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english_lady03's review against another edition
4.0
I read very little fiction set in America during the Colonial period, as I don’t really relate to the period or the setting, and I’m not familiar with the history. My decision to read this book was based largely on positive endorsements and recommendations from friends on social media, and generally, it didn’t disappoint.
The story was good and made good use of the historical details about some little-known events. The main characters were realistic and developed although some of the villains were a little like caricatures. I did the like the way the author described environment and region. For someone who’s never been to New Orleans or near the Gulf of Mexico that was helpful. I loved the hero Marc-Paul's faithful little pug, and I think I warmed to him more than Julianne’s husband Simon earlier in the book, whom I found smugly arrogant.
There were a few things I didn’t quite agree with. I understand this novel is meant to be about Grace overcoming injustice, legalism, and hatred, but I don’t think this message was always delivered accurately. For instance, when the hero, a commander in the colony started questioning his strict adherence to the law, the passages that were cited related to the Old Testament Torah, not the legal codes of modern European states.
Grace does not equal anarchy or licensed lawlessness, as there are just as many passages in the Bible that talk about being subject to rulers and the Law of the Land. As such, I think it’s necessary to strike a balance in Fiction.
Some incidents and details also didn’t ring true. How on earth did the hero know that the villain tried to rape his wife when he wasn’t there at the time, and none of the witnesses were present? He didn’t tell him, and she didn’t mention it from what I can recall. I also agree that some scenes did strike me as a little too melodramatic. I understand that a load of people transplanted to the wilds of Louisiana, struggling to eke out a living were going to be on the rough side, but a heavily pregnant woman being publicly flogged, to the point that it causes a miscarriage? Really? In England, even in the pre-modern period, pregnant women were usually spared the worst penalties, including capital punishment.
The ending, whilst it lined up with natural phenomena and events common to the region, did fall a little on the side of far-fetched, but it kept me reading, and the story was pretty solid and well-written overall. Although I got a copy from Netgalley, this title went on sale on Kindle a few months later, and I purchased it. I would certainly keep it on there to read again when I’m in the mood.
I requested a copy of this title to read and review. I was not required to write a positive one and all opinions expressed are my own.
The story was good and made good use of the historical details about some little-known events. The main characters were realistic and developed although some of the villains were a little like caricatures. I did the like the way the author described environment and region. For someone who’s never been to New Orleans or near the Gulf of Mexico that was helpful. I loved the hero Marc-Paul's faithful little pug, and I think I warmed to him more than Julianne’s husband Simon earlier in the book, whom I found smugly arrogant.
There were a few things I didn’t quite agree with. I understand this novel is meant to be about Grace overcoming injustice, legalism, and hatred, but I don’t think this message was always delivered accurately. For instance, when the hero, a commander in the colony started questioning his strict adherence to the law, the passages that were cited related to the Old Testament Torah, not the legal codes of modern European states.
Grace does not equal anarchy or licensed lawlessness, as there are just as many passages in the Bible that talk about being subject to rulers and the Law of the Land. As such, I think it’s necessary to strike a balance in Fiction.
Some incidents and details also didn’t ring true. How on earth did the hero know that the villain tried to rape his wife when he wasn’t there at the time, and none of the witnesses were present? He didn’t tell him, and she didn’t mention it from what I can recall. I also agree that some scenes did strike me as a little too melodramatic. I understand that a load of people transplanted to the wilds of Louisiana, struggling to eke out a living were going to be on the rough side, but a heavily pregnant woman being publicly flogged, to the point that it causes a miscarriage? Really? In England, even in the pre-modern period, pregnant women were usually spared the worst penalties, including capital punishment.
The ending, whilst it lined up with natural phenomena and events common to the region, did fall a little on the side of far-fetched, but it kept me reading, and the story was pretty solid and well-written overall. Although I got a copy from Netgalley, this title went on sale on Kindle a few months later, and I purchased it. I would certainly keep it on there to read again when I’m in the mood.
I requested a copy of this title to read and review. I was not required to write a positive one and all opinions expressed are my own.
dotreadsbooks's review against another edition
3.0
This book was well written and full of accurate historical facts. My only complaint is how little I felt like I knew the characters. I was also surprised at some of the twists and turns of the story but not in the way I wanted it to go. I rushed through the last part of the book as I felt it was dragging a bit. I wouldn’t mind getting to know Julianne and Marc-Paul a little better.
misspippireads's review against another edition
3.0
Courage.
Julianne Chevalier is branded as a criminal and imprisoned in France. She volunteers to go to the new settlement, Louisiana. Before she makes the journey overseas, she is forced to marry a stranger to help settle the new colony. The new land is full of new dangers, new friends, and new heartache. It takes courage and faith to overcome sadness, hurt, and floods.
Time Period: 1719 to 1722
Location: Paris & La Rochelle in France and New Orleans, Louisiana
Reviewed from a library copy.
