A Kingdom to Claim ~ Review

A Kingdom to Claim
By Sian Ann Bessey

I'll admit it: I love Historical Fiction. I love getting glimpses of what was. A Kingdom to Claim was a wonderful blend of fact and fiction that was entertaining. This book presented information that I had previously read, but it was wrapped up in shiny new packaging that made it new and fresh.

I loved getting to know Aisley, a young woman determined to keep her home and her people free of Viking rule. She's not about to let her father's death be for naught. No, she'll do what is needed to fight for the land and people she loves. And she'll do it with the help of a man she knows to be loyal to King Alfred, even if it means standing against her own brother.

I enjoyed this book. It was fresh and new, though the basics of the story itself are old. The presentation was attention-holding and not just a stale retelling of the historical details. The author has a way with words so that you care about the outcome (though if you remember your English history, you already know what happened). I love when history comes alive and becomes relevant as one works through the book. I would recommend it to those who enjoy early English history, and if you are a high schooler in need of a suggestion for a historical fiction read, here you go!

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Aisley lost everything in a Viking attack.
Now, working alongside the one man she trusts,
she is ready to fight for her people—and for love.

Wessex, AD 878

Aisley’s young life was changed forever when her father accompanied King Alfred into battle and lost his life in a deadly skirmish with the Vikings. Now, almost seven years later, the Vikings are once again rallying on Wessex’s borders, and Aisley fears that her older brother may have treacherous plans to betray the king by aligning himself with the invading Norsemen. But when Aisley encounters a handsome nobleman in the market, she feels the first stirrings of hope. Though they met only once when Aisley was little more than a child, she recognizes him immediately as one of King Alfred’s most trusted men.

It has been years since Brecc has seen Aisley, but when he spots her in the marketplace, he finds himself inexplicably drawn to the copper-haired young lady with a gift for healing. Before his fledgling feelings for her can develop into something more, however, a Viking attack tears them apart. King Alfred is forced into hiding, and in a matter of days, the Saxon nation is brought to its knees. Unwilling to forsake their people, the king and his men embark on secret raids of Viking encampments. But when Aisley joins the fight, Brecc must reconcile his steadfast loyalty to King Alfred with his growing love for the king’s newest warrior.

Shattered Revision ~ Now Available

 Available Now!

Shattered Revision by Madisyn Carlin 

from The Shattered Lands 

comes a prequel that is 

inspired by Sleeping Beauty.

Beware the truth, for it could cost you your life.

Available to purchase at Amazon

Locksmith-turned-soldier Canon Norr is finally free from war. When his best friend calls in a favor, however, he finds himself stepping right back into danger and potential bloodshed. Protecting the innocent woman targeted by evil schemers would be easy if she wasn’t so distracting and unlike any noble he’s ever before encountered.

Lady Silci Clanna spent most of her life in hiding, but when her people need a leader, she finds herself stepping forward and exposing her existence to those who’ve desired her death since she was born. Can her best friend and a handsome, yet ornery and sarcastic foreigner help her live long enough to see her people finally free from bloodshed and hardship? Or will her enemies finally succeed and end the Clanna line?

As desperation mounts and a malevolent plot is brought to light, Canon and Silci are confronted by danger at every turn. Hope wanes and danger grows, and with it a terrifying revelation—in order for most to survive, one must die.

Shattered Revision is a New Adult Christian fantasy tale inspired by Sleeping Beauty and is the prequel to The Shattered Lands series.

The Shattered Lands
Shattered Revision - Prequel
Shattered Reflection - Book One
Shattered Reaction - Book Two
Shattered Resistance - Book Three
Shattered Redemption - Book Four (Available for Preorder)
Shattered Risk - Novella (Coming late 2025)

Beneath a Crescent Shadow ~ Review

Beneath a Crescent Shadow

The Balkan Legends #1

A.L. Sowards

This is such a good book. I don't think I've ever read a book set in 14th Century Serbia before. Yes, I had World History in High School and it touched on the Ottoman Empire, but this book takes all those dry facts and dates giving it depth, making one care. Now don't misunderstand me, I loved history class but to make one care about the people involved and empathize with the trials they faced is special.

The story opens with Konstantin facing ruin. His lands have been attacked, famine seems almost certain, and paying the upcoming tribute impossible. His only hope is a bride with a rich dowry, which is arranged for him by his grandfather to a young woman named Suzana.

Suzana's life has been hard. Her father has made her feel worthless and unloved. Her only worth is in her dowry and whatever alliance she may bring to her father through it. And she carries the pain of her past and the abuse she suffered with her. What she never expected was to win her husband's love.

But happiness doesn't seem to be assured as war seperates Konstantin and Suzana. Both experience great tragedy that affects them deeply. So deeply that it could utterly destroy what they have if they can survive what is coming.

