tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45016373767766225782024-02-18T17:51:57.367-08:00Historical Fiction ReviewGreat Reviews of Historical Fiction, covering all time periods of American and International History.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.comBlogger113125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-3643470915377283832008-03-12T10:40:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:45.369-08:00The Merry Monarch's Wife: Catherine of Braganza<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA3-ZK_qt6QYKqLK1MXMqGeOhd71h20S17yY7dwQetEzorCU9Kz7PSZP4CuVp3sdqm-TiU0pUbQpsXz2CZsysazFejMi-U6nThWUltsQJGCp2vk0X9z8tS95paxFHUYcuIl04Pvn4Hkf8/s1600-h/MerryMonarchsWife.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA3-ZK_qt6QYKqLK1MXMqGeOhd71h20S17yY7dwQetEzorCU9Kz7PSZP4CuVp3sdqm-TiU0pUbQpsXz2CZsysazFejMi-U6nThWUltsQJGCp2vk0X9z8tS95paxFHUYcuIl04Pvn4Hkf8/s400/MerryMonarchsWife.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5176911937279443810" border="0" /></a>Several of Jean Plaidy's historical novels have been re-printed in recent years, particularly the books in her "Queens of England" series. One recent re-release is "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/030734617X?ie=UTF8&tag=worldhistoric-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=030734617X" target="top">The Merry Monarch's Wife</a>," (originally published in 1991) a biographical novel about Catherine of Braganza, wife of King Charles II in the late 17th century. As with all books in this series, the story is told in first person by the queen looking back on her life -- along with the woman's repeated expressions of "if only" regret and how she might have done things differently. In each "Queens" book, Jean Plaidy features a character and basic story previously included in earlier series. For example, the "Courts of Love" Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine also is found in the first four books of the "Plantagenet Saga." Catherine of Braganza, the Merry Monarch's Wife, is also featured in the second book of the "King Charles II" trilogy (part of the overall Stuart Saga about the Stuart monarchs): <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0884118940?ie=UTF8&tag=worldhistoric-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0884118940" target="top">A Health Unto His Majesty</a>.<br /><br />Through the earlier "King Charles II" series and this Queens of England companion book, Plaidy brings her great historical research to the interesting and romantic story of King Charles II and his merry England, the British Court of the Restoration Period. "The Merry Monarch's Wife" is a decent enough telling of the same story from the King Charles II trilogy, with some additional material specific to the life of Catherine before and after her marriage to Charles II. The many characters at court, including Charles' mistresses and extended family members, are sufficiently developed for a story that tells the details of life at court as well as the political events of the time, including especially the conflict between Catholics and Protestants. These novels about Catherine of Braganza bring out many interesting details about the tragic Queen, who introduced Britains to their (until recently) favorite beverage of tea, yet as a foreigner and Catholic was unpopular in her new country -- and in the end failed in the major duty of a Queen, to provide the country with an heir. Throughout, we see the young, naive and sheltered woman who was sent to a foreign country to become the wife of a promiscuous man who could not be faithful to one woman, and yet still loved Charles and clung to her position.<br /><br />The story itself, as a part of the English Restoration, is one of marked licentiousness, the English extreme reaction against the preceding years of Cromwell's Puritan rule. Plaidy even included an author's note addressing this matter in the introduction to her King Charles II story -- an explanation no doubt needed in the 1950s -- along with her justification for what others' called her too favorable portrayal of Charles himself. This actual history shows the real depravity of mankind which as an overall society cannot yield to the holy and moral life desired by God, and bears out the Calvinist understanding that without God's work in the heart, man cannot conform to God's moral standards -- the underlying reason why Cromwell's Puritan England failed. Plaidy thankfully wrote in an earlier time and thus does not include the common vulgarity and gratuitous sex scenes so typical of many modern-day writers. Yet her telling of the story clearly states her own attitudes, as so aptly expressed in the Billy Joel song -- "I'd rather laugh with the sinners than cry with the saints / the sinners are much more fun."<br /><br />Plaidy (real name Eleanor Hibbert) was near the end of her life and career when she wrote this 9th book in the "Queens of England" series; she died in 1993. As such -- and as noted by other reviewers -- these later books lack the quality of her earlier works. Yet many of her earlier works, some written in the 1950s and 1960s, are out of print and hard to come by. Three Rivers Press has re-released the later Plaidy works to re-introduce Jean Plaidy to a new generation, and hopefully they will see enough interest to also re-print Plaidy's earlier works.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-4293035607583176882008-02-13T05:30:00.000-08:002008-12-11T14:37:45.626-08:00Review of DEATH COMES BY AMPHORA, by Roger Hudson<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaFWOZhXL2WlwINlu0E8Ddohpa8ja1HlTxIYkvmLFZr1VfpJnZh2epB4krpcAjvx86h0jRPcauLvV3-hLPfHOS5VkDMlkzQ5Uad8cJ9nSwoWIt3I2aMBVXp9MJ6vYMAvJtfOp5uQ4PNzk/s1600-h/DeathComesByAmphora.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaFWOZhXL2WlwINlu0E8Ddohpa8ja1HlTxIYkvmLFZr1VfpJnZh2epB4krpcAjvx86h0jRPcauLvV3-hLPfHOS5VkDMlkzQ5Uad8cJ9nSwoWIt3I2aMBVXp9MJ6vYMAvJtfOp5uQ4PNzk/s400/DeathComesByAmphora.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5166458195462083090" border="0" /></a>Reviewed by Cyril Gillen<br /><br />This most enjoyable and illuminating of novels combines the best of several genres. As a historical mystery, Death Comes by Amphora by Roger Hudson is both a captivating portrait of Athens in the 5th century BC and an engrossing detective story but it is also a story of revenge, a political thriller, a coming of age love story and even has elements of a family saga. The period falls into the gap between the account of the Persian Invasions by Herodotus and the Peloponnesian War described by Thucydides and, as a secondary/high school classics teacher, I feel that, for a work of fiction, it fills the gap incredibly well, testifying to the thoroughness of the research behind it.<br /><br />The author makes the Athens of 461 B.C. come alive as, through the eyes of the 18-year-old Lysanias, we witness a city in the throes of political turmoil and revolution. Our young tyro has just come to Athens and suddenly finds himself driven to avenge the murder of his wealthy uncle Klereides. We explore a thriving, pulsating city – its markets, shipyards, dye works, building sites, banks and banquets. We meet its politicians, generals, bankers, merchants, artists and artisans as Lysanias and his elderly slave Sindron discover that many of them had reason for wanting his uncle out of the way. They all seem so modern woven into this rich tapestry of courage, nobility, generosity, cowardice, sensuality, venality and humanity.<br /><br />The atmospheric account of the murder of Klereides that launches the novel is worthy of any bestselling crime thriller. The subsequent detective work of the ‘dynamic duo’ of master and slave, Lysanias and Sindron, is worthy of Morse and his sidekick Lewis. The cast of possible suspects would satisfy Poirot. The clinical examination of the physical evidence makes it akin to an episode of “C.S.I. Athens”. The pace and suspense established in Chapter 1 never falter and culminate in a conclusion which is as credible and unexpected as it is riveting.<br /><br />It is illuminating to see that Athens at that time had what appears to be a very contemporary combination of power hungry politicians, corrupt businessmen, amoral bankers and a most fickle Assembly and populace. Politicians and generals who had best served their city were often rewarded for their troubles with exile by citizens who had a most healthy fear of hubris. In a world dominated by men, we meet an absorbing gallery of women who have found ways to empower themselves as courtesans, wives, mothers and mistresses. The beautiful Aspasia, future wife of Pericles, provides a ration of sexual interest as our young hero is initiated into much more than the customs and mores of the city.<br /><br />I would recommend this novel to all classical students without hesitation as well as to crime fiction enthusiasts. Some classicists might debate one or two of the historical interpretations (no bad thing) but there is much erudition behind the entirely believable descriptions of the city, customs, businesses, politics, public and private characters. There is a vitality in the writing which engages the reader and makes learning painless – the dream of any teacher. We admire the aristocratic General Kimon and his selfless acceptance of his fate. We are surprised to find the wily Themistocles back meddling in political affairs. We lament the death of Ephialtes and look forward to the time when his apprentice Pericles will preside over a golden age in this great city. This could perhaps supply Roger Hudson with the setting for what would be a most welcome sequel.<br /><br />Death Comes by Amphora is an excellent read for anyone who has an interest in the classical world, or has not – for anyone who likes a good tale well told and one which leaves us at the end just a little wiser.<br /><br />Book and Reviewer Information:<br /><br />Death Comes by Amphora<br />By Roger Hudson<br />Twenty First Century Publishers<br />ISBN: 978-1-904433-68-2<br /><a href="http://www.twentyfirstcenturypublishers.com/" target="top">www.twentyfirstcenturypublishers.com</a><br /><br />Review by Cyril Gillen<br />Classics Teacher<br />St. Joseph’s School<br />Drogheda<br />IrelandLynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-17534000881992641122006-11-22T13:28:00.000-08:002008-12-11T14:37:45.825-08:00A Hearth in Candlewood: Candlewood Trilogy in 1840s New York State<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaSiwE5lLnscBgDOJq41KPbE-wryJUdPf5RSVKpWdBvZP0blaHKI1Jz2ZPdtTcE6CQ4V5Z4IJjygjeaWRnbKjopD5B1jfm-BJ4AM-ZYO41MmXvQU3eZMbT62RRmJHMp16FQBSUXQlbyCE/s1600-h/Hearth_in_Candlewood.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaSiwE5lLnscBgDOJq41KPbE-wryJUdPf5RSVKpWdBvZP0blaHKI1Jz2ZPdtTcE6CQ4V5Z4IJjygjeaWRnbKjopD5B1jfm-BJ4AM-ZYO41MmXvQU3eZMbT62RRmJHMp16FQBSUXQlbyCE/s320/Hearth_in_Candlewood.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155447938251169106" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764200860/worldhistoric-20" target="top">A Hearth in Candlewood</a>, by Delia Parr, begins a nice “Candlewood Trilogy” series. Set in 1841, this story chronicles the lives of several residents at a boarding house in a canal village in upstate New York.<br /><br />Widow Emma Garrett, in her early fifties, recently sold her general store and bought the Hill House. Her new business venture includes several residents, including her mother-in-law (another “Widow Garrett”) and an elderly former pastor, as well as guests who make frequent trips to the area. Two teenage workers, Liesl and Ditty, provide help to the kitchen and general upkeep of the boarding house.<br /><br />When an elderly grandmother and widow runs away from her feuding sons to stay at Hill House, Emma quickly becomes involved in trying to reconcile the sons with their mother, but encounters problems along the way.