BookAwards.com
Award-Winning Books from Today's Best Authors
A Free Resource for Book Lovers, Authors, Agents, Publishers and Journalists
Recommend this book:
The Temple at Sunset
The Cyrenian Trilogy Book 3
Karin Ciholas
2026 Finalist
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
The Temple at Sunset by Karin Ciholas is the final installment in The Cyrenian Trilogy. In book one, a doctor named Simon searches for his sister, who has been captured by a slaver. In Jerusalem, Simon is conscripted to help carry a stranger’s cross that revolutionizes the course of history. In Alexandria, he faces an impossible choice. Book two sees Simon fighting to protect his people while his wife and sons follow Christianity. Caligula seeks revenge, sending Valerius, Aurelia’s brother, to Jerusalem to place his statue in the temple, forcing Valerius to choose between obedience and mass slaughter or defiance. Now, Paul faces judgment as fires devastate the land, with blame landing on the Christians. Peter boldly remains for a confrontation, and Simon aids those suffering through widespread violence and collapse. “All my life I have struggled against forces far beyond my powers. I have fought prejudice, hatred, and injustice. I thought my fiercest opponent was death... I have come face to face with my enemy... and I’m powerless against it.”
Karin Ciholas’ The Temple at Sunset is a fantastic finale to the series, which beautifully and agonizingly places the reader within the historical realities of ancient Rome for Christians and Jews, integrating political, social, and religious issues. This is accomplished by piecing together large-scale catastrophes, like the destruction of Rome by fire, and intimate individual ways of life, such as faithfully representing Jewish religious practices and rituals through Simon. Without any hint of heavy-handedness, Ciholas brilliantly offers moral dilemmas that test faith, conscience, and courage. We see a constant juggling of obedience to man's law and religious authority, and the difficulty of striking a balance between the two is the core of almost every scene. Simon’s maneuvering around priests, a boy named Esdras, and his own doubts illustrate the exercise of courage guided by faith. I love the agency of women, especially Aurelia, who is in a perpetual oscillation between calm patience, anxiety, and determination. Overall, this is a completely immersive story, and I would give it a whole bucket of stars if I could.
The Temple at Sunset by Karin Ciholas is the final installment in The Cyrenian Trilogy. In book one, a doctor named Simon searches for his sister, who has been captured by a slaver. In Jerusalem, Simon is conscripted to help carry a stranger’s cross that revolutionizes the course of history. In Alexandria, he faces an impossible choice. Book two sees Simon fighting to protect his people while his wife and sons follow Christianity. Caligula seeks revenge, sending Valerius, Aurelia’s brother, to Jerusalem to place his statue in the temple, forcing Valerius to choose between obedience and mass slaughter or defiance. Now, Paul faces judgment as fires devastate the land, with blame landing on the Christians. Peter boldly remains for a confrontation, and Simon aids those suffering through widespread violence and collapse. “All my life I have struggled against forces far beyond my powers. I have fought prejudice, hatred, and injustice. I thought my fiercest opponent was death... I have come face to face with my enemy... and I’m powerless against it.”
Karin Ciholas’ The Temple at Sunset is a fantastic finale to the series, which beautifully and agonizingly places the reader within the historical realities of ancient Rome for Christians and Jews, integrating political, social, and religious issues. This is accomplished by piecing together large-scale catastrophes, like the destruction of Rome by fire, and intimate individual ways of life, such as faithfully representing Jewish religious practices and rituals through Simon. Without any hint of heavy-handedness, Ciholas brilliantly offers moral dilemmas that test faith, conscience, and courage. We see a constant juggling of obedience to man's law and religious authority, and the difficulty of striking a balance between the two is the core of almost every scene. Simon’s maneuvering around priests, a boy named Esdras, and his own doubts illustrate the exercise of courage guided by faith. I love the agency of women, especially Aurelia, who is in a perpetual oscillation between calm patience, anxiety, and determination. Overall, this is a completely immersive story, and I would give it a whole bucket of stars if I could.
