Reviewed by Steven Robson for Readers' Favorite

A Pyrrhic Victory: Fate by Ian Crouch immerses readers in a distant past beginning with King Pyrrhus’ victory over the Romans at Asculum in 279 BC. This period was extremely volatile, and the Hellenistic world was in constant conflict. Pyrrhus, the king of Epirus, had a vision to unite the Greek kingdoms into one cohesive entity, including the territories won in the southern part of Italy. Stacked against his vision were numerous obstacles, including the major powers of Rome and Carthage. Oddly, perhaps the most astounding of all these challenges came from within the Greek world, where the individual dreams of regional leaders continually derailed Pyrrhus’ dream. This is the compelling story of Pyrrhus’ quest, a leader Hannibal described as the most capable the world had seen.

Ian Crouch’s A Pyrrhic Victory: Fate is a first-class read, not just for enthusiasts of ancient history but anyone open to exploring our distant past and the conflicts that made the world what it is today. This is not just a story of Pyrrhus but a glimpse into the man and those who surrounded him. I loved how he was portrayed and respected by his men, friends, relatives, and, surprisingly, even his enemies. Many parts of this story were not just interesting but extremely touching. The most moving part for me came at the end of Pyrrhus’ story, not for the obvious reason of his demise, but for the respect and feelings of Antigonus, the opposing leader. I also found Hotep to be quite an interesting character, being somewhere between servant and trusted advisor. Another intriguing aspect centered around the love of sports; it demonstrates why the Olympic Games originated in Greece. I would recommend A Pyrrhic Victory to all readers who enjoy compelling stories, clearly compiled and emotionally gripping.

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

Elizabeth Kellam's Chopin’s Last Manuscript begins in 1971, when a Polish craftsman renovating Eugène Delacroix’s Paris studio discovers a hidden leather portfolio beneath the floorboards. Inside are a manuscript signed by Fryderyk Franciszek Chopin and a diary that appears to chronicle his private account of his complex relationship with novelist George Sand. The find attracts the attention of the Chopin Institute in Warsaw, where Dr. Piotr Zieliński recognizes that, together with newly discovered diaries of Marie de Rozières, it could transform understanding of their romance. The novel shifts to Chopin’s perspective, recounting his departure from Warsaw in 1830, his early pursuits in Vienna, and the heartbreak of exile after the Polish uprising. As the narrative moves between political unrest, artistic struggle, and intimate longing, the manuscript promises to reveal what Sand’s burned letters never could: Chopin’s version of their love story and the truth behind its painful end.

Elizabeth Kellam writes with a clear affection for music history, blending documented events with fluid, imagined dialogue. The dual timeline structure creates a steady momentum, alternating between the suspense of the manuscript’s discovery and the intimacy of Chopin’s first-person recollections. The pacing balances sweeping historical context with close attention to private moments, allowing readers to linger over family farewells, artistic triumphs, and quiet despair. Kellam’s background in classical music is evident in the confident portrayal of performance culture, patronage, and the competitive world of European concert halls. Readers who enjoy biographical fiction, stories of artistic ambition, and richly textured historical settings will appreciate Chopin’s Last Manuscript. Fans of novels that humanize iconic figures while preserving the grandeur of their legacy will be especially drawn to this portrait of a young composer forging his path across a changing continent.

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

Poinsettia Girl by Jennifer Wizbowski is a historical novel set in Venice in the early eighteenth century. Agata Farusi was a ten-year-old girl trying to come to terms with the untimely death of her mother. Cared for by her loving Nonna (grandmother), in their neighborhood bakery, Agata is feeling lost and bereft, especially as her father, an itinerant musician, is frequently not there, and when he is, he casts a shadow over her and Nonna’s life. In a desperate move to protect young Agata, her Nonna arranges for her to be admitted into a girls’ orphanage that specializes in producing musicians and singers for a closed and secretive organization whose ethereal music attracts a wealthy and noble audience. Many of the graduates of this program will end up with offers of marriage from young noblemen. For Agata, it is new, scary, and something she absolutely did not desire. However, she, like all the other girls, must study and train. As she succeeds spectacularly at the conservatory and grows into adulthood, she must decide on a future that involves her love of music or marriage from an unlikely and almost forgotten source.

