Book Review: The Mark of the King by Jocelyn Green

Sweeping Historical Fiction Set at the Edge of the Continent

After being imprisoned and branded for the death of her client, twenty-five-year-old midwife Julianne Chevalier trades her life sentence for exile to the fledgling 1720s French colony of Louisiana, where she hopes to be reunited with her brother, serving there as a soldier. To make the journey, though, women must be married, and Julianne is forced to wed a fellow convict.

When they arrive in New Orleans, there is no news of Benjamin, Julianne’s brother, and searching for answers proves dangerous. What is behind the mystery, and does military officer Marc-Paul Girard know more than he is letting on?

With her dreams of a new life shattered, Julianne must find her way in this dangerous, rugged land, despite never being able to escape the king’s mark on her shoulder that brands her a criminal beyond redemption.

What I Loved: History lovers, get ready! The Mark of the King was so chocked full of rich historic details in a time and setting that is rarely dusted off. This gripping tale will grab your attention and not let go until long after you’ve finished it. It was so easy to sympathize with each of the characters. Their struggles and desires were so real. The plot’s twists will keep you guessing and turning the pages. The thread of mystery was a nice touch.
There’s one warning that I feel I should state: Due to the type of violence, various midwife scenes, and sexual circumstances more sensitive or younger readers need to be cautious. I think with all my heart that Green tackled the tough and gritty truths in an appropriate way and I greatly appreciate that. But at the end of the day, the content has a stronger tone to it and sensitive readers would appreciate the heads up.

Rating and Recommendation: I’m giving The Mark of the King 5 stars and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction.

~ I received a copy from Bethany House but was not compensated for this review or required to give a favorable one. All thoughts are my own.