Recommend this book:
Survival Secrets
Lana Christian
2026 Honorable Mention
338 Pages
Check current price
Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
In Lana Christian’s Survival Secrets, book two of The Magi’s Encounters, the Wise Men leave Bethlehem by another route, with knowledge of Yeshua that could place the child in great danger if it reaches Herod’s court. Akilah leads the caravan into the Wilderness of Paran, where water is scarce, and Tallis is taken from the group for a hidden mission at Machaerus. Far away in Persia, Akilah’s cousin Farzaneh travels to Adiabene after the death of her husband Ihsan, searching for the Jewish faith he kept secret from Magi society. Her questions bring her to the Levite Elyakim as threats around Akilah’s family continue at home. With the caravan trying to reach Egypt, both Akilah and Farzaneh must decide which secrets protect life and which can no longer remain hidden.
Lana Christian’s Survival Secrets is brilliant biblical historical fiction, written with the conviction that faith is tested in the ordinary hour when hunger enters the road. Christian turns the Magi’s journey home after Bethlehem into an adventure shaped by sincere spiritual searching. Her historical detail is excellent, especially in Egypt, where Metariyeh becomes a place of refuge as an abandoned farm shelters the caravan before Akilah discovers one of the gold wafers given to Yeshua. The biblical elements are solid, like the way prayer belongs beside the daily search for food, because belief speaks most powerfully through lived need. Farzaneh is the finest creation here; her anger toward Akilah gives every question about Adonai a distinctly human truth, while her faith remains fully her own. Rashidi has an epic arc as the Alexandrian temple leads him to reconsider what he accepted since childhood. Readers of biblical historical fiction should absolutely read this book.
In Lana Christian’s Survival Secrets, book two of The Magi’s Encounters, the Wise Men leave Bethlehem by another route, with knowledge of Yeshua that could place the child in great danger if it reaches Herod’s court. Akilah leads the caravan into the Wilderness of Paran, where water is scarce, and Tallis is taken from the group for a hidden mission at Machaerus. Far away in Persia, Akilah’s cousin Farzaneh travels to Adiabene after the death of her husband Ihsan, searching for the Jewish faith he kept secret from Magi society. Her questions bring her to the Levite Elyakim as threats around Akilah’s family continue at home. With the caravan trying to reach Egypt, both Akilah and Farzaneh must decide which secrets protect life and which can no longer remain hidden.
Lana Christian’s Survival Secrets is brilliant biblical historical fiction, written with the conviction that faith is tested in the ordinary hour when hunger enters the road. Christian turns the Magi’s journey home after Bethlehem into an adventure shaped by sincere spiritual searching. Her historical detail is excellent, especially in Egypt, where Metariyeh becomes a place of refuge as an abandoned farm shelters the caravan before Akilah discovers one of the gold wafers given to Yeshua. The biblical elements are solid, like the way prayer belongs beside the daily search for food, because belief speaks most powerfully through lived need. Farzaneh is the finest creation here; her anger toward Akilah gives every question about Adonai a distinctly human truth, while her faith remains fully her own. Rashidi has an epic arc as the Alexandrian temple leads him to reconsider what he accepted since childhood. Readers of biblical historical fiction should absolutely read this book.
Recommend this book:
Elijah
Fire From Heaven
Anthony Barbera
2026 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Elijah: Fire From Heaven by Anthony Barbera follows Elijah, a prophet of Yahweh who lives in hiding during a severe drought, while King Ahab and Queen Jezebel consolidate power in Samaria through ruthless control. When God commands him, Elijah leaves his place of refuge and travels to Zarephath, where he stays with the widow Nikal and her son Donis, providing guidance and receiving sustenance. Meanwhile, Ahab attempts to expand his territory by taking Naboth’s vineyard, prompting a confrontation with Elijah, who delivers God’s warnings directly to the king. Elijah then orchestrates a public challenge on Mount Carmel, confronting Baal’s prophets to demonstrate divine authority. As threats from Jezebel intensify, Elijah journeys into the desert and ascends Mount Horeb, awaiting the divine instruction that will reshape history.
