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The Graham Saga #3
The Prodigal Son
Matthew's continued and stubborn religious support places his entire family in danger, causing quite the strain on his marriage. After all, Alex was born in 1976 and raised in an extremely secular environment (prior to being flung three centuries backwards in time) so she finds all these faith related conflicts very difficult to comprehend.
392 pages, Paperback
First published May 15, 2013
169 people are currently reading
299 people want to read
About the author
Anna Belfrage
37 books289 followersAnna was raised abroad, on a pungent mix of Latin American culture, English history and Swedish traditions. As a result she's multilingual and most of her reading is historical- both non-fiction and fiction. Possessed of a lively imagination, she has drawers full of potential stories, all of them set in the past. She was always going to be a writer - or a historian, preferably both. Ideally, Anna aspired to becoming a pioneer time traveller, but science has as yet not advanced to the point of making that possible. Instead she ended up with a degree in Business and Finance, with very little time to spare for her most favourite pursuit. Still, one does as one must, and in between juggling a challenging career Anna raised her four children on a potent combination of invented stories, historical debates and masses of good food and homemade cakes. They seem to thrive…
For years she combined a challenging career with four children and the odd snatched moment of writing. Nowadays Anna spends most of her spare time at her writing desk. The children are half grown, the house is at times eerily silent and she slips away into her imaginary world, with her imaginary characters. Every now and then the one and only man in her life pops his head in to ensure she's still there.
For additional information regarding Anna, her characters, extra scenes, and teasers for her next books, have a look at Anna's website at: www.annabelfrage.com
For years she combined a challenging career with four children and the odd snatched moment of writing. Nowadays Anna spends most of her spare time at her writing desk. The children are half grown, the house is at times eerily silent and she slips away into her imaginary world, with her imaginary characters. Every now and then the one and only man in her life pops his head in to ensure she's still there.
For additional information regarding Anna, her characters, extra scenes, and teasers for her next books, have a look at Anna's website at: www.annabelfrage.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
March 31, 2020
I would like readers to know that this is my review of the audible version.
Whats it about?
21st century woman living in the 17th century with her husband and children. In the previous books, we saw Alex fall through a gash in time caused by a massive electric storm. It might seem a little unrealistic but the author makes you feel as though it's perfectly reasonable for someone to fall through time as if it happens all the time! How does Alex adapt to 17thc life and how does Matthew cope with a woman he loves who has very strange ideas about what a woman she be like. the result is a sort of meeting in the middle and this becomes their strength as a couple that will enable them to cope with the dangers that their circumstance will see them faced with.
This is the third book in the Grahame saga which is both a timeslip and historical drama.
Well what can i say, Ms Belfrage has done it again.
The story - A well plotted tale that stands alone but is part of a series and can be read as both. It moves along with perfect pace, it curves and plunges, curves and plunges and keeps you on your toes and it evokes such emotions in me I can't tell you how I cried when a tragedy got to me. Ms Belfrage has the exceeding talent to get into the minds and feelings of her characters so that as the reader you can't avoid absorbing the characters experiences as though it was all happening to you.
The characters - No one does characterisation like Ms Belfrage. They are not only human, they are you and by the end of the book you will feel as though you have gone through the ringer with all the ups and downs. Where else in a book could you ever feel grief, hatred, anger, happiness, love and lust as if it these were your own experiences. This book evokes such empathy and understanding within you on so many levels and I love the way that Alex, the main character inserts her very modern (this is a timeslip story) views in a historical setting and the effect they have on the 17thc characters she shares her world with.
The narrator - Greg Patmore is amazing. He is probably the best narrator I have ever hear read an audio. No accent seems to be a problem for him and he switches from one to another seamlessly making you forget there is only one person reading all. His acting is amazing, and he really does the book justice. My only gripe is that I don't like his portrayal of Alex. I find it too nasal and overwrought, however that is just a taste thing and am sure that this would not bother anyone else. Despite this one flaw, the narrator makes up for it in his ability to make the characters leap out of the book and stand before you. If i could, I would choose him to read a book of mine! He is simply superb.
I truly recommend that if you enjoy timeslip where the character goes back in time and stays there, then this is for you. If you enjoy books that are set in 17thc Scotland, books that set you on the edge of your reading couch, make you cry, laugh and angry in one day, then this is for you. The book or the audio are simply superb.
The thing I most like about the books of this particular author is there is always going to be a fantastic journey that wont dissapoint. Ever.
If you haven't got into these books yet, then you are missing out!
