My favorite link of the week is definitely Helen Hollick’s review of Hand of Fire. Helen is one of the editors at Historical Novels Review and an excellent writer, so this kind of praise coming from her was amazing. In the review she outlines what makes a good historical fiction novel (excellent analysis btw) and then concludes, “But what is the difference between a good historical novel and a brilliant one? I suggest you read Judith Starkston’s Hand of Fire and you’ll discover the answer.” Link here.
My local newspaper, The Ahwatukee Foothills News featured me in their Community Section. Good write up. Link here.
This is more science than archaeology, but it’s too fascinating not to tell. They have solved the mystery of the giant boulders in Death Valley that appear to move by themselves. This is the stuff of fantasy and alien invaders, except it turns out to have a fairly simple scientific explanation. Link here.
Mirella Patzer has posted this entertainingly wild story of 7 19th century sisters who made their fortunes with their extraordinarily long hair. Also a review of a book based loosely on them. Link here.
Early Bronze Age copper smelting techniques described on English Historical Fiction Authors website by Paul Burnette. (Not for light reading, have to say) Link here.