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In the Dead of the Night
Northshire Heritage
JP Robinson
2022 Finalist
402 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Michelle Stanley for Readers' Favorite
“The two most important warriors are patience and time.” JP Robinson’s Christian historical fiction novel, In the Dead of the Night (Northshire Heritage), is one intriguing drama. The Great War (WW1) continues its devastating path of destruction. Thomas Steele, branded a traitor, risks his life to return to England to save his Northshire estate from being seized by the government. His German daughter-in-law, Leila, is forced to resume spying when Elsbeth Schneider, the German espionage network leader, abducts her child. Elsbeth knows Leila’s strengths and capabilities, thus playing on her emotions and loyalties to the German cause. Malcolm is overwhelmed by the recurring backlash he faces from his father’s treason and his wife’s occupation. But he will do whatever it takes to rescue his son and save his legacy.
Spies, lies, love, and loyalty are often misleading in JP Robinson’s outstanding novel, In the Dead of the Night (Northshire Heritage). These characters are definitely skilled in manipulation and survival skills, even the untrained ones. A few of the events that occurred are based on actual historical references that JP Robinson included in his informative notes. Some of the characters were created after he was inspired by historical figures he read about, including the barbarous Elsbeth Schneider and spymaster Robert Hughes. David Lloyd George served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1916-1922. There’s often a lot of information and news-worthy documentation on WW2, so it was nice to learn more about The Great War and how it affected the world. In the Dead of the Night (Northshire Heritage) is a novel that historians and readers, in general, will find a fantastic read.
“The two most important warriors are patience and time.” JP Robinson’s Christian historical fiction novel, In the Dead of the Night (Northshire Heritage), is one intriguing drama. The Great War (WW1) continues its devastating path of destruction. Thomas Steele, branded a traitor, risks his life to return to England to save his Northshire estate from being seized by the government. His German daughter-in-law, Leila, is forced to resume spying when Elsbeth Schneider, the German espionage network leader, abducts her child. Elsbeth knows Leila’s strengths and capabilities, thus playing on her emotions and loyalties to the German cause. Malcolm is overwhelmed by the recurring backlash he faces from his father’s treason and his wife’s occupation. But he will do whatever it takes to rescue his son and save his legacy.
Spies, lies, love, and loyalty are often misleading in JP Robinson’s outstanding novel, In the Dead of the Night (Northshire Heritage). These characters are definitely skilled in manipulation and survival skills, even the untrained ones. A few of the events that occurred are based on actual historical references that JP Robinson included in his informative notes. Some of the characters were created after he was inspired by historical figures he read about, including the barbarous Elsbeth Schneider and spymaster Robert Hughes. David Lloyd George served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1916-1922. There’s often a lot of information and news-worthy documentation on WW2, so it was nice to learn more about The Great War and how it affected the world. In the Dead of the Night (Northshire Heritage) is a novel that historians and readers, in general, will find a fantastic read.
Recommend this book:
David, God's Chosen Crucible
Joseph Ganci
2022 Honorable Mention
490 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite
David, God's Chosen Crucible by Joseph Ganci is a historical novel that retells the life of David - the prophet, warrior, king, musician, psalmist, and lover. The author brings to life some of the outstanding events in David’s life, weaving a narrative that is spellbinding and infusing the tale with intrigue and relentless suspense. It is the story of the shepherd boy who receives God’s favor. Anointed as king, he has to deal with all kinds of challenges while evading the traps set by the vengeful Saul. Some scenes are beautifully written, and the author does a wonderful job of crafting moments like David’s desperate escape, his friendships, the kidnapping of his two wives, and his battles against the shapeshifting Amalekites. Events that will arrest the attention of readers include the battle at Mount Gilboa and the fall of Saul, David’s wedding, the encounter with Goliath, and many more.