<br /><br />The canals running along nearby are ever present in the background, named as the mode of transportation for people visiting Candlewood, New York. Occasionally we even meet characters who work at the ship yards, the major employment of the area. However, this story is more focused on the actual characters, with few details of the canal operations, for a story that could take place in any time or place.<br /><br />The story is the focus, a nice, “chicken soup for the soul” type of feel-good story about nice, simple characters in this village. Unlike most Christian historicals, the main characters are older adults. As such, their problems are not the exciting, page-turner suspense type, but the more mundane everyday problems of life. Emma knows nothing of today’s big societal problems, and instead frets about such things as: what people will think of her for wearing unconventional clothing when she goes horseback riding with two eccentric visitors. Or, how to keep Liesl and Ditty at the boarding house and away from the temptations of boys (at least, unchaperoned visits). And, for the biggest and somewhat humorous one, how to handle several renegade chickens that run loose in the town and then decide to roost at the Hill House.<br /><br />Throughout the story, Emma always seeks solutions, wanting the best for everyone around her. She also sees herself as a good business woman, with plenty of experience from running a general store and now the boarding house. Yet her biggest worry she keeps to herself: news from her lawyer that she bought the boarding house from an unscrupulous salesman who did not have the right to sell it to her – and thus, she does not legally own title to the Hill House. So Emma must consider her own past actions, questioning her motives and judgement, as she continually remembers to trust God in everything.<br /><br />A Hearth in Candlewood is a nice beginning to the “Candlewood Trilogy.” Some conflicts are resolved, but the biggest question, Emma’s questionable ownership of the actual property, are left for us to wonder – for the next story in the series.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-9413808618620292492006-10-12T05:31:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:46.073-08:00Under the Northern Lights<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWeeYhMMJzEhHukeR0LojBr-UlvKILjHIl6nkvU3UiP6qdZ6p59nQJT7LQnA_wQTUKZbvbt_PEdqi8spviqjcBb7bUYw_fQ3q9bvsbna9nSbApv8OHzHQoru_vtU-zNEWWXcqDgskRcfI/s1600-h/Under_the_Northern_Lights.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWeeYhMMJzEhHukeR0LojBr-UlvKILjHIl6nkvU3UiP6qdZ6p59nQJT7LQnA_wQTUKZbvbt_PEdqi8spviqjcBb7bUYw_fQ3q9bvsbna9nSbApv8OHzHQoru_vtU-zNEWWXcqDgskRcfI/s320/Under_the_Northern_Lights.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155696290440093026" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764227742/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Under the Northern Lights</a>, by Tracie Peterson, continues the “Alaskan Quest” story begun in Summer of the Midnight Sun. Beginning in September 1915, Under the Northern Lights picks up from the previous story’s cliffhanger ending, and finally resolves that story, while continuing the relationship issues between Jacob and Helaina.<br /><br />This novel clearly works as part of a continuing story. It assumes familiarity with the first book, and as a middle piece it leaves another unclear ending. The final installment in this trilogy, Whispers of Winter, will be published this November (2006). Recognizing that the series is really one longer story, the publisher will soon also publish the “Alaskan Quest” as a complete set.<br /><br />Chase Kincaid has already abducted Helaina Beecham, the Pinkerton agent originally sent to find the man responsible for crimes back East. Now Chase abducts Leah as well, and part of the story involves the typical “chase” story of the abducted ones with their captor, and their loved ones following their trail. Beyond this subplot (which is resolved halfway through the book), though, we see Leah and Helaina grow and mature from their experiences. Leah learns to trust God, even when bad things happen to her, and accept God’s ability to heal her soul. Meanwhile, Helaina must deal with her attitude of justice at all costs, and learn that some things are more important than what money can buy.<br /><br />Under the Northern Lights continues the fast-paced and enjoyable reading, along with more time getting to know the main characters: Jayce Kincaid and his evil twin brother Chase, Leah (now married to Jayce), Jacob Barringer and Helaina Beecham. Though some story elements are clearly far-out—such as an evil twin abducting his brother’s wife and headed into the wilds of Alaska as winter sets in—many relational aspects are presented realistically enough.<br /><br />The historical and regional background is again well-established. The “real world” of the lower 48 states is in the background, with only brief references to the events of World War I. However, the day-to-day survival life in Alaska is ever-present, a simple yet attentive world in which the characters must always be vigilant and prepared for the weather. The author skillfully blends her research into the ongoing story—through the many chores and activities of a small Alaskan village, along with great dialog and interactions with the missionaries and local natives—to create an interesting picture of Alaska in 1915 and 1916.<br /><br />Under the Northern Lights is an enjoyable historical fiction novel, a great follow-up to the beginning of this “Alaskan Quest” story.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-91634632054158777012006-09-28T05:36:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:46.215-08:00Mozart's Sister<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJl1eFNk583L4b2xQtRhEwUzRZ3ipvN5ZhG_0oR-1G4CCWkmnfMPAkEbL7k6k-dWnYoBmO9VTPl9lHJy0zvIwUUYSP259W5dNjZp4ChXVb_n95iH0dJmS1TjP9VBZaFx0REtXa0vgUWQ/s1600-h/Mozarts_Sister.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJl1eFNk583L4b2xQtRhEwUzRZ3ipvN5ZhG_0oR-1G4CCWkmnfMPAkEbL7k6k-dWnYoBmO9VTPl9lHJy0zvIwUUYSP259W5dNjZp4ChXVb_n95iH0dJmS1TjP9VBZaFx0REtXa0vgUWQ/s320/Mozarts_Sister.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155696805836168562" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764201239/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Mozart’s Sister</a>, by Nancy Moser, is the story of Mozart’s older sister, Nannerl. Told in the first person in the style of an autobiography, it tells of the Mozart family’s life beginning with their international tours as children, up to Mozart’s death at age 35. Throughout, we experience the particular feelings and frustrations of Nannerl, whose talent was overlooked because of her gender. The story is in fact a rather sad one, of a woman always in the shadow of her controlling father and genius brother, denied both the musical career and the normal life of marriage and family.<br /><br />Mozart’s Sister is an interesting and easy reading, with its combination of biography and a narrative with characters and dialogue. The main characters are developed quite well (father, mother, Nannerl, and “Wolfie”), but other characters come and go and are not as clearly developed. But such should be expected, as the focus on the family members reflects the historical research, in which more is known about the Mozarts than the other people they interacted with.<br /><br />The author does an excellent job with the historical research, presenting a story as true as possible while filling in the gaps of what is known and not known in the Mozart family history. As the author notes at the end, she took advantage of the great collection of letters from the Mozart family; much of the dialogue comes straight from the actual letters. The setting of late 18th century Europe, and the larger context of events going on in England, France, and Austria, is also well established. Names of nobility are mentioned and introduced throughout--some names well known today, such as Marie Antoinette, due to what would happen to them in later years. Other names, including the political leaders of Austria and even the musical and political leaders of Salzburg, where the family resides when not traveling, are less familiar; these names of nobility and leadership complete the picture of the broader, political landscape of Europe especially during the 1760s through 1780s. Opera is of course a big part of music at the time, and the book gives some attention to these great music events in Italy as well as Vienna, Austria.<br /><br />As with most “biography” stories, the best parts are early on, the person’s childhood. Later on, the story tends to drag at times, especially as Nannerl tends to be rather morose and moping. Still, the story has great educational value, an entertaining way to learn more about this great classical music composer and his family. As a “Christian” story, though, it is rather on the weak side, since the topic involves somewhat nominal Catholics with glaring character faults. Nannerl has some sense of God and religion, and accepts “God’s will” for her life, but the story overall lacks the specifically evangelical Christian themes that are more easily presented in other fictional settings.<br /><br />Mozart’s Sister is still an enjoyable read, a great way to learn the untold story of this forgotten woman, Mozart’s older sister, and the particular trials and challenges she endured.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-69113954196520526812006-09-20T05:25:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:46.339-08:00Fury: 1825-1826<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5kW5zr3SlOfdo9A8uvS7R1CXDUb1MzSMaMJrSqnlDR_Bu6qa32C7geGxi7ZT7z_okIKjzYHsmd6SAUyujviE2kQXkI6BlsOr36UziQH3xDPWfpl0AkEs_QcM6HtAj3T3yAge8tFDxkwY/s1600-h/Fury.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5kW5zr3SlOfdo9A8uvS7R1CXDUb1MzSMaMJrSqnlDR_Bu6qa32C7geGxi7ZT7z_okIKjzYHsmd6SAUyujviE2kQXkI6BlsOr36UziQH3xDPWfpl0AkEs_QcM6HtAj3T3yAge8tFDxkwY/s320/Fury.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156436373434736050" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1582295735/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Fury</a>, part of the “Great Awakenings” series (Bill Bright and Jack Cavanaugh), also serves as a sequel to Storm. In 1825, 16-year-old Daniel Cooper, orphaned son of Eli Cooper and Maggy (Asa Rush’s sister), now lives with his uncle Asa and Aunt Camilla. Daniel witnesses a murder that involves his employer, Cyrus Gregg, and soon finds himself running for his life, with the hired-murderer close behind. Fleeing also from his Uncle Asa, Daniel heads north into upstate New York, where he encounters a Charles Finney revival and is challenged by the Christian witness of other young people he meets.<br /><br />Fury does a great work of combining historical details of the period with a great action story. It incorporates the canal fervor of the day along with interesting descriptions of ideas for early washing machines, and the frontier spirit of the people at Finney’s revival meetings. (One minor historical error: throughout the text Washington D.C. is called by its present-day name, not "Washington City" as it was then called.) Along the way we read plenty of action, especially great physical stunts of survival, and detailed descriptions of the two characters lost in a cave. Yet Fury seems weaker than its predecessor Storm, perhaps because it takes a long time getting to the good parts. Much of the action takes place in the town before Daniel flees, and the events described on the book cover – even Daniel’s flight from the murderer – don’t occur until well into the story. The story’s Christian aspect, and the introduction of Charles Finney, only occur near the very end. Overall, the story works as an entertaining, action-packed thriller that will keep you turning the pages – at least in certain sections. A few parts tend to lag, and the part where Daniel is alone in a cave seems stretched a bit too long. Otherwise, though, the story and the characters are amusing and entertaining.