“The first-person narrator deftly provides enough of the complex context to keep the reader informed without weighing down the narrative. A lively story set in a fascinating place and time, with appealing main characters.”
—Historical Novel Society
“A. L. Sowards is incredibly skilled at taking vast amounts of historical research and using it to weave settings for gripping stories. This book was a fun and exciting read with plenty of nail-biting suspense. Loved the main character. She was gutsy and brave and kind and smart and had a beautiful character arc that includes a budding faith. (An extra nod to author A. L. Sowards for letting characters actually hurt after they get injured instead of having them hop right back up like it’s nothing). The setting in 14th century Thebes is unique and interesting and there’s a swoony-sweet romance.”
—Stephanie Black, Whitney-award winning author
“While the plot, woven around the military-style takeover of Thebes in 1379 is interesting from the historical point of view and obviously thoroughly researched by Sowards, the cast of characters gives this story its power. What a gifted writer A. L. Sowards is. Sowards keeps us enthralled, not just with the way fate has brought them together and torn them apart, but with her depiction of the customs, morals, and religious beliefs of the times. Quite frankly, I was saddened by how little life for women back then is unchanged today. Of Sword and Shadow is brilliantly written. Sowards presents authentic settings, captivating characters, excellent dialogue, and a high-action plot. Add this one to your reading list today.”
—Readers’ Favorite five-star review