THE DOVE AND THE DEVIL
Gradyn Bell, Trafford Publishing, 2006, $26.09, pb, 379pp, 1412070163
    This novel takes place in the 13th century and centers on the family of Simon de Montfort, father of the famous de Montfort of English history. The story is set in southern France, in the region known as Occitania or the Occitane, where the marvelous troubadours of musical fame sing and develop their unique style in the langue d’Oc. But there is a more serious threat lying in this region, one that the Pope in Rome hopes to abolish: the Cathar heresy. Simon has been asked to lead the effort to eradicate this heresy, a Christian one within a Christian country. In the midst of this destruction, a number of dramas develop. One is the first Inquisition. Another is the story of Domingo da Guzman, who eventually becomes St. Dominic, founder of the Dominican order. And, finally, a major drama develops between Guy de Montfort, Simon’s youngest son, and Maurina, a young Cathar woman in the south of France whose brother and father are members of the Cathar church.
    This book is the first of a trilogy that will eventually follow the de Montfort family to its eventual destruction at the Battle of Evesham in England in 1265. In this first volume, the reader sees how Simon the elder gets his nickname of the Devil (and the Wolf). His relentless and merciless pursuit of those who practice the Cathar religion is brought out in this novel, with the backdrop of love and mercy between Guy and Maurina as they try to survive and help others without the knowledge of Simon’s father. At the same time, Maurina carries a parcel that may contain a valuable wanted by both sides of the conflict.
     I found the line between fiction and historical content in this novel quite interesting, and the drama keeps the reader interested. -- Brad Eden

A NEW DAWN RISING
Patricia Marie Budd, iUniverse, 2006, $19.95, pb, 338pp, 0595370489
    The story takes place in 1809 in the fictional town of Laurel Creek, Georgia, just north of the up-and-coming Savannah, and is a tale of a young white man born into slavery yet raised like a son by his owner, Jacob Barlow. His “favored” status quickly comes to an end when it mistakenly appears that he has tried to run away. John Connelly, the protagonist, is judged guilty without a trial or chance of explanation. At fourteen years old, he finds his life suddenly in chaos, discovering that he is simply property and will be treated as such. As he continues in slavery, he receives mixed messages and must sort them out in order to survive. Once granted freedom, he struggles to make himself a successful life.
    This is a traditional romance novel – boy meets girl, boy feels unworthy of girl, boy gets girl in the end after jumping through many hoops to get her. The author very cleverly sets this story in a time that makes things extremely difficult for this particular young man to survive and control his life. John Connelly is atypically talented as a pianist, is much taller than the average population at 6’5”, has strong anti-slavery views and has been very well educated. Because of his talents and political positions, it is very difficult for him to survive in a pro-slavery community. He is given a small plantation and told he must make a profit in his first year if he is to remain free.
    Historically, Jefferson’s political views and his inconsistencies surrounding the issue of slavery are mentioned, as are Thomas Paine’s political views and theories.
    The book is very fast paced and will be enjoyed by readers of early American fiction and romance. -- Naomi Theye

THE CENTURION
Alex Domokos and Rita Y. Toews, Hard Shell Word Factory, 2006, $7.50, e-book, 342pp, 0759942439
    This novel is a retelling of events surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, specifically the life and background of Pontius Pilate. According to the authors, Pilate was most likely appointed governor of Judea by Lucius Aelius Sejanus, a well-known Roman anti-Semite. In 31 CE, Sejanus attempted to overthrow Emperor Tiberius Caesar and was executed. Tiberius then issued a decree that all persecution of Jews was to stop. Tiberius also executed many of Sejanus’s friends and family, and Pilate may have been under intense scrutiny regarding his relationship to Sejanus. At Jesus’s trial, Pilate attempted not to pass judgment on him, probably so that this particular incident would not bring him unwanted attention from Tiberius. Only after the crowd reminded Pilate that he was not a friend of Caesar’s (perhaps a threat that someone would link him to Sejanus), did he finally pass judgment on Jesus.
    Pilate’s wife, Claudia Procula, came from the noble Roman Claudian house, and it is interesting that someone of so old and noble a clan should be located in a backwater province like Judea. Her responses and warnings to Pilate during Jesus’ trial are also a point of interest in this novel. Finally, the role of Longinus during the crucifixion is detailed and examined near the end of the book.
    The authors provide a foreword, explaining some of their theories, and a glossary of terms at the end. I found the historical information from which this novel was produced very interesting, and the authors go out of their way to construct the drama based on logical lines of historical reasoning and justification. -- Brad Eden