<br /><br />The biggest problem with the story is in its treatment of Charles Finney. References to Finney are brief, and the story accurately portrays the revival fervor of the period. However, Fury says nothing about Finney’s actual beliefs and makes the man out to be a great evangelical Protestant Christian, when it is clear from Finney’s own writings that he was far from that. As <a href="http://www.spurgeon.org/%7Ephil/articles/finney.htm">this article by Phillip R. Johnson</a> points out, Finney rejected basic Christian theology such as original sin, the imputation of Christ’s righteousness to the believer and the substitutionary atonement, believing instead that Christ’s death does not justify (save) anyone—in Finney’s view people are saved through God’s benevolence and their own perfection and self-reformation in adhering to God’s laws. Within a few years after Finney’s great revivals, the “burnt-over” region of western New York was spiritually cold, with no lasting fruit from the many “conversions,” as even Finney himself later admitted.<br /><br />Aside from the theological handling of Finney, Fury is a decent, exciting novel. I only wish the authors would hold true to their evangelical Christian beliefs and write about true Christian historical figures--rather than a false teacher.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-77925319146280105122006-09-16T05:32:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:46.513-08:00The Redemption: Pirate Adventure Story<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi26mqq-fosSZPPmiwWw8d_GxDV1mX_z8VxO9hkhxMPhLXlkLP9bihykUnPPpqpZS9XfaNF6tbOs1ZZlL34yNo8UJjFwwwiSciy9M92w6QDetzutBoVyekdkcfj4TfK93vPF1bR4fbI0-g/s1600-h/Redemption.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi26mqq-fosSZPPmiwWw8d_GxDV1mX_z8VxO9hkhxMPhLXlkLP9bihykUnPPpqpZS9XfaNF6tbOs1ZZlL34yNo8UJjFwwwiSciy9M92w6QDetzutBoVyekdkcfj4TfK93vPF1bR4fbI0-g/s320/Redemption.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156066881693228418" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1597893595/worldhistoric-20" target="top">The Redemption</a>, by M. L. Tyndall, begins a new pirate adventure series, “Legacy of the King’s Pirates.” Set in 1665 in the Caribbean, The Redemption follows the story of Lady Charlisse Bristol, who has fled England to search for her only relative, a father she has never known. She soon is shipwrecked and stranded on a deserted island, until a pirate ship, The Redemption, arrives. Captain Edmund Merrick is a “legal pirate” in the service of Great Britain to attack only Spanish ships, though the rest of his crew are hardened pirates. Merrick also has recently become a Christian and daily struggles with his old nature and new life in Christ.<br /><br />Merrick assists the young Charlisse Bristol in her search to find her father. However, he soon learns that her father is the very wicked and violent “Edward the Terror,” the very pirate Edmund has been searching for—to bring to justice. Edmund also struggles with his own temptations with the beautiful lady while keeping his crew away from her. Throughout the story, Charlisse and Edmund grow in their relationship to each other, as Charlisse learns to trust and accept help from Edmund, while also learning about the true Heavenly Father she needs even more than a human father.<br /><br />Much of the story takes place in Port Royal, the main port of Jamaica at that time and the special attraction of pirate ships. The Redemption skillfully depicts the wickedness of Port Royal, the “Sodom of the New World” as it was known by the 1660s (), integrating the story of Edmund and his pirate shipmates with the local population of prostitutes and generally disreputable folk. Yet a small church, and its pastor Reverend Thomas Buchan, provide a great contrast and the Christian element for this story. For The Redemption is much more than a pirate and romance story, but a strong story about God’s redeeming love for His own, including these two characters, Edmund and Charlisse.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-55160776392874503372006-08-22T05:34:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:46.667-08:00Fire: 1740-1741 -- The First Great Awakening<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJspCgiIHiVsbihL_cq3nOM01kJh-_D3FFrC41VfbNUDADwo_M0Th7tW1UPdnHsmh9Wa4IF5r66Fa0C4h5TeMrtqLo4LvFcTYd95_EyZk9LXt73t0A-6KuW-TmIvIp712qCu_ctr0piLk/s1600-h/Fire.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJspCgiIHiVsbihL_cq3nOM01kJh-_D3FFrC41VfbNUDADwo_M0Th7tW1UPdnHsmh9Wa4IF5r66Fa0C4h5TeMrtqLo4LvFcTYd95_EyZk9LXt73t0A-6KuW-TmIvIp712qCu_ctr0piLk/s320/Fire.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156067405679238546" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1582294593/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Fire</a>, second in the “Great Awakenings” series by Bill Bright and Jack Cavanaugh, introduces us to the town of Havenhill, Connecticut in 1740. The revival focus here is the one brought about by the preaching of Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield.<br /><br />Josiah Rush returns to Havenhill after spending seven years in exile, banished from the town after a fire he accidentally caused brought about the deaths of the town pastor and two young children. His old friend Philip Clapp, now the community leader, helps re-introduce Josiah as the new pastor. Soon, however, it becomes clear that the townspeople are still attached to their old preacher and will never accept Josiah. Hostility seems to come from every part of town, including the deacons, and especially from the busybody Eleanor Parkhurst, widow of the former pastor.<br /><br />After Josiah’s arrival, more trouble arrives, including a small-pox epidemic. Several mysterious fires at the warehouses are blamed on Josiah; dock workers talk about strange things going on, and end up murdered. Josiah bungles around in his social life, still pining for his old love, Abigail Parkhurst, who is now engaged to Josiah’s close friend Johnny Mott.<br /><br />As Josiah considers the town’s condition in his journal and diagnoses a “soul sickness,” he learns of the revival sweeping through Boston and other parts of New England. Through Josiah’s exploration we are briefly introduced to the historical figures of the time: Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield. As with all the books in this series, Fire includes great descriptions of the revival, the crowds of people attending to the preaching, and even the changed lives of the communities. Fire even includes a brief conversation with Benjamin Franklin, for a look at Franklin’s own unbelieving views (though that scene seems rather extraneous, thrown in only because of Franklin’s fame, but serving no real purpose).<br /><br />Also in keeping with other books in this series, though, the actual revival of the time plays only a minor part, observed only by a few outsiders immersed in their own story. Yet Fire does a great job of conveying Christian truths, especially the idea that revival comes not on man’s schedule but God’s, and the glory belongs to God alone and not man. Josiah even gets his own Job-style confrontation, to further bring home the point of God’s sovereignty and power. As such, Fire is one of the better installments of the “Great Awakenings” series, with its good mystery story combined with sound theology. It also highlights the best known revival in American history—and the one true revival that came from the preaching of God’s word.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-30733728052446974172006-08-04T05:22:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:46.902-08:00Proof: 1857-1858 -- A Great Prayer Revival<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieiygNmWDtSBEF0qix2GdEzmVvFiUkhevTap3Zok8tCnaQqGl8b6MUhylAOfXu-2qiUSk-nn3YdvzRQAZOeHqMmvnYaPYuczZFNqLthv7Mlz96MpvNvTHBXMSZbBi795FWa43t4M53Dmw/s1600-h/Proof.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieiygNmWDtSBEF0qix2GdEzmVvFiUkhevTap3Zok8tCnaQqGl8b6MUhylAOfXu-2qiUSk-nn3YdvzRQAZOeHqMmvnYaPYuczZFNqLthv7Mlz96MpvNvTHBXMSZbBi795FWa43t4M53Dmw/s320/Proof.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156435527326178722" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1582294372/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Proof: 1857-1858</a>, the first in a series called “The Great Awakenings” by Bill Bright and Jack Cavanaugh, takes as its subject the great prayer revival of 1857-1858. Centered in New York City, where the revival began, Proof tells the story of 26-year-old Harrison Shaw, recent law school graduate. Harrison, orphaned since a young child, has grown up in a boys lodge and likes to help the residents of the seedy Five Points neighborhood. At his mentor George Bowen’s request, he applies for – and wins – a coveted internship in law from J. K. Jarves.<br /><br />Shaw soon finds himself at odds with the rich world of Jarves and his daughter, Victoria. Even more so, he cannot handle the ferocious, predatory survival philosophy of Jarves – and soon finds himself, and everyone in his life, ruined by the revengeful Jarves. Later in their confrontation, Jarves creates a trial to examine the truth of the great revival, to put the Holy Spirit on trial.<br /><br />Proof includes references to Jeremiah Lanphier and how he started the prayer meetings at the North Dutch Reformed Church in the fall of 1857. Later on, the story also chronicles many of the amazing answers to prayer and the revival’s impact to peoples’ lives as it spreads beyond New York City to include many other areas of the U.S. (and even on to Europe afterwards). The story includes some detailed and unpleasant descriptions of the New York City slums, including the Five Points neighborhood. Surprisingly, though, Proof rarely mentions the actual economic setting of this revival and a major factor that, from a human perspective, brought about the revival. Soon after Lanphier started his prayer meetings, the banks and stock market collapsed and the country was economically hard pressed—the time when people do tend to turn towards spiritual matters, getting a reality check against the good, prosperous times. A few of the characters’ personal “witness” stories make brief reference to this in the telling of their conversion story; yet the larger story, Proof, itself lacks that level of background—one might easily miss this detail if not paying close attention. The main focus of Proof is on Shaw and a few characters he interacts with, along with a rather episodic look, from a journalist’s perspective, at specific prayer revival marvels.<br /><br />The character portrayals are average, and we learn and understand Harrison Shaw well enough. The other character portrayals, though, seem more two-dimensional. J. K. Jarves seems rather exaggerated and one-sided, an extreme example of a Darwinist, Madlyn Murray O’Hair-style atheist, and a real Scrooge of a man in a time when even the wealthy gave at least lip service to the idea of charity and Christian morality. His daughter Victoria turns out to be quite a surprise, but her overall character and the many things attributed to her seem hard to believe and a bit too much of modern-day feminism. In spite of such problems, though, she at least becomes more likable as the story progresses.