseful read and a book long lost to me now that I have always wanted to read again because I would like to duplicate that experience. What a treat to come upon your video. OMG I had to come back and add this as an edit because i made my first comments on the heals of your announcing the first book on your list as a Mary Stewart book and when i finished and went back to the video you mentioned her book “Madame Will You Talk” as a favourite and that is the one book I read all those years ago. - I’m now officially on the hunt!!
I'm 72 now and in my twenties I could not put down any book by Jean Plaidy. She wrote book versions of what today we would call "docu-dramas". Her books were extremely well researched historically, and they brought history to life. I don't think her books have ever been out of print. I read everything she ever wrote and I think I might revisit them. The other author I could not put down in my youth was Dennis Wheatley. I have tried to re-read those and some have not worn well.
I loved her books too! From Wikipedia: Eleanor Alice Hibbert (née Burford; 1 September 1906 - 18 January 1993) was an English writer of historical romances. She was a prolific writer who published several books a year in different literary genres, each genre under a different pen name: Jean Plaidy for fictionalized history of European royalty and the three volumes of her history of the Spanish Inquisition, Victoria Holt for gothic romances, and Philippa Carr for a multi-generational family saga. She also wrote light romances, crime novels, murder mysteries and thrillers under pseudonyms Eleanor Burford, Elbur Ford, Kathleen Kellow, Anna Percival, and Ellalice Tate.
I truly enjoyed your talk. The first book I couldn’t put down was “Where are the Children” by Mary Higgins Clark. Started it before bed finished it at sun rise.
I still have a copy of “The Walking Stick”. Winston Graham is amazing. He also wrote the Poldark novels which I spent one summer reading one after the other in the series.
I haven't read any of these books and I have actually never heard about them. Thank you very much for the recommendations! I really need an unputdownable book right now.
My first job as Assistant Librarian my Head asked me if I'd read certain books. When I confessed I hadn't (yet), she lit up with smiles "You have all that wonderful reading ahead of you!"
Thank you for reminding me. I think you and I are of an age and possibly similar taste. I used to be an avid reader, especially in my teens and twenties. I've recently taken to audiobooks because I like to knit and sew and with an audiobook on I can do both at the same time. The last few years have taught me that life is going by fast and so doing two things at once is a good thing.
You can include me and everything you said I am a Crochet and an Abbott reader so that’s exactly my thinking. I am 81 and still quite active and love my books and at this point I’m never going to be able to get all my yarn crocheted up for all my books. Read I to read audiobooks, but it’s more because I have had a lifelong visual issue and started with audiobooks about 40 years ago. I am not blind. I function fine, but reading is just not doable without a magnifier difficult to do with the paper book Anyway so agree with you if I remember correctly, the books I loved in my 20s were along the same… I read Frankie slaughter Frank, Kirby, Mary STEWART, Victoria, Holt and Phyllis Whitney…. needless to say through the life genre preferences have not changed a lot, but have certainly branched out into things like lonesome Dove…..love this channel…just found her….what is this lady’s name?
I love Mary Stewart books and Susan Howatch books as well. I own about 50 of those books if you put them together. I am in the process of rereading them again. For me these books don't get old. Glad you are talking about these old authors.
Susan Howatch is in a class of her own. So few people seem to speak about her. I would take her books on my desert island. She deserves more recognition.
I remember buying and reading Wideacre when it was first published. I too was in my 20s. It was unlike any book I had ever read before. It was riveting at the time.
Thank you for these great suggestions of mostly new-to-me authors and books! My additions are Water for Elephants but Canadian-American author Sara Gruen. I read the book first and loved it so much, I have never been able to watch the movie. Also, The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson is a skillfully written historical non-fiction book that interweaves the story of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair with the story of a serial killer active in Chicago during the same time period.
I recently read Vera Brittain's "Testament of Youth". This is a wonderful book about an English nurse set in WWI. Both my wife and I devoured it. I highly recommend it.
Listening to you has taken back to my 20’s/ 30’s. Most of the books 😢you mention I have read and loved - my mother bought the Poldark series for me. But I haven’t read Philippa Gregory. Thank you I so enjoyed you Chanel ❤
As a former English professor, I'm always excited to hear about great reads.by authors new to me. I must recommend that you read the short 2002 novel (around 200 pages) Beasts by Joyce Carol Oates. Talk about unputdownable! Takes place at a women's college in 1975. Our young heroine takes a creative writing course with a hip professor who critiques his students' work in class workshop format. As the semester continues on, she discovers he might not be what he seems. Then she meets his wife, who also works at the college. . . Hypnotic, dreamlike, and surreal (with an ending I never saw coming!), I'd love to get your take on this novel. Glad I found your channel! New sub 👍
My new favorite author is Elizabeth Strout. Her first book is Olive Kitteridge and I'm currently reading Tell Me Everything, her latest release. Her characters keep reappearing in each book but they can be read and enjoyed individually without having read the previous novel. Love from Alberta, Canada❤😊
Thanks for your recommendations! Books I couldn't put down were Donna Tartt's "The Secret History" and Patricia Highsmith's "The Talented Mr Ripley". Also, Vera Brittain's "Testament of Youth".
Funny, when you were talking about an author whose books you couldn't put down in the 60's, the first person I thought of was Mary Stewart. I have always loved her books especially the Ivy Tree and the Moon Spinners. Loved this video, well done!
What a trip down memory lane. I read several Mary Stewart books in the 60s, but I still listen to the 3 volume Arthurian Saga on Audible. I read the Poldark chronicles when I lived in England in the 80's, but wasn't aware of hi other writing. I have read lots of Patricia Highsmith, but don't remember Those Who Walk Away. Susan Howatch is a familiar name, but I never read her. I hav read tons of Philippa Gregory, but just checked and I have 3 volumes of Wideacre in my library that somehow I never listened to! THANKS.
