I realize that the protagonist is Protestant and she and her friends are struggling to bring about reforms in the church, but I got tired of the implication that the Catholic Church is BAD!!!!!! and the reformers are GOOD!!!!! ( )

Meh. I really like the story and the setting—sixteenth century England, Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, Martin Luther and William Tyndale, Lutherans and printers who circulate the Tyndale Bible being burned as heretics—but the characters aren't that compelling and around halfway through I just got bored. I listened to two or three discs that way, but it wasn't picking up and I've got so much else to read right now that I just decided I need to be done. Might finish it some other time (in physical book format, so I can skim if I need to). ( )

This book is a very vivid look at Tudor England and the religious strife that started to tear the country apart during that era. From the intimate of the individual to the grand of historical significance, this book portrays how the events of that era touch on people of all strata's and types. It makes us think and sympathize with the characters and just makes us experience this tragic, viseral world. I enjoyed seeing Vantrease's characters, both real and imagined, overcome obstacles, fall to martyrdom, and just struggle to find a balance between family and faith.

Vantrease's main character, Kate Gough, really struck with me. She's a very strong woman who has gone through much in her life; in the end, I think, she is able to find her place and some happiness even though much tragedy came before. I enjoyed seeing how she wasn't afraid to confront the demons of her time for her family and loved ones. From her brother to her husband, she faces even her biggest enemy, face-to-face, in an effort to save lives and hearts. And yet, for all the bravery and strength of a lioness this woman has, there's a very tender side to her as well. Several times it's proven that she strives for love, family, and children above most else in her life. All around, she's a very well-balanced character that I felt for, cried for, and fell in love with.

I also vastly enjoyed the take on real historical individuals the author brought to life. I felt they all were well rounded people the reader could relate to, despite station or personality. Even the big antagonist of the book, Thomas More, was sympathetic for the reader in that I could see how he became the way he was. In a more sedate or calm era, religiously speaking, this man might have been considered a saint or great helper to the people. Instead, he sees his world and beloved religion being attacked from all quarters and defends it to the best of his ability. While I definitely don't agree with his actions nor his views, I grew to care for him as a man slowly sliding into madness and religious fanaticism due to the pressures on his beloved faith.

The world of religious strife and divisions that Vantrease brings to life just makes me shudder. I think anyone reading this book can agree that a new love for our freedoms of speech, thought, and religion came to light after reading this. Mine certainly did. Being in a country where the wrong word can get you burned alive is a terrifying world indeed. Vantrease brings it to vivid, terrifying life, all the while also bringing the business of bustling merchant town Antwerp and the glitter of the royal Tudor court to life as well. I felt transported and that's the mark of any well-written historical novel.

This book definitely shines as a wonderful example of historical fiction at its best. The reader is drawn into the events and atmosphere of the times seamlessly. The characters become people known and loved, sympathized with and cried over. I adored every word. And while it took me a while to get into the book due to the holiday season, once I was in, it was a straight shot to the end. I loved every word. ( )

Kate Gough, a printer's daughter, falls in love with John Frith who is convicted of heresy. Fascinating time capsule of life as it was for those whose only brush with the rich and powerful was religion. Great characters who make you think about what you would have done in their place. Realistic slice of life that shows all characters as good AND bad. Great descriptions of printing, smuggling, clothing, noise and spells. Like Watermark by Vankaran ( )

I feel that the author tried to focus on too many characters without going into great depth on most. They were flat and not generally gripping. The story was slow at points and lacked focus. ( )