<br /><br />This book’s weakness is in its theology, a rather man-focused view in which the Christian characters, and especially Harrison Shaw, somehow feel that it is up to them to prove God’s existence and power—and that all of Christianity is at stake and will fail based on a bad outcome of a human court trial. It seems that the characters, many of them supposed great Christian leaders and scholars (and the authors, for coming up with such a fictional scenario in the first place), should consider the meaning of the scripture “Do not give what is holy to dogs, and do not throw your pearls before swine” (Matt. 7:6)—the wisdom and understanding that the things of God are sacred, and that at a certain point, with certain people, to forcefully press Christian ideas to that audience just belittles and denigrates the greatness and character of God. To be sure, a few characters briefly mention that God can defend Himself (one brief paragraph after many pages of contrary ideas), but the greater issue (Matt. 7:6) is never addressed, and the story takes the easy way out rather than a more realistic display of how God actually deals with His people in our post-1st century world.<br /><br />Proof does a great job of bringing attention to this now-forgotten time, a prayer revival in the late 1850s when people sought God and He answered their prayers in an amazing way. This book includes many actual incidents of the people saved and prayers answered, a testament to the wonders God can do at all times, including these times of revival. As such, Proof is a good start to a series about past revivals, to educate readers about the various revivals in American history. The story and main characters provide decent entertainment and general information about these revivals, though the particulars, including the theology presented, could be improved.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-48905132863210978392006-07-19T05:29:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:47.656-08:00Storm: 1798 - 1800: Revival in Early America<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifEXHtdBlCrt9d78HacXHYt-2nNFDLc5mtmv_fEmYLGcb5i0YO76pudnMf74n5smedaePBRKcV1BCVy4GvGh6NtIlAe3CMK9P-kMu-Acu2tAgz1txaEi8oo8exUCsrOBZABpoTvRqBuQw/s1600-h/Storm.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifEXHtdBlCrt9d78HacXHYt-2nNFDLc5mtmv_fEmYLGcb5i0YO76pudnMf74n5smedaePBRKcV1BCVy4GvGh6NtIlAe3CMK9P-kMu-Acu2tAgz1txaEi8oo8exUCsrOBZABpoTvRqBuQw/s320/Storm.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156437356982246850" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1582294933/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Storm</a>, third in the “Great Awakenings” series by the late Bill Bright and Jack Cavanaugh, takes place in Connecticut in 1800-1801. Featuring historical figure Dr. Dwight, president of Yale College in the early 19th century, this story centers around two college boys, Asa Rush and Eli Cooper. Yale College is fully immersed in the Age of Enlightenment, the anti-Christian, pro-French philosophic reasoning of the time. Asa Rush begins his freshman year as one of a handful of Christian students determined to bring Yale back to its Christian heritage. Eli Cooper, full of himself and swept up in the Enlightenment philosophy, picks on Asa the new freshman and quickly becomes Asa’a main enemy. Just to make Asa’s life more complicated, though, Dr. Dwight commissions Asa to evangelize and save Eli Cooper.<br /><br />The one actual revival from this time period, the Cane Ridge Revival in Kentucky, is introduced briefly, with appearances by Asa and Eli during school break. But most of the story takes place back at school, with an outstanding action-paced plot. Asa endures several incidents of freshman hazing, and romantic competition over high-society Annabelle Byrd. In typical Cavanaugh fashion, the characters end up in some very unlikely scenarios, with several surprising developments in the plot.<br /><br />Throughout the action-packed story, the historical research also provides an exciting background, incorporating all facets of life at the time. We learn several examples of the rules for Yale freshmen, as well as many of the rules of dueling (which was then illegal) and how duels were supposed to play out. The Illuminati is referenced, and the general atmosphere shows the pro-French, pro-Jefferson and anti-Adams sentiments of the time, including the radical, dangerous factions of the American public. Storm includes the detail of guillotines shipped to America, and the strong desire some had to begin a new Revolution more in the style of the recent French Revolution. Throughout the story, we take comfort in knowing how history turned out while appreciating the characters’ uncertainty: would the Federalists leave peacefully? Would there be a peaceful transition of power from the Federalists to the Democrats? Such things had never happened before, after all.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1582294933/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Storm</a> is an entertaining novel that highlights a crisis period in early American history. Even more, it shows a place not all that different from today, in which the Christian worldview clashes against the majority view, yet a few Christians make a difference by speaking out and praying for revival in the nation.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-940530844842523662006-06-29T05:35:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:47.889-08:00Faith of My Fathers: Biblical Fiction about King Manasseh's Reign<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_uu-j4gHwDiPvdo4PQFG3pWv4NwAQLVOnc0OgmN3LY-ZbpmJXihvvO8h0EkHiu69rROlAWOuzxYlioDDg1GEAxoxBumtBSzZ9gHmj-NOyroi0ZHgZan-XaXv6ehmwMvOKgSGgyl_XCNY/s1600-h/Faith_Of_My_Fathers.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_uu-j4gHwDiPvdo4PQFG3pWv4NwAQLVOnc0OgmN3LY-ZbpmJXihvvO8h0EkHiu69rROlAWOuzxYlioDDg1GEAxoxBumtBSzZ9gHmj-NOyroi0ZHgZan-XaXv6ehmwMvOKgSGgyl_XCNY/s320/Faith_Of_My_Fathers.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156439508760862162" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764229923/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Faith of My Fathers</a>, by Lynn Austin, continues the “Chronicles of the Kings” series about the Old Testament kings. After covering the life of Hezekiah in the previous three books, Faith of My Fathers begins the story of the next generation: Hezekiah’s son Manasseh, and Joshua son of the palace administrator Eliakim.<br /><br />Manasseh's anger at his father’s death soon leads him to pagan idols and sorcery. Eliakim and the prophet Isaiah are soon executed and a new set of characters takes the stage. The main theme of this book involves Joshua’s anger and hatred toward his former friend, Manasseh, and how Joshua deals with his experiences: at first angry with God, but later returning to God and helping God’s people. Other fictional characters have similar experiences to the characters in previous books, such as Joshua’s sister Dinah and a maidservant named Miriam.<br /><br />As with the previous books in this series, the historical background is not extremely well developed. The characters generally think like modern-day Christians, complete with a New Testament understanding of God as a loving and forgiving Father. The story itself could take place in any Christian era, with its emphases on persecution, suffering, and looking in repentance toward a loving and sovereign God. That said, Faith of My Fathers does offer good dialogue and many characters with their various subplots. This story is entertaining, with the good page-turning suspense of a good action novel, including a strong climax and a happy ending for the “good guys.”<br /><br />Perhaps the most intriguing part of the story involves an item from Jewish history with some basis in facts gathered from the archeological records of Egypt. As the author notes at the end, apparently some Levites and priests did leave Israel during King Manasseh’s reign and settled a colony in Elephantine Island, Egypt; they may well have taken the Ark with them. Faith of My Fathers skillfully blends this idea into an exciting action plot, to be continued in the next book (Among the Gods).<br /><br />Overall, Faith of My Fathers offers an excellent action-adventure book with Bible characters. Fans of Bible fiction will find this book adequate, as well as a good continuation of the characters and families from the previous three books of “Chronicles of the Kings.”Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-20537236012765959762006-06-02T06:08:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:48.082-08:00Waiting for Summer's Return: German Mennonite Immigrants<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKpxKOVkqe_R6kfEqP_lgONHi7fw8I7n49kDwdTAw72UHC-KULEvpvzVD4h9aZD_3M4wFMgnofWyHydnRr50xfdx2OF3gHfZBhp07M6gXJGCejLl7MEYEZBJVjGSuAKqjwZ3TQeK3_RTg/s1600-h/Waiting_For_Summers_Return.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKpxKOVkqe_R6kfEqP_lgONHi7fw8I7n49kDwdTAw72UHC-KULEvpvzVD4h9aZD_3M4wFMgnofWyHydnRr50xfdx2OF3gHfZBhp07M6gXJGCejLl7MEYEZBJVjGSuAKqjwZ3TQeK3_RTg/s320/Waiting_For_Summers_Return.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156447428680556002" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764202561/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Waiting for Summer’s Return</a>, a new historical novel by Kim Vogel Sawyer, takes place in eastern Kansas among a community of German Mennonites in 1894. Summer Steadman is the sole survivor of her family that had traveled from Boston, bound for Oklahoma but stricken with typhoid near the town of Gaeddert, Kansas. With her husband and four children buried, Summer lingers in town but finds no reason to eat, no reason to live. But local resident and widower Peter Ollenburger needs a tutor for his injured 10-year-old son, Thomas, and offers the job to Summer, a “learned woman.”<br /><br />Throughout the story, the point of view alternates between Peter, Summer, and even young Thomas. Gradually we learn more about Summer; her grief early in the book is perhaps a bit overdone, making the story a bit slow and depressing to get through at first. But as time and pleasant experiences work in the character’s heart to heal her, so the story itself improves and becomes more uplifting. The final outcome seems certain (surely Peter and Summer will get together) yet the story takes a while to get there. Along the way the main characters and their relationships are well-developed and realistic, and as in real life some things take time. Summer must first heal from her grief, and afterwards consider her future. Peter must consider if he can love another woman as he had loved his Elsa.<br /><br />The story also reflects the closed-community of German Mennonites, a people who have fled persecution in other countries and who now tend to keep to themselves, not welcoming outsiders. Here again, the townspeople develop and mature, from a rather hostile, suspicious mindset at first, until they gradually open up, a few families at a time, to the newcomer. The author also shows her knowledge of at least some German language. Peter Ollenburger, in particular, talks much of the time in German. As a new immigrant might well do, often his thoughts come out first in his native tongue, after which he translates as best he can – and often learns new English words in the process.<br /><br />Waiting for Summer’s Return is an enjoyable historical novel, filled with great characters who grow and learn from each other. This story also gives a fresh look at the life of late-19th century immigrants and their community, and a glimpse at the history of German Mennonites in Kansas.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-73183926132034006432006-04-26T06:11:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:48.298-08:00Mark of the Cross: 13th Century Europe<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRkr7syTxJ9pe7HD-mic-Qx9hohnY6bHj68o3RZsOv8vhZWsqyCdPe9U89ixvzvXwapI0P8vslxCBg58zM1q3CMooZqso4fAgbWRwGjK9HAFocS9Czmy9uKkESmMLxPuqeJmAKTKyDL5E/s1600-h/MarkOfTheCross.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRkr7syTxJ9pe7HD-mic-Qx9hohnY6bHj68o3RZsOv8vhZWsqyCdPe9U89ixvzvXwapI0P8vslxCBg58zM1q3CMooZqso4fAgbWRwGjK9HAFocS9Czmy9uKkESmMLxPuqeJmAKTKyDL5E/s320/MarkOfTheCross.