Kingdom of Love by Tracie Peterson

*** Review ***

Tracie Peterson, a seasoned author in the realm of Christian historical fiction, takes readers on a journey to medieval England with her collection of three novellas, Kingdom of Love. These tales of conflict, murder, banishment, misunderstandings, and forgiveness bring to life the fragility of liberty, love, and life itself in a bygone era. While each novella presents its unique story, they are bound by common threads of faith, redemption, and the trials faced by courageous women. As a reader who enjoys medieval romance and historical narratives, I found much to appreciate in Peterson’s storytelling, even though certain elements left room for personal preference.

The collection opens with “A Kingdom Divided,” where readers are introduced to Arianne, a character entangled in an arranged marriage. The story takes a compelling turn when her past resurfaces, threatening her newfound love and the safety of her castle. Peterson masterfully weaves themes of faith into the narrative, even if a particular bedroom scene may not resonate with all readers. Arianne’s journey is one of faith and love, and her story serves as an engaging start to the collection.

The sequel, “Alas My Love,” continues the tale, focusing on a different set of characters while remaining connected to the events of the first novella. The story revolves around a villain redemption arc, childhood unrequited love, and redemption through faith in God. While the writing may come across as somewhat dry and the point of view is jumpy, the narrative manages to address issues of faith and redemption in a poignant manner.

In the final novella, “Hearts and Health,” the collection shifts its focus to a different time, set against the backdrop of the bubonic plague. While the depiction of the plague is gripping and at times challenging to read, it brings out themes of salvation and faith, emphasizing the importance of trust in God in an era heavily reliant on science. Peterson delves into the intersection of faith and science in a thought-provoking way, making it a redemptive and insightful part of the collection.

What stands out in all three novellas is Peterson’s talent for character development. Each character is uniquely crafted, and their personalities shine through. The development of the English countryside and medieval customs adds authenticity to the setting, making the stories all the more immersive.

While the stories are intriguing in their own right, the third novella diverges from the characters of the first two, leaving readers with some lingering questions. The novellas are related, and a continuation of the characters’ journeys would have added depth to the overall narrative.

The dryness of the writing and the jumpy omniscient point of view may take some getting used to, and the storytelling does not always create an epic, transporting effect that sweeps readers away. Additionally, some character and relationship progression choices may disappoint those seeking tension and engagement.

In conclusion, Kingdom of Love by Tracie Peterson is a collection of three medieval novellas that offer readers a glimpse into the past, filled with romance and redemption. While the storytelling may not suit every taste, the strong character development, rich historical detail, and exploration of faith and redemption make these novellas an interesting read. For those who have a hankering for medieval romance and a desire to immerse themselves in a bygone era, this collection is worth exploring. Peterson’s ability to blend faith and history into her narratives is commendable, and it adds a layer of depth to the stories.