What do you think?
Rate this book
All Battles End at Sunset
1562, Florida.
Elizabeth sits on the throne in England. The Inquisition strikes through the heart of Spain. In France, it's Catholic against Protestant, in a time that will forever be known as the French Wars of Religion.
Twelve-year-old orphan boy Marcel finds himself caught up in the action when he joins legendary sea captain Jean Ribault and his crew of French Freedom fighters known as the Huguenots, searching for a haven for the persecuted of Europe. Together, they set sail for Florida — where mysterious Native Timucuans watch from the palm trees, and dragonlike alligators lurk in the swamps — only to be hunted down by the life Marcel and the Huguenots all thought they could escape.
A Hilt & Arrow book — because history should never be boring!
Elizabeth sits on the throne in England. The Inquisition strikes through the heart of Spain. In France, it's Catholic against Protestant, in a time that will forever be known as the French Wars of Religion.
Twelve-year-old orphan boy Marcel finds himself caught up in the action when he joins legendary sea captain Jean Ribault and his crew of French Freedom fighters known as the Huguenots, searching for a haven for the persecuted of Europe. Together, they set sail for Florida — where mysterious Native Timucuans watch from the palm trees, and dragonlike alligators lurk in the swamps — only to be hunted down by the life Marcel and the Huguenots all thought they could escape.
A Hilt & Arrow book — because history should never be boring!
260 pages, ebook
Published May 17, 2023
2 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
About the author
Jared Acuña
1 book1 followerMaking History Fun with Author Jared Acuña:
History should certainly never be boring, but it definitely should always aim to be true! In writing All Battles End at Sunset, author Jared Acuña toured many places and researched many books — he even read some journals written by real historical people featured in the story! While the main character Marcel is a completely made-up one, he is surrounded by people who really lived and events that really happened. Marcel's story is kinda like seeing a point in history from a kid's perspective — a kid who was just like you and me!
History should certainly never be boring, but it definitely should always aim to be true! In writing All Battles End at Sunset, author Jared Acuña toured many places and researched many books — he even read some journals written by real historical people featured in the story! While the main character Marcel is a completely made-up one, he is surrounded by people who really lived and events that really happened. Marcel's story is kinda like seeing a point in history from a kid's perspective — a kid who was just like you and me!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
March 31, 2025
This story was captivating from the start. Between the beautiful descriptions that pulled me into the scene and loveable characters I wanted cheer on the whole time, it was a book I struggled to put down. The story tells of the historical beginnings of Florida, through the eyes of Marcel, the twelve year old main character, and his brave adventures and keen observations of the world around and within him. The author, Jared Acuña, did an amazing job at staying true to historical facts while swirling in escapades, enthralling battles, fight scenes, and heart clenching moments that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Hilt & Arrow's tagline, "because history shouldn't be boring," really came to light for me and I can't wait to see what more books Acuña will write!
Hilt & Arrow's tagline, "because history shouldn't be boring," really came to light for me and I can't wait to see what more books Acuña will write!
October 22, 2023
All Battles End at Sunset, by Jared Acuña, is a masterfully crafted historical fiction novel set against the turbulent backdrop of 16th-century Europe, a time rife with religious and political tensions. We are introduced to Marcel, a spirited twelve-year-old orphan with an admiration for sea captain Jean Ribault. Fate takes a turn when Marcel embarks on a quest, allying himself with Jean Ribault and the Huguenots. Together, they traverse the seas aboard the La Trinite, driven by the noble aim of seeking refuge in Florida for France's persecuted Protestants. They encounter the indigenous Timucuans and a myriad of unexpected challenges.
Acuña has woven a tapestry of adventure, cultural confrontations, and human resilience in All Battles End at Sunset. Through a blend of dynamic action sequences, detailed historical insights, and a cast of unforgettable characters, he paints a vibrant picture of a past era. The lush landscapes come alive with Acuña's descriptions, allowing readers to vicariously experience Marcel's transformative journey. With his unparalleled prowess with a bow and a heart filled with bravery and selflessness, Marcel stands out as a character readers will find easy to root for. The genuine interactions, particularly among the younger characters, inject warmth and depth to the story, offering moments of levity even amidst challenging circumstances.