Poinsettia Girl is a sweet story of love, family, and salvation wrapped up in just a small degree of treachery and backstabbing. Jennifer Wizbowski has done a wonderful job of characterization with Agata and her fellow acolytes. This book delves deeply into the thought processes of the characters. Written at a gentle pace, it allows readers to soak up the atmosphere of the conservatory, its strict rules, and also the wonderful job it performs in turning these young orphans’ lives around. The perspective changes from chapter to chapter, from Agata to her Nonna, Guilelma, and later on to one of Agata’s teachers and friends, Margarita. This gives the story more depth and insight. The love between Agata and her childhood best friend, Gabriele, offers an interesting difference of perspectives. Her success and love of music clash with her growing attraction toward Gabriele, and she is forced to make the hardest decision of her life. I loved the pace, gentleness, and deep characterization. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.

Reviewed by Isabella Harris for Readers' Favorite

The Price of Loyalty by Malve Von Hassell tells the story of Cerdic. After the conquest of England by William, Cerdic, a young English boy, is taken from his hometown back to Normandy. In Normandy, Cerdic is raised with the Conqueror's children, during which time he becomes fond of Adela, the daughter. After several years in Normandy, Cerdic is sent to serve Count Stephen-Henry, who would later become Adela's husband. Although Cerdic longs to return to his hometown in England, he is bound by loyalty to Adela and her husband. Though his loyalty earns him a significant reputation amongst Count Stephen-Henry's household, it also draws him into more complex situations. During the crusades, Cerdic is torn between his responsibility as a father and husband to Giselle and his loyalty to Adela and her husband.

I really enjoyed The Price of Loyalty, as it took me back in time; it felt like I was witnessing history. Malve Von Hassell did a remarkable job of clearly showing the historical period, the political conflicts, and the social customs of the 11th century. The characters were well developed, especially Adela and Giselle, who rose to become great women in their husbands' households. Cerdic's loyalty to those he served shows how even in a world of kings and conquerors, the most enduring battles are fought within the human heart. The central theme is loyalty. The author pays close attention to details, which helps in keeping the narrative engaging. The book has a smooth pace and is filled with lots of action. I recommend it to readers who love historical fiction; this book will transport them to a world of loyalty and conquest.

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

Braving the Dawn by Peggy Joque Williams is a multi-layered and nuanced historical romance set on the frontier of French Canada toward the end of the seventeenth century. Sylvienne d’Aubert held a position of some prominence in the French court. As a lady in waiting to the French king’s favorite mistress, she lived in comfort and luxury unknown to most French people. Banished by the king, Sylvienne finds herself aboard a ship undertaking a dangerous voyage to the colonial town of Quebec in New France. She is accompanied by a collection of young Frenchwomen eager to meet and marry husbands on the frontier, as part of a scheme orchestrated by the king. She, however, is determined never to marry again, having suffered at the abusive hands of her late husband, the Duc of Narbonne. She is determined to return to France and reunite with her childhood love and soulmate, Etienne, if he is still alive and still desires her.

Braving the Dawn is a wonderfully readable and exciting historical adventure. Peggy Joque Williams has created a relatable and warm character in Sylvienne. The depiction of the harrowing journey across the sea to New France (Canada) really brings home the dangers and capriciousness of such long voyages across the Atlantic in small sailing vessels. Sylvienne's loving nature and desire to help others shine through every page, but do not overshadow her courage, determination, and commitment to her goals. The author’s descriptive and in-depth style of writing transports readers to the primitive settlement where mere existence was a struggle. Her time in Quebec was filled with exciting adventures, challenging circumstances, and, despite her best intentions, no shortage of romance. The plot is full of twists, turns, and story arcs that give us a real grasp of life on the edge of European civilization in the seventeenth century. This is the second book describing Sylvienne’s life. I hope this author has plans for a third adventure, because I am keen to continue the journey. I loved this story and highly recommend it.

