The world of historical fiction features great authors and great bloggers and book reviewers who help promote the wonderful novels written by these fantastic historical fiction writers. These bloggers and reviewers have a passion for historical fiction and are proud to promote the works they read and enjoy. Lucy Bertoldi of Enchanted by Josephine-History Salon, the Montreal Books Examiner, the Montreal History Examiner, The Historical Novel Society, History and Women, Booktrib, RHFL, Amazon Reviews, Chapters Indigo, Goodreads, and NetGalley answers 10 questions about the genre she so loves.
1. What was the first historical fiction novel you ever read?
I can’t remember if it was "Queen of This Realm"- or "The Rose Without a Thorn"…either way, it was a Jean Plaidy novel. Incidentally, that’s how I got hooked on this fantastic author- and have become a collector of her books ever since.
2. What are your favorite historical fiction novels?
I have several- and most fall under the Jean Plaidy category- but if I had to choose one of hers, it would have to be "The Road to Compiegne". Other favourites: "The Josephine B. Trilogy" by Sandra Gulland, "Becoming Marie Antoinette" by Juliet Grey, "Trianon" by Elena Maria Vidal, "The Queen’s Vow" by C.W. Gortner and there are more!
3. Who are some historical fiction authors you have interviewed or worked with?
Working with authors is extremely rewarding for me. I love getting to know the writers behind the books I love. Interviewing authors or receiving them as hosts with their own guest posts is a regular feature on my site. Some of these fabulous authors include: Sandra Gulland, Sherry Jones, Leslie Carroll, Robin Maxwell, Kris Waldherr, Christy English, Patricia Bracewell, Christine Trent, Michelle Moran, C.W. Gortner, Kate Quinn, Elizabeth Chadwick and many more! See my Author’s page to read these if you’d like: http://enchantedbyjosephine.blogspot.ca/p/authors.html.
4. If you could go back in time and be any figure from history, who would it be?
I love this question! Well, as the name of my site suggests (Enchanted by Josephine-History Salon), I think some, and I do mean only some, parts of Josephine’s life were spectacular, and history has her as a lovely person with a great sense of style, compassion- and was an Empress. That being said though, as much as being Jojo could be great- there’s no doubt in my mind that Eleanor of Aquitane is the gal I’d go back as. She was a powerful ruler at a time when women had no say at all. She was also gorgeous, free-spirited and had incredible strength of mind. She was invincible (pretty tough to beat in any era).
5. What year in history would you have liked to live in?
I love both the 17th and 18th centuries…so that’s a difficult one for me…Probably 1654, to attend the coronation of Louis XIV, or 1770, and be a guest at Marie Antoinette’s wedding at Versailles!
6. You're having a dinner party and you can invite 5 people from history, who would they be?
A dinner party has to be fun, with guests who can appreciate a really good time so…Number one on my list: the absolute most fabulous of all kings, Louis XIV; his cousin the all-time charmer, Charles II; the glamorous and enchanting, Josephine Bonaparte; fun-loving Marie Antoinette, the great Eleanor with her singing Court of Love for entertainment (Eleanor would certainly be the one setting the pace for the party!). Would also be nice to have one happily married couple in the mix ,so count Isabel and Ferdinand too!
7. What castle from the past or present would you like to live in?
I love Versailles, but I love Italy way more than France and so the Palace of Caserta in Naples, Italy, built for the Bourbon King Charles II of Naples for me is absolutely breathtaking! Almost a replica of Versailles, but in better condition and in a sunny splendid part of Italy. Perfect!
8. Which of the six wives of King Henry VIII is your favorite?
Catherine of Aragon- no question about that!
9. Do you read traditional books or use an E-Reader?
I read both. Initially I was very reluctant on trying e-readers, but now I can’t live without my Kindle- it’s so much more practical in terms of how many books I can carry around with me in one little tablet! I also read off my ipad, but after one day in the sun- Kndle has won my heart (am actually contemplating getting the Kindle Fire…). There’s one thing e-readers can’t replace though- and that’s my love of collectibles- such as the Plaidy’s. I’m always on the hunt for those. There’s nothing like finding one of those deliciously aged books for me.
10. Tea or coffee when reading and reviewing books?
Tea- tons of cups (but I have to cut down on the sugar though!).
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