Whats it about?
21st century woman living in the 17th century with her husband and children. In the previous books, we saw Alex fall through a gash in time caused by a massive electric storm. It might seem a little unrealistic but the author makes you feel as though it's perfectly reasonable for someone to fall through time as if it happens all the time! How does Alex adapt to 17thc life and how does Matthew cope with a woman he loves who has very strange ideas about what a woman she be like. the result is a sort of meeting in the middle and this becomes their strength as a couple that will enable them to cope with the dangers that their circumstance will see them faced with.
This is the third book in the Grahame saga which is both a timeslip and historical drama.
Well what can i say, Ms Belfrage has done it again.
The story - A well plotted tale that stands alone but is part of a series and can be read as both. It moves along with perfect pace, it curves and plunges, curves and plunges and keeps you on your toes and it evokes such emotions in me I can't tell you how I cried when a tragedy got to me. Ms Belfrage has the exceeding talent to get into the minds and feelings of her characters so that as the reader you can't avoid absorbing the characters experiences as though it was all happening to you.
The characters - No one does characterisation like Ms Belfrage. They are not only human, they are you and by the end of the book you will feel as though you have gone through the ringer with all the ups and downs. Where else in a book could you ever feel grief, hatred, anger, happiness, love and lust as if it these were your own experiences. This book evokes such empathy and understanding within you on so many levels and I love the way that Alex, the main character inserts her very modern (this is a timeslip story) views in a historical setting and the effect they have on the 17thc characters she shares her world with.
The narrator - Greg Patmore is amazing. He is probably the best narrator I have ever hear read an audio. No accent seems to be a problem for him and he switches from one to another seamlessly making you forget there is only one person reading all. His acting is amazing, and he really does the book justice. My only gripe is that I don't like his portrayal of Alex. I find it too nasal and overwrought, however that is just a taste thing and am sure that this would not bother anyone else. Despite this one flaw, the narrator makes up for it in his ability to make the characters leap out of the book and stand before you. If i could, I would choose him to read a book of mine! He is simply superb.
I truly recommend that if you enjoy timeslip where the character goes back in time and stays there, then this is for you. If you enjoy books that are set in 17thc Scotland, books that set you on the edge of your reading couch, make you cry, laugh and angry in one day, then this is for you. The book or the audio are simply superb.
The thing I most like about the books of this particular author is there is always going to be a fantastic journey that wont dissapoint. Ever.
If you haven't got into these books yet, then you are missing out!
August 9, 2019
I have intended to read a book from The Graham Saga for some time but I chose this particular book because of its inclusion of the story of the Scottish Covenanters who risked death and persecution to maintain their Presbyterian faith, especially as this included my own ancestors.
Although it would be best to read this saga from Book one, I was quickly able to enter into the storyline by the author’s reference to relevant parts of the backstory. Essentially this is an alternative Outlander story; in 2002 Alexandra has been thrown back into 17th century Scotland where she meets handsome, brave Matthew Graham. In The Prodigal Son we find Alex struggling with the physical demands of life as a mother on a Scottish farm, passionately in love with her husband Matthew but increasingly worried by his reckless support of Alexander Peden, “the Prophet,” who is sought by the English soldiers of Charles II.
This complex plot highlights the clash of opinions about the behaviour of men and women in a marriage between a 21st century woman and a 17th century man but it also shows the power of love and understanding. There are interesting discussions about beliefs between Alex and her husband and sister-in-law, and her difficulty in coping with mistreatment by the soldiers is accentuated by her modern background.
I found this timeslip story fascinating and now wish to read the first book in the series to discover some of the mysterious events which brought Matthew and Alex together.
Although it would be best to read this saga from Book one, I was quickly able to enter into the storyline by the author’s reference to relevant parts of the backstory. Essentially this is an alternative Outlander story; in 2002 Alexandra has been thrown back into 17th century Scotland where she meets handsome, brave Matthew Graham. In The Prodigal Son we find Alex struggling with the physical demands of life as a mother on a Scottish farm, passionately in love with her husband Matthew but increasingly worried by his reckless support of Alexander Peden, “the Prophet,” who is sought by the English soldiers of Charles II.
This complex plot highlights the clash of opinions about the behaviour of men and women in a marriage between a 21st century woman and a 17th century man but it also shows the power of love and understanding. There are interesting discussions about beliefs between Alex and her husband and sister-in-law, and her difficulty in coping with mistreatment by the soldiers is accentuated by her modern background.
