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Recommend this book:
Magdala
The Lost Story of Mary Magdalene
Bridget Erica
2023 Finalist
214 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite
Many women’s identities, thoughts, and accomplishments have been erased from history. Women have been robbed of true female role models. Even today, women have no choice but to read and interpret the Bible through the lens of men. But now is the time to learn from a female version. I agree we should not accept seeing Mary Magdalene as a prostitute and sinner just because the Church Fathers portrayed her that way. Bridget Erica is a healer and a Reiki Master Teacher. In her book, Magdala: The Lost Story of Mary Magdalene, she tells the story of one of the greatest women in biblical history. She uncovers the truth about Mary Magdalene, giving back her voice and shedding light on her untold and misconstrued story. This book reveals the true essence of Mary Magdalene’s life.
I was impressed to learn about the world’s first known female author, Enheduanna, a proud princess, priestess, and poet. Magdala: The Lost Story of Mary Magdalene was a read so compelling and clean that it kept me up late into the night. It vividly captures the cultural spirit of the time. I am enthralled with Erica's work of rewriting the story of one of the most misunderstood and influential women and healers in history. This riveting fictional account with strong themes of love and faith will leave readers questioning many of the stories of women from the Bible. Christians who dare to reexamine the holy texts with new eyes will have a different, more revealing appreciation for the path Mary Magdalene walked.
Many women’s identities, thoughts, and accomplishments have been erased from history. Women have been robbed of true female role models. Even today, women have no choice but to read and interpret the Bible through the lens of men. But now is the time to learn from a female version. I agree we should not accept seeing Mary Magdalene as a prostitute and sinner just because the Church Fathers portrayed her that way. Bridget Erica is a healer and a Reiki Master Teacher. In her book, Magdala: The Lost Story of Mary Magdalene, she tells the story of one of the greatest women in biblical history. She uncovers the truth about Mary Magdalene, giving back her voice and shedding light on her untold and misconstrued story. This book reveals the true essence of Mary Magdalene’s life.
I was impressed to learn about the world’s first known female author, Enheduanna, a proud princess, priestess, and poet. Magdala: The Lost Story of Mary Magdalene was a read so compelling and clean that it kept me up late into the night. It vividly captures the cultural spirit of the time. I am enthralled with Erica's work of rewriting the story of one of the most misunderstood and influential women and healers in history. This riveting fictional account with strong themes of love and faith will leave readers questioning many of the stories of women from the Bible. Christians who dare to reexamine the holy texts with new eyes will have a different, more revealing appreciation for the path Mary Magdalene walked.
Recommend this book:
A Beguiling Ruse
Lords & Ladies of Mayfair Book 2
Laura Beers
2023 Honorable Mention
328 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite
Rosamond Hendre and Malcolm Brentwood feature in A Beguiling Ruse: Lords and Ladies of Mayfair Book 2 by Laura Beers. Rosamond had become Lord Ashington’s ward after bringing Lizette home. She is stunned when she learns that Lord Ashington has provided twenty thousand pounds for her dowry. The dowry would attract a multitude of suitors from high society. He allowed her to choose her suitor on the condition that she picked him for love. Meanwhile, Malcolm Brentwood’s father tells him they are bankrupt. He insisted that Malcolm marry Rosamond so her dowry could save their estate and more. Malcolm had always loathed the thought of marriage after watching his father’s treatment of his mother. At Rosamond’s ball, Malcolm asked her to dance, but she dismissed him. The following day, he secured a meeting with Rosamond, but the unexpected appearance of his sister with an ill baby changed his priorities.
Laura Beers' book is about two people with secrets that could jeopardize the way that high society viewed them. Lady Anne’s constant restraining of Rosamond with rules places her in awkward situations. Rosamond’s turmoil is relatable. Malcolm’s inner dialogue shows his feelings alternated between duty and morals. I found Rosamond and Malcolm’s arguments entertaining because both sides presented valuable points of view. They also have issues dealing with their vulnerabilities, especially when others pointed them out. How they navigate high society’s gossip, the loss of title, other suitors, and scandal fills each page. There is never a dull moment to be found. The transitions between each character are seamless. A Beguiling Ruse is a story for historical romance fans who enjoy watching characters step out of their comfort zone to do what is right.
