This is an absolutely gorgeous story. Mark Jonathan Runte continues to grow as a storyteller, weaving intricate worlds, connected throughout centuries. If you read enough of his works, you start to see repeat characters and see the overlap of interconnected mythos.
About the Book
1767, the colonies stand at a tipping point with England but only a seer or the Moirai know how those cards may fall. And they keep to their own affairs. Joanna Blackburn knows this all too well even as she tries to keep her only surviving child safe from the coming storm. The heart goes its own way though, with an encounter with an English messenger to the settlement. Malachi’s path no longer lies with New Lyonesse and its residents but James Gray, for better or worse – and she knows how fickle the sisters can be.
My Thoughts
Runte excels in world-building, creating vast wonders encased in our mundane existence. It’s urban fantasy at its finest. Mysterious, barely concealed monsters that seem like they just might be possible. That makes you wonder if the history books left some things out.
I always appreciate the diversity and real issues in Runte’s books. He is an openly LGBTQIA writer and frequently tackles LGBTQIA issues within his writing. This being a historical fiction piece, that was an especially tough time and he handled it with the grace he always does. Because of the time, some language may be a little confusing or disturbing.
The relationship between James and Malachi is subtle and beautiful. As is the relationship between Elizabeth and James, a different but important relationship that they all needed in the time. One that even sometimes still exists in some societies, closer to home than some might realize.
Like many of his works, this could have used a little bit more editing, which is why it lost a star. If grammar and typos are an issue for you, please don’t read it because you will be distracted and probably not enjoy it. It also accurately represents its time, so there is some language that would offend people of today, but makes sense for the time in which it is set.
I am grateful to Runte, who is a friend, for providing me with a free ebook version of this book. My thoughts and views are my own.
Question of the Day
Have you read any historical fiction set in the American Revolution?
Who’s it For?
This is a great read if you enjoy historical fiction, especially revolutionary war/early American fiction. Also, if you’re a fan of mythology retellings and urban fantasy this is a great read, and any of Runte’s books are worth checking out!
Content Warning: Sexism, Racism/Racist Language, Homophobia, Nationalism/Xenophobia, Violence
About the Author
Mark is a transmasculine writer published in several indie journals and magazines. He spent several years trying to figure out a path and where to go in life before almost falling in writing. He hasn’t looked back since. He is the proud owner of a little black Havanese who thinks too much, and a Shih Tzu bichon mix who would rather believe it was winter all the time. This is fourth book in the Mythos series.
Links
Amazon US: https://a.co/d/eMLGEsI
Amazon CA: https://a.co/d/d0ygoll
Amazon UK: https://amzn.eu/d/iwUEltd
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/202456574-never-be-a-saint
Author Website: https://authormarkjonathan.ca/
Published by Amorina Carlton. Award-winning American author, Amorina Carlton, is currently working on her first novel. You can find more about her published work and works in progress on the home page. She also serves as the PR/Marketing Lead for Ravens and Roses Publishing, and reviews books, mostly by other indie authors, here and on Bookstagram.