Anthony Barbera’s Elijah is a wonderfully detailed rendering of the titular prophet, expanding on a biblical story many are familiar with and fleshing it out beautifully. Through Barbera's work, we see Elijah interacting with kings, prophets of Ba’al, and villagers with absolute determination and authority. The differences between the characters are done well enough so that each can stand on their own. Ahab’s indecision, Jezebel’s anger, and Obadiah’s caution are all the contrasts we need, but still, the author gives us more in Elijah’s decisiveness and courage. I love the portrayal of Queen Jezebel's slow unraveling, drinking alone in her chambers while waiting for news from the battle of Aphek. The battle scenes are glorious, practically roaring as Ahab and Jehoshaphat lead their forces against Ben‑Hadad at Ramoth‑Gilead. Overall, this retelling is a bold, focused, and memorable depiction of leadership, faith, and consequence.
Elijah: Fire From Heaven by Anthony Barbera follows Elijah, a prophet of Yahweh who lives in hiding during a severe drought, while King Ahab and Queen Jezebel consolidate power in Samaria through ruthless control. When God commands him, Elijah leaves his place of refuge and travels to Zarephath, where he stays with the widow Nikal and her son Donis, providing guidance and receiving sustenance. Meanwhile, Ahab attempts to expand his territory by taking Naboth’s vineyard, prompting a confrontation with Elijah, who delivers God’s warnings directly to the king. Elijah then orchestrates a public challenge on Mount Carmel, confronting Baal’s prophets to demonstrate divine authority. As threats from Jezebel intensify, Elijah journeys into the desert and ascends Mount Horeb, awaiting the divine instruction that will reshape history.
Anthony Barbera’s Elijah is a wonderfully detailed rendering of the titular prophet, expanding on a biblical story many are familiar with and fleshing it out beautifully. Through Barbera's work, we see Elijah interacting with kings, prophets of Ba’al, and villagers with absolute determination and authority. The differences between the characters are done well enough so that each can stand on their own. Ahab’s indecision, Jezebel’s anger, and Obadiah’s caution are all the contrasts we need, but still, the author gives us more in Elijah’s decisiveness and courage. I love the portrayal of Queen Jezebel's slow unraveling, drinking alone in her chambers while waiting for news from the battle of Aphek. The battle scenes are glorious, practically roaring as Ahab and Jehoshaphat lead their forces against Ben‑Hadad at Ramoth‑Gilead. Overall, this retelling is a bold, focused, and memorable depiction of leadership, faith, and consequence.
Recommend this book:
Aletheia
Vol I: In the Shadows
Luigi A Kohli
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Stephanie Lynn for Readers' Favorite
Aletheia Vol I: In the Shadows by Luigi A Kohli is an emotionally gripping tale. Taking place a few years after Christ’s time on earth, the story delivers a new twist on the Ben-Hur narrative. A wonderful blend of cultures and motives clash as unlikely alliances are forged and are tested in turn. Who can be trusted, and what is truth? These are the questions the characters must ask themselves as the reality of their delicate circumstance comes to light, and their tight grip on control begins to unravel around them. Kohli has masterfully captured the tension and complexity of the time period and paints a vivid picture of early AD Rome. Readers are in for a thrilling read as the characters plot and scheme their way to the top, risking everything in their efforts to prove themselves supreme. The choice is made, the risks are high, the alternative is unthinkable. The battle ahead will be no easy task. Will they be up for the challenge?
Aletheia by Luigi A Kohli surprised me. The political intrigue is some of the best I’ve found and has everything I could ask for in a historical novel set in the Roman Empire during the events that transpire soon after Christ. The country is in upheaval, the Jews are growing restless, and trouble brews around every corner. Kohli captures it all with wonderful clarity, and I loved the characters. From the moment I met them, many of them caught my attention with their complexity and depth. The story builds a strong foundation, then launches into an incredible tale of tested loyalties and unforeseen disaster as the characters quickly find themselves entangled in a web of deceit and hidden agendas. I loved seeing how this tightly woven tale played out, and the exhilarating race to the end was the cherry on top! Once I reached a certain point, I could not put it down. I highly recommend Aletheia: In the Shadow for readers who enjoy historical fiction with political scheming, complex characters, and shocking twists.