This book is intelligently plotted, well-researched, and expertly executed. The writing by Joseph Ganci is wonderful and the author has the gift of filling the narrative with exciting details, describing a setting that is colorful and transports readers to biblical times. The cultural elements are well-written and readers find themselves in a nuanced world, brimming with religious conflict. I particularly enjoyed the vividness with which the rural, idyllic landscapes are portrayed. This historical narrative is not lacking when it comes to action, and at every turn, there is something that engages David - threats from enemies like Saul who is consumed by jealousy, thoughts about love, or his preoccupation with God’s will. There is an unusual blend of divine and mortal energy that runs through the story and that mesmerizes readers. David, God's Chosen Crucible is one of the best stories I have read about biblical characters.
David, God's Chosen Crucible by Joseph Ganci is a historical novel that retells the life of David - the prophet, warrior, king, musician, psalmist, and lover. The author brings to life some of the outstanding events in David’s life, weaving a narrative that is spellbinding and infusing the tale with intrigue and relentless suspense. It is the story of the shepherd boy who receives God’s favor. Anointed as king, he has to deal with all kinds of challenges while evading the traps set by the vengeful Saul. Some scenes are beautifully written, and the author does a wonderful job of crafting moments like David’s desperate escape, his friendships, the kidnapping of his two wives, and his battles against the shapeshifting Amalekites. Events that will arrest the attention of readers include the battle at Mount Gilboa and the fall of Saul, David’s wedding, the encounter with Goliath, and many more.
This book is intelligently plotted, well-researched, and expertly executed. The writing by Joseph Ganci is wonderful and the author has the gift of filling the narrative with exciting details, describing a setting that is colorful and transports readers to biblical times. The cultural elements are well-written and readers find themselves in a nuanced world, brimming with religious conflict. I particularly enjoyed the vividness with which the rural, idyllic landscapes are portrayed. This historical narrative is not lacking when it comes to action, and at every turn, there is something that engages David - threats from enemies like Saul who is consumed by jealousy, thoughts about love, or his preoccupation with God’s will. There is an unusual blend of divine and mortal energy that runs through the story and that mesmerizes readers. David, God's Chosen Crucible is one of the best stories I have read about biblical characters.
Recommend this book:
The Sword Of Saint Isidores
Book One, Circles of Time Series.
David Thomas Kay
2022 Bronze Medal
508 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
The Sword Of Saint Isidores by David Thomas Kay is a sweeping historical fantasy fiction novel and the first book in the author's new Circles of Time series. This installment is a 10th-century gem and quite literally includes the same within the glorious scabbard of the titular sword as the Viking era comes to life. The sword falls into the bloodied hands of the Scandinavian warrior Ragnarr from the outstretched hands of a doomed monk. It is both cursed and coveted, the prized bounty that is no talisman, dancing between the superstitions of Norse mythology and Christian lore. War, slavery, pillage, murder, doctrine, and royalty tightly weave through the pages with the sword leading in directions that push a reader swiftly through historically significant realms and some of the most storied rulers—both real and imagined—of the ancient world. “He still found it hard to believe that both their fathers, living on opposite sides of the ocean, and without any knowledge of each other, could have a close association with this sword, once the property of two legendary kings, Harald and Athelstan.”
There is a lot going on in The Sword Of Saint Isidores and author David Thomas Kay forced me to do what some of the best writers have made me do before: take notes. My first experience of having to do homework was at the foot of Bernard Cornwell's Stonehenge...but stay with me here for a moment longer because, I can assure you, this is a very good thing. Both characters and history are rich and this flourishes in Kay's prose. The narrative is as dense as the forests thinned for longboats that make up the bulk of the book's writing format, and require some scribbles to refresh, but with lines that almost sing, it is worth it: “A crack like the sound of snapping bone signaled the end of the oak’s life, as it finally relinquished its hold on the earth.” Readers who adore Viking sagas will find the fantasy element takes us outside the traditional box of the genre. It is difficult to reinvent a wheel [or oar?] that has rolled for eleven centuries but Kay does a great job setting the foundation for what looks like a promising series. Very highly recommended.