HEDGEBORN
Geralyn Goodman, Xlibris, 2006, $21.99, pb, 239pp, 1425706851
    Set in 14th-century England, this novel centers on the life of Cresseyde Folkestone, a lowly daughter of a plowman, commonly known as “hedgeborn.” A woman born into the lower strata of English society at this time period generally had very little hope for a future beyond marrying young to a farmer or other peasant and surviving day to day. Cresseyde’s family, however, has a secret belief and power that worries the local religious authorities. As such, throughout the telling of the story, there is a narrative voice that the reader cannot identify, almost something from outside the normal realm of spirituality. Two influences affect the direction of Cresseyde’s life. The first is Madame Bailey, wife of a local merchant, who makes Cresseyde her ward and shows her the wonderful power and promise of knowledge and books. The second is Squire Talbot, son of the local lord, with whom Cresseyde falls in love.
    As the story unwinds, the growth of power among the merchant classes is background material to Cresseyde’s fortune and future. Both Lord Talbot and Merchant Bailey visit London to participate in financial interests, and Cresseyde is able to see the world beyond her current existence. A rival for the affections of Squire Talbot, Phillipa de Castone, enters the story, and Cresseyde must meet the challenges of this angry and wealthy woman, as well as her own self-growth and empowerment.
    Hedgeborn is a charming and interesting novel. -- Brad Eden

REMEMBRANCE: A STORY OF FAMILY LOVE AND SURVIVAL
Nathan Smith Hipps, CyPress Publications, 2006, $14.95, pb, 257pp, 9780967258591
    In 1900, twenty-five-year-old Leola Cowan leaves her parents’ cold and oppressive home to visit an aunt in Covington, Georgia. While there, she meets the love of her life. The novel begins with his death from measles. Now, alone with two little girls, she must swallow her pride and do what she must in order to survive. Her daughters learn from her, becoming strong women who follow their own paths.
    The author wrote this book based upon the stories passed down by his grandmother, Leola’s daughter, Lou. Lou also relays the history of her husband William Smith’s family, which is interwoven with Leola’s story. Research combined with what the author defines as “artistic liberty” adds depth to these tales, creating a fast-paced recounting of American life in the early 1900s.
    The men, with the exception of Leola’s first husband, share domineering, stubborn characteristics, while the series of events truly illustrate the submissive role that the men desired for the women in their lives. Amazingly, the women take their disappointments in stride and carry on for the good of their families, with some women even stepping outside of their traditional roles to assist the family in other ways.
    Remembrance is a sentimental journey that reflects the author’s reverence for his ancestors. He leaves a cohesive written legacy that will be invaluable for future generations of his family. -- Suzanne Sprague 

THE VANSON CURSE
David Hough, BeWrite Books, 2006, $16.99, pb, 301pp, 190520230X
    It is 1838, and Kit Vanson has inherited a farm in Cornwall. Kit had previously gone to sea because he could not abide the abuse of slaves on his father’s Alabama plantation. When he returns home he discovers that he has inherited land across the Atlantic. Since nothing has improved in Alabama, he decides to follow through on his inheritance. Once in Cornwall, he immediately finds that man’s inhumanity to man is much the same as in America. This time Kit decides he will not run from challenges, but will stay and try to make life better for the people surrounding him.
    This novel was inspired by the real Vanson family, whose name is now extinct in their native land. Hopefully, the real Vanson family did not have as many difficulties as Hough’s fictionalized family! Hough has fictionalized the reason for the demise of the family name – a curse. Most of his characters are not blessed with good judgment or mild manners. Instead they are hotheaded, quick to make decisions, immature, and superstitious. In spite of these poor character traits, the story reads well and fast. Politics, economy, weather, and attention to detailed descriptions all make the story feel authentic. Hough does an excellent job of describing the plight of women – few rights, little respect. One feels that this was the norm for the 1830s in Cornwall and probably the rest of the world.
    This is a good read for people who want to know more about the 1830s in England, for romance readers, and for those who like adventure. 
-- Naomi Theye

DRAGON AND HAWK
Jude Johnson, Scorched Hawk Press, 2004, $16.00, pb, 393pp, 0976246902
    Welsh brothers Evan, Dylan, and Huw Jones grew up in a mining family in Wales, but a journey to Arizona Territory—and, namely, the legendary Tombstone—shows them that they can escape their family’s fate. In 1882, when a mining accident injures the brothers, a local curandera, known only as La Senora, nurses them back to health, then disappears. Evan’s quest to find La Senora and discover her true identity drives the plot of the book, which focuses almost equally on all three brothers’ experiences.
    With randy prostitutes, slick gamblers, stagecoach robbers, outlaws, corrupt mine owners, and the occasional riot, Johnson’s West really is wild. At times, it seems like too much is happening, and the book does descend into melodrama at times, but the fast pacing and clever characterization keep the book from becoming a mishmash of Western fiction clichés. Johnson’s knowledge of the history of Arizona helps her bring the stories alive, and several of the background characters are based upon actual historical figures. Readers will either appreciate the smattering of Welsh and Spanish phrases in the novel or be completely distracted by them, but Johnson’s research into the two languages is impressive.
    Overall, this fast-paced read is recommended and particularly suitable for readers who enjoy a blend of Western history, action, and romance.
-- Nanette Donohue