Aletheia Vol I: In the Shadows by Luigi A Kohli is an emotionally gripping tale. Taking place a few years after Christ’s time on earth, the story delivers a new twist on the Ben-Hur narrative. A wonderful blend of cultures and motives clash as unlikely alliances are forged and are tested in turn. Who can be trusted, and what is truth? These are the questions the characters must ask themselves as the reality of their delicate circumstance comes to light, and their tight grip on control begins to unravel around them. Kohli has masterfully captured the tension and complexity of the time period and paints a vivid picture of early AD Rome. Readers are in for a thrilling read as the characters plot and scheme their way to the top, risking everything in their efforts to prove themselves supreme. The choice is made, the risks are high, the alternative is unthinkable. The battle ahead will be no easy task. Will they be up for the challenge?
Aletheia by Luigi A Kohli surprised me. The political intrigue is some of the best I’ve found and has everything I could ask for in a historical novel set in the Roman Empire during the events that transpire soon after Christ. The country is in upheaval, the Jews are growing restless, and trouble brews around every corner. Kohli captures it all with wonderful clarity, and I loved the characters. From the moment I met them, many of them caught my attention with their complexity and depth. The story builds a strong foundation, then launches into an incredible tale of tested loyalties and unforeseen disaster as the characters quickly find themselves entangled in a web of deceit and hidden agendas. I loved seeing how this tightly woven tale played out, and the exhilarating race to the end was the cherry on top! Once I reached a certain point, I could not put it down. I highly recommend Aletheia: In the Shadow for readers who enjoy historical fiction with political scheming, complex characters, and shocking twists.
Recommend this book:
Anna of Bethsaida
The Arimathea Chronicles
Susanne Blumer
2026 Gold Medal
498 Pages
Check current price
Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Danelle Petersen for Readers' Favorite
Anna of Bethsaida: The Arimathea Chronicles by Susanne Blumer tells the captivating story of Anna, the wife of the disciple Andrew, and her unwavering faith and loyalty to Jesus Christ. Andrew and Anna are expected to travel with Jesus to preach the Word. But as Anna journeys with Jesus and the group, she realizes that her choice comes at a cost. Hunger and the cold are things that she never thought she’d experience. She also learns what being a Follower of the Way truly entails. Anna vows to serve Jesus Christ and, like Him, leave behind a legacy of truth, mercy, and love. This is Anna of Bethsaida’s story.
Susanne Blumer provides an in-depth look at life in Jesus’ time and what it was like to be a follower of Jesus Christ in Anna of Bethsaida: The Arimathea Chronicles. There were struggles, but the group’s faith saw them through. I loved Anna’s positive outlook and devotion. Familiar characters like Mary Magdalene and Joanna play pivotal roles in aiding Jesus and the disciples. The author perfectly brought Anna’s story to life. Whether grieving or distraught, there was always a sense of joy among the Followers of the Way. I liked how the group respected and cared for each other and how neatly they worked together, each with their designated role. It gave me an idea of how beautifully organized and peaceful Jesus’ leadership was. It was also lovely witnessing the group go from mere strangers to family, united in the Lord’s work.
Anna of Bethsaida: The Arimathea Chronicles by Susanne Blumer tells the captivating story of Anna, the wife of the disciple Andrew, and her unwavering faith and loyalty to Jesus Christ. Andrew and Anna are expected to travel with Jesus to preach the Word. But as Anna journeys with Jesus and the group, she realizes that her choice comes at a cost. Hunger and the cold are things that she never thought she’d experience. She also learns what being a Follower of the Way truly entails. Anna vows to serve Jesus Christ and, like Him, leave behind a legacy of truth, mercy, and love. This is Anna of Bethsaida’s story.