The Sword Of Saint Isidores by David Thomas Kay is a sweeping historical fantasy fiction novel and the first book in the author's new Circles of Time series. This installment is a 10th-century gem and quite literally includes the same within the glorious scabbard of the titular sword as the Viking era comes to life. The sword falls into the bloodied hands of the Scandinavian warrior Ragnarr from the outstretched hands of a doomed monk. It is both cursed and coveted, the prized bounty that is no talisman, dancing between the superstitions of Norse mythology and Christian lore. War, slavery, pillage, murder, doctrine, and royalty tightly weave through the pages with the sword leading in directions that push a reader swiftly through historically significant realms and some of the most storied rulers—both real and imagined—of the ancient world. “He still found it hard to believe that both their fathers, living on opposite sides of the ocean, and without any knowledge of each other, could have a close association with this sword, once the property of two legendary kings, Harald and Athelstan.”
There is a lot going on in The Sword Of Saint Isidores and author David Thomas Kay forced me to do what some of the best writers have made me do before: take notes. My first experience of having to do homework was at the foot of Bernard Cornwell's Stonehenge...but stay with me here for a moment longer because, I can assure you, this is a very good thing. Both characters and history are rich and this flourishes in Kay's prose. The narrative is as dense as the forests thinned for longboats that make up the bulk of the book's writing format, and require some scribbles to refresh, but with lines that almost sing, it is worth it: “A crack like the sound of snapping bone signaled the end of the oak’s life, as it finally relinquished its hold on the earth.” Readers who adore Viking sagas will find the fantasy element takes us outside the traditional box of the genre. It is difficult to reinvent a wheel [or oar?] that has rolled for eleven centuries but Kay does a great job setting the foundation for what looks like a promising series. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Confessions of a Janissary
An Epic Tale of Military Historical Fiction and Medieval Action Adventure
Nicholas Downing
2022 Silver Medal
248 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite
Confessions of a Janissary by Nicholas Downing is an absorbing, compelling work of Christian historical fiction. This engrossing story is set in the early Ottoman Empire, in the latter part of the 14th century. Christian boys are taken from their families by the Sultan and used as slave soldiers, converted to Islam against their will, and their future is serving in the military for the Empire for the rest of their lives. This sprawling tale centers on one boy named Mirko who grows to manhood--one of the slaves destined to be a hero. He's a celibate looking for his one true love and a stray sheep needing guidance. Besides the faith aspect, you have many different themes streaming through the narrative, from friendship to adventure to epic battles and more. With a plot like this, you never know what will happen next, and the story is told in fine detail and thorough description, which holds you in the long-ago time and place. If you're looking to get lost in a unique, heart-quickening story, this one has it all.
Downing respects his audience by providing plenty of researched information that adds so much believability to the narrative. You'll learn about history, culture, customs, and faiths. Couple that with a strong plot and convincing characters and situations and you have a hit novel on your hands. You can enjoy this book even if you aren't of a certain faith. The author doesn't tell you how to believe, he just presents his fascinating story. The first thing I noticed about the book is the authoritative voice of the author. He confidently explains what is going on all the way through. It's books like Downing's that bring history to life. I like the emotionality of the plot points and characters, but the author balances the darkness and hard times with hope and light. They say adversity can strengthen a person. Well, it does in Mirko's case. He is a strong character with traits that readers will connect with, admire, and root for. He's looking to discover who he really is, but it doesn't come easily. Maps are included in the text and some definitions. If you are looking for a work of Christian historical fiction that will captivate you until the end, Confessions of a Janissary by Nicholas Downing should be on your reading list this year.
Confessions of a Janissary by Nicholas Downing is an absorbing, compelling work of Christian historical fiction. This engrossing story is set in the early Ottoman Empire, in the latter part of the 14th century. Christian boys are taken from their families by the Sultan and used as slave soldiers, converted to Islam against their will, and their future is serving in the military for the Empire for the rest of their lives. This sprawling tale centers on one boy named Mirko who grows to manhood--one of the slaves destined to be a hero. He's a celibate looking for his one true love and a stray sheep needing guidance. Besides the faith aspect, you have many different themes streaming through the narrative, from friendship to adventure to epic battles and more. With a plot like this, you never know what will happen next, and the story is told in fine detail and thorough description, which holds you in the long-ago time and place. If you're looking to get lost in a unique, heart-quickening story, this one has it all.