Two authors that I want to comment on, Phyllipa Gregory, I attempted to read her first novel “ Wideacre” I don’t think I read more than two chapters of it before I thought it dreadful and couldn’t understand how she got it published, I vowed I wouldn’t read anything else she wrote……… until I picked up a copy of “ The Other Boleyn Girl” which I thought was a marvellous read. One of my all time favourite books is “ The Pursuit of Happiness” by Douglas Kennedy, I was fascinated by his ability (as a man) to write from a woman’s point of view ie; how a woman would react to certain situations, absolutely loved this book.
Yes, I think Wideacre appealed to me in my 20s, but it perhaps would be a disappointment if I read it again! I totally agree about Douglas Kennedy and his ability to write from a woman's viewpoint.
I read Mary Stewart's books about King Arthur (like The Crystal Cave) when I was in high school and loved them. A lot later, i read This Rough Magic - I think, this time, what I liked best were the quotes at the beginning of each chapter. I had read 3 or 4 Shakespeare plays in class that semester (yeah, I'm old enough that we had semesters) and the quotes plus the story were enchanting.
I loved the Crystal Cave series too. Yes, I love the way she puts quotes at the beginning of each chapter - I think she does that in her other books too.
I remember reading that book a long time ago and really devouring it. Haven't picked it up since. It's been ages. Funny enough. There's another book with the same title I read much later that I enjoyed, The Other Side of Midnight by Simone St. James, published in 2015. Not at all similar but just as enjoyable.
I just stumbled upon your site. I’m going to try Mary Stewart. -After I finish Ayn Rand’s 😊. Anthem. Non fiction What I mean is I’m going to try and get into reading the old fashion way. I’ve spent far,far too much time in the tragedy of politics these last 8 years and I’m exhausted. Thanks for the suggestions.
I hate that word. I know it's acceptable these days. . . I just don't know HOW. But then, I also hate the word "relatable." "Relatable" SHOULD mean something that one can RELATE, like a joke whose punchline one doesn't forget. That's not the same as relating TO something.
When you mentioned Mary Stewart, I thought that she wrote My Brother Michael, which I read a few years ago and loved, and, of course she has. I highly recommend it, and it also takes place in Greece.
I have read a few of these but I’m going back to them. Douglas Kennedy is a favourite but as you say he puts his characters through the mill. Thank you for the list
Enjoyed your selection, thank you. This Rough Magic is on Audible, as is Madam will you talk, with a good narrator. My late mum loved Mary Stewart and thanks to your review, I feel inspired to try them. One book I will recommend to you as you seem to enjoy the thriller/romance genre is by the late Shirley Conran: Savages. It has one of the best last lines ever.
I read Glittering Images and loved it! Went on to read all of the books in that series. I now want to go back and read Glittering images again. Such a great book.
I just found your channel and love this video! I had never heard of Douglas Kennedy but will certainly be on the hunt for his books now. I recently read The Moon Spinners by Mary Stewart. I remember going to see the movie as a child. I read a lot of Susan Howatch years ago but not the series you mentioned. I look forward to more videos.
My mother loved Mary Stewart; I may have read a few of them in my 20s. I also read and really enjoyed Susan Howitch’s books. I was very sad to hear of C.J. Sansom’s passing in your video. I’ve read 3 of his Shardlake series (I do own all 7). Thank you for a wonderful video!
Love Mary Stewart! The first one of hers I read was Nine Coaches Waiting in about 1969 and I read every book of hers I could get my hands on. I think it’s time for a re-read.
I’ve read almost all Of Philippe Gregory’s books except the wildacre trilogy. I had them on my shelf and decided to pick wildacre up and read it after seeing you talk about it. It has a lot of bad reviews on Goodreads so I’m hoping it’s not as bad as some reviews.
Thank you so much! I get so excited to get recommendations on books and authors. It’s always worth a try. I love murder mysteries, thrillers, and suspense, and especially ones set in London. I’m off to find these books…thanks again!
I find your channel/videos so refreshing - it's nice to hear perspective on some really good older books out there. I too read Wideacre, and think I enjoyed the 2nd and 3rd in that series better than the 1st; ( read this so long ago now ) but it was what started me on reading everything of Philippa Gregory's that I can!! I was so excited to hear you speak of Susan Howatch - Cashelmara and Penmarric are my ultimate favorites of hers ( I still have a few on my shelves to read, Glittering Images being one ) I've read The Dark Shore, Call in the Night and The Shrouded Walls. I have a collection of Mary Stewart's books - that I really need to start. Have you read the Morland Dynasty by Cynthia Harrod-Eagles? I am always recommending that series - as well Into the Wilderness ( series ) by Sarah Donati. thanks for the Tilly appearance!!
Thank you. I did read the sequel to Wideacre - the Favoured Child - but I didn't find it quite as intriguing as the first one, and I never got round to the third in the series. I've read Howatch's Penmarric too, which is really good. I am sure I have read Cynthia Harrod-Eagles, but I'm not sure which one. I must have another look for her books.🙂
Well, that episode just bumped up my World of Books wish list hehehe😅 I have read a lot of Susan Howach, all the church ones, her shorter early novels and Cashelmara and Penmarric ( even lived in a house called Penmarric once as well!). You I might like to try A Ship made of Paper by Scott Spencer and Real Life by Brandon Taylor - both American and very compelling.
Thank you for reminding me about Mary Stewart. I went straight to my bookshelf to find the unread books of hers. I loved Thorneyhold which lead me to pick up others I came across in Thrift shops. I'm well into the Moon-Spinners with four more awaiting, including This Rough Magic. 🙂
Think I've read most of these authors. I know what you mean about outgrowing autbors. I definitely remember reading quite a lot of Mary Stewart including This Rough Magic, My Brother Michael and Airs Above the Ground. Also loved the Poldark novels and Patricia Highsmith. Haven't read any Phillipa Gregory. As far as incest goes I did have an unhealthy obsession with the Flowers In The Attic books which I outgrew after about number three. What a great video!