Susanne Blumer provides an in-depth look at life in Jesus’ time and what it was like to be a follower of Jesus Christ in Anna of Bethsaida: The Arimathea Chronicles. There were struggles, but the group’s faith saw them through. I loved Anna’s positive outlook and devotion. Familiar characters like Mary Magdalene and Joanna play pivotal roles in aiding Jesus and the disciples. The author perfectly brought Anna’s story to life. Whether grieving or distraught, there was always a sense of joy among the Followers of the Way. I liked how the group respected and cared for each other and how neatly they worked together, each with their designated role. It gave me an idea of how beautifully organized and peaceful Jesus’ leadership was. It was also lovely witnessing the group go from mere strangers to family, united in the Lord’s work.
Recommend this book:
The Moonshiner's Wife
Twyla Dione Smith
2025 Finalist
336 Pages
Check current price
Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
The Moonshiner’s Wife by Twyla Dione Smith offers readers a glimpse into the rugged life of the American South during the tumultuous era of the Great Depression. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Birdie Fontenot, a resilient woman bound by love and hardship, Smith crafts a narrative rich in historical detail and emotional depth. The novel opens with Birdie grappling with the impending birth of her child while her husband, Troy, endures suffering in prison for moonshining. This establishes the foundation for a tale of survival and moral complexity. Birdie must confront the difficulties of running a farm and raising a family amid economic hardship and societal scrutiny.
Twyla Dione Smith skillfully captures the era’s essence, from the colloquial dialogue to the vivid descriptions of the rural setting. Historical context, such as the enforcement of Prohibition and the economic impact of crop failures, enriches the storyline. Supporting characters, such as Birdie’s twin sister Versie and the various townsfolk, add color and complexity to the narrative, reflecting the interconnectedness of community life. The Moonshiner’s Wife reflects the human spirit's capacity to endure and adapt. Smith’s prose is engaging, drawing readers into Birdie’s world with empathy. The novel explores love, loss, and resilience and offers a window into a bygone era with timeless themes that speak to the endurance of the human heart. This is an excellent choice for anyone interested in historical fiction that both tells a story and evokes the emotions and struggles of its characters. The twists and turns make this a book you won’t want to miss.
The Moonshiner’s Wife by Twyla Dione Smith offers readers a glimpse into the rugged life of the American South during the tumultuous era of the Great Depression. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Birdie Fontenot, a resilient woman bound by love and hardship, Smith crafts a narrative rich in historical detail and emotional depth. The novel opens with Birdie grappling with the impending birth of her child while her husband, Troy, endures suffering in prison for moonshining. This establishes the foundation for a tale of survival and moral complexity. Birdie must confront the difficulties of running a farm and raising a family amid economic hardship and societal scrutiny.
Twyla Dione Smith skillfully captures the era’s essence, from the colloquial dialogue to the vivid descriptions of the rural setting. Historical context, such as the enforcement of Prohibition and the economic impact of crop failures, enriches the storyline. Supporting characters, such as Birdie’s twin sister Versie and the various townsfolk, add color and complexity to the narrative, reflecting the interconnectedness of community life. The Moonshiner’s Wife reflects the human spirit's capacity to endure and adapt. Smith’s prose is engaging, drawing readers into Birdie’s world with empathy. The novel explores love, loss, and resilience and offers a window into a bygone era with timeless themes that speak to the endurance of the human heart. This is an excellent choice for anyone interested in historical fiction that both tells a story and evokes the emotions and struggles of its characters. The twists and turns make this a book you won’t want to miss.
Recommend this book:
Magda Revealed
Ursula Werner
2025 Honorable Mention
328 Pages
Check current price
Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Lucinda E Clarke for Readers' Favorite
Ursula Werner reminds us in Magda Revealed that, until recently, history has always been written by men. Most parts of the New Testament were penned many years after the crucifixion, either through dictated word of mouth or by those who never met Jesus while he was alive. Now it is the turn of Mary Magdalene to tell her story. From her early days growing up in Magdala to loving parents, Magda was happy until she was assaulted and raped by religious students. It was this early violation, over which she had no control, that later falsely labeled her as a whore and prostitute. After hiding away for two years at home, she was emotionally healed by Jeshua and became one of his disciples for the full length of his ministry. She was also present at his death. Werner puts the facts straight along with other stories such as the death of John the Baptist and what really happened at the last supper. Skilfully weaving traditional tales from a different point of view, the author highlights the misogynistic writings of Paul and the days of the early Christian church. She brilliantly brings Yeshua to life as a real flesh and blood man who lived over two thousand years ago.
