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A review by stitchsaddiction
The Secrets of Morgaten: A Medieval Mystery by L.S. Mangos
adventurous
inspiring
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
From the captivating cover to the enthralling blurb and the promise of an appearance from the legendary Knights Templar, this book had me hooked from the get-go. I'm a history buff at heart, and the way historical factions like these weave their way into my favourite games (Assassin's Creed, anyone?) just thrills me!
Our tale unfolds in the 14th century, set against the backdrop of the newly founded nation of Switzerland—a place I've always dreamed of visiting. Its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, as I've seen in countless photographs, are brought to life with such vividness in this book that it's like you're traversing the Swiss Alps alongside its characters. Especially our lead, Magda, a resident of the picturesque village of Morgarten.
And speaking of characters, the introduction of Walter Tell—the offspring of the illustrious Wilhelm Tell—was a moment of pure delight. I mean, who doesn't remember the tale of William Tell and the apple? The melding of this age-old legend with the book's fiction was sheer genius, especially as Walter doesn't share the same admiration for his father that I once did as a child.
This novel was everything I'd hoped for and more. It felt like an extension of the legendary tale I'd grown to love as a child, filled with suspense, intrigue, and a blossoming love between the nervous Tell and the fiercely loyal Magda. Their relationship was endearing to witness. The historical antagonists, the Hapsburgs, are the stuff of nightmares that keep you awake at night, adding to the myriad of mysteries and dilemmas that abruptly arise for the previously peaceful dwellers of Morgarten.
And let's not forget the Knights Templar! There's something about this legendary band of warriors that piques my curiosity every time they appear in a story. And true to form, they bring their fair share of chaos and complications, adding to the excitement. The chemistry between Magda and Sébastien was palpable, even though part of me longed for young Tell to find his own slice of happiness and tranquillity away from his father's shadow.
I can't wait to delve into more from this author!
Our tale unfolds in the 14th century, set against the backdrop of the newly founded nation of Switzerland—a place I've always dreamed of visiting. Its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, as I've seen in countless photographs, are brought to life with such vividness in this book that it's like you're traversing the Swiss Alps alongside its characters. Especially our lead, Magda, a resident of the picturesque village of Morgarten.
And speaking of characters, the introduction of Walter Tell—the offspring of the illustrious Wilhelm Tell—was a moment of pure delight. I mean, who doesn't remember the tale of William Tell and the apple? The melding of this age-old legend with the book's fiction was sheer genius, especially as Walter doesn't share the same admiration for his father that I once did as a child.
This novel was everything I'd hoped for and more. It felt like an extension of the legendary tale I'd grown to love as a child, filled with suspense, intrigue, and a blossoming love between the nervous Tell and the fiercely loyal Magda. Their relationship was endearing to witness. The historical antagonists, the Hapsburgs, are the stuff of nightmares that keep you awake at night, adding to the myriad of mysteries and dilemmas that abruptly arise for the previously peaceful dwellers of Morgarten.
And let's not forget the Knights Templar! There's something about this legendary band of warriors that piques my curiosity every time they appear in a story. And true to form, they bring their fair share of chaos and complications, adding to the excitement. The chemistry between Magda and Sébastien was palpable, even though part of me longed for young Tell to find his own slice of happiness and tranquillity away from his father's shadow.
I can't wait to delve into more from this author!