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156447982731337202" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764201328/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Mark of the Cross</a>, a stand-alone historical novel by Judith Pella, brings medieval Europe to life through an entertaining story. In 1265, Philip de Tollard is a young bastard son of the Lord Hawken, who has provided Philip with education but never acknowledged the illegitimate son as his own. Philip soon meets Beatrice Marlowe, from an estate near Hawken’s lands, and the two fall in love—but Philip will not bring dishonor upon Beatrice and bring another illegitimate child into the world. Without any land holdings, and a low-class job as a groom, Philip has nothing to offer Beatrice anyway. To make matters worse, Lord Hawken’s legitimate son, Gareth, is especially vindictive and cruel, and does everything in his power to keep Philip away; soon Philip is banished from England and becomes a fugitive fighting for his life in France.<br /><br />The two antagonists, Gareth and his mother, seem a bit exaggerated and unrealistic, more stereotypical than actual people. Some scenes also tend to depict all wealthy people as bad, completely self-centered and scornful of the poor – much like Philip’s brother Gareth. Such characters assist the basic story line, in which Philip becomes hardened and angry at the world. Yet throughout many providential events, Philip survives and finds friends in unlikely people—and thus he grows and learns to trust others. With the few exceptions just noted, though, most of the characters are well-developed.<br /><br />As always, Judith Pella brings excellent historical research into the story’s background, this time discussing the English rebellion against King Henry III, including the specific battle when the King and then-Prince Edward turned the tide back to their side. The story continues on to the early years of King Edward I, and through the characters we experience all aspects of medieval life – the court in England and the English lords in the countryside, as well as the peasants and thieves of France, and even the Crusades—including the Saracens and several locations in Palestine.<br /><br />For a book with evangelical Christian emphasis, a story from 13th century Europe obviously does not fit entirely, and so the Catholicism is downplayed – no mention of the many Catholic saints worshipped, purgatory, or sales of indulgences. Yet the story gives the general background and feel (at least those things today’s readers readily associate with medieval Catholicism), complete with monasteries, priests, and devotion to Mary as Jesus’ mother. Mark of the Cross even gives some background details such as what was required to seek asylum in the Church, and the life of monks.<br /><br />Yet Mark of the Cross excels even more as an entertaining and uplifting story, with likeable characters in great contrast to the two villains. The action moves quickly enough, with plenty of page-turning suspense, as we come to know and love the characters. Through their many experiences and hardships, both Beatrice and Philip grow, and Philip’s friends prove themselves genuine.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-23330267587349408072006-03-24T06:12:00.000-08:002008-12-11T14:37:48.468-08:00Summer of the Midnight Sun: The Alaskan Quest Begins<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-WIIYa05FHSS_Y6OObCCTbSeCqAgqAsNBPJoPjUkSqpCIy1JI0Yle6UghRN6bHPbWI9Xmi4PR3tO0-u-KxknbrcSPSjhuEdZ45avefLcmPf_WaGsy_1AzRv0pObtExRkvi5s_Xv4CRbw/s1600-h/Summer_Of_The_Midnight_Sun.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-WIIYa05FHSS_Y6OObCCTbSeCqAgqAsNBPJoPjUkSqpCIy1JI0Yle6UghRN6bHPbWI9Xmi4PR3tO0-u-KxknbrcSPSjhuEdZ45avefLcmPf_WaGsy_1AzRv0pObtExRkvi5s_Xv4CRbw/s320/Summer_Of_The_Midnight_Sun.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156448463767674370" border="0" /></a><br />Tracie Peterson’s new series “Alaskan Quest” gets off to a good start with the first book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764227734/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Summer of the Midnight Sun</a>. Set in 1915, in and around Nome, Alaska, the story continues with some of the characters from Peterson’s earlier “Yukon Quest” series. Seventeen years have passed since that series ended, and the Barringer children, Jacob and Leah, are the focus of this new series. Leah has just turned 30, and she and her brother, both still unmarried, live and trade among the natives at Last Chance Creek, a remote village a few days journey from Nome.<br /><br />The world of 1915 is present, but remote to the people of Alaska, who hear in the news about World War I and the Lusitania, yet are still living as they have for years – a place largely untouched by the technological changes of the early 20th century. Closer to home, Leah struggles with singleness at 30, even as the one man who rejected her love, Jayce Kincaid, returns to Last Chance Creek. Predictably, the two rediscover their love for each other, yet it makes for an entertaining and enjoyable part of the story.<br /><br />The bigger story involves Helaina Beachman, sent from Washington D.C. to investigate and capture a criminal who goes by the name of Jayce Kincaid. Widowed due to her husband’s violent death, Helaina copes with her problems by her obsession with justice and the law, without room for mercy. She soon finds the Barringers and Jayce, while discovering that the crime facts don’t seem to fit the man she has found, and makes a nuisance of herself while trying to hide her real mission. Yet through her adventures, Helaina is challenged by the Christian message and the idea of mercy.<br /><br />Summer of the Midnight Sun has an interesting, action-filled plot, along with likeable characters. Fans of Peterson’s earlier “Yukon Quest” series will also enjoy the return of Karen and Adrik Ivankov, now living happily with their children in Sitka, Alaska. The story, which takes place during the warmer months of May through September, also includes many details of life in Alaska, including the types of clothes, food, and the difficulties presented by the weather during the darker part of the year. The main plot lines are all resolved within this first book of “Alaskan Quest,” but with a cliff-hanging ploy sure to entice readers back for the sequel, the ending develops a new plot that leaves the characters in mortal danger. We must wait at least a few months to continue the adventure, but Summer of the Midnight Sun is off to a great series start.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-26551814964487460482006-01-13T07:13:00.000-08:002008-12-11T14:37:48.759-08:00Wings of Morning: 16th Century Scotland<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcuLfPAEtUz4ARM2X7xbRqIp0PQdSTcP5PwHThxM0-Pbr19SwAEk_Tr99hUplSK9tcLc4Aa_wf6pHg-lIpihGOH2jIoe4cpHiHZbtPO5H3Za91Za3EQVgCWKVQ0SUJrwcYsaz9ZzFiibE/s1600-h/WingsOfMorning.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcuLfPAEtUz4ARM2X7xbRqIp0PQdSTcP5PwHThxM0-Pbr19SwAEk_Tr99hUplSK9tcLc4Aa_wf6pHg-lIpihGOH2jIoe4cpHiHZbtPO5H3Za91Za3EQVgCWKVQ0SUJrwcYsaz9ZzFiibE/s320/WingsOfMorning.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156464114628501010" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0800759648/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Wings of Morning</a>, by Kathleen Morgan, continues the “These Highland Hills” series set in 16th century Scotland. This story takes place a few years after the first book in the series, <a href="http://historical-fiction-review.blogspot.com/2005/02/child-of-mist-16th-century-scotland.html">Child of the Mist</a>, and introduces a love interest for Niall Campbell’s cousin, Iain Campbell.<br /><br />17-year-old Regan Drummond has just wedded her boyhood friend, Roddy MacLaren. When he arrives at home drunk, she hides from him; before the night ends, he is shot dead after attempting to steal cattle from the Campbell clan. Soon afterwards, Regan loses her memory while in a storm, and finds herself in the care of the Campbells at Balloch Castle. Throughout the months without memory, and afterwards, Regan experiences love and kindness she has never before known, and builds new friendships with Iain, his mother, and extended family. But her conscience cannot rest until Roddy’s murderer is found and Roddy’s blood avenged; the circumstances point to Iain as one who may have killed Roddy.<br />Though the story begins with Iain at Balloch Castle, later we meet up with Anne and Niall, at Kilchurn, now happily wed and expecting their first child. It is nice to meet Anne again, as she now befriends the new heroine. Through Anne’s understanding and Iain’s patience and forgiveness, Regan struggles to put away her old, negative thoughts and ways behind her and look to the Lord, and His people, for strength and love.<br />The historical situation is the hey-day of the Scottish Highlanders, complete with the various clans and political factions. This story also introduces Queen Mary as a minor character and a close friend of Iain Campbell, and makes brief reference to political events then occurring in Mary’s court. Yet the focus is on the local Highlanders, especially Iain and Regan.<br />After the original conflict and story (Regan’s personal life) seems settled, Wings of Morning continues on a bit, expanding on the issue of Roddy’s murder. Just when the reader feels some closure, that the story is winding down, this new plot extends the story for a few more chapters and suspense. Overall, Wings of Morning is an entertaining story, a good read as its own novel, if not quite up to the superb quality of the previous book (Child of the Mist). The story is still quite good, though, and realistic. Unlike some historical fiction novels; the characters are not all completely trusting and open to the mysterious Regan; this is not a completely “sappy” story of naïve, perfect humans, and it is nice to see that depth of character development. As a sequel, Wings of Morning also showcases some very likeable characters, and further events in the lives of the Campbell family we have come to love from the first book.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-52718837240142502032005-12-29T05:41:00.000-08:002008-12-11T14:37:49.207-08:00The Strength of His Hand: Chronicles of the Kings, #3<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8_A2Ian6m4244ymoE77JWh2Yfr4InvvQZ6G2bjjv6k7WhcWKo8WtxqNVznZhGH4Vj1TdDQ11RzlNV7SnUgjujf5CIj-H-cwGJIaVyTBHUDB9_IRAOqXsflIK1qsMCVq-tjfYqvwI_f2c/s1600-h/Strength_Of_His_Hand.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8_A2Ian6m4244ymoE77JWh2Yfr4InvvQZ6G2bjjv6k7WhcWKo8WtxqNVznZhGH4Vj1TdDQ11RzlNV7SnUgjujf5CIj-H-cwGJIaVyTBHUDB9_IRAOqXsflIK1qsMCVq-tjfYqvwI_f2c/s320/Strength_Of_His_Hand.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156811409979022914" border="0" /></a>Lynn Austin continues her “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=UTF8&keywords=Chronicles%20of%20the%20Kings%20Lynn%20Austin&tag=worldhistoric-20&index=books&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325%22%3EChronicles%20of%20the%20Kings" target="top">Chronicles of the Kings</a>” series with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764229915/worldhistoric-20" target="top">The Strength of His Hand</a>, the third in this series. This novel covers Hezekiah’s later years as king, beginning with his serious illness from which he miraculously recovered and was granted another 15 years. Hezekiah’s testing, his pride during a meeting with the Babylonians, and further Assyrian threats also enter this story, crafted around yet another conflict – Hezekiah’s idolatrous wife Hephzibah, and the lack of an heir to Hezekiah’s throne.