2010 Reading Challenge - 2/30 Done

The Constant Princess by Philippa Gregory

A Christmas gift from my wonderful husband, The Constant Princess was my second finished book of the year. It was a beautiful, lovely read. Chronologically, it precedes The Other Boleyn Girl and The Boleyn Inheritance, though I read both of those last year.

I've loved all three, but I loved this the most. Katherine of Aragon was an amazing, interesting Princess and Queen, and this book has inspired me to look into her life even more.

Inspired by The Literate Housewife's recommendations (whom, by the way, I love), I'm now reading the Tudor-era historical fiction in chronological order. She's made a wonderful comprehensive list that even "fills in the gaps" of Philippa Gregory's series. So, next up will be a new (to me) author, Vanora Bennett. I look forward to reading and reviewing her work as well!

Happy Reading,

2010 Reading Challenge

I'm participating in a reading challenge for 2010. My goal is to read 30 books this year, no re-reads. I made 15 last year, so this will be a push for me, but I think it is doable. I am also including audiobooks, as I've decided to make the most of my long commute.

Tonight I finished listening to Chronicles of Avonlea by one of my all-time favourite authors, L.M. Montgomery. A collection of short stories, our dear Anne Shirley appears several times. She isn't featured in any of the stories, but it nonetheless gave me a little thrill each time I heard her name, like running into an old friend.

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book. The short stories were just perfect for my commute to work – at an average of half an hour apiece, I could listen to approximately 3 between my drives to and from work. The stories were engrossing, and I found myself laughing many times. I am addicted to audiobooks all of a sudden, and I look forward to the Further Chronicles of Avonlea in the near future.

I highly recommend this book to anybody who has known Anne, though of course it isn't necessary at all! This would be a delightful read at nearly any age, and I'm sure I will listen to it, and probably pick up a paper copy, again and again.

Oh and... 1 down, 29 to go!