Downing respects his audience by providing plenty of researched information that adds so much believability to the narrative. You'll learn about history, culture, customs, and faiths. Couple that with a strong plot and convincing characters and situations and you have a hit novel on your hands. You can enjoy this book even if you aren't of a certain faith. The author doesn't tell you how to believe, he just presents his fascinating story. The first thing I noticed about the book is the authoritative voice of the author. He confidently explains what is going on all the way through. It's books like Downing's that bring history to life. I like the emotionality of the plot points and characters, but the author balances the darkness and hard times with hope and light. They say adversity can strengthen a person. Well, it does in Mirko's case. He is a strong character with traits that readers will connect with, admire, and root for. He's looking to discover who he really is, but it doesn't come easily. Maps are included in the text and some definitions. If you are looking for a work of Christian historical fiction that will captivate you until the end, Confessions of a Janissary by Nicholas Downing should be on your reading list this year.
Recommend this book:
Bold Springs
William Tinsley
2022 Gold Medal
372 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Kimberlee J Benart for Readers' Favorite
Bold Springs by William Tinsley is a work of historical fiction with a Christian theme. Set during the Civil War, it’s an epic tale that spans the secession of Texas to the battlefields of Virginia and crescendos at Gettysburg. It is centered around two men: storekeeper William James and the Reverend John Browder, neither of whom is either pro-slavery or pro-secession, one a man of uncertain faith and the other of deep belief, one a veteran of the Battle of San Jacinto and Texas independence and the other a more recent northern immigrant. It follows the lives of a company of Texas Confederate Army volunteers and some of their family members as they experience the drama, trauma, and social upheaval of the war that once divided the country.
In Bold Springs, William Tinsley gives us an engaging, dramatic, and ultimately uplifting story that satisfies on many levels. Whether you’re a fan of Civil War fiction or anything about Texas, you won’t be disappointed. The characters of William James and Reverend Browder are carefully and believably drawn. These are men who have imperfections but who attempt to do what is right even in the face of threats to their lives from their own neighbors. William’s friendship with Sam Houston and John’s with Abraham Lincoln, along with references to military leaders and combatants on both sides, provide historical insight. Most of all, a golden thread runs throughout: an edifying call for brotherhood, unity, and peace. Highly recommended.
Bold Springs by William Tinsley is a work of historical fiction with a Christian theme. Set during the Civil War, it’s an epic tale that spans the secession of Texas to the battlefields of Virginia and crescendos at Gettysburg. It is centered around two men: storekeeper William James and the Reverend John Browder, neither of whom is either pro-slavery or pro-secession, one a man of uncertain faith and the other of deep belief, one a veteran of the Battle of San Jacinto and Texas independence and the other a more recent northern immigrant. It follows the lives of a company of Texas Confederate Army volunteers and some of their family members as they experience the drama, trauma, and social upheaval of the war that once divided the country.
In Bold Springs, William Tinsley gives us an engaging, dramatic, and ultimately uplifting story that satisfies on many levels. Whether you’re a fan of Civil War fiction or anything about Texas, you won’t be disappointed. The characters of William James and Reverend Browder are carefully and believably drawn. These are men who have imperfections but who attempt to do what is right even in the face of threats to their lives from their own neighbors. William’s friendship with Sam Houston and John’s with Abraham Lincoln, along with references to military leaders and combatants on both sides, provide historical insight. Most of all, a golden thread runs throughout: an edifying call for brotherhood, unity, and peace. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Among Kings
The Amazing Adventures of the Congo's African American Livingstone and the Courageous People who Toppled King Leopold II
Joey O'Connor
2021 Finalist
450 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Grace Masso for Readers' Favorite
Among Kings: The Amazing Adventures of the Congo's African American Livingstone and the Courageous People who Toppled King Leopold II by Joey O’Connor tells the story of one man’s courage as he becomes the voice of a voiceless and enslaved people, of the greed of a foreign king, and a tide that changed the history of a nation. It is also the story of the years of servitude of the people of the Congo, colonized by Belgium, and the acts of bravery that brought down the heartless occupier.