I haven't read Mary Stewart for many years. I always enjoyed what I read, I was just able ti get Wildacre for free on Audible. Looking forward to reading it. A couple books that I was unable to put down were the Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and Pillars of The Earth by Ken Follett. Two of my all time favorites. Hello to Tillie.
Hello! Thank you very much for your books suggestions. I love to hear you from Spain. Maybe would be a great idea to think about a book club. I'm sure you will be a nice coordinator. 😊😃
Child 44 by Tom Robb Smith is unputdownable too. I think I'll try to get hold of a copy of This Rough Magic, it sounds mysterious and compelling. I'm new to your channel so not sure if you've listed any humourous novels. Sue Townsend's The Woman Who Went to Bed for a Year is hilarious.
I did a video last January - books to brighten up your day (or something like that) which included some humourous novels. Not Sue Townsend, though - I haven't read much of hers, though she would definitely be a good one to include!
Hi, I loved Mary Stewart books and also Winston Graham! These are some great ones! Have you read any Victoria Holt books? Those were really popular back in the day too. 😊
I love Mary Stewart! Especially here Merlin books, they are my go to reads when I need a visit with an old friend ❤ her book The Moon Spinners was made into a Disney movie. Great recommendations thank you!
I'm so glad I found you. These are books that I read way back when. If you love Susan Howatch, The Wheel of Fortune is a must read. I have gotten into a rut and only read paranormal romance or fantasy; you know, vampires and monsters and romance. I've been wanting to get back in the mainstream so I enoy seeing what you have read. I also love Rosamund Pilcher, especially The Shell Seekers and Victoria Holt. Victoria Holt is an all time favorite and I wonder if you have read her? I'm looking for your suggestion now that I haven't read.
Thank you! I don't think I've read The Wheel of Fortune, so I'll certainly look out for that. I love Rosamund Pilcher too - and I've only read Victoria Holt writing as Jean Plaidy.
I cannot tell you how happy it made me to hear someone talk about Mary Stewart. I have long loved her books dearly. I recently re-read a couple of her books and I plan to read more. Just now, I am reading the Amelia Peabody mysteries by Elizabeth Peters, and I don’t want to ever put them down. The Crocodile on the Sandbank (first in the series) is in my mental list of “favorite books.” I have never been an audio book person, but, due to some issues with migraines lately, I’ve had to change my stance on this. The “Amelia” books are narrated by Barbara Rosenblat. She brings the book to dazzling life, even greater than my imagination. That says a great deal. Glad to have found your channel. 😊
I really enjoyed Susan Howarch 20-some years ago. Recently, I checked library to see if still had, alas. I read the three you have. A Question of Integrity, I'd not heard of. I must check thrift shops
Thank you Rosamunde! Recently my mother-in-law reminded me about Mary Stewart- I was delighted to see you start with her - her control of suspense is amazing. I have read another title by Patricia Highsmith and, while I usually bookmark and return several times to a book, with her writing, I could not! She seems to build and build tension, uncertainties around characters and then a pursuit of some sort ends in breathtaking discovery. Thanks for your recommendation of Highsmith. I will be on the look out for Winston Graham's book, "The Walking Stick" too. I haven't yet read any of his books and I'm intrigued.📚💐
You brought back memories of an author that I read in my twenties…introduced by my mom who was an avid reader. Have you read any by Victoria Holt? I loved her mysteries… Bride of Pendorric being one that stands out. I wonder if I would still like it as much now. I have to say the last book I could not put down was Fairy Tale by Stephen King.Never read any of his scary books before but this one drew me in and I loved it….it is just an amazing adventure, fantasy with tidbits of wisdom and it made me feel so many emotions. May be the only book I read by him but so glad I did. Tfs! ❤
Thanks - yes, I've read Victoria Holt, writing as Jean Plaidy - I think it was one of the first historical novels I ever read, and I did enjoy it! The Stephen King book sounds right up my street - I'll look out for that.
Thank you for this! I love your book recommendation videos. I had a real passion for Mary Stewart in my teens but haven't read her for ages. I wonder what I'd think of her books now.
I have been enjoying your videos for quite some time now, so, I have signed up to your newsletter and received a free PDF of your book called 'Out Of Time' which I'm looking forward to reading some this evening. Thank you.
Hi Rosamunde! Thanks for more great books to put on my TBR list. Ive heard of all the writers but the American Douglas Kennedy! 🤷♀️ Susan Howatch is not too familiar to me; my parents may have read some of hers in the 70s. 😊
Oh yes, Mary Stewart wrote some very captivating books! One of hers that I've read a few times is the highly intriguing 'Thornyhold'. I have a nice vintage hardback of 'Madam Will You Talk?' , that I've yet to read, but think I might do that this summer. I find Patricia Wentworth stories to be un-put-downable, and also books by John Buchan and Sax Rohmer, which are rather exciting!
I'm loving all of your videos and your wonderful reviews!! Mary Stewart was a favorite back in the 60s and 70s. I need to try Graham and Howatch. I tried one of the Tudor series by Gregory, but DNFd it because I was becoming attached to Catherine and I knew she would be killed. Thank you for great recommendations!!
I haven‘t read any of your recommended books yet but I‘m tempted to. I have read Mary Stewart‘s books Madam Will You Talk and Nine Coaches Waiting though. I‘m also very interested in books by Douglas Kennedy. My current unputdownable read is The Whalebone Theatre by Joanna Quinn. Oh and I just remembered that I have read books by Patricia Highsmith - many years ago… 📚😊
Hi Rosamunde, I discovered your channel last week & am going through your older podcasts to catch up. I’m of your vintage & still teaching senior level literature & find many of your literary tastes resonate with mine. I felt compelled to write now from here in Sydney as you’ve just reviewed Wideacre which I’m currently reading. However, as much as I can’t put it down, I’m equally fearful to go on. It’s so very disturbing with a dreadful sense of foreboding that pervades every page. I’m up to John about to meet Dr Rose. Not sure I have the fortitude to go on with its relentless machinations perpetrated by Beatrice. Thank you for unwittingly reassuring me of my concerns with this addictive read which paradoxically I must try to resist. Great channel! Thank you.