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

Lady of Lincoln by Rachel Elwiss Joyce is a compelling historical novel set in 12th-century England that highlights the exploits of one brave woman at a time when women were just chattels to be bargained off in advantageous marriages. Nicola is the daughter of the Constable of Lincoln, a man of considerable wealth and power. With no sons to inherit, her father must arrange a suitable marriage for her that will ensure the continuation of the de la Haye legacy in Lincoln. After her father’s unexpected death, she disobeys his wishes and King Henry II’s blessing and instead of marrying her chosen husband, Gerard de Camville, she chooses to marry a penniless knight, William FitzErneis. Saddled with massive debt after being heavily fined by King Henry for her unsanctioned marriage and betrayed by her husband, Nicola must fight to keep her villagers fed and the de la Haye name at the forefront of English history, against an array of forces determined to bend her to their will.

Lady of Lincoln is a towering, epic saga that sweeps through 12th-century England and France with power, action, love, and honor. Rachel Elwiss Joyce has taken the historical figure of Nicola de la Haye, whose amazing and heroic exploits had been consigned to the back pages of historical record by men, and given them life, flesh, blood, and rich emotions. Because this story is based on real events and the author’s research is so detailed, this is more than a historical novel. It is also educational in showing readers the era, not just from the perspectives of the wealthy and the nobility, but also the humble peasant. This combination of historical record and social commentary marks this book as one of the greats in this genre. Nicola is deeply inspiring, innately courageous, and incredibly compassionate. What I loved was that the author wasn’t afraid to imbue her also with a sense of naivety and innocence, especially as it pertained to men, love, and marriage. I particularly enjoyed the romance scenes that were equal parts steamy and humorous, if only for Nicola’s insistence that her needs must be met, as well as her husband’s. As with any novel centered around royalty, there are wonderful insights into the infighting, backstabbing, and cruel behavior of the ruling class, but there is balance, with some nobles who genuinely believed it was their role to care for society beneath them. The story is action-packed with no shortage of good, old-fashioned hand-to-hand combat and gore for the adrenaline junkie, but it is balanced by the underlying scenes of family and community. The overarching theme of honor resonates through every page. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to the sequel, Lady of the Castle. I highly recommend this book.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Empresario’s Wife by Barbara H. Seeber is a sweeping historical novel that brings to life the turbulent era of the Texas Revolution through the eyes of Sarah Seely DeWitt. In 1827, Sarah leaves behind the familiar comforts of St. Louis for the promise and peril of Texas. When she gets there, she finds herself entangled in a love triangle that will shape the course of her future. As political tensions escalate, her struggles merge with the fight for survival, testing her resilience and resolve. Based on true events, the novel offers a deeply personal perspective on one of the most defining periods in American history. Sarah’s journey from love and sacrifice to the heart of a revolution paints a vivid picture of the determination and strength required to shape a new world.

Author Barbara H. Seeber offers readers a compelling, character-driven narrative that captures the personal costs of war and the power of one woman’s choices perfectly, and it is an inspiring tale. I loved the rich and immersive historical details. It was unique to see an overlooked perspective of the Texas Revolution come to life and learn more about the hidden corners of history through the plot. Sarah Seely DeWitt is a compelling and courageous heroine, making history feel deeply personal thanks to the close narrative viewpoint that Seeber gives her and the emotional weight of her thoughts and dialogue. Seeber’s meticulous research shines through as we get deeper into the revolution, creating a setting that is both authentic and dramatic for the period but also has a lot in common with world turmoil now. Overall, The Empresario’s Wife is a gripping tale of love, loss, and survival in a time of immense change that I would recommend.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

Solitary Walker: A Novel of Mary Wollstonecraft by N.J. Mastro follows Mary Wollstonecraft's journey in late 18th-century England and revolutionary France. Beginning with her move to London as a 28-year-old spinster to establish independence as a writer, the novel chronicles her emergence as a champion for women's rights with the publication of “A Vindication of the Rights of Woman.” A public scandal forces Mary to Paris, where she witnesses the tumultuous French Revolution and unexpectedly falls in love with the American adventurer Gilbert Imlay. As the Reign of Terror erupts, Mary faces a perilous choice between her love and her life, with her revolutionary writings placing her in grave danger.