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I began to read Magda Revealed by Ursula Werner, but what a delightful book it is. The author has put a whole new slant on the life of Mary Magdalene and the ministry of Jesus (Yeshua) which was both unexpected and delightful. Without giving away any spoilers, it has a magnificent twist at the end. I loved how she kept parts of the story Christians know so well and debunked others. The descriptions of the time, place, characters, and scenery take you right back in time over two thousand years ago so that you feel you are right there. The transforming, mixing of spirits with the patients Magda anointed was quite mystical yet was also real and convincing. Just one example of the beautiful language: “… liquid ribbons of jasmine and rose that coiled around her …” While in theory this is written as fiction, who can tell if it is not closer to fact than the tale we have been told over the years? I would like to think so.
Ursula Werner reminds us in Magda Revealed that, until recently, history has always been written by men. Most parts of the New Testament were penned many years after the crucifixion, either through dictated word of mouth or by those who never met Jesus while he was alive. Now it is the turn of Mary Magdalene to tell her story. From her early days growing up in Magdala to loving parents, Magda was happy until she was assaulted and raped by religious students. It was this early violation, over which she had no control, that later falsely labeled her as a whore and prostitute. After hiding away for two years at home, she was emotionally healed by Jeshua and became one of his disciples for the full length of his ministry. She was also present at his death. Werner puts the facts straight along with other stories such as the death of John the Baptist and what really happened at the last supper. Skilfully weaving traditional tales from a different point of view, the author highlights the misogynistic writings of Paul and the days of the early Christian church. She brilliantly brings Yeshua to life as a real flesh and blood man who lived over two thousand years ago.
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I began to read Magda Revealed by Ursula Werner, but what a delightful book it is. The author has put a whole new slant on the life of Mary Magdalene and the ministry of Jesus (Yeshua) which was both unexpected and delightful. Without giving away any spoilers, it has a magnificent twist at the end. I loved how she kept parts of the story Christians know so well and debunked others. The descriptions of the time, place, characters, and scenery take you right back in time over two thousand years ago so that you feel you are right there. The transforming, mixing of spirits with the patients Magda anointed was quite mystical yet was also real and convincing. Just one example of the beautiful language: “… liquid ribbons of jasmine and rose that coiled around her …” While in theory this is written as fiction, who can tell if it is not closer to fact than the tale we have been told over the years? I would like to think so.
Recommend this book:
The Rocket Man's Daughter
A Novel of Family, Faith, and Resistance in Nazi Germany
Bruce Gardner
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Rocket Man's Daughter is a work of fiction penned by author Bruce Gardner in the historical fiction, interpersonal drama, and wartime stories genres. In this moving tale, Klara Neumann, a young German woman and aspiring psychiatric nurse, confronts the brutalities of Nazi Germany from 1934 to 1945. As Hitler rises to power, Klara vows to protect her Jewish friends from persecution. Her efforts draw the dangerous attention of her Nazi-obsessed sister and a cunning SS officer. As World War II escalates, Klara joins a resistance group linked to theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Amidst the chaos of war, her faith and loyalty are tested, especially when her pre-war American boyfriend, now a military officer, reappears.
Author Bruce Gardner has crafted an emotionally gripping novel that shows clear empathy for people living through this difficult period of recent history. The juxtaposition of Klara's compassionate determination against the backdrop of Nazi brutality creates a profound sense of tension and urgency that grips readers from the start, and Gardner narrates with close attention to detail, compassion, and confidence. Klara's inner turmoil and courage in the face of overwhelming danger were deeply moving elements of her complex character, making her a compelling and relatable heroine with plenty of room to grow and be shaped by the challenges she faces in the plot. The historical context was vividly portrayed in all its atmospheric horror and fear, and the suspenseful cat-and-mouse game with the SS was a particularly riveting plot hook that kept me on edge. Overall, The Rocket Man's Daughter is a powerful work of wartime fiction that I would highly recommend for its attention to detail in both period and characterization.