I found this timeslip story fascinating and now wish to read the first book in the series to discover some of the mysterious events which brought Matthew and Alex together.
July 2, 2013
The Prodigal Son is Anna Belfrage’s third book in her Graham Saga series, a story about a time shifted Alexandra (Alex) Lind and her husband, Matthew Graham, whom she marries in the seventeenth century. In this installment, Anna continues to give us the same well-developed characters, cherished love story, conflicts and resolution, and her usual amazing feelings of hope.
Starting the series with A Rip in the Veil, we meet Alex who is caught in a thunderstorm that suddenly transports her from 2002 to 1658 Scotland where she lands near the feet of Matthew and is thrown into the adventure of adjusting to an entirely new set of circumstances. Even as she is independent and strong, Matthew is stubborn and protective and they fall in love quickly as well as a whole host of other situations. As we read the second book, Like Chaff in the Wind, Alex and Matthew sail to the New World. You can read my review of that HERE.
This third book, The Prodigal Son, sets them back in Scotland during a time of much upheaval due to politics and religion, both intertwined at the time. With many people standing up and almost risking their lives to be able to have religious freedom and not conform to the Church of England under Charles II, Matthew puts his life, as well as his family’s in danger, by helping ministers and the cause. One of those ministers he assists is Sandy Peden (who actually existed and was on the run for his religious beliefs almost his whole life), much to Alex’s disdain as she didn’t want her family to suffer for the antics of these people’s fervent beliefs (she doesn’t quite always understand Matthew’s desires and would prefer he stay out of it!).
Though not a religious novel, due to the time period itself being racked with religious zeal and war, it really seeped into every life during this time period following England’s restoration as well as the settling of the American colonies. Men like Anna’s character of Matthew would have felt strongly about holding onto his personal rights at that time, even if it meant hiding “on the run” ministers who were upholding freedom of religion and speech, even as others threatened their lives and chased them down. I enjoyed the times in Anna’s story when Matthew and Alex would discuss religion or actions, even theology with alternate and proposed ideas of God, all as if they were discussing the price of tea, then they’d kiss and declare their love for one another. THAT is the best part of this book for me, by the way, the never-ending, undying love that Matthew and Alex have for one another that knows no bounds.
The worst part for me is that Matthew’s devotion to the freedom of religion cause and helping others does leave a disastrous mark on their family and their life together. It was a chapter of weeping, but I won’t share and spoil the novel. However, it’s sooo sad!!! It truly tugged at the heart-strings. Again though, it didn’t change their love for one another and there is a chance for rebirth of hope and family.
Another plot point in Anna’s third book has to do with the title (The Prodigal Son), as Matthew’s ex-wife, who was always in love with Matthew’s egotistical brother Luke, comes to their country residence saying she needs to run from the plague, but when she has to leave the son that Luke has declared his, even though it most likely has always been Matthew’s son, Matthew and Ian grow close, only to be torn apart and brought together in an ebb and flow of sorts. It’s up to you to read and see if they are reunited permanently. But you’ll love how Anna’s writes so much emotion into all of the characters; you’ll feel what they feel. She does a phenomenal job of developing characters and she handles, and has Alex handle, the situation with grace and understanding.
Overall, I love the LOVE that spills forth through this novel. I love Alex’s independence, strength, devotion, will, endurance, understanding, plus she learns and adapts quickly! Living in the late 1600s is not easy when you are from the 2000s. I also enjoy her humor quite a bit, her bluntness, and her wit.
I’ve loved Anna’s series so far, and especially The Prodigal Son, and I look forward (not very patiently) for the next novel in The Graham Saga. I highly recommend this historical series and I personally can’t wait to see where Anna will take the series. Matthew and Alex are the perfect couple who fit together as two parts of an apple, which really shows us as readers that nothing can stand in the way of love (even 300 years)!
Starting the series with A Rip in the Veil, we meet Alex who is caught in a thunderstorm that suddenly transports her from 2002 to 1658 Scotland where she lands near the feet of Matthew and is thrown into the adventure of adjusting to an entirely new set of circumstances. Even as she is independent and strong, Matthew is stubborn and protective and they fall in love quickly as well as a whole host of other situations. As we read the second book, Like Chaff in the Wind, Alex and Matthew sail to the New World. You can read my review of that HERE.