<br /><br />Early in the story, Hezekiah confronts the possibility of not having an heir, and considers various scriptures and their meanings. Thus he learns that God’s promise to David – that David would always have a descendant on the throne – does not necessarily mean that Hezekiah must have a son to continue the line. When Hephzibah again urges Hezekiah to take another wife, in hopes of producing an heir, Hezekiah considers again the Jewish law that a king must not have “many” wives and concludes that not having “many” does not mean only one. Soon thereafter, however, Hezekiah takes ill and nearly dies as a result of an accident. As with so much of the story, the author fills in the gaps, providing an exciting story full of tension and betrayal to explain the cause of Hezekiah’s illness referenced in the Bible.<br /><br />The Strength of His Hand picks up plot threads and characters developed in the previous two books, so that again Hezekiah himself has a rather minor part. Jerusha is back, now as Eliakim’s wife and a mother to several children. The conflict between Eliakim and Shebna continues, along with embellished accounts, based on verses from the book of Isaiah, regarding Shebna’s monument to himself and the subsequent exaltation of Eliakim.<br /><br />Overall, the story presented is entertaining and dramatic, along with the message of God’s forgiveness and compassion. However, in several aspects the story remains shallow, especially in its poor application of Old Testament scripture. For example, scripture passages from Isaiah about Israel as the barren wife, rejoicing in the many children given her – clearly understood by Biblical scholars as referring to the returning exiles from Babylon almost 200 years later – are completely misinterpreted and applied directly to Hephzibah for her own personal meaning. The characters present to each other not an Old Testament understanding (the historical setting), nor even a New Testament one, but a weak, modern-day “God loves you” theology. The “gospel” presented to Hephzibah -- who has worshipped an idol and vowed to sacrifice her first child to Asherah – is the weak, modern-day evangelical message that she is a child of God and God forgives her, and so she must forgive herself. Nothing is said about repentance, or an understanding of who God is (versus the idols) including His sovereignty and holiness – much less the required sacrifices for sin that were still required of His people under the Mosaic law during this time.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-25283547157304327002005-12-23T08:15:00.000-08:002008-12-11T14:37:49.771-08:00The Trial of Abraham Hunt: An American Christmas Story<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6P3CVnMbNVhbciRBdVDGVR4KbIyATDK_3HzIy38CUzjGJWLES6UpcoUtAJ6481lrWX93ZNvMEXwPamvjXANdXlv6lgpWc20Vm9yvldiqQXkHaXIsev2BWXXbyrmdaP16O4xTBmh6FQWw/s1600-h/TrialOfAbrahamHunt.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6P3CVnMbNVhbciRBdVDGVR4KbIyATDK_3HzIy38CUzjGJWLES6UpcoUtAJ6481lrWX93ZNvMEXwPamvjXANdXlv6lgpWc20Vm9yvldiqQXkHaXIsev2BWXXbyrmdaP16O4xTBmh6FQWw/s320/TrialOfAbrahamHunt.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156480164921286178" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0977127230/worldhistoric-20" target="top">The Trial of Abraham Hunt: An American Christmas Story</a>, by Michael A. Davis, combines a lawyer’s style of writing (the courtroom) with a thorough presentation of a slice of history from the American Revolution. Abraham Hunt was a wealthy merchant in Trenton, New Jersey in 1776, and a strong patriot in the early days of the American Revolution. Yet he signed a statement of loyalty to the British in December 1776, and then entertained the British troops occupying Trenton, including giving a Christmas Eve party to the British in the hours while Washington secretly moved his men across the Delaware River. George Washington’s surprise attack the next morning revived the Revolutionary spirit, and Abraham Hunt’s actions played a role as well: he could very easily have warned the British, but did not.<br />Though nothing ever happened to Hunt after his pledge of loyalty to the British, Davis injects a fictional “trial” to explain to a modern-day audience all the details of events during this part of the Revolution. Davis’ story takes the form of a courtroom drama transcript, in which we read each character’s dialog part. The dialog is well written, though the very use of this style makes the content – conveying the events to 21st century readers -- rather unrealistic. In an actual court trial of the times, the characters would not elaborate in such detail about things that were commonly known to all. Also, at various points in the dialog one side or the other “objects,” and the objection would normally be valid; but since the real purpose is to enlighten modern day readers, of course the characters are allowed to elaborate and explore seemingly non-relevant material.<br />Though at first the story is hard to get into, the material draws itself out for an interesting and educational reading, complete with photocopies of original (though very hard to read) documents from the time. Not surprisingly, we soon learn that indeed Abraham Hunt’s actions were not traitorous but actually helped the Patriotic cause. (After all, in reality nothing happened to Hunt, and thus his contemporaries at least understood what was really going on even if later historians have not.) Still, the story is interesting, a little-known episode of the American Revolution. The Trial of Abraham Hunt: An American Christmas Story is a nice, brief account (182 pages, including photocopies of original documents) concerning the amazing, Providential events of Christmas 1776.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-69566384225304130172005-12-22T08:20:00.000-08:002008-12-11T14:37:50.099-08:00Farewell Rhilochan: The Scottish Highland Clearances<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNCerOGpz39am72P_X8zIwLDyrPlCKVa53mBYppUW6Q3xzPz6TQVDMr9hT2yZAltVWCvXwDeHUSQyCkLjVDL0YDgK8D-UiEHiDmHNkDyYJFOOulj5nd_i0BYYk0Ns4ckm8DzomIQ-nU6s/s1600-h/FarewellRhilochan.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNCerOGpz39am72P_X8zIwLDyrPlCKVa53mBYppUW6Q3xzPz6TQVDMr9hT2yZAltVWCvXwDeHUSQyCkLjVDL0YDgK8D-UiEHiDmHNkDyYJFOOulj5nd_i0BYYk0Ns4ckm8DzomIQ-nU6s/s320/FarewellRhilochan.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156481479181278770" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1594040095/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Farewell Rhilochan</a>, by Verna MacLean, is a historical fiction novel about a group of Scottish Highlanders uprooted from their homes during the Highland Clearances of the early 19th century. Kathleen MacFarlane is a young, uneducated woman living with her father and dying mother in the northern Scotland village of Rhilochan in 1806. The village soon receives word that the Lord and Lady Stafford, who own their land, want them removed in a week – so they can raise larger sheep on their land. The Highlanders are forced off their land by military might and their homes are burnt. Like so many other Highlanders, the villagers are soon scattered, and sent to inhospitable land: rocky areas with poor soil, near the coast.<br />Kathleen suffers the hardships, and struggles with feelings of anger and vengeance against such great cruelty and injustice, as her family connections are severed. Her ailing mother dies during the journey to the rocky land, but the landlord is unwilling to delay their departure even for a burial, and then prohibits the family from returning to bury her at the family gravesite. Her brother-in-law Charles soon departs for the city to find work, while her father has nothing to live for in the new place – and they will all soon starve. The Highlanders also face unfriendly neighbors, and must face the unpleasant outside world: the truth of how others view them and their backward ways.<br />Farewell Rhilochan presents a compelling story, rich in well-defined characters and strong conflicts, generally from the outside world (including their minister, a clergy man more interested in helping the rich landlords and berating the people he is supposed to help) and especially the villainous Henderson, who oversees their forced move. We see how even those who have left the Highland clans to do service for the military are poorly treated, even forced to help clear their own people off their land.<br />The Highlanders’ lifestyle is always present, in the background yet included in various references throughout the story. A glossary at the book’s end defines several terms used, such as “burn” to describe a brook or stream. Each chapter begins with a short quote about the Highlanders and the clearance, and the quote’s source – a good way to show the author’s bibliography. Throughout the story we learn of the Highlanders’ illiteracy, their superstitions, “the Evil Eye,” their practice of keeping animals in their own homes, and even their rather raunchy wedding traditions. All these are mentioned from the Highlanders’ perspective, and not elaborated on. Still, I could relate at least some of the material to the novel Christy (Catherine Marshall), in which an outsider describes customs of the Highlanders 100 years later in East Tennessee. Farewell Rhilochan describes the historical situation that brought many of the Highlanders to the U.S., where later generations continued in the old ways. For Kathleen and her friends, however, it appears that the Highlanders and their way of life are being eradicated and scattered; some go to Nova Scotia, while some learn to adjust to life in Wick. Yet there is hope, for a new life, and Kathleen finds unexpected friendship and kindness even in the midst of tragedy.<br />Farewell Rhilochan is a well-written story, educational and interesting, with strong, likeable characters. Through this novel the reader can learn more about, and more fully appreciate, the story of the uprooted Highlanders and their plight.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-47653559340486002592005-12-06T05:51:00.000-08:002008-12-11T14:37:50.255-08:00God's Hammer: A Story From the Dark Ages<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmAXzruraLjyWHHqMJmZLIBdKi-dzATlxfWXN_VTSk6owvkugeZ2aLtwsTlaNM8kE9h5Wuou5hbuivdZYv5egLxr9p3GHucq-RIYKtWYTDchPzbU2J_Jpkjow-G8TkpgkMIKAyROvVvfs/s1600-h/GodsHammer.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmAXzruraLjyWHHqMJmZLIBdKi-dzATlxfWXN_VTSk6owvkugeZ2aLtwsTlaNM8kE9h5Wuou5hbuivdZYv5egLxr9p3GHucq-RIYKtWYTDchPzbU2J_Jpkjow-G8TkpgkMIKAyROvVvfs/s320/GodsHammer.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156813982664433234" border="0" /></a>Eric Schumacher’s novel, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/158690017X/worldhistoric-20" target="top">God’s Hammer</a>, is based on the fascinating true story of Hakon Haroldsson, king of Norway during the 10th century. King Harold Fairhair of Norway sent his youngest son, Hakon, to the court of King Athelstan of England (then called “Engla-lond”), where Hakon was raised and educated as a Christian. Several years later, Harold died and left his kingdom to his eldest son, Eric (known as Eric Bloodaxe). Eric killed his other brothers and ruled cruelly and recklessly. Harold’s friends thus sent messengers to England, to bring young Hakon (now a youth of about 16) back to Norway. Hakon became king and ruled for 25 years (935 – 960), introducing reforms with great success except in one area; Hakon was unable to bring Christianity to the Norse pagans.