William Sheppard is a black American missionary and an explorer whose first visit to the Congo is met with insurmountable challenges as he and his friend, Samuel Lapsley, struggle to establish their first mission. Their travel along the Congo River is fraught with adversity and danger from the natural elements, wild animals, and unfriendly tribes. Faced with a tragedy at the mission, William sets out on adventures that will gain him respect among kings and governments. Desirous of reuniting with his fiancée, Lucy Gantt, he travels back to the US, but meets the country far worse than he has ever known it, with Jim Crow Laws and racism gaining ground every day. William returns to the Congo with Lucy and is appalled that King Leopold II has enslaved the entire nation for his rubber trade. With his camera, he designs a plan of activism that will bring down the greedy and inhuman colonizer.
Among Kings is a story that does a lot of justice to history, and readers with knowledge of King Leopold II’s colonization of the Congo will adore the book. It has strong moments and scenes that are terrifically written. From the experience of young Shamba, the descriptions of the tribes and their way of life, the setting in the heart of the jungle, to the experiences of the characters, the author takes readers on a journey to an exciting world that is possible in movies. I loved the strong imagery, the cunning plot, and the author’s intelligent handling of character. This book should be made into a movie. It is gripping, filled with pathos, and entertaining at the same time.
Among Kings: The Amazing Adventures of the Congo's African American Livingstone and the Courageous People who Toppled King Leopold II by Joey O’Connor tells the story of one man’s courage as he becomes the voice of a voiceless and enslaved people, of the greed of a foreign king, and a tide that changed the history of a nation. It is also the story of the years of servitude of the people of the Congo, colonized by Belgium, and the acts of bravery that brought down the heartless occupier.
William Sheppard is a black American missionary and an explorer whose first visit to the Congo is met with insurmountable challenges as he and his friend, Samuel Lapsley, struggle to establish their first mission. Their travel along the Congo River is fraught with adversity and danger from the natural elements, wild animals, and unfriendly tribes. Faced with a tragedy at the mission, William sets out on adventures that will gain him respect among kings and governments. Desirous of reuniting with his fiancée, Lucy Gantt, he travels back to the US, but meets the country far worse than he has ever known it, with Jim Crow Laws and racism gaining ground every day. William returns to the Congo with Lucy and is appalled that King Leopold II has enslaved the entire nation for his rubber trade. With his camera, he designs a plan of activism that will bring down the greedy and inhuman colonizer.
Among Kings is a story that does a lot of justice to history, and readers with knowledge of King Leopold II’s colonization of the Congo will adore the book. It has strong moments and scenes that are terrifically written. From the experience of young Shamba, the descriptions of the tribes and their way of life, the setting in the heart of the jungle, to the experiences of the characters, the author takes readers on a journey to an exciting world that is possible in movies. I loved the strong imagery, the cunning plot, and the author’s intelligent handling of character. This book should be made into a movie. It is gripping, filled with pathos, and entertaining at the same time.
Recommend this book:
Acts of Dreams
Part 3 of The Inquisition Trilogy
Martin Ivan Elsant
2021 Honorable Mention
234 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Heather Stockard for Readers' Favorite
Will and Maria Ames return to England, after their failed attempt to build a refuge for Inquisition victims. Instead of a warm welcome, they find only more trouble. Their recently fired lawyer, Nigel Chamberlain, has accused them of being secret Jews, which is true. He has been clandestinely gathering evidence in their absence and has more than enough to prove his case. If they are convicted, they will be expelled from England and lose everything. Will and the pregnant Maria cannot argue their innocence, so they decide instead to attempt to overturn the statute that forbids Jews from living in England. Their case will depend on the skill of their new lawyer, and the disposition of the judge, Christopher Hatton, one of Queen Elizabeth’s favorites whom she personally appointed to oversee the case. Hatton has his own misconceptions about the Jews, but his desire for religious peace, and his influence with the queen, may be the Ames’ only hope.