The Rocket Man's Daughter is a work of fiction penned by author Bruce Gardner in the historical fiction, interpersonal drama, and wartime stories genres. In this moving tale, Klara Neumann, a young German woman and aspiring psychiatric nurse, confronts the brutalities of Nazi Germany from 1934 to 1945. As Hitler rises to power, Klara vows to protect her Jewish friends from persecution. Her efforts draw the dangerous attention of her Nazi-obsessed sister and a cunning SS officer. As World War II escalates, Klara joins a resistance group linked to theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Amidst the chaos of war, her faith and loyalty are tested, especially when her pre-war American boyfriend, now a military officer, reappears.
Author Bruce Gardner has crafted an emotionally gripping novel that shows clear empathy for people living through this difficult period of recent history. The juxtaposition of Klara's compassionate determination against the backdrop of Nazi brutality creates a profound sense of tension and urgency that grips readers from the start, and Gardner narrates with close attention to detail, compassion, and confidence. Klara's inner turmoil and courage in the face of overwhelming danger were deeply moving elements of her complex character, making her a compelling and relatable heroine with plenty of room to grow and be shaped by the challenges she faces in the plot. The historical context was vividly portrayed in all its atmospheric horror and fear, and the suspenseful cat-and-mouse game with the SS was a particularly riveting plot hook that kept me on edge. Overall, The Rocket Man's Daughter is a powerful work of wartime fiction that I would highly recommend for its attention to detail in both period and characterization.
Recommend this book:
New Star
Book 1 of The Magi's Encounters
Lana Christian
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Eric Ferrar for Readers' Favorite
New Star by Lana Christian tells the story of Akilah, a well-renowned astronomer and Persian Magus priest who discovers a star connected to a pivotal Jewish prophecy. In the wake of political tension in Persia, the sudden arrival of this unique star prompts Akilah to analyze its meaning thoroughly. Even though his inquiry might cost him his position as a Magus, Akilah delves into Jewish prophecies that foretell the birth of a powerful king to uncover more about the star's origin. Determined to unearth more details, he conscripts two other Magi for an exploratory expedition to Israel. Not everyone on the Magi Council is convinced of the significance of this voyage, and they attempt to thwart Akilah's plans. Nevertheless, Akilah and his two companions embark upon a challenging journey. What they find will force them to question their beliefs and compel them to trust a God they are increasingly discovering more about.
Lana Christian's New Star is book one of The Magi's Encounters series. It intertwines a spellbinding exploration of the biblical story revolving around the Magi and their discovery of the birth of Jesus, the King of the Jews. This book offers a fascinating representation of the conflict between empirical discovery, religious traditions, political and cultural nuances, and political power. The author skillfully interlaces historical facts with well-developed characters in a narrative that reverberates on numerous levels. This refreshing take on the Magi is an eye-opener to the discord that might exist between their established beliefs and their pursuit of knowledge. I applaud the author's ability to profoundly capture Akilah's cognitive and emotional states throughout the narrative. Both Akilah and his companions were relentless in their search for truth, even if it might cost them their societal status or contradict their religious ideologies. Lana does an exceptional job of illustrating this point in her book, making it an engaging and thought-provoking tale from start to finish. If you appreciate vibrant and intellectual writing with complex human relationships and relatable characters at its core, New Star is a must-read.
New Star by Lana Christian tells the story of Akilah, a well-renowned astronomer and Persian Magus priest who discovers a star connected to a pivotal Jewish prophecy. In the wake of political tension in Persia, the sudden arrival of this unique star prompts Akilah to analyze its meaning thoroughly. Even though his inquiry might cost him his position as a Magus, Akilah delves into Jewish prophecies that foretell the birth of a powerful king to uncover more about the star's origin. Determined to unearth more details, he conscripts two other Magi for an exploratory expedition to Israel. Not everyone on the Magi Council is convinced of the significance of this voyage, and they attempt to thwart Akilah's plans. Nevertheless, Akilah and his two companions embark upon a challenging journey. What they find will force them to question their beliefs and compel them to trust a God they are increasingly discovering more about.