Rosamond Hendre and Malcolm Brentwood feature in A Beguiling Ruse: Lords and Ladies of Mayfair Book 2 by Laura Beers. Rosamond had become Lord Ashington’s ward after bringing Lizette home. She is stunned when she learns that Lord Ashington has provided twenty thousand pounds for her dowry. The dowry would attract a multitude of suitors from high society. He allowed her to choose her suitor on the condition that she picked him for love. Meanwhile, Malcolm Brentwood’s father tells him they are bankrupt. He insisted that Malcolm marry Rosamond so her dowry could save their estate and more. Malcolm had always loathed the thought of marriage after watching his father’s treatment of his mother. At Rosamond’s ball, Malcolm asked her to dance, but she dismissed him. The following day, he secured a meeting with Rosamond, but the unexpected appearance of his sister with an ill baby changed his priorities.
Laura Beers' book is about two people with secrets that could jeopardize the way that high society viewed them. Lady Anne’s constant restraining of Rosamond with rules places her in awkward situations. Rosamond’s turmoil is relatable. Malcolm’s inner dialogue shows his feelings alternated between duty and morals. I found Rosamond and Malcolm’s arguments entertaining because both sides presented valuable points of view. They also have issues dealing with their vulnerabilities, especially when others pointed them out. How they navigate high society’s gossip, the loss of title, other suitors, and scandal fills each page. There is never a dull moment to be found. The transitions between each character are seamless. A Beguiling Ruse is a story for historical romance fans who enjoy watching characters step out of their comfort zone to do what is right.
Recommend this book:
Life Dust
Pam Webber
2023 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Life Dust by Pam Webber is a historical romance set in the Vietnam war era. Andy and Nettie were looking forward to getting married. Planning their wedding and living in blissful oblivion, their illusion was broken when Andy was suddenly deployed to South Vietnam for 12 months. With Andy gone, Nettie had nothing else to do but worry about him and went headfirst into her job as a nursing intern. While Nettie had to deal with workplace politics and an elderly patient, Andy drew the short end of the straw and had dangerous situations to face. Given the job of escorting Bien, a freedom fighter, to meet a soldier who wanted to switch sides, Andy knew there was something fishy about the whole mission. What would he do in this situation and will Andy and Nettie get their happily ever after?
Life Dust had everything I could wish for in a novel. It had romance, suspense, great characters, and an intense story with plenty of options. Pam Webber did a fantastic job of creating a believable universe, made sure she did justice to the Vietnam War running in the background and gave plenty of space for her characters to grow. While Andy and Nettie were the protagonists of the story, Bien had my heart from the moment she was introduced. Her back story was heartbreaking, yet it proved to be the motivation Andy needed to work just a bit harder and get back to Nettie in one piece. The narrative style was sharp, invigorating, and exceptional. The plot moved with fluidity, the dialogues were crisp, and the characters drove the story forward. I loved it!
Life Dust by Pam Webber is a historical romance set in the Vietnam war era. Andy and Nettie were looking forward to getting married. Planning their wedding and living in blissful oblivion, their illusion was broken when Andy was suddenly deployed to South Vietnam for 12 months. With Andy gone, Nettie had nothing else to do but worry about him and went headfirst into her job as a nursing intern. While Nettie had to deal with workplace politics and an elderly patient, Andy drew the short end of the straw and had dangerous situations to face. Given the job of escorting Bien, a freedom fighter, to meet a soldier who wanted to switch sides, Andy knew there was something fishy about the whole mission. What would he do in this situation and will Andy and Nettie get their happily ever after?
Life Dust had everything I could wish for in a novel. It had romance, suspense, great characters, and an intense story with plenty of options. Pam Webber did a fantastic job of creating a believable universe, made sure she did justice to the Vietnam War running in the background and gave plenty of space for her characters to grow. While Andy and Nettie were the protagonists of the story, Bien had my heart from the moment she was introduced. Her back story was heartbreaking, yet it proved to be the motivation Andy needed to work just a bit harder and get back to Nettie in one piece. The narrative style was sharp, invigorating, and exceptional. The plot moved with fluidity, the dialogues were crisp, and the characters drove the story forward. I loved it!
Recommend this book:
This Hallowed Ground
Donna E. Lane
2023 Silver Medal
480 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Stephanie Lynn for Readers' Favorite
In the masterful historical tale, This Hallowed Ground by Donna E. Lane, readers are taken on an unforgettable journey as Aiden MacAlister, the son of Scots-Irish parents, is swept away in a war that shattered the country. He quickly finds himself lost and adrift as his reasons for fighting begin to slip away. What will he do when finding himself on the losing side of a war he never intended to join? After hitting rock bottom, only to find he had yet more to lose, we see one man's deeply moving tale of desperation, faith, and God's loving redemption that touches the core of what it means to be human.