Julianne Chevalier is branded as a criminal and imprisoned in France. She volunteers to go to the new settlement, Louisiana. Before she makes the journey overseas, she is forced to marry a stranger to help settle the new colony. The new land is full of new dangers, new friends, and new heartache. It takes courage and faith to overcome sadness, hurt, and floods.
Time Period: 1719 to 1722
Location: Paris & La Rochelle in France and New Orleans, Louisiana
Reviewed from a library copy.
gingernutpup's review against another edition
informative
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
Interesting for its historical points! The story of the characters felt a bit flat for me and also, I am not a person who likes religion so all those aspects were not to my taste in book. I skimmed the last half.
meme_too2's review against another edition
3.0
This book takes place in Louisiana with settlers who are French convicts. The history is interesting and not common knowledge. Shipwrecks, Indian attacks, hurricanes, all true parts of history. But the story itself was a little too contrived.
rgyger's review against another edition
5.0
4.5 stars
The Mark of the King is an incredibly well written book that grabs a hold of your attention and wont let go. Detailing the struggles underwent by the original colonists of New Orleans, the novel follows Julianne through a life of heartache as she learns that only God's opinion of her matters and only following his will is able to bring her joy. This message is woven into the history of the colonies, a time when faith was heavily regulated by the church.
Green's research into the time period is astounding, as she truly brings this colony to life. Though I already knew a few of the details she uses, other facts were completely new to me. I am always impressed when an author is able to impart so much history without beginning to read like a textbook.
My one complaint is that the conflict which arises toward the end was one that could have been avoided if the characters had not kept secrets from each other. Though their reasons are understandable, they also showed a lack of trust in the other. I would also like to warn that this is not an easy book to read. Some of the events portrayed are stomach churning and I would not recommend it for teenagers or those who dislike reading about some of the more horrifying aspects of history. That said, I will personally be looking for any upcoming works by this author.
I have provided an honest review after having received this book through Litfuse.
The Mark of the King is an incredibly well written book that grabs a hold of your attention and wont let go. Detailing the struggles underwent by the original colonists of New Orleans, the novel follows Julianne through a life of heartache as she learns that only God's opinion of her matters and only following his will is able to bring her joy. This message is woven into the history of the colonies, a time when faith was heavily regulated by the church.
Green's research into the time period is astounding, as she truly brings this colony to life. Though I already knew a few of the details she uses, other facts were completely new to me. I am always impressed when an author is able to impart so much history without beginning to read like a textbook.
My one complaint is that the conflict which arises toward the end was one that could have been avoided if the characters had not kept secrets from each other. Though their reasons are understandable, they also showed a lack of trust in the other. I would also like to warn that this is not an easy book to read. Some of the events portrayed are stomach churning and I would not recommend it for teenagers or those who dislike reading about some of the more horrifying aspects of history. That said, I will personally be looking for any upcoming works by this author.
I have provided an honest review after having received this book through Litfuse.
farmfreshlisa's review against another edition
5.0
When I say that this book is a journey, I mean it. Julianne goes through so much despair and trials that they would break any "ordinary" person. Yet she repeatedly draws on her faith in God and Jesus to help her walk through the worst of times. The author brought this book to life so much, it made me despair for Julianne. It made me despise other characters. It made me hold my breath and brought me to the point of tears. I screamed internally for the abuse of Julianne, empathized with her longing for a child, held little Lily in my heart, and rooted for Marc-Paul. I winkled out the plot involving her brother Benjamin long before Julianne did and held my breath as she experienced it herself.
Above all, this author brought to life an era in American history that I know little about. I now want to know more! I appreciate the references in the back of the book for seeking out more information, and hope to be able to do so. I can tell you this--I am SOOOO thankful that I was NOT born in New Orleans, Louisiana during the 1700's!!!!
Anything I didn't like? No, although the reader should be aware that this book will present God and Christ through a Catholic view--but not effusively. Just matter of factually. I did like how Marc-Paul goes through a moment wondering if maybe Christian life is more personal than what he'd always been taught (within the realms of Catholicism) as he looks at an actual Bible, knowing he doesn't even have to hide the fact he has it, now that he's living in Louisiana, away from the French government rules on religion. It hinted at the idea of religious freedom blooming in the young future America.
I am happy to give The Mark of the King my highest star rating of 5 stars. It was everything that I could have wanted in a story-- everything I love--plot, history, love, loss, emotional highs and lows, character "baggage", and the ongoing battle to understand one's place in this world in their journey with God. Any book that also leaves me desiring to learn more about the time in history is deserving of praise. I think you will really enjoy the flowing language that the author uses. She just describes everything from the diseased decaying bodies to the effects of the swamp fever (aka Malaria). I could practically feel the Mississippi river mud between my toes.
*Disclaimer: I was given this book by the publishers in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any other way for my review.
Above all, this author brought to life an era in American history that I know little about. I now want to know more! I appreciate the references in the back of the book for seeking out more information, and hope to be able to do so. I can tell you this--I am SOOOO thankful that I was NOT born in New Orleans, Louisiana during the 1700's!!!!