This third book, The Prodigal Son, sets them back in Scotland during a time of much upheaval due to politics and religion, both intertwined at the time. With many people standing up and almost risking their lives to be able to have religious freedom and not conform to the Church of England under Charles II, Matthew puts his life, as well as his family’s in danger, by helping ministers and the cause. One of those ministers he assists is Sandy Peden (who actually existed and was on the run for his religious beliefs almost his whole life), much to Alex’s disdain as she didn’t want her family to suffer for the antics of these people’s fervent beliefs (she doesn’t quite always understand Matthew’s desires and would prefer he stay out of it!).
Though not a religious novel, due to the time period itself being racked with religious zeal and war, it really seeped into every life during this time period following England’s restoration as well as the settling of the American colonies. Men like Anna’s character of Matthew would have felt strongly about holding onto his personal rights at that time, even if it meant hiding “on the run” ministers who were upholding freedom of religion and speech, even as others threatened their lives and chased them down. I enjoyed the times in Anna’s story when Matthew and Alex would discuss religion or actions, even theology with alternate and proposed ideas of God, all as if they were discussing the price of tea, then they’d kiss and declare their love for one another. THAT is the best part of this book for me, by the way, the never-ending, undying love that Matthew and Alex have for one another that knows no bounds.
The worst part for me is that Matthew’s devotion to the freedom of religion cause and helping others does leave a disastrous mark on their family and their life together. It was a chapter of weeping, but I won’t share and spoil the novel. However, it’s sooo sad!!! It truly tugged at the heart-strings. Again though, it didn’t change their love for one another and there is a chance for rebirth of hope and family.
Another plot point in Anna’s third book has to do with the title (The Prodigal Son), as Matthew’s ex-wife, who was always in love with Matthew’s egotistical brother Luke, comes to their country residence saying she needs to run from the plague, but when she has to leave the son that Luke has declared his, even though it most likely has always been Matthew’s son, Matthew and Ian grow close, only to be torn apart and brought together in an ebb and flow of sorts. It’s up to you to read and see if they are reunited permanently. But you’ll love how Anna’s writes so much emotion into all of the characters; you’ll feel what they feel. She does a phenomenal job of developing characters and she handles, and has Alex handle, the situation with grace and understanding.
Overall, I love the LOVE that spills forth through this novel. I love Alex’s independence, strength, devotion, will, endurance, understanding, plus she learns and adapts quickly! Living in the late 1600s is not easy when you are from the 2000s. I also enjoy her humor quite a bit, her bluntness, and her wit.
I’ve loved Anna’s series so far, and especially The Prodigal Son, and I look forward (not very patiently) for the next novel in The Graham Saga. I highly recommend this historical series and I personally can’t wait to see where Anna will take the series. Matthew and Alex are the perfect couple who fit together as two parts of an apple, which really shows us as readers that nothing can stand in the way of love (even 300 years)!
October 7, 2014
Source: I won a free copy from The Review Group in December 2013.
Summary:
In the third Graham Saga book, Matthew Graham has recently returned to the lowlands of Scotland, from the British colony in North America, Virginia. Matthew and his time-traveling wife Alexandra have several children. Matthew has a son from a previous marriage named Ian. Charles II (1630-1685) has enforced loyalty to the Church of England. Matthew and his kinsman are loyal to their Presbyterian ministers.
The Prodigal Son exemplifies loyalty and passion, both for their beloved homeland of Scotland, and in Matthew and Alex's marriage and family.
My Thoughts:
The Prodigal Son is the only book in the series I've read. I don't think The Prodigal Son can be fully understood, especially in reference to Alex's time-travel and Matthew's detour in Virginia, unless the previous books have been read. I'm curious how Matthew and Alex's relationship began. I'm curious of the relationship Matthew had with Ian's mother. I'm curious of when the hatred and animosity between Matthew and his brother Luke began. References to each of these are given in The Prodigal Son, but I want a full story. I'm planning to read all of the books in the series.
The relationship between Matthew and Alex is passionate. Their steamy relationship keeps Alex pregnant through a majority of the pages in the story. It is hard for me to believe she had the energy it took to care for several children, clean and cook for a large family (no modern conveniences), and have the desire for sex. The chemistry and love between Matthew and Alex intoxicates them, and they are swept away from the hardship of life. It is their love and loyalty to each other that led me to love this story and rate it four stars.
Alex is from the year 2002, she is bold in speech and freely shares her mind. Matthew has lived with Alex long enough that he understands her views and personality. Alex is frustrated at times, and as a source of comfort and sentimentalism, she reflects on her previous life. I believe Alex is learning to curb her speech, but it is difficult to change a character trait.