Though I thoroughly enjoyed the novel All Battles End at Sunset, by Jared Acuña, I think the sophisticated writing style, while enriching, may pose some challenges for its intended younger readers. I feel the narrative does have moments where it lingers a bit, particularly in the initial stages. Yet, these minor critiques aside, All Battles End at Sunset stands as a commendable work that will undoubtedly captivate those with a penchant for historical narratives and enthralling adventures.
Acuña has woven a tapestry of adventure, cultural confrontations, and human resilience in All Battles End at Sunset. Through a blend of dynamic action sequences, detailed historical insights, and a cast of unforgettable characters, he paints a vibrant picture of a past era. The lush landscapes come alive with Acuña's descriptions, allowing readers to vicariously experience Marcel's transformative journey. With his unparalleled prowess with a bow and a heart filled with bravery and selflessness, Marcel stands out as a character readers will find easy to root for. The genuine interactions, particularly among the younger characters, inject warmth and depth to the story, offering moments of levity even amidst challenging circumstances.
Though I thoroughly enjoyed the novel All Battles End at Sunset, by Jared Acuña, I think the sophisticated writing style, while enriching, may pose some challenges for its intended younger readers. I feel the narrative does have moments where it lingers a bit, particularly in the initial stages. Yet, these minor critiques aside, All Battles End at Sunset stands as a commendable work that will undoubtedly captivate those with a penchant for historical narratives and enthralling adventures.
September 4, 2023
The book "All Battles End at Sunset" by Jared Acuña is a historical fiction novel that transports the reader to a time of religious turmoil and exploration in Europe and the New World. The story follows Marcel, a young orphan who joins a daring expedition led by Jean Ribault, a French sea captain and freedom fighter. Their goal is to find a safe haven for the persecuted Protestants of France in the land of Florida, where they encounter the native Timucuans and the dangerous wildlife. However, their quest is not without peril, as they are pursued by the forces of Spain and the Inquisition, who seek to destroy them and their dream of religious liberty.
The book is well-written and engaging, with vivid descriptions of the historical settings and characters. The author does a good job of blending fact and fiction, using real events and people as the backdrop for the fictional adventure of Marcel and his companions. The book also explores themes such as courage, faith, friendship, and tolerance, as well as the clash of cultures and beliefs between the Europeans and the natives. The book is suitable for young readers who enjoy historical fiction and adventure stories, as well as for adults who want to learn more about this fascinating period of history.
The book is well-written and engaging, with vivid descriptions of the historical settings and characters. The author does a good job of blending fact and fiction, using real events and people as the backdrop for the fictional adventure of Marcel and his companions. The book also explores themes such as courage, faith, friendship, and tolerance, as well as the clash of cultures and beliefs between the Europeans and the natives. The book is suitable for young readers who enjoy historical fiction and adventure stories, as well as for adults who want to learn more about this fascinating period of history.
May 20, 2024
This isn’t just any historical tale; it’s an epic journey, brimming with danger and intrigue at every turn. This book dives deep into a world fraught with peril and discovery. The quest for a new life in Florida introduces readers to the fascinating and mysterious Timucuan tribe and the treacherous creatures lurking in the swamps.
While the language might challenge some eleven/twelve-year-olds, it is ideal for those advanced readers seeking a more mature narrative. The author’s sophisticated vocabulary and vivid descriptions elevate this historical adventure, making it a perfect pick for young bookworms ready to expand their literary horizons.
The book stands by its tagline and proves that history is anything but boring. It’s an exhilarating read that combines educational value with the thrill of an adventure, making it a standout addition to any young reader’s bookshelf.