My all time unputdownable book is The Far Pavilions by MM Kaye. I had small children at the time, which is code for being sleep deprived, but nonetheless I stayed up literally all night to get to the ending. Amazing.
The Far Pavilions is the most interesting book I have ever read. It's fascinating.
@@Socrates-b9n Gosh yes! Maybe I will try to find that and read it again 🤔
@@Socrates-b9n I loved that book, as well. I find myself revisiting scenes from it randomly.
Read all the Mary Stewart in my early teens. The first one was Airs Above the Ground. Loved the reserved English style.
I LOVED Airs Above the Ground and was beyond thrilled to see the white stallions at a big restaurant called "Medieval Times." I also loved Waiting for Willa -- the atmosphere, and the red herrings!
I loved Mary Stewart books. Her best were those she wrote about the Arthurian legend and Merlin in particular, The Crystal Cave, The Hollow Hills, The Last Enchantment, and The Wicked Day.
I loved those books too!
I loved those books.
I recently read “The Crystal Cave” and then afterwards I listened to “The Hollow Hills” on Audible. I VERY much enjoyed it! The narrator was so good, I didn’t want it to end! I’ve read all of Mary Stewart’s books (thanks to my mom for having them) except the Arthurian ones, which I’m reading now. “The Last Enchantment” is next.
Mary Stewart was a rite of passage for young fantasy readers. Have you read any Grace Draven?
I love Mary Stewart, but I prefer her non-Arthurian ones. My favorites are the ones set in or near Greece. This Rough Magic, The Moon spinners, and My Brother Michael are all favorites.
My favorite historical novelist is Dorothy Dunnett, whose Lymond Chronicles series and her Nicolo Rising series are brilliant. She was a genius, able to weave historical events with fictional characters who are fascinating, complex, unpredictable, intelligent, and witty. The two series are interconnected. The Lymond Chronicles should be read first, although chronologically, it takes place 80 years after the Nicolo Rising series. Her language is rich, and her training as a portrait artist allows her to describe in vivid detail the events, characters, and settings of her novels. Her first novel, Game of Kings, was published in 1962. I highly recommend her.
She is the grand dame of historical writers... I've read them all three times and hope to read them at least once more before I die (I'm 76 now). Hardly any of these UA-cam reviewers ever seems to cover her... extremely sad.
I read all of Mary Stewart when I was quite young what a great author.
Angela's Ashes, a memoir by Frank McCourt, 1996. It made me laugh, it made me cry. My memory fails me constantly but I still remember the name of that book.
Mary Stewart is evergreen....I keep reading her books along with my other favourite Georgette Heyer..
I binged a book once. I stayed up all night and read White Fang in one sitting by Jack London. I just couldn’t put it down.
I forgot about Susan Howatch. I read the books as they were published (could not wait for the next one) and was a big fan of her writing. Thank you for reminding me of some great reading!
“Thank goodness, I found a fan of Susan Howatch! She is my all time favorite author and I am always surprised and disappointed when her name is not known to other readers! Her books were my companions, beloved and treasured to this day! She wrote in a style where every chapter’s ending left you with burning questions as to where those next perilous words/journey would lead;the most engaging characters ever devised! I’ve never given any of her books away (as I have many) and like dear friends bring them out periodically to re-read sections that are so well composed that my admiration is never diminished or found wanting!
All of Mary Stewart’s books are on my “ once a year” lists. My absolute favourite is My Brother Michael, but I love everything she wrote.
I agree…The Far Pavilions was an unforgettable read and though I certainly didn’t do it in one "sit down”…it was far, far too long, when I wasn’t able to be reading due to daily chores, I was thinking about it!
💕😀xx wonderful list. Thanks so much and a very happy new year 🎉🥰
My older sister liked Mary Stewart so I read them. Very evocative. She was so good at painting pictures with words. I was always impressed with her writing style.
I used to devour all the Mary Stewart books in my library. Very pleasant to hear you talking about her books. 😊
This was very enjoyable. I like to be reminded that, in addition to books currently being published, many good books have been written in decades past. Thank you so much.
You have chosen some of my favourite authors. They stand the test of time. I remember Susan Howatch’s “Casselmara”, the first book of hers I ever read. Just wonderful. I think I have read every one of her books.
I loved Cashelmara! Penmarric was another one I've read over and over.
I'm pretty sure Penmarric was the first of hers I read. Used to belong to a book of the month club and they were almost always on the list.
That copy of Mary Stewart took me way way back..my mother had a lot of her books and I devoured them all as soon as I was old enough. They were also extremely atmospheric, you could feel the heat and dust of the locations.
I too loved Mary Stewart as a 20 something. Along with your choice, another favourite of mine was Airs Above the Ground. Amongst other adventures the heroine experienced were included the famous white stallions of Vienna.
Another recommendation: I TRULY enjoyed all the Joanna Trollope novels. They’re just delicious!! Several of those are about the Anglican Church.
I read many of those too!
I was at Winchester Cathedral one evening for Vespers Service when they said the cathedral would be closed to the public the next day for a recording of the choir! Immediately I thought of Joanna Trollope (and the fact her great xx uncle was Anthony, one of my favorite writers).