Martin Elsant’s Acts of Dreams: Part 3 of The Inquisition Trilogy is a fitting conclusion to his sweeping historical saga. The stage of characters includes a diverse array of illustrious historical and fictional personages, including Queen Elizabeth, Christopher Hatton, and Francis Drake. The action spans continents and oceans, from England to Spanish ports in far-off lands. Elsant has woven an intricate story with complex characters whose fates are interwoven and tied to a monarch whose whims will decide the future of them all. This book is a must-read for any historical fiction lovers.
Will and Maria Ames return to England, after their failed attempt to build a refuge for Inquisition victims. Instead of a warm welcome, they find only more trouble. Their recently fired lawyer, Nigel Chamberlain, has accused them of being secret Jews, which is true. He has been clandestinely gathering evidence in their absence and has more than enough to prove his case. If they are convicted, they will be expelled from England and lose everything. Will and the pregnant Maria cannot argue their innocence, so they decide instead to attempt to overturn the statute that forbids Jews from living in England. Their case will depend on the skill of their new lawyer, and the disposition of the judge, Christopher Hatton, one of Queen Elizabeth’s favorites whom she personally appointed to oversee the case. Hatton has his own misconceptions about the Jews, but his desire for religious peace, and his influence with the queen, may be the Ames’ only hope.
Martin Elsant’s Acts of Dreams: Part 3 of The Inquisition Trilogy is a fitting conclusion to his sweeping historical saga. The stage of characters includes a diverse array of illustrious historical and fictional personages, including Queen Elizabeth, Christopher Hatton, and Francis Drake. The action spans continents and oceans, from England to Spanish ports in far-off lands. Elsant has woven an intricate story with complex characters whose fates are interwoven and tied to a monarch whose whims will decide the future of them all. This book is a must-read for any historical fiction lovers.
Recommend this book:
When Dignity Came to Harlan
Rebecca Duvall Scott
2021 Bronze Medal
242 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Jennifer Ibiam for Readers' Favorite
In the early 1900s, the Atwoods left Leadwood, Missouri, because the lead mine stopped being productive. Their destination was Harlan, Kentucky, where there were alleged jobs at the coal mine. Ben and Laura Atwood agreed to split their children between homes in Harlan, where they could earn their keep. The parents promised to come back for them after they found jobs and settled. Jack and Grace Grainger got twelve-year-old Anna Beth and the two-year-old baby Olivia. Life was tough in the Grainger household, but Anna’s sister, Olivia, was all the determination she needed to keep on. However, a stand against bullying and another faceoff with the Durrett boys culminated in a series of events that changed her life forever. Find out what happened in When Dignity Came to Harlan by Rebecca Duvall Scott.
When Dignity Came to Harlan by Rebecca Duvall Scott is a thought-provoking story inspired by true events in her great-grandmother’s life. It is a tale of pain, grief, loss, betrayal, loyalty, sacrifice, immense strength, perseverance, and faith. This book was intense and left me emotional, from the dynamic plot to the captivating storyline. I loved the excellent character development, from Mr. Jingle to Grace, Carrie, and even Jack. Rebecca wrote a descriptive story that had me immersed and feeling the pain of Anna Beth. I asked why we victim shame, why it’s easier to believe the worst of people, why monsters have pristine societal standing, why confidants are talebearers? They are everywhere we look. Janie was a brave girl for making such a trip, and Mr. Jingle was the best gift for Anna. I loved Anna’s walk with God as a satisfying ending. Thank you for a beautiful story, Rebecca.
In the early 1900s, the Atwoods left Leadwood, Missouri, because the lead mine stopped being productive. Their destination was Harlan, Kentucky, where there were alleged jobs at the coal mine. Ben and Laura Atwood agreed to split their children between homes in Harlan, where they could earn their keep. The parents promised to come back for them after they found jobs and settled. Jack and Grace Grainger got twelve-year-old Anna Beth and the two-year-old baby Olivia. Life was tough in the Grainger household, but Anna’s sister, Olivia, was all the determination she needed to keep on. However, a stand against bullying and another faceoff with the Durrett boys culminated in a series of events that changed her life forever. Find out what happened in When Dignity Came to Harlan by Rebecca Duvall Scott.