Anything I didn't like? No, although the reader should be aware that this book will present God and Christ through a Catholic view--but not effusively. Just matter of factually. I did like how Marc-Paul goes through a moment wondering if maybe Christian life is more personal than what he'd always been taught (within the realms of Catholicism) as he looks at an actual Bible, knowing he doesn't even have to hide the fact he has it, now that he's living in Louisiana, away from the French government rules on religion. It hinted at the idea of religious freedom blooming in the young future America.
I am happy to give The Mark of the King my highest star rating of 5 stars. It was everything that I could have wanted in a story-- everything I love--plot, history, love, loss, emotional highs and lows, character "baggage", and the ongoing battle to understand one's place in this world in their journey with God. Any book that also leaves me desiring to learn more about the time in history is deserving of praise. I think you will really enjoy the flowing language that the author uses. She just describes everything from the diseased decaying bodies to the effects of the swamp fever (aka Malaria). I could practically feel the Mississippi river mud between my toes.
*Disclaimer: I was given this book by the publishers in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any other way for my review.
sarah_reading_party's review against another edition
4.0
As usual, my five point review:
The characters in this book were stunning. No one was uni-dimensional, and no matter whether you loved or hated someone, their character and role in the story truly made a difference to the plot and outcome of the story. I am still torn as to whether Julianne or Marc-Paul was my favorite character, but no matter… their (surprising) romance was the highlight of this book.
Even though I do consider the highlight of this book to be the romance between Julianne and Marc-Paul, it was not overbearing, lovey-dovey, or predictable. Lots of twists and turns influenced their relationship at many different points… and they almost didn’t make it (in more ways than one). I love that sort of romance. It’s so real! But it would not have been possible without the grace both show towards the other, and to the people around them dealing with very hard circumstances.
Though the characters are influenced by Christianity, this book absolutely does not “feel” like a Christian romance novel AT. ALL. No lightly disguised evangelism here, and that’s not a criticism at all. The discussion of faith was very natural and at times, ambiguous. Real characters, real faith.
The writing was excellent. The novel was divided into three parts, each with a shocking twist. I managed to read this (a print copy) in less than two weeks, which is a recent record since it’s hard to read a print book with a baby in tow most days. I do most reading on my phone or Kindle these days, so you know that this must have been good!
1720s Louisiana truly came alive in Jocelyn Green’s The Mark of the King. This is an often-forgotten time period of American history, something Green mentions in her readers’ notes. As such, I imagine researching this era took a great deal of grit and determination. Reading about everything from the abysmal living conditions to the devastating hurricane that ended up shaping the French Quarter of New Orleans was heartbreaking… and fascinating. I’ve said it before, but reading fiction is the best way to turn someone into a history lover, and this book is no different. I highly recommend it!
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. However, I was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed above are entirely my own. Thanks to Bethany House for the chance to read this great book!
The characters in this book were stunning. No one was uni-dimensional, and no matter whether you loved or hated someone, their character and role in the story truly made a difference to the plot and outcome of the story. I am still torn as to whether Julianne or Marc-Paul was my favorite character, but no matter… their (surprising) romance was the highlight of this book.
Even though I do consider the highlight of this book to be the romance between Julianne and Marc-Paul, it was not overbearing, lovey-dovey, or predictable. Lots of twists and turns influenced their relationship at many different points… and they almost didn’t make it (in more ways than one). I love that sort of romance. It’s so real! But it would not have been possible without the grace both show towards the other, and to the people around them dealing with very hard circumstances.
Though the characters are influenced by Christianity, this book absolutely does not “feel” like a Christian romance novel AT. ALL. No lightly disguised evangelism here, and that’s not a criticism at all. The discussion of faith was very natural and at times, ambiguous. Real characters, real faith.
The writing was excellent. The novel was divided into three parts, each with a shocking twist. I managed to read this (a print copy) in less than two weeks, which is a recent record since it’s hard to read a print book with a baby in tow most days. I do most reading on my phone or Kindle these days, so you know that this must have been good!
1720s Louisiana truly came alive in Jocelyn Green’s The Mark of the King. This is an often-forgotten time period of American history, something Green mentions in her readers’ notes. As such, I imagine researching this era took a great deal of grit and determination. Reading about everything from the abysmal living conditions to the devastating hurricane that ended up shaping the French Quarter of New Orleans was heartbreaking… and fascinating. I’ve said it before, but reading fiction is the best way to turn someone into a history lover, and this book is no different. I highly recommend it!
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. However, I was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed above are entirely my own. Thanks to Bethany House for the chance to read this great book!
wellingtonestatelibrary's review against another edition
3.0
Decent read. It was interesting learning about Louisiana, and New Orleans in particular, when they were just forming. Not sure why I never connected the name Louisiana with King Louis, but I didn't! It got a bit rough in the last third when the author employed my most hated trope, "The Misunderstanding", but thankfully she didn't prolong the miscommunication long enough to ruin the book for me. I like how the mark of the king, the fleur de lys, was metaphorically transformed from a sign of imprisonment to a sign of love. 3 1/2 stars.