While the language might challenge some eleven/twelve-year-olds, it is ideal for those advanced readers seeking a more mature narrative. The author’s sophisticated vocabulary and vivid descriptions elevate this historical adventure, making it a perfect pick for young bookworms ready to expand their literary horizons.
The book stands by its tagline and proves that history is anything but boring. It’s an exhilarating read that combines educational value with the thrill of an adventure, making it a standout addition to any young reader’s bookshelf.
February 19, 2024
In the description of this book, it states that history should be fun. Jared Acuna makes this happen in his book “All Battles End at Sunset.” We are taken on an action-packed adventure with a young boy named Marcel.
Marcel is 12 years old in 1562 and has spent his life in the woods of France. He is an orphan and is just beginning to see the turmoil his country is in. There is a battle between the Protestants, or Huguenots, and the Catholics. It is threatening to turn their world upside down and people are looking for a way to safety. Sea Captain Jean Ribault and his crew come to Marcel’s town looking for Rene de Laudonniere. Rene is the man who took Marcel out of the woods and has cared for him for many years.
Ribault and Rene are planning a voyage to Florida to bring the Huguenots to safety. They devise a plan and Marcel, along with his friend Tristan join them on this voyage. Of course, getting to the boat isn’t without danger. Once the boat lands in Florida, Marcel and Tristan get into a predicament with the Natives. Their French family believes them to be dead.
Time passes and Marcel and Tristan decide they want to know what happened to their friends. What they discover is not exactly what they hoped for. Then the Spanish arrived and what seemed like peace had now turned tragic.
I applaud the author for taking a part of history often forgotten and bringing it to life for readers. As a former history teacher, I was excited to read a work that breathed life into the events of that time. The author may have written a fictional account of the events, but he shared the emotions of the people in 1562 France. It is often the emotions we lose when we focus on the dates. My favorite aspect of this book is the portrayal of the Natives. The author did not make them cruel, unforgiving people. He has torn down the wall of stereotypes indigenous people are often subject to in the history books.
“All Battles End at Sunset” is written with two young boys as the main characters. Many historical fiction and non-fiction books are written for adults, but this one can span generations of readers. I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars because there were times I found myself wanting to move on when the author was still describing a scene. Other than these occasional pacing issues, Jared Acuna has presented us with a well-written, action-packed, emotional, and fun work of historical fiction for all ages in “All Battles End at Sunset.”In the description of this book, it states that history should be fun. Jared Acuna makes this happen in his book “All Battles End at Sunset.” We are taken on an action-packed adventure with a young boy named Marcel.
Marcel is 12 years old and spent much of his life in the woods of France in 1562. He is an orphan and is just beginning to see the turmoil his country is in. There is a battle between the Protestants, or Huguenots, and the Catholics. It is threatening to turn their world upside down and people are looking for a way to safety. Sea Captain Jean Ribault and his crew come to Marcel’s town looking for Rene de Laudonniere. Rene is the man who took Marcel out of the woods and has cared for him for many years.
Ribault and Rene are planning a voyage to Florida to bring the Huguenots to safety. They devise a plan and Marcel, along with his friend Tristan join them on this voyage. Once the boat lands in Florida, Marcel and Tristan get into a predicament with the native population, the Timucuans. Now their French family believes them to be dead. Time passes and Marcel and Tristan decide they want to know what happened to their friends. What they discover is not exactly what they hoped for. Then the Spanish arrive and what seemed like peace turns tragic.
I applaud the author for taking a part of history often forgotten and bringing it to life for readers. As a former history teacher, I was excited to read a work that breathed life into the events of that time. The author may have written a fictional account of the events, but he shared the emotions of the people in 1562 France. It is often the emotions we lose when we focus on the dates.
My favorite aspect of this book is the portrayal of the Natives. The author did not make them mean, unforgiving people. He presented a softer side that I believe we sometimes forget the indigenous peoples had. He has torn down the wall of stereotypes that original inhabitants often get in the history books.