So fascinating that you start with Mary Stewart and that so many comments respond to this author. I was fortunate enough to read only one of her books in my 20’s and I remember it today at 70 as a deliciously suspenseful read and a book long lost to me now that I have always wanted to read again because I would like to duplicate that experience. What a treat to come upon your video. OMG I had to come back and add this as an edit because i made my first comments on the heals of your announcing the first book on your list as a Mary Stewart book and when i finished and went back to the video you mentioned her book “Madame Will You Talk” as a favourite and that is the one book I read all those years ago. - I’m now officially on the hunt!!
So glad I helped you to remember that great book!
If you are not stuck on physical books, Mary Stewart's books are available on Kindle.
I'm 72 now and in my twenties I could not put down any book by Jean Plaidy. She wrote book versions of what today we would call "docu-dramas". Her books were extremely well researched historically, and they brought history to life. I don't think her books have ever been out of print. I read everything she ever wrote and I think I might revisit them. The other author I could not put down in my youth was Dennis Wheatley. I have tried to re-read those and some have not worn well.
I loved her books too! From Wikipedia: Eleanor Alice Hibbert (née Burford; 1 September 1906 - 18 January 1993) was an English writer of historical romances. She was a prolific writer who published several books a year in different literary genres, each genre under a different pen name: Jean Plaidy for fictionalized history of European royalty and the three volumes of her history of the Spanish Inquisition, Victoria Holt for gothic romances, and Philippa Carr for a multi-generational family saga. She also wrote light romances, crime novels, murder mysteries and thrillers under pseudonyms Eleanor Burford, Elbur Ford, Kathleen Kellow, Anna Percival, and Ellalice Tate.
Yes - I remember enjoying Jean Plaidy many years ago - I will look out for more.
I used to read Jean Plaidy and Dennis Wheatley back in the 70s. Great books.
Back in the day, I used to read Susan Howatch all the time...Love your content and thanks for another group of authors to search for...
I truly enjoyed your talk. The first book I couldn’t put down was “Where are the Children” by Mary Higgins Clark. Started it before bed finished it at sun rise.
I will never forget “Where are the Children.”. What a book.
I still have a copy of “The Walking Stick”. Winston Graham is amazing. He also wrote the Poldark novels which I spent one summer reading one after the other in the series.
I haven't read any of these books and I have actually never heard about them. Thank you very much for the recommendations! I really need an unputdownable book right now.
My first job as Assistant Librarian my Head asked me if I'd read certain books. When I confessed I hadn't (yet), she lit up with smiles "You have all that wonderful reading ahead of you!"
I'm definitely going to be reading the Mary Stewart book! Haven't heard of her but your endorsement got me interested. Love your videos!
I love those Susan Howatch novels. Maybe this is the time to re-read them.
Thank you for reminding me. I think you and I are of an age and possibly similar taste. I used to be an avid reader, especially in my teens and twenties. I've recently taken to audiobooks because I like to knit and sew and with an audiobook on I can do both at the same time. The last few years have taught me that life is going by fast and so doing two things at once is a good thing.
@@susanpilling8849 Yes, me too! Knit and listen, so satisfying 😊
You can include me and everything you said I am a Crochet and an Abbott reader so that’s exactly my thinking. I am 81 and still quite active and love my books and at this point I’m never going to be able to get all my yarn crocheted up for all my books. Read I to read audiobooks, but it’s more because I have had a lifelong visual issue and started with audiobooks about 40 years ago. I am not blind. I function fine, but reading is just not doable without a magnifier difficult to do with the paper book Anyway so agree with you if I remember correctly, the books I loved in my 20s were along the same… I read Frankie slaughter Frank, Kirby, Mary STEWART, Victoria, Holt and Phyllis Whitney…. needless to say through the life genre preferences have not changed a lot, but have certainly branched out into things like lonesome Dove…..love this channel…just found her….what is this lady’s name?
I haven’t even watched your video yet but I woke up this morning hoping you had posted a new one. Love to listen to you and hopefully to see Tilly!
Wow - what a nice thing to say - thank you! Hope you enjoyed it, and Tilly's brief appearance!
I love Mary Stewart books and Susan Howatch books as well. I own about 50 of those books if you put them together. I am in the process of rereading them again. For me these books don't get old. Glad you are talking about these old authors.
I thought I was the only person who ever heard about Susan Howatch!
Susan Howatch is in a class of her own. So few people seem to speak about her. I would take her books on my desert island.
She deserves more recognition.
I agree!
Penmarric is my favorite SH book. Read it several decades ago for the first time and many timess since.
The name Nicholas Darrow has stayed with me for years. Read all the books in this Susan Howatch series.
I remember buying and reading Wideacre when it was first published. I too was in my 20s. It was unlike any book I had ever read before. It was riveting at the time.
Thank you for these great suggestions of mostly new-to-me authors and books! My additions are Water for Elephants but Canadian-American author Sara Gruen. I read the book first and loved it so much, I have never been able to watch the movie. Also, The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson is a skillfully written historical non-fiction book that interweaves the story of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair with the story of a serial killer active in Chicago during the same time period.
I've read both of those and enjoyed them a lot.
I recently read Vera Brittain's "Testament of Youth". This is a wonderful book about an English nurse set in WWI. Both my wife and I devoured it. I highly recommend it.
I know of it, but never read it - another one to add to my tbr!
I loved that book
I read this book after the miniseries was on PBS-about 1980. The best and brightest were the first to die.
I read this in my late teens, and reread it recently in my sixties, and I loved it both times.
So sorry to hear about cj samson one of my favourite authors sovereign being my favourite i couldn't put down xx
I love discovering new authors, regardless of what year they wrote. I especially love the older book covers. So evocative!
Have you read Amor Towls A Gentleman in Moscow? Absolutely the best read of the last 4 years!