When Dignity Came to Harlan by Rebecca Duvall Scott is a thought-provoking story inspired by true events in her great-grandmother’s life. It is a tale of pain, grief, loss, betrayal, loyalty, sacrifice, immense strength, perseverance, and faith. This book was intense and left me emotional, from the dynamic plot to the captivating storyline. I loved the excellent character development, from Mr. Jingle to Grace, Carrie, and even Jack. Rebecca wrote a descriptive story that had me immersed and feeling the pain of Anna Beth. I asked why we victim shame, why it’s easier to believe the worst of people, why monsters have pristine societal standing, why confidants are talebearers? They are everywhere we look. Janie was a brave girl for making such a trip, and Mr. Jingle was the best gift for Anna. I loved Anna’s walk with God as a satisfying ending. Thank you for a beautiful story, Rebecca.
Recommend this book:
Anointed
A David and Goliath Novel (The Davidic Chronicles) (Volume 1)
Greg S. Baker
2021 Silver Medal
220 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
Anointed: A David and Goliath Novel is an enthralling opening to The Davidic Chronicles by Greg S. Baker, a story that takes the reader back to ancient history and plunges them into the world of young David, the anointed one. The story begins with the prophet Samuel who visits Jesse with the news that the Lord has rejected Saul and is looking for a better man to lead His people. Jesse has strong faith in Samuel, whom he believes possesses the Lord’s words. He is stunned by Samuel’s revelation. To the utter surprise of everyone, Samuel wants young David, so he asks for David, insisting that there will be no feast until David comes. While the choice of the prophet shocks everyone, especially Jesse, David continues his adventures that include the ultimate encounter with Goliath, the jealousy and hatred of King Saul, and his experience of God’s power to deliver his people.
Greg S. Baker is not just a pastor but also a wonderful storyteller, taking a biblical tale and weaving it into a historical and cultural tapestry that keeps readers fascinated and inspired, bringing to light the prophetic nature of the story and the context in which it happened in history. The characters are both biblical and historical and the setting is the ancient land of Israel beset by multiple trials, most prominent among these being the Philistines. A spiritual atmosphere permeates the writing without robbing it of the humanity of the characters. I particularly enjoyed the way the author develops Samuel, Saul, and David. Elements of the setting — social, physical, and historical — are deftly written and the author shows a unique skill in exploring the conflict, allowing the dark emotions and resentment of Saul to come across powerfully. Anointed: A David and Goliath Novel is a tale that will delight readers while inspiring their faith through the skillful exploration of the grace of God in the life of a shepherd boy. The story is accompanied by relevant biblical citations. Anointed is a spellbinder that will have an irresistible appeal to readers who enjoy Christian literature and compelling historical novels.
Anointed: A David and Goliath Novel is an enthralling opening to The Davidic Chronicles by Greg S. Baker, a story that takes the reader back to ancient history and plunges them into the world of young David, the anointed one. The story begins with the prophet Samuel who visits Jesse with the news that the Lord has rejected Saul and is looking for a better man to lead His people. Jesse has strong faith in Samuel, whom he believes possesses the Lord’s words. He is stunned by Samuel’s revelation. To the utter surprise of everyone, Samuel wants young David, so he asks for David, insisting that there will be no feast until David comes. While the choice of the prophet shocks everyone, especially Jesse, David continues his adventures that include the ultimate encounter with Goliath, the jealousy and hatred of King Saul, and his experience of God’s power to deliver his people.