“All Battles End at Sunset” by Jared Acuna is written with two young boys as the main characters. Many historical fiction books are written for adults, but this is a book that can span generations of readers. The author has presented us with a well-written, action-packed, emotional, and fun work of historical fiction for all ages.
Share this:
Click
Marcel is 12 years old in 1562 and has spent his life in the woods of France. He is an orphan and is just beginning to see the turmoil his country is in. There is a battle between the Protestants, or Huguenots, and the Catholics. It is threatening to turn their world upside down and people are looking for a way to safety. Sea Captain Jean Ribault and his crew come to Marcel’s town looking for Rene de Laudonniere. Rene is the man who took Marcel out of the woods and has cared for him for many years.
Ribault and Rene are planning a voyage to Florida to bring the Huguenots to safety. They devise a plan and Marcel, along with his friend Tristan join them on this voyage. Of course, getting to the boat isn’t without danger. Once the boat lands in Florida, Marcel and Tristan get into a predicament with the Natives. Their French family believes them to be dead.
Time passes and Marcel and Tristan decide they want to know what happened to their friends. What they discover is not exactly what they hoped for. Then the Spanish arrived and what seemed like peace had now turned tragic.
I applaud the author for taking a part of history often forgotten and bringing it to life for readers. As a former history teacher, I was excited to read a work that breathed life into the events of that time. The author may have written a fictional account of the events, but he shared the emotions of the people in 1562 France. It is often the emotions we lose when we focus on the dates. My favorite aspect of this book is the portrayal of the Natives. The author did not make them cruel, unforgiving people. He has torn down the wall of stereotypes indigenous people are often subject to in the history books.
“All Battles End at Sunset” is written with two young boys as the main characters. Many historical fiction and non-fiction books are written for adults, but this one can span generations of readers. I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars because there were times I found myself wanting to move on when the author was still describing a scene. Other than these occasional pacing issues, Jared Acuna has presented us with a well-written, action-packed, emotional, and fun work of historical fiction for all ages in “All Battles End at Sunset.”In the description of this book, it states that history should be fun. Jared Acuna makes this happen in his book “All Battles End at Sunset.” We are taken on an action-packed adventure with a young boy named Marcel.
Marcel is 12 years old and spent much of his life in the woods of France in 1562. He is an orphan and is just beginning to see the turmoil his country is in. There is a battle between the Protestants, or Huguenots, and the Catholics. It is threatening to turn their world upside down and people are looking for a way to safety. Sea Captain Jean Ribault and his crew come to Marcel’s town looking for Rene de Laudonniere. Rene is the man who took Marcel out of the woods and has cared for him for many years.
Ribault and Rene are planning a voyage to Florida to bring the Huguenots to safety. They devise a plan and Marcel, along with his friend Tristan join them on this voyage. Once the boat lands in Florida, Marcel and Tristan get into a predicament with the native population, the Timucuans. Now their French family believes them to be dead. Time passes and Marcel and Tristan decide they want to know what happened to their friends. What they discover is not exactly what they hoped for. Then the Spanish arrive and what seemed like peace turns tragic.
I applaud the author for taking a part of history often forgotten and bringing it to life for readers. As a former history teacher, I was excited to read a work that breathed life into the events of that time. The author may have written a fictional account of the events, but he shared the emotions of the people in 1562 France. It is often the emotions we lose when we focus on the dates.
My favorite aspect of this book is the portrayal of the Natives. The author did not make them mean, unforgiving people. He presented a softer side that I believe we sometimes forget the indigenous peoples had. He has torn down the wall of stereotypes that original inhabitants often get in the history books.
“All Battles End at Sunset” by Jared Acuna is written with two young boys as the main characters. Many historical fiction books are written for adults, but this is a book that can span generations of readers. The author has presented us with a well-written, action-packed, emotional, and fun work of historical fiction for all ages.
Share this:
Click
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews