Monthly Archives: December 2013

Catherine Bailey, “The Secret Rooms”

Posted on December 31, 2013 by carolwallace

Historian Catherine Bailey arrived at Belvoir Castle in the summer of 2008 to research a book on the effect of World War I on the Belvoir estate, which belonged to the Duke of Rutland. Some 1,700 men, at the urging … Continue reading →

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Eva Ibbotson, “Magic Flutes”

Posted on December 19, 2013 by carolwallace

From time to time, I like a meringue, and when that’s what you want, there’s no substitute for its insubstantial sweetness. But given the choice, I will always opt for floating island instead. You’ve had it, I hope? It’s more … Continue reading →

Posted in anglophilia, funny | Tagged | 3 Comments

Hilary Mantel, “Giving Up the Ghost”

Posted on December 16, 2013 by carolwallace

Well, a lot of things have become clearer since I read Hilary Mantel’s memoir Giving Up the Ghost. It comes as no surprise to realize that Mantel is really, really smart. It seems that her academic career could have been … Continue reading →

Posted in anglophilia, memoir | Tagged | 4 Comments

Hilary Mantel, “Fludd”

Posted on December 7, 2013 by carolwallace

Well, we knew Hilary Mantel to be brilliant, right? The research, the sweep and scope and humanity of Wolf Hall bring English history to life and makes Thomas Cromwell a fascinating character. But here’s my news for today: Mantel is … Continue reading →

Posted in anglophilia, funny | Tagged | 4 Comments