Listening to you has taken back to my 20’s/ 30’s. Most of the books 😢you mention I have read and loved - my mother bought the Poldark series for me. But I haven’t read Philippa Gregory. Thank you I so enjoyed you Chanel ❤
As a former English professor, I'm always excited to hear about great reads.by authors new to me. I must recommend that you read the short 2002 novel (around 200 pages) Beasts by Joyce Carol Oates. Talk about unputdownable! Takes place at a women's college in 1975. Our young heroine takes a creative writing course with a hip professor who critiques his students' work in class workshop format. As the semester continues on, she discovers he might not be what he seems. Then she meets his wife, who also works at the college. . .
Hypnotic, dreamlike, and surreal (with an ending I never saw coming!), I'd love to get your take on this novel. Glad I found your channel! New sub 👍
Thank you for this recommendation - sounds very intriguing. I'll make a note of it to look out for!
@@EricMcDowellegm I will seek this out. I enjoyed her autobiography.
My new favorite author is Elizabeth Strout. Her first book is Olive Kitteridge and I'm currently reading Tell Me Everything, her latest release. Her characters keep reappearing in each book but they can be read and enjoyed individually without having read the previous novel. Love from Alberta, Canada❤😊
Thanks for your recommendations! Books I couldn't put down were Donna Tartt's "The Secret History" and Patricia Highsmith's "The Talented Mr Ripley". Also, Vera Brittain's "Testament of Youth".
Brittain's book "Testament of Youth" was a powerful read. I highly recommend it too.
Funny, when you were talking about an author whose books you couldn't put down in the 60's, the first person I thought of was Mary Stewart. I have always loved her books especially the Ivy Tree and the Moon Spinners. Loved this video, well done!
Thank you! Yes, I love the Ivy Tree too. Can't remember if I read the Moon Spinners.
What a trip down memory lane. I read several Mary Stewart books in the 60s, but I still listen to the 3 volume Arthurian Saga on Audible. I read the Poldark chronicles when I lived in England in the 80's, but wasn't aware of hi other writing. I have read lots of Patricia Highsmith, but don't remember Those Who Walk Away. Susan Howatch is a familiar name, but I never read her. I hav read tons of Philippa Gregory, but just checked and I have 3 volumes of Wideacre in my library that somehow I never listened to! THANKS.
Two authors that I want to comment on, Phyllipa Gregory, I attempted to read her first novel “ Wideacre” I don’t think I read more than two chapters of it before I thought it dreadful and couldn’t understand how she got it published, I vowed I wouldn’t read anything else she wrote……… until I picked up a copy of “ The Other Boleyn Girl” which I thought was a marvellous read.
One of my all time favourite books is “ The Pursuit of Happiness” by Douglas Kennedy, I was fascinated by his ability (as a man) to write from a woman’s point of view ie; how a woman would react to certain situations, absolutely loved this book.
Yes, I think Wideacre appealed to me in my 20s, but it perhaps would be a disappointment if I read it again! I totally agree about Douglas Kennedy and his ability to write from a woman's viewpoint.
I read Mary Stewart's books about King Arthur (like The Crystal Cave) when I was in high school and loved them. A lot later, i read This Rough Magic - I think, this time, what I liked best were the quotes at the beginning of each chapter. I had read 3 or 4 Shakespeare plays in class that semester (yeah, I'm old enough that we had semesters) and the quotes plus the story were enchanting.
I loved the Crystal Cave series too. Yes, I love the way she puts quotes at the beginning of each chapter - I think she does that in her other books too.
L@@booksfrommybookshelf
I feel the same way about books I read in my twenties. The Other Side of Midnight by Sydney Sheldon is one.
I remember reading that book a long time ago and really devouring it. Haven't picked it up since. It's been ages. Funny enough. There's another book with the same title I read much later that I enjoyed, The Other Side of Midnight by Simone St. James, published in 2015. Not at all similar but just as enjoyable.
I read all his books, enjoyed each one.
I just reread it. I had forgotten how racy it was.
The book was great. The movie was crap.
@@patquint3291 I agree. Clu Gallagher was the best of the movie.
Thank for sharing your books….going to try and read them all
I just stumbled upon your site. I’m going to try Mary Stewart. -After I finish Ayn Rand’s 😊. Anthem. Non fiction What I mean is I’m going to try and get into reading the old fashion way. I’ve spent far,far too much time in the tragedy of politics these last 8 years and I’m exhausted. Thanks for the suggestions.
I had to look up "unputdownable" because my initial reaction was that's not a real word. I can't believe that actually IS a valid word!
I hate that word. I know it's acceptable these days. . . I just don't know HOW. But then, I also hate the word "relatable." "Relatable" SHOULD mean something that one can RELATE, like a joke whose punchline one doesn't forget. That's not the same as relating TO something.
Thanks for your list! I read Wideacre this year. Haven't read the sequel yet. I like phillipa gregory. Wild story!
I have read Wideacre. It was very good, but I agree with your assessment. I look forward to
checking out some of the other that are on your list.
When you mentioned Mary Stewart, I thought that she wrote My Brother Michael, which I read a few years ago and loved, and, of course she has. I highly recommend it, and it also takes place in Greece.
I think I read that too - probably a library book, but I might look out for it again.
I have read a few of these but I’m going back to them. Douglas Kennedy is a favourite but as you say he puts his characters through the mill. Thank you for the list
Enjoyed your selection, thank you. This Rough Magic is on Audible, as is Madam will you talk, with a good narrator. My late mum loved Mary Stewart and thanks to your review, I feel inspired to try them. One book I will recommend to you as you seem to enjoy the thriller/romance genre is by the late Shirley Conran: Savages. It has one of the best last lines ever.
Thanks for this, and the suggestion. I like audio books, and I'm glad to know these books are on Audible. I might be tempted to renew my subscription!
C.J Sansom books are all fabulous! I am enjoying the dramatised version of Dissolution on Disney+ too xx
I read Glittering Images and loved it! Went on to read all of the books in that series. I now want to go back and read Glittering images again. Such a great book.
"Snow" by Ophan Pamuk very interesting book also it opens the mind to what is happening in the world today .
