Gilt by Katherine Longshore

Title: Gilt
Author: Katherine Longshore
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: 4.5

I received Gilt from the Early Reviewer's program on Library Thing and one again was able to discover a wonderful book I probably would have never purchased on my own.  I enjoy historical fiction, but am leary of purchasing these type of novels because it's hard to find an author who writes them well. Gilt was a fun historical fiction novel, written more so for teens, (most of the conflict revolves around teen drama) but can be applied and enjoyed by all ages.
Review:
Gilt is a teen historical fiction novel about the Henry VIII debacle. This story focuses around Cat's, Catherine Howard, story told from the perspective of Cat's childhood friend Kiity.

Even though Henry VII and Cat are in the novel, Kitty's transformation from a girl who does whatever she is told to a free-thinking individual is the main focus. Gilt is filled with romance, hte intrigue of court life, difficult choices, consequences, and revelations.

This novel was one I couldn't put down. It held all the elements of a great historical fiction novel. I would definitely recommend this to others, mainly teens, who enjoy historical fiction especially about Henry VII. It's not as detailed as a Phillipa Gregory novel, but a good fast read.

The Secrets of Mary Bowser by Lois Leveen

Title: The Secrets of Mary Bowser
Author: Lois Leveen
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: 4.5

I received this as part of an Early Reviewer program through LibraryThing and was super excited because I haven't read a Civil War era story in quite some time.  I was really impressed by this novel because of all the historical detail in it and how inspiring the story is for the reader.

Review:
Centered around a strong female African American character, this book provides a story filled with inspiration and hope.
Mary is a slave in Richmond, Virginia who is set free and sent North to receive an education by her wealthy mistress, Bet Van Lew. Mary leaves her beloved parents behind in Virginia to receive her education and realizes that she wants more than to just be free and educated; she wants to make a difference and help end slavery. So when Mary is given the chance to return to Richmond and turn spy for the Union against President Jefferson Davis, she takes it. Along the way, Mary is confronted with many difficult choices, discovers love and loss, and risks everything she has to help end slavery.
A wonderful, inspirational story the reader will enjoy while also learning something about American history