This is the first book in the Balkan Legends series and I confess, I'm eagerly awaiting what is to come next in the series. This is a well-written book with compelling characters. Highly recommend it to fans of Medieval Historical Fiction or Eastern European Historical Fiction,

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I share my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

After an arranged marriage, Konstantin and Suzana must find a way to meet 

the demands of a conquering Ottoman sultan amid a torrent of setbacks and 

dangers much closer to their Balkan home.

The Balkans, 1373

A devastating battle claimed the lives of Konstantin's father, uncle, and most of their Serb army, leaving him to rule as a vassal of the Ottoman sultan, a role he is wholly unprepared for. Between war, famine, and a persistent band of brigands, Konstantin is nearly bankrupt. He will need to find a wealthy bride to marry if he is to have any hope of saving his lands and securing his future.

A betrothal to Suzana, the daughter of a prosperous merchant, is soon arranged, and upon meeting her, Konstantin immediately feels hope that their marriage could someday grow into love. Yet, from the moment of Konstantin and Suzana's betrothal, enemies threaten their lives, outlaws prey on their lands, and the terrors of Suzana's abusive past haunt their fragile new relationship. As this onslaught of threats closes in, the two face challenges that will test their love, their faith, and their hope to save their people and win their freedom from the heavy weight of Ottoman oppression.

Guard Her Heart ~ Review

Guard Her Heart
Crown of Promise #2
By Hannah Currie
Published by WhiteCrown

Lady Mykah feels the call to aid those who are in need. She has never questioned that. But she has kept her identity secret as she moves through the night, leaving aid at the door of those whose needs she knows. But Mykah has made an enemy, an enemy who seeks her death.

Sir Finnigan has long sought his elder brother's approval. He's never questioned the orders he's been given until now. When Finnigan shoots and nearly kills the young woman who stole his heart years ago, he determines that his loyalty lies not with his brother but with the king and the young woman known as the Guardian of Raedonleith.  

Determined to make amends for his actions, Finnigan rides to give warning and to win the heart of the lady who captured his heart years ago.

I really enjoyed this book, which is set in the time of knights and chivalry. It was interesting watching events unfold and seeing how the various characters were woven together. Even more so when saw events from differing perspectives. Who do you trust, and who do you hold at arm's length. I liked Mykah, but I also felt her feelings about Finnigan were most interesting, considering her position on other matters.  And I felt Finnigan showed a strength of character in both his dealings with his brother and his later efforts in Raedonleith.  This is the second book in the Crown of Promise series but it can be read as a standalone title. I'm sure the first book provides information that would explain more about King Lior and Mykah's sister Evangeline, but it could easily be read later to answer any questions that arise while reading.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

To all bar a few, the Guardian of Raedonleith is a mystery. To Lady Mykah, the second daughter of King Lior, it’s her calling. For the past four years, the mask has given Mykah a way to care for her people in her father’s stead while she hides from them how distant their king has become. She has never questioned her mission or thought the cost too high—until the night an arrow finds her. Though she has the courage of a knight and the calling of the Almighty, Mykah admits she would have died if not for the man who carried her to safety. A man who is as determined to keep his identity hidden as she is.

 Six years ago, Sir Finnian lost his heart to a mysterious young archer. Though he searched, he never learned her name until the night he shot her…on his brother’s orders. Wracked with guilt, Finnian makes protecting Lady Mykah his new mission, never guessing how difficult it will prove to be. The Guardian has more enemies than she knows, and they’re closer than she realizes.

The longer Finnian stays, the clearer the price of his vow becomes. Because the only way to win Mykah’s heart will be to break his own. And the only way to keep hers beating will be to break it altogether.

Order at: https://bit.ly/490SmgE 

About the Author:

Hannah Currie has loved royals—both real and fictional—for as long as she can remember and has always been fascinated by their lives. They started making their way into her writing somewhere around first grade and never stopped.

While she never dreamed of being a princess for real (way too many expectations and people watching), she certainly wouldn’t say no to the gorgeous gowns, endless wardrobes, chefs, and cleaners that come with the job. A crown or two wouldn’t go astray either. Or Belle’s library. Where she’d just sit and stare at the books with a giddy smile on her face for hours.

Hannah lives with her husband and three kids in Australia, where they proudly claim Queen Elizabeth II and the royal family as their own. She is very honored to be one of the launching authors for the new WhiteCrown Publishing line with her Crown of Promise series full of faith, romance, and—of course—royals.

Author Links

Instagram | Facebook | Newsletter | Pinterest | Goodreads | BookBub

Entrusted ~ Review

Entrusted

Knights of Brethren #6

By Jody Hedlund

The race to save their country from their neighbor is coming to a close as time has run out. The enemy has crossed their border and has advanced deeper into Norvegia. Kristoffer Prestegard is the last Knight of Brethren with any hope of capturing the holy lamp from Swaine's troops. But what he doesn't realize is that there are other forces at work, forces that are bent on toppling King Ansgar and putting Kristoffer on the throne in his stead. 