The Prodigal Son gave me a view of what life was like for the people of Scotland under the rule of Charles II. His actions against the Presbyterian ministers were cruel and barbaric.
Summary:
In the third Graham Saga book, Matthew Graham has recently returned to the lowlands of Scotland, from the British colony in North America, Virginia. Matthew and his time-traveling wife Alexandra have several children. Matthew has a son from a previous marriage named Ian. Charles II (1630-1685) has enforced loyalty to the Church of England. Matthew and his kinsman are loyal to their Presbyterian ministers.
The Prodigal Son exemplifies loyalty and passion, both for their beloved homeland of Scotland, and in Matthew and Alex's marriage and family.
My Thoughts:
The Prodigal Son is the only book in the series I've read. I don't think The Prodigal Son can be fully understood, especially in reference to Alex's time-travel and Matthew's detour in Virginia, unless the previous books have been read. I'm curious how Matthew and Alex's relationship began. I'm curious of the relationship Matthew had with Ian's mother. I'm curious of when the hatred and animosity between Matthew and his brother Luke began. References to each of these are given in The Prodigal Son, but I want a full story. I'm planning to read all of the books in the series.
The relationship between Matthew and Alex is passionate. Their steamy relationship keeps Alex pregnant through a majority of the pages in the story. It is hard for me to believe she had the energy it took to care for several children, clean and cook for a large family (no modern conveniences), and have the desire for sex. The chemistry and love between Matthew and Alex intoxicates them, and they are swept away from the hardship of life. It is their love and loyalty to each other that led me to love this story and rate it four stars.
Alex is from the year 2002, she is bold in speech and freely shares her mind. Matthew has lived with Alex long enough that he understands her views and personality. Alex is frustrated at times, and as a source of comfort and sentimentalism, she reflects on her previous life. I believe Alex is learning to curb her speech, but it is difficult to change a character trait.
The Prodigal Son gave me a view of what life was like for the people of Scotland under the rule of Charles II. His actions against the Presbyterian ministers were cruel and barbaric.
July 8, 2013
This is my second book of Ms. Belfrage's - I read Like Chaff in the Wind last year and found myself immersed in the tale of Matthew Graham and his wife Alexandra. Matthew is a man of 17th Scotland and Alex a woman of 20th century England. A very severe thunderstorm sent her back in time where she landed at his feet. They soon fell in love and Alex learned to adapt to a world without modern conveniences.
In this third volume of their story Matthew has been returned to his home after having been kidnapped and sold into bondage by his brother, Luke. Alex rescued him and all seems well. Except for Matthew's assisting the Presbyterian ministers that have been outlawed by the restoration of King Charles II. He is constantly being harassed by the local constabulary and hauled in for questioning. Alex fears for his life and their safety. When they learn that Luke may behind much of the pressure their fears increase but Matthew refuses to compromise his beliefs - even for his family.
This sets Alex on edge and she finally gives him an ultimatum. Will he abide by it?
I found I enjoyed this volume more than Like Chaff in the Wind. It still had an overwhelming feeling of fear and oppressiveness due to hatred of Matthew's brother (seriously - is he deranged?) but there were some periods of lightness and hope. I do like Matthew and Alex as characters and the inclusion of young Ian - I can't say much about him without spoiling plot points - in this tale made the family complete. It can be read as a stand alone; the back story is integrated very well. I'm very much looking forward to their further adventures as the book includes a look at the next story in the series.
4.5
In this third volume of their story Matthew has been returned to his home after having been kidnapped and sold into bondage by his brother, Luke. Alex rescued him and all seems well. Except for Matthew's assisting the Presbyterian ministers that have been outlawed by the restoration of King Charles II. He is constantly being harassed by the local constabulary and hauled in for questioning. Alex fears for his life and their safety. When they learn that Luke may behind much of the pressure their fears increase but Matthew refuses to compromise his beliefs - even for his family.
This sets Alex on edge and she finally gives him an ultimatum. Will he abide by it?
I found I enjoyed this volume more than Like Chaff in the Wind. It still had an overwhelming feeling of fear and oppressiveness due to hatred of Matthew's brother (seriously - is he deranged?) but there were some periods of lightness and hope. I do like Matthew and Alex as characters and the inclusion of young Ian - I can't say much about him without spoiling plot points - in this tale made the family complete. It can be read as a stand alone; the back story is integrated very well. I'm very much looking forward to their further adventures as the book includes a look at the next story in the series.