<br /><br />The brief account above can be readily learned through online encyclopedias, though with few details. Schumacher brings his great research and knowledge of the Dark Ages into this novel, expanding on the known story with a wonderful “coming of age” account of young Hakon. Taking as its subject Hakon's earlier years, the story is well written and easy-to-read, with a character we can easily relate to--whether as a young, frightened 8-year-old sent far from home, or the teen who would have preferred to stay in England yet recognizes his destiny to rule his own people. We see how the Christian faith was then practiced, though the author makes no external comments, good or bad—the events speak for themselves. Yet in spite of the bad aspects—an official baptism declares someone a Christian, rather than a pagan, regardless of whether the person has even heard the gospel message—the moral and civilizing aspects of Christianity in England clearly strike a contrast with the monstrous, barbaric acts of the pagan Northmen. Through young Hakan’s experiences, we witness his maturing from a rebellious, if sheltered, child, to someone with a tender heart of compassion, truly horrified and sorrowful, when he sees firsthand the barbaric deeds of his own people.<br /><br />God’s Hammer especially brings out Hakan’s own struggles of conscience: the desire to “fit in” and be accepted by his people, versus his Christian repulsion at the pagan rituals such as wishing on the Yule log, and human sacrifice. As he once tells his young friend, Toralv, he “will not change” his beliefs. Yet time and again he faces a new political reality and must admit the truth of (his counselor) Sigurd’s political savvy.<br /><br />The historical research clearly shines through, in both the secular and religious aspects of life for the English and the Northmen. God’s Hammer has a good narrative flow, including action and dialogue, with the political / historical backdrop of the time and place: the English, Danes and Northmen. I highly recommend this historical fiction novel, both for its entertaining story and historical information about specific events from a time little known and studied today, the Dark Ages.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-72325924387328192372005-11-08T05:54:00.000-08:002008-12-11T14:37:50.395-08:00Year of Wonders: A Novel of the Plague<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPH2voijTKDqNnvTLKGSO8vhGXYpE2sQPtSaoIxZgbwrkrq_PfC8G8kOwFbDVf9IoQNiWqndMzz0LN_THFdFmyooImJ9nmXr9FRWsC75qNHGDhOhKfIyRfKGWsHfBpCA6t303oPQrMQoo/s1600-h/YearOfWonders2.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPH2voijTKDqNnvTLKGSO8vhGXYpE2sQPtSaoIxZgbwrkrq_PfC8G8kOwFbDVf9IoQNiWqndMzz0LN_THFdFmyooImJ9nmXr9FRWsC75qNHGDhOhKfIyRfKGWsHfBpCA6t303oPQrMQoo/s320/YearOfWonders2.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156815451543248482" border="0" /></a>Reviewed by Troy Reed<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0142001430/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Year of Wonders: A Novel of the Plague</a> by Geraldine Brooks is set in seventeenth century England during the time of the plague. The novel is based on the real village of Eyam, Derbyshire, in the Pennine Mountains. Members of the small village begin dying one by one as the plague seeps into their town in the year 1666. The living face a difficult choice that their survival depends upon- leave the village and find refuge in towns that the plague has not yet hit or stay behind and quarantine themselves to protect other innocent people? The young, charismatic town vicar, Michael Mompellion, convinces the villagers that they have a better chance of survival if the village seals itself off from the rest of the world. A few decide to risk it and leave, but the majority of the people prepare to stay in the village and combat the plague head-on.<br /><br />The story is told from the point of view of 18-year-old Anna Firth, a widow with two young sons. Anna works as a maid for the vicar and his wife, Elinor. Anna and Elinor develop a close friendship, and Elinor teaches Anna to read. The vicar, his wife, and Anna come to the aid of those infected with the plague and care for them as best they can with herbal medicines and words of comfort. At the same time Anna is caring for others, she must also deal with the tragic loss of her two sons as they succumb to the disease. As the plague begins to decimate the population, many people turn against the vicar and believe that his advice was wrong. The villagers begin to mistrust friends and neighbors and start to turn against each other in their confinement. Some let their superstitions get the best of them and believe that there are witches among them that are responsible for the suffering.<br /><br />The characters in this novel are well-developed. Brooks is able to accurately portray the range of emotions that people would exhibit in such a difficult time when faced with disease, death, and dwindling supplies. Her portrayal of how some members of the village are driven to madness and desperate measures are extremely accurate and convincing. Readers will identify with Anna as she copes with the loss of her children and with the suffering of the neighbors that she helps. Anna reacts to her situation in a believable way, by throwing herself into her work, hoping that soon the plague will pass and life will resume once more. Geraldine Brooks is a superb storyteller that skillfully portrays this tale of everyday people learning how to cope during an extraordinary time in history.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-36791051631322869222005-10-27T06:02:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:50.499-08:00Finding Anna: The Story Behind a Beloved Hymn<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwW5ubH7O5hfkZcw9pcD1jrSHmGdDYPlbHOubq1Vu3bpR4kdLuoztPk4BLSxSl35U_yvDo8ij52BPnon3Rtu5phnt-71E-2-rU1I8x_orxhVdEHINEBE03X7CVKs3pr-9QVx0Lg3xlHIc/s1600-h/FindingAnna.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwW5ubH7O5hfkZcw9pcD1jrSHmGdDYPlbHOubq1Vu3bpR4kdLuoztPk4BLSxSl35U_yvDo8ij52BPnon3Rtu5phnt-71E-2-rU1I8x_orxhVdEHINEBE03X7CVKs3pr-9QVx0Lg3xlHIc/s320/FindingAnna.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156817002026442354" border="0" /></a>Many people have heard the tragic story behind the hymn “It is Well With My Soul.” Horatio Gates Spafford had suffered great business loss in the Chicago Fire of 1871, then opened up his home to help the needy after the fire, in his work with evangelist Dwight L. Moody. Two years later, in 1873, the family decided to take a vacation to Europe, and Horatio Gates sailed ahead of his wife and four daughters, to meet them there. The ocean liner carrying his wife and four young daughters sank in the middle of the Atlantic. His wife alone survived, and Gates soon learned from a telegram message: Saved alone. Shortly after this great loss, Spafford penned the words of the hymn, beginning with the words “When Peace Like a River attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll.”<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764200593/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Finding Anna</a>, by Christine Schaub, is the first in a new series called “Music of the Heart.” Each story in this series is an expanded, fictionalized account of the characters behind a great hymn, beginning with the story of the Spafford family. Beginning with the fire in October 1871, the story starts with great suspense and horror as it describes the raging inferno. Gates is out amongst the crowd watching the fire at first, then is caught up in the panic and rush of people fleeing as the fire amazingly crosses the Chicago River. Strong winds push the fire closer and closer, and Gates narrowly escapes, after retrieving the most important business papers, yet realizing his great financial loss.<br /><br />The fire and its aftermath are well incorporated into the story, and accounts of destruction, the homeless refugees, and the rebuilding effort seem especially relevant today, in the weeks after Hurricane Katrina, a similar –though on a much larger scale-- disaster.<br /><br />Soon the emphasis changes to the domestic scene, and especially to Gates' wife, Anna. We are told that Gates is busy, working long, hard hours in the rebuilding effort. Yet we see little of him, and instead read of his wife Anna and the domestic issues with servants and children. Dwight L. Moody is introduced, with some good dialogue and interaction with other characters, including one lost young man; but it is his wife, Emma, that we see more of, along with Anna – complete with her gardening project, and her loneliness and depression. Clearly this story was written for women readers, with its seemingly undue emphasis on the wives rather than the important historical characters (D.L. Moody and Horatio Gates Spafford). From Anna's perspective, we see the family falling apart under the stress of constantly helping others in need. No doubt this version of the story greatly exaggerates what actually happened in the Spafford family, but it does move the story along to explain what actually did happen: that they decided to take a much-needed vacation in the fall of 1873.<br /><br />I was troubled by the author’s stated disregard for historical accuracy and research. In the book’s forward -- after briefly mentioning that the story and the actual facts uncovered in her research turned out not to agree -- the author glibly quotes her editor’s remark that if the story is good, the reader won’t care if it’s true or not. Then the author simply says that she won’t tell which parts are and are not true, that it’s up to the reader to guess! Certainly the story is always important, to any book, whether historical, futuristic or contemporary. However, the historical fiction genre is especially characterized by good research, and a successful blending of entertainment with education, by which the reader learns something about the historical events. Even within the sub-genre of evangelical Christian historical fiction, most authors show more serious attention to the history, often with notes at the end elaborating on which story aspects and characters are historical.<br /><br />To its credit, Finding Anna does include the words and music of the hymn “It is Well With My Soul,” and brief notes about what happened to Horatio and Anna in their later years. Many readers of the audience, primarily adult women, will no doubt enjoy the book for its emotional, woman-focused emphasis. However, such callous disregard for the historical part of a historical fiction book will not sit well with serious historical fiction readers. If the author wants to just write a good story (and who cares if the history part is accurate or not), she (and her editor) should stick with contemporary fiction.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-38852677374615124362005-10-18T06:05:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:50.748-08:00Garfield's Train: Personal Presidential History<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhstM58iC8DPkj3jybBf1LfPY3ft6R8vXvSPA5JnCaeXUEwd4jDLtX8yV743AlPkJz3qsG22LkBU6Ylg9pUb9ZvS67YNsXDYk9JnTBSnnE0dsFFAUu8rtXHONc0iP-eZm9SRNGgR1vjDTo/s1600-h/GarfieldsTrain.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhstM58iC8DPkj3jybBf1LfPY3ft6R8vXvSPA5JnCaeXUEwd4jDLtX8yV743AlPkJz3qsG22LkBU6Ylg9pUb9ZvS67YNsXDYk9JnTBSnnE0dsFFAUu8rtXHONc0iP-eZm9SRNGgR1vjDTo/s320/GarfieldsTrain.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156818415070682754" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1413769152/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Garfield’s Train</a>, by Feather Schwartz Foster, brings an entertaining story, rooted in the author’s expertise --U.S. Presidents. About President Garfield (1881), who was assassinated during the summer of his first term, the story is told in an interesting, informal manner, as a story-within-a-story.<br /><br />Katharine Louise (“Kate”) is a modern-day 79-year-old woman, relating the story of a train trip with her maternal grandmother (Louise Dunbar) when she was 23 in 1947. She accompanies her grandmother to see a dying friend, Mollie Brown. During the trip to California, and again on the return trip, Gran tells the story of her own upbringing and relationship with her friend Mollie Brown during the late 1870s and early 1880s in New Jersey. The Dunbar family live year-round in Long Branch, New Jersey, a summer vacation home to the many famous and wealthy, including the Garfield family. As Gran relates, Long Branch was the "Gilded Strand" of the Gilded Age.