Beneath a Crescent Shadow Review

About the Book

 After an arranged marriage, Konstantin and Suzana must find a way to meet the demands of a conquering Ottoman sultan amid a torrent of setbacks and dangers much closer to their Balkan home.

The Balkans, 1373

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

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

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My Thoughts

This book is very interesting in regards to the time period and history surrounding the characters and events. I don't know much about this time frame or area so I found it to be fascinating. The first half of the book really captured my attention. The characters are well developed and there is a lot of action and battles. I did think that the second half of the book went a bit slower and dragged on just a bit. There is an incredible story of forgiveness that is a side plot that is well written. There is a touch of romance that I thought was well done and it was an actual relationship that developed over the course of the entire book. This is a pretty action packed story that made for a nice escape. 

Four Stars. 

"I received this book from Shadow Mountain Publishing for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."