I loved reading Aiden's story, and in so many ways this is also a story of the land. The United States was ravaged during the Civil War, and later the Lakota people became the Union's focus once the Civil War ended. This hauntingly beautiful account brings their story to life in a new and powerful way and is beautifully interwoven with the faith and truth of God's word. Donna E. Lane offers a unique perspective into the lives and perilous times of these majestic people and their way of life. I found myself drawn in and captivated by the writing of This Hallowed Ground from the opening pages, but it wasn't until about a third of the way that I felt things picked up, from which point this story shines! I adored Aiden's time among the Lakota, which brought to mind the TV series Into the West, one of my favorite historical films. The beautiful themes of forgiveness, friendship, loyalty, and faith throughout this story also appealed to m. Well written and a book you won't want to miss.
In the masterful historical tale, This Hallowed Ground by Donna E. Lane, readers are taken on an unforgettable journey as Aiden MacAlister, the son of Scots-Irish parents, is swept away in a war that shattered the country. He quickly finds himself lost and adrift as his reasons for fighting begin to slip away. What will he do when finding himself on the losing side of a war he never intended to join? After hitting rock bottom, only to find he had yet more to lose, we see one man's deeply moving tale of desperation, faith, and God's loving redemption that touches the core of what it means to be human.
I loved reading Aiden's story, and in so many ways this is also a story of the land. The United States was ravaged during the Civil War, and later the Lakota people became the Union's focus once the Civil War ended. This hauntingly beautiful account brings their story to life in a new and powerful way and is beautifully interwoven with the faith and truth of God's word. Donna E. Lane offers a unique perspective into the lives and perilous times of these majestic people and their way of life. I found myself drawn in and captivated by the writing of This Hallowed Ground from the opening pages, but it wasn't until about a third of the way that I felt things picked up, from which point this story shines! I adored Aiden's time among the Lakota, which brought to mind the TV series Into the West, one of my favorite historical films. The beautiful themes of forgiveness, friendship, loyalty, and faith throughout this story also appealed to m. Well written and a book you won't want to miss.
Recommend this book:
The Earth Remains
A Novel
Shelley Burchfield
2023 Gold Medal
704 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Trudi LoPreto for Readers' Favorite
Earth Remains by Shelley Burchfield spans many years. The story starts in September 1848 and takes us late into 1922. It was bad times in the South, both before and after the Civil War was fought. Polly Burgiss, a white woman, is the main character. Ben and his mama Ona, along with several other slaves, play an essential role in the story. Polly’s hardships begin early in her life with the death of her two brothers. Ona is the slave who cares for Polly and is always there in times of trouble. Ben is Ona’s son and a hard worker who dreams of being a free man someday. We meet many of the other slaves working for Miss Polly, along with the overseer Tom Roper and the man she marries, John Stone. Polly faces many tough times, hard decisions, and frightening situations, but she stands tall and always fights her way back.
Earth Remains is the best book I have read in a long time, causing me to ignore my chores, stay up late and even miss a meal. I believe it can easily become the next Gone With the Wind as a great book and an epic movie. Shelley Burchfield is a brilliant writer who gives us a story with an incredible plot from page one until the last word. In addition, she has created an emotional group of characters meant to be loved or hated. Polly, Ono, Ben, Tom, Cissie, Kate, John, and others became real people to me, and I was magically transported right into the pages. I loved The Earth Remains very much and highly recommend it and anything else that Burchfield writes; it doesn’t get much better than this.
Earth Remains by Shelley Burchfield spans many years. The story starts in September 1848 and takes us late into 1922. It was bad times in the South, both before and after the Civil War was fought. Polly Burgiss, a white woman, is the main character. Ben and his mama Ona, along with several other slaves, play an essential role in the story. Polly’s hardships begin early in her life with the death of her two brothers. Ona is the slave who cares for Polly and is always there in times of trouble. Ben is Ona’s son and a hard worker who dreams of being a free man someday. We meet many of the other slaves working for Miss Polly, along with the overseer Tom Roper and the man she marries, John Stone. Polly faces many tough times, hard decisions, and frightening situations, but she stands tall and always fights her way back.
Earth Remains is the best book I have read in a long time, causing me to ignore my chores, stay up late and even miss a meal. I believe it can easily become the next Gone With the Wind as a great book and an epic movie. Shelley Burchfield is a brilliant writer who gives us a story with an incredible plot from page one until the last word. In addition, she has created an emotional group of characters meant to be loved or hated. Polly, Ono, Ben, Tom, Cissie, Kate, John, and others became real people to me, and I was magically transported right into the pages. I loved The Earth Remains very much and highly recommend it and anything else that Burchfield writes; it doesn’t get much better than this.
Recommend this book:
, 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 esta...){kind=link}
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.
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