THE ROAD TO A HANGING
Mike Kearby, Trail’s End Books, 2006, $18, pb, 188pp, 9780978842260
    During the American Civil War, ex-slave Free Anderson made a bad enemy in Jubal Thompson. After the war, their paths cross again, and Thompson, intent on revenge, frames him, determined to see him hang. All is not lost, however, as with the aid of another ex-slave, Clara Mason, Anderson manages to get word to a Civil War friend, Parks Scott, who is in the area trying to sell mustangs to the Army. As soon as he hears of Anderson’s trouble, Scott rescues him from jail. There then follows a desperate ride to gather evidence of Anderson’s innocence. In the process, Scott and Anderson must overcome Kiowa Indians, Mexican cattle rustlers, and the posse Thompson is bringing after them. When it comes, justice is both brutal and violent.
    The first of a planned trilogy featuring Scott and Anderson, this book is an excellent example of the recently resurgent Western genre. It is well written, with a believable plot that zips along and keeps the pages turning. The background is well researched, and the author doesn’t gloss over the violence of life in 1860s Texas. In particular we see the problems faced by ex-slaves in the aftermath of the Civil War. The two main characters, Anderson and Scott, are well delineated and sympathetic, but they are not presented as too good to be true. While Thompson is a bit one-dimensional, at least we get to see what motivates him.
    I thoroughly enjoyed reading this adventure tale, would heartily recommend it, and look forward to reading the next book in the trilogy. -- Cas Stavert

SHENANDOAH WHISPERS AND ECHOES
Tom Orrell, Xlibris, 2001, $27.89, hb, 113pp, 1401047084
    Native son and longtime resident of the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia, James Randolph Wise buried his personal journal in a time capsule at the end of the 19^th century. The discoverer of this journal realizes its importance, detailing from a local point of view this region’s story during one of the most tumultuous times in American history, the Civil War. Through his journal, James tells the side of the story that is not often heard about the Civil War – how the atrocities of the North affected everyday Southerners.
    Most of the book, while not written in a journal entry format, is the first-person narrative of James Wise as found in his journal. This narrative is direct and humorous, drawing readers more quickly into James’ view of the Civil War. The author’s personal knowledge and research inform his writing, giving it a very tangible feeling.
    This different perspective makes the story of the Civil War new for readers who are familiar with the topic. Told from a Southern point of view, this title may be of particular interest to Southerners or those who are Southern at heart. But regardless of geography, this fresh viewpoint reads through quickly and keeps readers hoping for the underdog to the end. -- Joey Nicholson

THE LADY IN THE SPITFIRE
Helena Schrader, iUniverse, 2006, $19.95, pb, 309pp, 0595401511
    This World War II-era literary romance is set in 1943 England and spins the story of Emily Priestman, a pilot with the RAF’s Air Transportation Auxiliary and wife of a RAF wing commander thought lost over France. She meets Jay Baronowsky, a brash, and engaged to be married, American, who nearly crashes his B-17 Bomber into her Spitfire. Emily tries her best to maintain her marriage vows, and Jay breaks off his engagement, but even the vast differences between American and British cultures cannot drive a wedge between emotions heightened by the war.
    The author’s expertise in this era weaves together all the ugly attitudes and prejudices with the richly detailed scenery. Unfortunately, she rushes the ending, with an epilogue that brings about a conclusion which could at best be described as caused by highly unusual circumstances. -- Debra Rodensky

AMENHOTEP SON OF HAPU, A TALE OF EGYPT: BOOK 1, SCRIBE’S ASCENT
Blake A. Willey, Publish America, 2006, $24.95, pb, 319pp, 1424123259
    Amenhotep is the son of a poor farmer born in the latter part of the reign of the 18^th Dynasty pharaoh, Thutmose III. His father is also a feckless mystic who makes enemies of everyone in their village. The fortunes of the family decline, and twelve-year-old Amenhotep, along with his siblings, is consigned to serfdom – the siblings to the village headman and Amenhotep to a Syrian merchant in a nearby town. At this point Amenhotep’s fortunes change. The merchant gives Amenhotep anything he asks for, and Amenhotep wants to learn to read. He is ambitious, and the book is taken up with his struggles, first in the temple as he attempts to master reading and writing, and subsequently, as he moves from one minor post to another, gaining favor and advancement as he goes while constantly battling against enemies who seek to cast him down.
    It is a good rags-to-riches story, and the intrigue of the various mid-ranking officials gives the plot impetus, although it falls off a bit towards the end. Amenhotep himself is well realized, as are the secondary characters, even if we don’t always understand their motivations.
    The historical setting, given the author’s background as a Middle Eastern scholar, cannot be faulted, although in places we could have done with rather less description and a bit more plot. The author’s stated aim was to write a novel that took full account of the way Egyptian society operated, and in this he has succeeded, without detracting from the story he is telling.
    My main gripe with this book is the huge number of typos, which became increasingly distracting as the book progressed and which really let down an otherwise entertaining and informative read. -- Cas Stavert