4.5
February 26, 2014
Alex loves Matthew and he loves her - but he also loves God's word - and at a time of martyrs, when preachers are executed and their faithful followers transported this places Matthew in great danger. Whilst Matthew feels he must follow his conscience, Alex can see the bigger picture and knows that Matthew's faith endangers not just him, but her and their children. Undeterred, Matthew insists on assisting preachers to evade capture, and in so doing brings heart break on his family when his daughter meets an untimely end in an accident involving a dragoon guard.
The Prodigal Son is a sweeping novel that tackles many issues: from religious persecution to paternity rites, from wifely obedience to a husband's duty the reader is in the hands of a skilled writer. For me the book has a similar feel to the work of Diana Gabaldon, and dare I say it, I find Ms Belfrage's work far more credible. I absolutely loved the intimate scenes between Matthew and Alex - the physical attraction between husband and wife was tastefully written and utterly necessary to help the reader understand the strong bond between the couple.
I didn't realise until reading some of the reviews, prior to writing my own, that The Prodigal Son is the third book in a saga. I was no disadvantaged by starting with #3 but I can see there would be an added richness and depth to the story if I already knew the characters.
Bravo Ms Belfrage and I can hand on heart recommend this book to any reader who wants a historical fiction read that's a little out of the ordinary - but in a good way!
The Prodigal Son is a sweeping novel that tackles many issues: from religious persecution to paternity rites, from wifely obedience to a husband's duty the reader is in the hands of a skilled writer. For me the book has a similar feel to the work of Diana Gabaldon, and dare I say it, I find Ms Belfrage's work far more credible. I absolutely loved the intimate scenes between Matthew and Alex - the physical attraction between husband and wife was tastefully written and utterly necessary to help the reader understand the strong bond between the couple.
I didn't realise until reading some of the reviews, prior to writing my own, that The Prodigal Son is the third book in a saga. I was no disadvantaged by starting with #3 but I can see there would be an added richness and depth to the story if I already knew the characters.
Bravo Ms Belfrage and I can hand on heart recommend this book to any reader who wants a historical fiction read that's a little out of the ordinary - but in a good way!
October 8, 2013
4,5 stars
The book starts where the last one ended; Matthew is back from Virginia after his wife Alex saved him. Religious situation in Scotland is escalating and Matthew finds it hard choosing between his belief and his family. It puts him at odds with his wife and causes some trouble in their lives.
In this book Alex and Matthew spends the whole book together and it was nice to see more of their day-to-day life. In the previous books has been rescuing, long separations and the like while in this book they have time to have quarrels and problems in their marriage too. Made it feel more like a “real marriage”.
In the previous books there’s been chapters with persons from Alex’s old life but there wasn’t any in this. I don’t know if that’s because she’s settled more firmly in the 17th century and has kind of let go of the past?
Majority of the book deals with religious situation in Scotland and while I’m not very familiar with the subject it didn’t bore me down. At times I wanted to punch Matthew so hard because he can be so idiot and stubborn! But it shows the different look on religion in the past.
I was so happy to see that Alex has started to warm towards Ian. Poor boy! But hopefully things start to look better for him. The conflict between Matthew and his brother Luke is there but not so prominently as in the previous books.
I’ve really enjoyed this serie so far and I look forward seeing what happens in the future for them!
The book starts where the last one ended; Matthew is back from Virginia after his wife Alex saved him. Religious situation in Scotland is escalating and Matthew finds it hard choosing between his belief and his family. It puts him at odds with his wife and causes some trouble in their lives.
In this book Alex and Matthew spends the whole book together and it was nice to see more of their day-to-day life. In the previous books has been rescuing, long separations and the like while in this book they have time to have quarrels and problems in their marriage too. Made it feel more like a “real marriage”.
In the previous books there’s been chapters with persons from Alex’s old life but there wasn’t any in this. I don’t know if that’s because she’s settled more firmly in the 17th century and has kind of let go of the past?
Majority of the book deals with religious situation in Scotland and while I’m not very familiar with the subject it didn’t bore me down. At times I wanted to punch Matthew so hard because he can be so idiot and stubborn! But it shows the different look on religion in the past.
I was so happy to see that Alex has started to warm towards Ian. Poor boy! But hopefully things start to look better for him. The conflict between Matthew and his brother Luke is there but not so prominently as in the previous books.
I’ve really enjoyed this serie so far and I look forward seeing what happens in the future for them!
January 31, 2014
Historical fiction with a twist.
This book is beautifully written, well-plotted and paced, and the characters come to life. It was particularly interesting to me as I know nothing about this time and place.
