The Coronation

The Great Alder - a supernatural eagle that can save those at the brink of death. Is this two-headed eagle a messenger from God? If not, then it is, at least, a very powerful mythological creature. But what does it want? And what is it trying to tell the characters in this novel? You will have to read this book to find out as my lips are sealed!! Set during the Seven Year War (1756–1763), The Coronation combines history and fantasy to bring the reader a fascinating and compelling story. I appreciated the short chapters which meant there was no unnecessarily head-hopping which is something I am not overly fond of. It also made the story flow incredibly quickly and at no period in this novel did I feel bored which is always a good sign! I was committed to this book after the fourth chapter. The characters came across with a strong sense of time and place, but they also felt real, and I came to care about them, especially Marion. A great deal happens in this novel, but at no time did I feel lost or confused as to what was going on. And I really enjoyed the complementary mixture of history and fantasy. *I received a copy of this novel from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.

This is the third and by far the best book of Justin Newland. The story takes place in 18th century East Prussia and centres around the experience of the matriarch of a smaller land owning family. Whilst the men are off to war she goes through a spiritual journey that develops alongside the characters of the parallel plots about family honour and fortune. The story is well told and the sub plots keep you engaged as you get to understand the main plot and message. From time to time the becomes a little to explicit for my liking (I prefer to infer motives rather than getting them spoon fed) but it only happens sporadically. The book has a spiritual message (clue headline of review) which I found interesting although not one that I subscribe to - but together with interesting real world plots and intrigue and a well flowing language I found it an enjoyable read.