Book Synopsis
Helena is a healer. Ivan is her prisoner. Caught in the crossfire of war, they must choose: loyalty, or love.
The Balkans, 1383
A sudden conflict between Serbs and Greeks has forced Ivan to join his brother and fight with the Serbian army. On the battlefield, Ivan is wounded and captured by the hostile Greeks, and he soon becomes a hostage to be used as a pawn in a deadly bid for power.
Helena, a Greek midwife, is tasked to care for Ivan, a request that will not only test her healing abilities but also her loyalty. Though war has made her reluctant patient an enemy, she can’t help but forge a connection with him, yet falling in love with him could turn her world upside down and brand her a traitor.
As the Ottoman Empire extends its grip into the Balkans, events beyond their control force Ivan and Helena to choose between loyalty to their families and people or following the longings of their hearts.
Award-winning historical novelist A. L. Sowards creates an engaging world of overlords and spies, rebellions and battlefields, and forbidden love.
Book Details
- Publisher : Shadow Mountain (January 7, 2025)
- Series: The Balkan Legends Book#2
- Genre: Medieval Historical Fiction
- Language : English
- Hardcover : 368 pages
- ISBN-10 : 163993300X
****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****
My Review
Beyond the Crescent Sky is the second book in the Balkan Legends Series, set in medieval Serbia during the 1300s. This series has introduced me to a fascinating historical period I hadn't explored much before. I appreciate historical fiction because it allows me to learn while enjoying a good story. A.L. Sowards has gained a reputation for her exceptional writing and thorough research in each of her novels.
The main characters, Serbian Ivan and Greek Helena, are compelling. Their tale unfolds as a forbidden romance filled with conflict and personal sacrifice.
Spanning several years, this engaging novel features realistic battles and war scenes involving the Serbs, Greeks, and the dominating Ottoman Empire. After being captured and injured, Ivan is cared for by Helena. As they spend time together, they develop a deep bond and fight for their freedom and love against the odds. Readers experience a range of emotions as both characters navigate through struggles and losses. Sowards effectively portrays their growth amid tough challenges.
I found this touching novel hard to put down. Beyond the Crescent Sky deserves a five-star rating and is a must-read for history enthusiasts. To fully appreciate the story's emotional depth, it's best to read the earlier books in the series first. This series is nothing short of epic.
****Meet Author A.L. Sowards****
A. L. Sowards is the author of multiple historical fiction novels, with settings spanning the globe from the fourteenth to twentieth centuries. Her stories have earned a Whitney Award, several Whitney Finalists positions, and a Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal. She enjoys hiking and swimming, usually manages to keep up with the laundry, and loves it when someone else cooks dinner. She lives in Alaska with her husband, three children, and an ever-growing library.
For more information, please visit her website, ALSowards.com
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