You do such a wonderful job of recommending books. I always want to read every selection that you review.
Will see if my library has any of these novels - thank you for this interesting blog.
I just found your channel and love this video! I had never heard of Douglas Kennedy but will certainly be on the hunt for his books now. I recently read The Moon Spinners by Mary Stewart. I remember going to see the movie as a child. I read a lot of Susan Howatch years ago but not the series you mentioned. I look forward to more videos.
My mother loved Mary Stewart; I may have read a few of them in my 20s. I also read and really enjoyed Susan Howitch’s books. I was very sad to hear of C.J. Sansom’s passing in your video. I’ve read 3 of his Shardlake series (I do own all 7). Thank you for a wonderful video!
Love Mary Stewart! The first one of hers I read was Nine Coaches Waiting in about 1969 and I read every book of hers I could get my hands on. I think it’s time for a re-read.
I’ve read almost all
Of Philippe Gregory’s books except the wildacre trilogy. I had them on my shelf and decided to pick wildacre up and read it after seeing you talk about it. It has a lot of bad reviews on Goodreads so I’m hoping it’s not as bad as some reviews.
Thanks!
Thank you so much!
I just finished ‘a special relationship by Douglas Kennedy’ and you are spot on, I had a hard time putting down. Thank for the suggestion.
Love your list. Thank you
Thank you so much! I get so excited to get recommendations on books and authors. It’s always worth a try. I love murder mysteries, thrillers, and suspense, and especially ones set in London. I’m off to find these books…thanks again!
I find your channel/videos so refreshing - it's nice to hear perspective on some really good older books out there. I too read Wideacre, and think I enjoyed the 2nd and 3rd in that series better than the 1st; ( read this so long ago now ) but it was what started me on reading everything of Philippa Gregory's that I can!! I was so excited to hear you speak of Susan Howatch - Cashelmara and Penmarric are my ultimate favorites of hers ( I still have a few on my shelves to read, Glittering Images being one ) I've read The Dark Shore, Call in the Night and The Shrouded Walls. I have a collection of Mary Stewart's books - that I really need to start. Have you read the Morland Dynasty by Cynthia Harrod-Eagles? I am always recommending that series - as well Into the Wilderness ( series ) by Sarah Donati. thanks for the Tilly appearance!!
Thank you. I did read the sequel to Wideacre - the Favoured Child - but I didn't find it quite as intriguing as the first one, and I never got round to the third in the series. I've read Howatch's Penmarric too, which is really good. I am sure I have read Cynthia Harrod-Eagles, but I'm not sure which one. I must have another look for her books.🙂
Well, that episode just bumped up my World of Books wish list hehehe😅 I have read a lot of Susan Howach, all the church ones, her shorter early novels and Cashelmara and Penmarric ( even lived in a house called Penmarric once as well!). You I might like to try A Ship made of Paper by Scott Spencer and Real Life by Brandon Taylor - both American and very compelling.
Thanks for the suggestions. I'll look out for these.
Thank you for reminding me about Mary Stewart. I went straight to my bookshelf to find the unread books of hers. I loved Thorneyhold which lead me to pick up others I came across in Thrift shops. I'm well into the Moon-Spinners with four more awaiting, including This Rough Magic. 🙂
Think I've read most of these authors. I know what you mean about outgrowing autbors. I definitely remember reading quite a lot of Mary Stewart including This Rough Magic, My Brother Michael and Airs Above the Ground. Also loved the Poldark novels and Patricia Highsmith. Haven't read any Phillipa Gregory. As far as incest goes I did have an unhealthy obsession with the Flowers In The Attic books which I outgrew after about number three. What a great video!
Would this group consider Kathleen Windsor's "Forever Amber" an addition to this list? I surely loved it.
All suggestions are welcome! I have heard of this book but never read it - I'll look out for a copy.
A magnificent story! ❤
Never forgotten it.
Oh gosh! My mom handed down her copy of Forever Amber! I loved it.
How wonderful! I haven’t heard of many of these! Love Mary Stewart!
I so agree about Winston Graham and The Walking Stick, and I too have my original old hardback of it.
I, too, loved Mary Stewart.
I've added The Walking Stick to my tbr. Thank you for sharing these with us. Your tribute was special and sweet. ❤📚❤️
So many good books. Thanks. I can’t wait to find them and try them.
I love Winston Graham's novels. I believe he wrote the final Poldark novel in his 90s.
Loved Winston Grants books specially Poldark
I have read all her books. Wonderful writer
What a great list. I read all of Susan Howatch, but couldn't remember her or the series. I enjoyed your presentation very much much.
I haven't read Mary Stewart for many years. I always enjoyed what I read, I was just able ti get Wildacre for free on Audible. Looking forward to reading it. A couple books that I was unable to put down were the Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and Pillars of The Earth by Ken Follett. Two of my all time favorites. Hello to Tillie.
Hello!
Thank you very much for your books suggestions. I love to hear you from Spain.
Maybe would be a great idea to think about a book club. I'm sure you will be a nice coordinator.
😊😃
Thanks for the suggestion. Not sure if I have the time, but I'll think about that one!
Thank you so much for this video! I haven't read any of these books so I will definitely have to find them! And hello to Tilly as well!😍
In my reading log I noted Wildacre as WONDERFUL!
Child 44 by Tom Robb Smith is unputdownable too. I think I'll try to get hold of a copy of This Rough Magic, it sounds mysterious and compelling.
I'm new to your channel so not sure if you've listed any humourous novels. Sue Townsend's The Woman Who Went to Bed for a Year is hilarious.
I did a video last January - books to brighten up your day (or something like that) which included some humourous novels. Not Sue Townsend, though - I haven't read much of hers, though she would definitely be a good one to include!
