Luther and Katharina :A Novel of Love and Rebellion by Jody Hedlund

I am a fan of historical novels. It doesn't really matter what time period, as long as the story is believable and accurately shows the life of the era. In this novel, the author, Jody Hedlund has penned a story of religions clashing, love and the strength of the people who lived through it.

The story of Martin Luther and Katherina is complex.  Martin Luther is a former monk, leading the Protestant rebellion against the Catholic Church. Katherina Von Bora is an escaped nun who is rescued by Luther's followers. The story revolves around the struggle to follow their hearts and religious beliefs.

Jody Hedlund has done a great job of weaving fiction and sixteenth century historical facts in this novel. She made the time period come alive. The two main characters with all the struggles, and at times life-threatening issues, were vivid—it was if I were there, life threatened, fear palpable.

Martin Luther and Katharina von Bora are headstrong characters. Because of this, they continuously frustrate and infuriate each other. Both of them grew to accept each other, and the love they shared is deep and mature.
The author created a beautiful story filled with the emotional and difficult upheaval during this time of religious rebellion.  I highly recommend this excellent read.

 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book from Blogging for Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The options I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Timeless Knight by Torie James

As a fan of anything Arthurian or paranormal, I was surprised to find both in Timeless Night. The legend of Camelot has been told in many ways, however,  author Torie James created a unique spin to the age old lore—adding a modern day twist. I knew from the first few pages that I would have a difficult time putting this book down.
 The author, Torie James, penned old world magic, modern day charm, and downright witty scenes throughout this amazing story. The paranormal aspect of the story has a twist I didn't see coming, and at first I thought "No…please don't do this." But oh, what surprises were in store for me. Pure magic was scribed in this tale. I suspect Torie James has a bit of fae blood flowing in her veins. 

Sabrina Foxworth, a strong-willed, modern day woman, is thrown into a whirlwind which changes her life forever. Her childhood dreams begin to make sense—though quite hard for her to swallow. Add to that, Mr. Dreamy-creamy-In-Her-Pants, a.k.a Alex, and all the magical twists he delivers…oh my. Despite her attraction, Sabrina refuses to follow his orders, and does things on her terms. She finds Alex's "explanations" and the ensuing turn of events difficult to believe. However, her very essence cannot deny deep down, she knows Alex speaks the truth. A truth that can be the very death of her.
The scenes are so well written I could "see" them. The personalities of both Alex and Sarah are strong, both conflicting with the other, while at the same time, pulling them closer together. 

The secondary characters, Merlyn, Gawain, Arthur, Guinevere and others are well- developed. I really can't say enough about Timeless Night by Torie James. It's absolutely amazing. 

The Mapmaker's Children

I loved the dual timeline of The Mapmaker's Children. Both of the stories intertwine into each other as the book progresses.

 The historical timeline follows the life of Sarah Brown, and her role in the Underground Railroad. Sarah is unable to have children, but she is a mother in many ways, both to her sister Annie, and the children she helps along the way. The author obviously did her research and made the characters walk right off the pages and into the reader's hearts. Sarah Brown's strength and growth were inspiring. (I also loved the historical photos at the end of the book.)

The modern-day timeline is 2014 in a small town, New Charleston, West Virginia. The main character, Eden Anderson, recently settled in this town. Well, maybe using the word settled is not right. Eden is anything but settled, both in the recent move, and her state of mind. Eden is struggling with many issues but the most heartbreaking is her recent miscarriage. While exploring her new home, she finds a porcelain doll head in a very mysterious place. This head is a pivotal part of the story. Her young neighbor, Cleo just about steals the story. I adore this kid. Eden initially doesn't know what to think of Cleo, but soon the two are inseparable.

So… how to these two stories end up connecting? I don't want to give too much away, but I will say both timelines eventually converges, slowly unfolding its secrets one clue at a time. At the end, I was truly satisfied.

I highly recommend this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book from Blogging for Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255. 

Captive Trail by Susan Page Davis

Captive Trail, by Susan Page Davis, is the second book of The Texas Trail series. Like the first book, this centers on a family in mid-1800 Texas. The Morgan family has a different author and I love her writing voice.

Let me tell you a bit about the story. Taabe Waipu is a Comanche captive. She escapes to avoid marrying a man she doesn't love. She searches for her white family, but on her travels, her horse falls and she's injured and alone. Ned Bright, a stagecoach driver happens along and finds her. He brings her to a mission where nuns take care of her and help her recover.

Okay, if that isn't enough to suck you in and make you want to read this book, then you're dead. 

All kidding aside, this was a great story, filled with major character growth. (Not to mention history about Texan life in the 1800's.) I loved the main character, Taabe Waipu, and admired her tenacity and courage.

The author, Susan Page Davis, has a beautiful writer's voice, smooth storytelling chops, and the ability to make characters come alive in my head.

4 stars

 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The options I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR Part 255.

Heart of the Maze By Rain Chapman

Rain Chapman's writing is so vivid that her words become reality. The character's in this book, Cilia and Devlin, capture and evoke emotion from anyone who reads their story.

The authentic historical aspect of this book carries readers into an enchanted realm. The author, Rain Chapman, uses her imagination to fuel magical inner thoughts and feelings of the main characters,

The fantasy-filled, yet believable gifts Cilia and Devlen share drew me in. The undulated action carries this story forward. My anticipation surged from one chapter to the next, making the book impossible to put down.

I loved the book. Not one con to report here.

4 stars