<br /><br />We soon learn that Mollie Brown’s maiden name was Garfield, and that she was the daughter of President Garfield. From this point, the story becomes even more exciting. Through the double first-person narrative, we get to know the various members of the Dunbar family and some details about the Garfield family. An early section of the book, in which Gran names off all the various relatives in the Dunbar family tree, is confusing and overwhelming—a visual family tree diagram would help. After a while, though, it becomes clear that only a few of the many named characters are relevant to the story; the reader can focus on that part rather than try to keep up with the larger Dunbar family<br /><br />As with Foster’s previous book, First Ladies, this book includes excellent research and attention to historical details, including the political power structure of the day. Other famous characters have a part, including former President Grant and even Susan B. Anthony. Some narrative parts, where Louise tells what she was aware of at age 13, seem rather unrealistic for the average girl of that age to recall – especially after “Gran’s” self-admission that she really had not been that knowledgeable of politics (and Kate notes the contradiction, too!). Yet the author also skillfully inserts “notes” sections with additional material at various places: material that Kate gathered, either in 1947 or more recently.<br /><br />Garfield’s Train is another entertaining and educational historical novel from Feather Schwartz Foster. The historical material is presented in a fun way, nothing like a dry history textbook, in a rather short novel (226 pages) that can be read quickly -or not so quickly-- and enjoyed by all. The historical insights and trivia bring the period alive--in all its glamour as well as political dirt-- to remind us also how little some things have changed.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-83464634126903162112005-10-07T06:13:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:50.895-08:00Margaret's Print Shop: A Novel of the Anabaptist Reformation<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqRFlOdqjG5ehxiXTeAEn8TZfiRvM5KuX49tDuD_7BOuO7l2RmNMeQmx1eevO66pYexWMpz4rcpU3UI-n1YDT9zRzKoYz_N9Ef3XHo6xjId30bHhXljuOf-Ra_cfqxipnKTY8ZfS_oG8/s1600-h/Margarets_Print_Shop.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqRFlOdqjG5ehxiXTeAEn8TZfiRvM5KuX49tDuD_7BOuO7l2RmNMeQmx1eevO66pYexWMpz4rcpU3UI-n1YDT9zRzKoYz_N9Ef3XHo6xjId30bHhXljuOf-Ra_cfqxipnKTY8ZfS_oG8/s320/Margarets_Print_Shop.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156819583301787282" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0836193032/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Margaret’s Print Shop</a>, by Elwood Yoder, tells the story of the 16th century Anabaptist Reformation in narrative form. Set in 1525 in Strasbourg, Germany (now part of France), the story’s main character is Margaret, who runs a print shop. It is the early days of Gutenberg’s printing press, when various groups learn to get their messages out more easily, through the printed word. Margaret takes many print jobs throughout the book, to print various pamphlets for the Anabaptist reform group; along the way she is influenced by their ideas.<br /><br />The other main characters include Balthaser Beck, who later marries Margaret, and several key Anabaptist figures from history: Conrad Grebel, Christman Kenlin, George Blaurock, and others. In fact, nearly all the characters named are actual historical figures, except three minor characters noted up front by the author. Margaret’s last name is never given, presumably because her name (before marriage to Beck) is not known.<br /><br />Unlike many historical novels, the subject matter IS the history itself, with the characters meeting and discussing their theological views on various subjects, and even commenting on the latest news from Luther and Zwingli. The chapter names provide a guideline to the book’s topics, including marriage for preachers and adult believers’ baptism (re-baptism, hence the name given the group, Anabaptists). Other history from the time includes a peasant revolt, and the general persecution the Anabaptists faced, even from the other Reformers.<br /><br />Margaret’s Print Shop is clearly written for church history enthusiasts, and especially for people belonging to the modern Anabaptist groups (Mennonites and Brethren groups), who would have more familiarity with the names in the story. As a story, this book is more serious and educational, rather than page-turning suspense, action or romance. The characters themselves lack depth and defined characteristics. The ideas themselves, and the history surrounding the ideas, are the main focus, with the characters secondary; their purpose is to explain and clarify the ideas.<br /><br />Still, Margaret’s Print Shop is an excellent narrative look at the Anabaptist reformation, with a scope appropriate to the book – events in and around Strasbourg in 1525. Yoder has clearly done his research, and includes maps and a list of characters, to help the reader with the story’s context. The author’s notes at the end are helpful too, to learn what happened to Margaret, Beck, and several of the other characters.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-42357564598705259002005-10-01T06:18:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:51.084-08:00O'Brien's Desk: Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvL8urI_FYy5PJF0o2dCRxq_mtHaTbYhngqpGc3bAy09gva-V2fUN1TRRTexD6762LZeMXYZ_MHcWhR5EdJBhPUP-oLDNFodWz9csEEdZBcou_gMhChZk-7054Wi4yeiVeZHuoSPrEy0/s1600-h/OBrien's_Desk.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvL8urI_FYy5PJF0o2dCRxq_mtHaTbYhngqpGc3bAy09gva-V2fUN1TRRTexD6762LZeMXYZ_MHcWhR5EdJBhPUP-oLDNFodWz9csEEdZBcou_gMhChZk-7054Wi4yeiVeZHuoSPrEy0/s320/OBrien's_Desk.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156821159554784930" border="0" /></a>Reviewed by Keri Minehart<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0865344167/worldhistoric-20" target="top">O'Brien's Desk</a> is the debut novel by author Ona Russell. Some of the issues addressed in the book—political corruption, drug addiction, anti-Semitism and homophobia—could easily be ripped from today’s headlines, but when Russell read of them, the newspapers they came from were anything but current. The clippings she pored over were from the 1920s, hidden for more than 70 years in a dusty pile of scrapbooks. These articles—chronicling the life of O’Brien O’Donnell, a highly public yet secretive judge—became the foundation for Russell’s first historical mystery, O’Brien’s Desk, hailed by NPR’s Richard Lederer as “terrific” and “riveting” and by novelist Anne Perry as “an intriguing and thoroughly researched story that gives us insight into the moral dilemmas of 20th Century America.”<br /><br />The year is 1923, and O’Brien O’Donnell, called Obee by his friends, is a well-loved judge in Toledo, Ohio. His progressive politics and humanitarian strides make him one of Ohio’s most admired figures. At 59, he has recently married and become a father for the first time. Soon after the birth of his daughter, Obee receives a chilling blackmail letter that takes him to the brink of insanity. From his hospital bed, he turns to his trusted colleague, Sarah Kaufman (who was also a real person), for help. Sarah is a woman ahead of her time—a single, Jewish, career woman of exceptional intelligence and strength. She is eager to stop the blackmailer from ruining Obee’s chances for re-election and launches an investigation to clear his name. In doing so, she risks her own life to save his.<br /><br />An interesting note about O’Brien’s Desk is that the real-life O'Brien O'Donnell was Russell's grandfather-in-law. When her mother-in-law passed away, she came across O’Donnell’s scrapbooks, and she began work on her first novel based on information she gained from them. The scrapbooks weren’t her only source however; Russell did meticulous research to make the story more authentic.<br /><br />Equal parts rich history lesson and can’t-set-down mystery, this novel has already left a wake of enthusiastic readers in its path. Many of them are eagerly anticipating Russell’s next novel in the series, set during the Scopes “Monkey” trial, also with Sarah Kaufman as the heroine. Russell's attention to detail, especially in describing 1920s Ohio and its political climate, add to the quality of the novel. O'Brien's Desk would be a great read for any fan of historical fiction.<br /><br />More information about this book:<br />Sunstone Press, April 2004<br /><a href="http://www.onarussell.com/" target="top">www.onarussell.com</a>Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4501637376776622578.post-77457380512230762932005-09-01T10:29:00.000-07:002008-12-11T14:37:51.222-08:00Outrageous Interlude: The Battle's Aftermath<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo8kkZRisR1RbbRTXVSzORU2VcKfXJCv5SYt-iehmoV_H1tjuqPnUdvVbv6It0xbPIeJlwyG-6mVWT46vZGcQIHfYcd2_VpNUR9OUQFTD1jTLFnL1PzMB7H6o7mJuEZ_Wb_Fc4qeKXdHk/s1600-h/OutrageousInterlude.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo8kkZRisR1RbbRTXVSzORU2VcKfXJCv5SYt-iehmoV_H1tjuqPnUdvVbv6It0xbPIeJlwyG-6mVWT46vZGcQIHfYcd2_VpNUR9OUQFTD1jTLFnL1PzMB7H6o7mJuEZ_Wb_Fc4qeKXdHk/s320/OutrageousInterlude.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156886361453305522" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1554102219/worldhistoric-20" target="top">Outrageous Interlude</a>, the fifth book in Richard Patton’s “Neophyte Warrior” series, picks up immediately where Massacre at the Forks ended – the weeks immediately following the Monongahela battle. Whereas the previous book emphasized the battle, with most of the action contained within a single day, this part covers the rest of 1755 and all of 1756. In the months after the British defeat, the French take a passive role while the victorious Indians run rampant, raiding and killing settlers on the frontier. Meanwhile, George Washington has “retired” and decided to become a farmer. His friends must convince him of a need to rejoin the Virginia military to help stop the slaughter.<br /><br />Finally the Stump Neck plot, minimized to only a scene or two per book for the last few parts, returns; some story points make a full circle back to Stump Neck’s true identity as Pariah West. An encounter between Old Smoke’s traveling entourage and Stump Neck’s raiding band makes for some excellent page turning adventure. Indeed, the enlarged role for Stump Neck in this story reveals more about this mad-man, even as it places him at an appropriate point in the overall story (the raiding bands of the wild frontier in 1755). He really didn’t belong in the earlier books, which dealt primarily with George Washington and the British and colonial soldiers; but the dangling Stump-Neck plot from these earlier parts finally enhances the overall series.<br /><br />As with previous books, Outrageous Interlude includes some obscene language and crude, bawdy remarks (from the raiding French and Indian characters). This book in particular deals also with the savage cruelty of the Indians against innocent settlers, and gives some rather graphic depictions of torture, told through several brief episodes of various settlers and their fates. Outrageous Interlude does not sweeten the truth, but tells it realistically.<br /><br />Outrageous Interlude does a great job of blending great historical research with an interesting story. As part of the “Neophyte Warrior” series, this part holds up as well as the earlier ones, showing the same appreciation for historical accuracy and character development.Lynda Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01755739519555633760noreply@blogger.com0