But Kristoffer's loyalty is to Norvegia and King Ansgar. And he is determined to stop the Dark Warriors, who are aiding King Canute's efforts in taking Norvegia. When he and his squires come face to face with these formidable warriors in the dark of night, Kristoffer never imagined he might come away from the battle with something that could aid him in his quest. Princess Birgitta of Swaine was leading the warriors, holding their blood thirst in check. At least, she was before she became a prisoner.

What follows is a battle of wits and intellect as Kristoffer seeks to prevent his prisoner's escape and Brigitta attempts to lull him into complacency. What neither expected was the spark of attraction to grow between them. Falling in love with the enemy can't happen.

Entrusted is the sixth and final book in the Knights of Brethren series, and it is the definite climax as everything comes together. Will Norvegia withstand the threats, or will she fall as forces within and without conspire against her? As the final book, I can only say, "WOW!" This book was excellent and draws the series to a conclusion that can't be missed. Treachery, betrayal, a kingdom teetering on the brink, and a thoroughly impossible attraction. Yes, Jody Hedlund knows how to weave words so that one enters a world and becomes thoroughly engaged so that when the end comes, one is disappointed that the end has come. 

I do recommend reading all the books in the series as they build upon one another. But the immediate predecessor, Enflamed, is an absolute must, as it too deals with the third quest - the search for the holy lamp and focuses on Kristoffer's family, providing needed background for Entrusted. Now I know this series is over, but I would love a companion series that would touch on some of the other characters and what happens to them. That, in my opinion, is the best endorsement of any book or series when you want more from this world.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion, all thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

During a time when legends were born . . .

ENTRUSTED

The feisty enemy princess, 

the cunning knight holding her captive, 

and the ultimate battle that will determine their fate.

Hoping to minimize the death and destruction of the coming war, Princess Birgitta of Swaine leads the Dark Warriors as part of her brother King Canute’s efforts to take the throne of Norvegia. As she engages in a skirmish with a band of elite Knights of Brethren, she’s kidnapped by Kristoffer Prestegard, a cunning warrior.

While searching for the holy lamp that can help defeat the Dark Warriors, Kristoffer realizes that Swaine has already seized the ancient relic. Since King Canute is fiercely protective of his sister, Kristoffer offers to return Princess Birgitta in exchange for the coveted holy lamp.

While trying to keep his feisty prisoner from escaping, Kristoffer learns that his father and uncle have set in motion a scheme that would give him the kingship of Norvegia. Where will Kristoffer’s loyalties lie, and how will he choose sides without losing everything, including the princess he’s grown to love?

The real story of the Holy Lamp continues . . .

Entwined ~ Review

Entwined'

Knights of Brethren #2

By Jody Hedlund

Lis's true identity was revealed to her by Maxim just before he and Princess Elinor went into hiding. Not seeking to lay claim to her heritage Lis seeks to thwart the threat to King Ulrik and Norvegia. Sir Ansgar made an impression when they meet on the battlefield and is the Knight of Brethren she seeks out.

But the treachery that is seeking to destroy the kingdom from within has set its sights on the Brethren. And its first target is Sir Ansgar.

Entwined is the sequel to Enamored and continues the adventures of the Knights of Brethren as they fight to protect their kingdom and their king and maybe love along the way. This is a medieval romance that is written for the teen reader who wants something different from the standard YA fare available while written so that older readers are still able to enjoy and delve deep into the book. I really recommend reading the first book in the series as you will need the backstory to fully grasp and understand how we got to where we are. Treachery is afoot and only those most worthy can stand in its way.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but to provide my honest opinion ~ All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

During a time when legends were born . . .

A princess cursed from birth, a loyal knight worthy of being king,
 and a sword that can determine their destiny.

After growing up on a remote farm, Lis learns she is the rightful heir to the throne of Norvegia. Even as she does her part to thwart a dangerous plot against the king, she resists pursuing her new identity and resigns herself to a simple life helping her elderly father with their farm.

With the king losing his mind, Sir Ansgar, the highest knight in the land, is desperate to save the sovereign he's sworn to protect. But before Ansgar can uncover what is causing the king's demise, he finds himself falsely accused of treason and dismissed from court.

In danger of losing his life, Ansgar takes refuge on Lis's farm. Love soon blossoms between Ansgar and Lis, even as they realize a future together is impossible. Yet they must unite to save the kingdom from ever-growing forces of evil. Are their destinies entwined? Or will they be ripped apart forever?

The real story of Excalibur continues . . .