Greg S. Baker is not just a pastor but also a wonderful storyteller, taking a biblical tale and weaving it into a historical and cultural tapestry that keeps readers fascinated and inspired, bringing to light the prophetic nature of the story and the context in which it happened in history. The characters are both biblical and historical and the setting is the ancient land of Israel beset by multiple trials, most prominent among these being the Philistines. A spiritual atmosphere permeates the writing without robbing it of the humanity of the characters. I particularly enjoyed the way the author develops Samuel, Saul, and David. Elements of the setting — social, physical, and historical — are deftly written and the author shows a unique skill in exploring the conflict, allowing the dark emotions and resentment of Saul to come across powerfully. Anointed: A David and Goliath Novel is a tale that will delight readers while inspiring their faith through the skillful exploration of the grace of God in the life of a shepherd boy. The story is accompanied by relevant biblical citations. Anointed is a spellbinder that will have an irresistible appeal to readers who enjoy Christian literature and compelling historical novels.
Recommend this book:
Of Sword and Shadow
A.L. Sowards
2021 Gold Medal
332 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Viga Boland for Readers' Favorite
I will never cease to be amazed by writers like A.L. Sowards who can create incredible fiction from history as she has done in Of Sword and Shadow, a story set in 14th-century Greece. This fascinating tale of a beautiful slave who doesn’t know her own name, nor her parentage, grabbed me from the first chapter and kept me reading page after page. The beautiful no-name slave girl is a skilled thief, owned, raised, and trained by her master, Thomas. He looks after her needs but when she steps out of line, his punishment is severe. She dreams of freedom but accepts her situation. Thomas calls her “mouse”; she is anything but. She scales high fences, picks pockets, wields a knife or sword skillfully, and when necessary is an accomplished actress. Such abilities make her indispensable to Thomas, and eventually to the other characters who populate this story, like the handsome Gillen and his associates involved in the overthrow of the ruthless Catalan rulers.
When the paths of our no-name slave girl and Gillen cross, he names her Eudocia and it’s a given that they will fall in love. But when both are imprisoned and tortured, Eudocia sees only hate for her in Gillen’s eyes when he tells their captors she means nothing to him. Why has he done this? Was she really that naive to believe he might love her? While the plot, woven around the military-style takeover of Thebes in 1379 is interesting from the historical point of view and obviously thoroughly researched by Sowards, the cast of characters gives this story its power. What a gifted writer A.L. Sowards is. Sowards keeps us enthralled, not just with the way fate has brought them together and torn them apart, but with her depiction of the customs, morals, and religious beliefs of the times. Quite frankly, I was saddened by how little life for women back then is unchanged today. Of Sword and Shadow is brilliantly written. Sowards presents authentic settings, captivating characters, excellent dialogue, and a high-action plot. Add this one to your reading list today.
I will never cease to be amazed by writers like A.L. Sowards who can create incredible fiction from history as she has done in Of Sword and Shadow, a story set in 14th-century Greece. This fascinating tale of a beautiful slave who doesn’t know her own name, nor her parentage, grabbed me from the first chapter and kept me reading page after page. The beautiful no-name slave girl is a skilled thief, owned, raised, and trained by her master, Thomas. He looks after her needs but when she steps out of line, his punishment is severe. She dreams of freedom but accepts her situation. Thomas calls her “mouse”; she is anything but. She scales high fences, picks pockets, wields a knife or sword skillfully, and when necessary is an accomplished actress. Such abilities make her indispensable to Thomas, and eventually to the other characters who populate this story, like the handsome Gillen and his associates involved in the overthrow of the ruthless Catalan rulers.
When the paths of our no-name slave girl and Gillen cross, he names her Eudocia and it’s a given that they will fall in love. But when both are imprisoned and tortured, Eudocia sees only hate for her in Gillen’s eyes when he tells their captors she means nothing to him. Why has he done this? Was she really that naive to believe he might love her? While the plot, woven around the military-style takeover of Thebes in 1379 is interesting from the historical point of view and obviously thoroughly researched by Sowards, the cast of characters gives this story its power. What a gifted writer A.L. Sowards is. Sowards keeps us enthralled, not just with the way fate has brought them together and torn them apart, but with her depiction of the customs, morals, and religious beliefs of the times. Quite frankly, I was saddened by how little life for women back then is unchanged today. Of Sword and Shadow is brilliantly written. Sowards presents authentic settings, captivating characters, excellent dialogue, and a high-action plot. Add this one to your reading list today.
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