My one complaint is that it isn’t labeled as part of Graham Saga. Also, the two books by Ms. Belfrage that are so labeled do not have any chronological designations such as Volume 1 or Book 1. Even though each book can stand on its own, I think this is something that the author should do, to make the chronological order clear to readers (like me) who would prefer to read them in order.
Considering that Alex is a time-slip character and there is a lot of bad history between Matthew and Luke - including sharing a wife and one selling the other into slavery - it was hard for me to get into the beginning, without having a better grasp of all that history. It is possible to read The Prodigal Son as a stand-alone, but I think I would have enjoyed it even more had I read the other books first.
This book is beautifully written, well-plotted and paced, and the characters come to life. It was particularly interesting to me as I know nothing about this time and place.
My one complaint is that it isn’t labeled as part of Graham Saga. Also, the two books by Ms. Belfrage that are so labeled do not have any chronological designations such as Volume 1 or Book 1. Even though each book can stand on its own, I think this is something that the author should do, to make the chronological order clear to readers (like me) who would prefer to read them in order.
Considering that Alex is a time-slip character and there is a lot of bad history between Matthew and Luke - including sharing a wife and one selling the other into slavery - it was hard for me to get into the beginning, without having a better grasp of all that history. It is possible to read The Prodigal Son as a stand-alone, but I think I would have enjoyed it even more had I read the other books first.
August 19, 2014
4.5/5.0
Although this rich, romantic tale can be read as a standalone novel, doing so is highly discouraged. In order to truly appreciate and immerse oneself in the beauty of the story and the elegance in the writing, the background of the times and characters is a pre-requisite.
Read full review in the 2013 September issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Although this rich, romantic tale can be read as a standalone novel, doing so is highly discouraged. In order to truly appreciate and immerse oneself in the beauty of the story and the elegance in the writing, the background of the times and characters is a pre-requisite.
Read full review in the 2013 September issue of InD’tale Magazine.
June 29, 2024
¡¡¡SPOILER!!!
To be honest this series is leaving me more and more disappointed, in the first book they introduce a beautiful love story, as a reader I believed one of those eternal loves full of loyalty, understanding, support between the couple, a very healthy relationship, but NO in book two the male lead just decides that because he is a man he has permission to cheat, so he does, later he regrets, afer not one but many nights with the other woman, recognizingthat is wrong, his excuse him feeling lonely and not human in slavery, till that point I was already angry, later as a sort of understanding that humanity is complex I let it go, because if the female lead forgave him who Im I to criticize. But just as I suspected, once a cheater always a cheater, he did it again in the third book, not physically but emotionally with his ex wife, he just can't stop to help her and console her, and talk to her and ask her if she ever loved him, that's not the attitude of a man that forgot his ex wife, so till this point the male lead is a trashy husband, who always swears that he loves his wife but that's all very cheap in my opinion.
But what really bothers me is that at the beginning of the books the female lead was such strong and independent woman, she fought in the modern world to be a successful professional, and since she knew the male lead her brain and all her IQ torn to almost zero, not because she decided to stay in the seventeenth century to be a housewife, that's just a perfectly reasonable personal choice, I will do it too if it were me in her shoes, but what enrages me is that she lost her voice completely, her husband is chauvinistic, a man of his time, even to a certain extent "modern" and understanding, but in that house everything is done as HE says, he doesnt care of her opinions, he does as he pleases, and she fights very poorly for him to hear her, but at the end he only have to touch her and boom she doesn't have a brain, no matter how unfair, no matter how he hurts her, no matter if his risking their security. To give credit to the author, there's one fight that is serious, she says it's me or your religion, and he choose her not because he reflected and then choose her out of love , no, it was because his priest gave him permission to choose her, SHE BEGGED THE PRIEST TO CONVINCE HER HUSBAND TO CHOOSE HER, is that love? I don't think so, to me this whole book makes feel that the female lead at this point doesn't have self respect, se will always forgive him, there's really no consequence for his actions.
I gave this book a 3 because the story of the new generations is starting to be more interesting than that of the main protagonists, and they have potential.
To be honest this series is leaving me more and more disappointed, in the first book they introduce a beautiful love story, as a reader I believed one of those eternal loves full of loyalty, understanding, support between the couple, a very healthy relationship, but NO in book two the male lead just decides that because he is a man he has permission to cheat, so he does, later he regrets, afer not one but many nights with the other woman, recognizingthat is wrong, his excuse him feeling lonely and not human in slavery, till that point I was already angry, later as a sort of understanding that humanity is complex I let it go, because if the female lead forgave him who Im I to criticize. But just as I suspected, once a cheater always a cheater, he did it again in the third book, not physically but emotionally with his ex wife, he just can't stop to help her and console her, and talk to her and ask her if she ever loved him, that's not the attitude of a man that forgot his ex wife, so till this point the male lead is a trashy husband, who always swears that he loves his wife but that's all very cheap in my opinion.