CHILDREN AND YOUNG ADULT

AN ANGRY DRUM ECHOED
Pamela Bauer Mueller, Pinata Publishing, 2007, $18.95, hb, 296pp, 9780968509777
    Mary Musgrove, known to the Creek Indians as Coosaponakeesa, was the daughter of a Creek princess and an English colonist. Raised in both cultures during the early 18^th century, she assisted the English as a translator and ambassador to the Native Americans, living in what is now Savannah and coastal Georgia. Mary’s childhood and young adulthood are vividly described, and Mueller provides an excellent description of tension between the Creek and English cultures. Young readers will particularly appreciate the first-person descriptions of Mary’s education and her transformation from shy child to confident young woman. As Mary matures, she adapts to English ways, yet retains the faith and values of her native culture. Her life is characterized by the balance between native and colonial, and both cultures sustain her in different ways.
    Life during colonial times, particularly in rural areas of the southeastern United States, was difficult; colonists faced a number of challenges, most notably disease and miscommunication with the native tribes living in the area. Mueller doesn’t gloss over these challenges, and readers will be inspired by Mary’s resilience in the face of personal and professional loss.
    Later portions of the novel, which cover Mary’s adulthood, have some problems—most notably, occasional shifts in point of view from first-person to third-person, which distracts from the narrative. Nonetheless, this is a quick, interesting read for junior high and high school-age students that covers an area of history that isn’t commonly taught in school. -- Nanette Donohue

MARY BRYANT, THE CONVICT GIRL: The Real Story
Laurie Sheehan, Librario, 2006, £9.99, pb, 306pp, 1904440770
    This is a novelised version of the true story of Mary Bryant.
    For committing what was no more than a stupid prank, Mary Broad is sentenced to be transported to the new penal colony in Botany Bay for seven years. Once in Australia Mary marries a convicted smuggler, Will Bryant, and they both experience the problems of the new colony. There is the licentiousness of the convicts, the harsh system of discipline and near starvation. Then at long last the supply ships from England arrive, and full rations are restored.
   Rather surprisingly, it is at this point when the worst is over, and Will and Mary decide to try to escape. They escape in a fishing boat –– Will, Mary, Mary’s two children and a few other convicts. Their main danger is not from the ocean, but from attack by the native Aborigines when they are forced to put ashore for water and supplies. Despite everything they reach the north of Australia and sail across to Timor –– a voyage of over three thousand miles. But Timor does not prove the safe haven they had hoped.
    This book has been carefully and extensively researched, and there is an impressive list of acknowledgements. Use was made of contemporary articles, the journals of the captain of the transport ship, of Will Bryant and also of another escaper and much more. It comes with a historical note and a map.
    A fascinating account of the difficulties of carving out a colony in a strange land as well as showing what can be achieved by human determination to overcome almost impossible dangers. -- Mary S. Moffat

THE CHANCE
Hils Wilson, AuthorHouse,  2006, $17.49, pb, 289pp, 142089059X
    Historical fantasy.
    Seriously injured after a car crash, Patrick Saunders (Patch) is in hospital on a life support system. Then a young man, Will O’Bryan, appears and takes him to the Twilight Zone –– although his body remains on the hospital bed. In the Twilight Zone Patch is told he is being given a second chance. With Will to help him he will be sent back to a time in history. If he can help someone while he is there he will be returned to his former life and family and restored to health again.
   Patch and Will are sent back to Roman times. Will enjoys the comfortable life of a wealthy Roman while Patch, on the other hand, has to struggle to survive as a slave in a gang working to build a new temple. But both Will and Patch share the same fears. Every so often a boom like thunder emanates from the mountain Vesuvius and the ground shakes. Both Patch and Will know that Vesuvius is about to erupt but they cannot tell anyone. Who would believe them?
   There is plenty of contrast in this book. The rich in their luxurious villas, the members of a slave gang working under the lash in the burning heat of the day, the cities of Pompeii and Heraculaneum and the island of Capri. The story moves at a good pace to the expected climax when Vesuvius erupts.
   This is a very moral book. The emphasis is on helping people. And Patch is always ready to do that. But would a slave who was just struggling to keep alive really be so altruistic and ready to help his fellow slaves?
   An unusual story about Pompeii and Vesuvius. -- Mary S. Moffat

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