Lana Christian's New Star is book one of The Magi's Encounters series. It intertwines a spellbinding exploration of the biblical story revolving around the Magi and their discovery of the birth of Jesus, the King of the Jews. This book offers a fascinating representation of the conflict between empirical discovery, religious traditions, political and cultural nuances, and political power. The author skillfully interlaces historical facts with well-developed characters in a narrative that reverberates on numerous levels. This refreshing take on the Magi is an eye-opener to the discord that might exist between their established beliefs and their pursuit of knowledge. I applaud the author's ability to profoundly capture Akilah's cognitive and emotional states throughout the narrative. Both Akilah and his companions were relentless in their search for truth, even if it might cost them their societal status or contradict their religious ideologies. Lana does an exceptional job of illustrating this point in her book, making it an engaging and thought-provoking tale from start to finish. If you appreciate vibrant and intellectual writing with complex human relationships and relatable characters at its core, New Star is a must-read.
Recommend this book:
Sands of Bone
The Oaths of Blood Saga Book 2
Logan D. Irons
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Sands of Bone by Logan D. Irons is a grimdark historical fantasy set against the backdrop of the Crusades. Ninety years after the Christians seized Jerusalem, the kingdom’s army lies in ruins, and the city faces Saladin’s wrath. Robert Cutnose, a battle-hardened warrior, reluctantly joins Lord Balian de Ibelin in defending the city. As assassins lurk in Saladin’s ranks and hidden enemies conspire within the Order, Cutnose must navigate both brutal combat and political betrayal. With legendary figures, gritty realism, and supernatural elements, this novel delivers a brutal, action-packed continuation of the Oaths of Blood Saga.
Author Logan D. Irons has a cinematic way of writing that makes the vivid and unflinching battle scenes leap off the pages in this story, capturing the harsh reality of medieval warfare during Crusader times. This brutal, historically accurate level of detail is then layered with totally believable fantasy elements so that the combination of familiar historical figures with supernatural twists becomes all the more unique. Every character you encounter here is morally complex: flawed and capable of unspeakable things. The grimdark attitudes work well, as you have to choose to understand the justifications that Cutnose makes for the things he must do. This is subtle in the dialogue and never over-dramatized, but we always get a sense of what's going on between his head and heart as survival and duty drive him forward. This makes for some real heart-in-your-throat moments later down the line that had me gripped. Overall, Sands of Bone is a superb continuation of a bloody and brutal saga that I would highly recommend.
Sands of Bone by Logan D. Irons is a grimdark historical fantasy set against the backdrop of the Crusades. Ninety years after the Christians seized Jerusalem, the kingdom’s army lies in ruins, and the city faces Saladin’s wrath. Robert Cutnose, a battle-hardened warrior, reluctantly joins Lord Balian de Ibelin in defending the city. As assassins lurk in Saladin’s ranks and hidden enemies conspire within the Order, Cutnose must navigate both brutal combat and political betrayal. With legendary figures, gritty realism, and supernatural elements, this novel delivers a brutal, action-packed continuation of the Oaths of Blood Saga.
Author Logan D. Irons has a cinematic way of writing that makes the vivid and unflinching battle scenes leap off the pages in this story, capturing the harsh reality of medieval warfare during Crusader times. This brutal, historically accurate level of detail is then layered with totally believable fantasy elements so that the combination of familiar historical figures with supernatural twists becomes all the more unique. Every character you encounter here is morally complex: flawed and capable of unspeakable things. The grimdark attitudes work well, as you have to choose to understand the justifications that Cutnose makes for the things he must do. This is subtle in the dialogue and never over-dramatized, but we always get a sense of what's going on between his head and heart as survival and duty drive him forward. This makes for some real heart-in-your-throat moments later down the line that had me gripped. Overall, Sands of Bone is a superb continuation of a bloody and brutal saga that I would highly recommend.
Contact Author -