Hi, I loved Mary Stewart books and also Winston Graham! These are some great ones! Have you read any Victoria Holt books? Those were really popular back in the day too. 😊
I have read Victoria Holt - she is really good.
I love Mary Stewart! Especially here Merlin books, they are my go to reads when I need a visit with an old friend ❤ her book The Moon Spinners was made into a Disney movie. Great recommendations thank you!
Oh yes, I loved the Merlin books!
I'm so glad I found you. These are books that I read way back when. If you love Susan Howatch, The Wheel of Fortune is a must read. I have gotten into a rut and only read paranormal romance or fantasy; you know, vampires and monsters and romance. I've been wanting to get back in the mainstream so I enoy seeing what you have read. I also love Rosamund Pilcher, especially The Shell Seekers and Victoria Holt. Victoria Holt is an all time favorite and I wonder if you have read her? I'm looking for your suggestion now that I haven't read.
Thank you! I don't think I've read The Wheel of Fortune, so I'll certainly look out for that. I love Rosamund Pilcher too - and I've only read Victoria Holt writing as Jean Plaidy.
Lovely recommendations grandma ❤ sending lots of love to you 😘😘
I cannot tell you how happy it made me to hear someone talk about Mary Stewart. I have long loved her books dearly. I recently re-read a couple of her books and I plan to read more.
Just now, I am reading the Amelia Peabody mysteries by Elizabeth Peters, and I don’t want to ever put them down. The Crocodile on the Sandbank (first in the series) is in my mental list of “favorite books.” I have never been an audio book person, but, due to some issues with migraines lately, I’ve had to change my stance on this. The “Amelia” books are narrated by Barbara Rosenblat. She brings the book to dazzling life, even greater than my imagination. That says a great deal.
Glad to have found your channel. 😊
Thank you for you lovely comment and suggestions!
Amelia Peabody is very entertaining 😂
I really enjoyed Susan Howarch 20-some years ago. Recently, I checked library to see if still had, alas. I read the three you have. A Question of Integrity, I'd not heard of. I must check thrift shops
Thank you Rosamunde! Recently my mother-in-law reminded me about Mary Stewart- I was delighted to see you start with her - her control of suspense is amazing. I have read another title by Patricia Highsmith and, while I usually bookmark and return several times to a book, with her writing, I could not! She seems to build and build tension, uncertainties around characters and then a pursuit of some sort ends in breathtaking discovery. Thanks for your recommendation of Highsmith. I will be on the look out for Winston Graham's book, "The Walking Stick" too. I haven't yet read any of his books and I'm intrigued.📚💐
You brought back memories of an author that I read in my twenties…introduced by my mom who was an avid reader. Have you read any by Victoria Holt? I loved her mysteries… Bride of Pendorric being one that stands out. I wonder if I would still like it as much now.
I have to say the last book I could not put down was Fairy Tale by Stephen King.Never read any of his scary books before but this one drew me in and I loved it….it is just an amazing adventure, fantasy with tidbits of wisdom and it made me feel so many emotions. May be the only book I read by him but so glad I did. Tfs! ❤
Thanks - yes, I've read Victoria Holt, writing as Jean Plaidy - I think it was one of the first historical novels I ever read, and I did enjoy it! The Stephen King book sounds right up my street - I'll look out for that.
I always enjoyed Dorothy Eden books too. Her Afternoon Walk, is very atmospheric and suspenseful, and is a favourite.
Thanks - I don't know her books - I'll look out for them.
Thank you for this! I love your book recommendation videos. I had a real passion for Mary Stewart in my teens but haven't read her for ages. I wonder what I'd think of her books now.
I have been enjoying your videos for quite some time now, so, I have signed up to your newsletter and received a free PDF of your book called 'Out Of Time' which I'm looking forward to reading some this evening. Thank you.
Thank you so much - I hope you enjoy it!
Hi Rosamunde! Thanks for more great books to put on my TBR list. Ive heard of all the writers but the American Douglas Kennedy! 🤷♀️ Susan Howatch is not too familiar to me; my parents may have read some of hers in the 70s. 😊
Oh yes, Mary Stewart wrote some very captivating books! One of hers that I've read a few times is the highly intriguing 'Thornyhold'. I have a nice vintage hardback of 'Madam Will You Talk?' , that I've yet to read, but think I might do that this summer. I find Patricia Wentworth stories to be un-put-downable, and also books by John Buchan and Sax Rohmer, which are rather exciting!
Wow! Thanks for all the great recommendations to add to my TBR list. New subscriber:)
I'm loving all of your videos and your wonderful reviews!! Mary Stewart was a favorite back in the 60s and 70s. I need to try Graham and Howatch. I tried one of the Tudor series by Gregory, but DNFd it because I was becoming attached to Catherine and I knew she would be killed. Thank you for great recommendations!!
I haven‘t read any of your recommended books yet but I‘m tempted to. I have read Mary Stewart‘s books Madam Will You Talk and Nine Coaches Waiting though. I‘m also very interested in books by Douglas Kennedy. My current unputdownable read is The Whalebone Theatre by Joanna Quinn.
Oh and I just remembered that I have read books by Patricia Highsmith - many years ago… 📚😊
Hi Rosamunde, I discovered your channel last week & am going through your older podcasts to catch up. I’m of your vintage & still teaching senior level literature & find many of your literary tastes resonate with mine. I felt compelled to write now from here in Sydney as you’ve just reviewed Wideacre which I’m currently reading. However, as much as I can’t put it down, I’m equally fearful to go on. It’s so very disturbing with a dreadful sense of foreboding that pervades every page. I’m up to John about to meet Dr Rose. Not sure I have the fortitude to go on with its relentless machinations perpetrated by Beatrice. Thank you for unwittingly reassuring me of my concerns with this addictive read which paradoxically I must try to resist. Great channel! Thank you.
Remember those old Elizabeth Peters, Barbara Michaels books?! I still reread them!
i love those!