Some things....

I recently read Jonathon Strange and Mr. Norell, and found it one of the most entertaining novels Ive picked up in a long, long time. I was surprised to see it mentioned by Touchstone as worthy of the Inklings. See here. Susanna Clark creates a very, very plausible "real world" magic scenario with solid characters.

also....

Here is the trailer for The Golden Age, a very gorgeous looking film of Queen Elizabeth fighting off the Spanish Armada. I think most of us on this blog know about how unquestioningly pro-Anglo our cultural historians are. The fear of the Inquisition coming to England seems to be used as a device. Most of us are aware that Elizabeth's purges and actions make the Inquisition look tame. I wanted to bring this up to demonstrate "Small World Theory." The guys at Arms & Armor/ The Oakeshott Institute that Dale and I visited for the "Sword Issue" designed and made most of the props and weapons used in this movie.

Have a great weekend!!