I learned so much about Mary Wollstonecraft after reading this detailed and well-written book. Author N.J. Mastro creates a compelling historical novel that brings the passionate and intellectual life of Mary Wollstonecraft to the forefront. The narrative effectively captures the societal constraints faced by women in 18th-century England and the revolutionary intensity of Paris. Mary's determination to live independently and her unwavering commitment to women's equality are vividly portrayed. The author skillfully weaves in historical events with Mary's personal experiences, including her complex relationship with Gilbert Imlay and the looming threat of the Reign of Terror. I enjoyed how the author included as many details as possible about Mary’s life. The descriptions of her travels from London to Paris to Scandinavia and back to London are perfect. It makes readers feel like they are right next to Mary as she makes decisions that are best for her and not because of pressure from society. Solitary Walker is a compelling and inspiring novel, especially for fans of women’s and historical fiction.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

A Hundred Magical Reasons by Laura DeNooyer tells two intertwined stories set in different times. In the present day, 88-year-old Charlotte Rose Gordon is on a mission to clear her late husband’s name from a crime committed a hundred years ago. Back in 1980, Carrie Kruisselbrink is trying to follow her dream of opening a café, even though the people around her don’t think she should. As Charlotte shares stories from her past—including her friendship with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz author L. Frank Baum—Carrie starts to see how their lives aren’t so different after all. Through their bond, DeNooyer creates a heartfelt story about chasing dreams, standing your ground, and how the stories we tell can change everything.

Laura DeNooyer does a brilliant job of bringing both timelines to life, making it easy to connect with Charlotte and Carrie. The way she weaves L. Frank Baum into the story adds a fun historical touch, but, more than that, it highlights how powerful storytelling can be. I loved how Charlotte's and Carrie’s struggles mirror each other, proving that some challenges—like fighting for what you want—never really change. The writing is smooth and engaging, blending historical details with real emotion, so you feel completely pulled into their worlds. What stuck with me most was how the book shows that stories connect us, no matter how much time passes. Overall, I’d definitely recommend A Hundred Magical Reasons to anyone who loves historical fiction with heart, depth, and a touch of magic.

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

Their Castilian Orphan (The Castilian Saga Book 4) is a continuation of author Anna Belfrage’s superb story of knight Robert FitzStephan and his wife, Noor d’Outremer. Robert and Noor have been secretly raising a foster child whom they claim to be a Castilian orphan they were asked to adopt. In reality, though, Lionel is the only surviving blood of the former leader of the Welsh uprising. Lionel is now working as a page to King Edward and is favored by the king but the return from exile of Robert’s half-brother Eustace threatens to destroy any chance of peace and marital happiness for Robert and Noor. Eustace hates his half-brother with a passion and believes his father wrongly gave Robert land and estates that rightfully belonged to Eustace. He is determined to destroy Robert and expose the truth about Lionel’s real bloodline. When, in October of 1294, the Welsh again rebel against King Edward, Robert, as one of the king's most trusted and favored knights, must again leave Orton Manor and fight alongside Eustace to crush the rebellion, knowing full well that he may face his Welsh longtime friend and comrade, Rhys, on the battlefield.

Author Anna Belfrage is a recognized master of the medieval genre. Having read the previous three books in this series, I was thrilled to read the continuing saga of Robert and Noor whom I have grown to love. Their Castilian Orphan did not disappoint as the inevitable clash between Eustace and Robert edged closer. It is not necessary to have read the previous books to thoroughly enjoy this one but why not read the first three as well? They are simply superb. The author does a tremendous job of dropping little gems of information into the story to let you know the backgrounds of the characters from the first three books so that at no time will you feel lost or wondering. What I particularly loved about this entire series is the wonderful contrast between Robert, the man of action, courage, and war, alongside Robert, the loving husband and doting father. The romantic scenes between Robert and Noor are truly amongst the best I have ever read. The author’s prose flows with perfect timing and pace which seamlessly carries the reader from pitched battle scenes, violence, and mayhem to gentle, loving scenes of family bliss and tranquility. I adore that Noor is an independent and spirited woman of her age and prepared to fight with everything she has to protect her loved ones, her little cubs, and especially their adopted son Lionel. Although the fight scenes are brutal and realistic, the violence is not overdone and is always tempered by a moral lesson or, more often than not, some degree of mercy. In an incredibly violent era, Robert and Noor stand out as paragons of principle and this gives the story such depth and power. I loved this book and the entire series, so I have no hesitation in highly recommending it to all readers.