But what really bothers me is that at the beginning of the books the female lead was such strong and independent woman, she fought in the modern world to be a successful professional, and since she knew the male lead her brain and all her IQ torn to almost zero, not because she decided to stay in the seventeenth century to be a housewife, that's just a perfectly reasonable personal choice, I will do it too if it were me in her shoes, but what enrages me is that she lost her voice completely, her husband is chauvinistic, a man of his time, even to a certain extent "modern" and understanding, but in that house everything is done as HE says, he doesnt care of her opinions, he does as he pleases, and she fights very poorly for him to hear her, but at the end he only have to touch her and boom she doesn't have a brain, no matter how unfair, no matter how he hurts her, no matter if his risking their security. To give credit to the author, there's one fight that is serious, she says it's me or your religion, and he choose her not because he reflected and then choose her out of love , no, it was because his priest gave him permission to choose her, SHE BEGGED THE PRIEST TO CONVINCE HER HUSBAND TO CHOOSE HER, is that love? I don't think so, to me this whole book makes feel that the female lead at this point doesn't have self respect, se will always forgive him, there's really no consequence for his actions.
I gave this book a 3 because the story of the new generations is starting to be more interesting than that of the main protagonists, and they have potential.
December 5, 2019
"Come, come, mistress, all of you know that the king requires all men to swear oaths of fealty to him and his church. A most necessary measure here, where Covenanters stand as thick on the ground as common daisies..."
Matthew Graham feared that if he signed the oath, if he renounced his faith, then he would risk his very soul and a chance at life everlasting, but if he did not, if he continued to aid the likes of Alexander "Sandy" Peden, then he put his wife and his children in mortal danger.
For Alex Graham, it is a simple choice. Family must come first, and if her foolish husband cannot see that then... Things had been so different in her own time. More tolerant. Less intimidation. But Alex had made her choice to stay with Matthew in the 17th Century many years ago, and she does not regret that choice. But, if Matthew continues to play this dangerous game of cat and mouse, then she can foresee only death and despair.
However, the greater the persecution, the stronger the convictions of the Covenanters become. But such religious zeal is a two-edged sword, and while God watches on with apparent disinterest, Matthew risks losing everything and everyone he has ever loved.
Set during a time of religious persecution and civil unrest, The Prodigal Son (The Graham Saga, Book 3) by Anna Belfrage is the unforgettable story of one man's fight to defend his faith against insurmountable odds and one woman's determination to save her husband from himself.
Oh, my. I don't think words can express how much I loved The Prodigal Son. I was already invested in the characters of Matthew and Alex after the first two books, but what I did not expect was to fall in love with them all over again. I was swept totally off my feet by this novel.
Belfrage has written a book that not only evokes the mood of this era, and the hardship and uncertainty, but she has also penned a story about love and loss, heartache and joy. All of which has a sense of realism about it. These characters are profoundly affected by what they see, what they have experienced, and indeed their own decisions. This story, above everything else, explores the human condition — from birth to death, with everything in between, set in a backdrop of violence and repression. At times this book was deeply moving, at other times joyfully amusing. The Prodigal Son is a truly extraordinary story.
Any historical reviewer worth their salt has to praise Belfrage for her attention to the historical detail. Not only has Belfrage a firm grip on the event, most notably the Scottish Presbyterian movement during this time, but she also has a great understanding of what life might have been like concerning the management of a successful farm — if they got the timing of the harvest wrong, if the harvest failed, then that became a life or death situation. It brought home how difficult life was back then. This vast difference between then and now was demonstrated rather beautifully by Alex's perspective. Alex occasionally has moments wishing for modern healthcare, fast-food and television, which reminds the reader of that differences between the two periods. Alex also cannot understand why anyone would put their faith before their children's welfare, and this gives rise to some rather interesting exchanges between herself and her husband. Alex is also not afraid to tell Sandy Peden what she thinks of him — much to Sandy's mortification. Alex often finds herself very close to the boundaries of propriety when she has moments where she forgets what era she is in, which was sometimes cringeworthy and other times extremely entertaining — her husband and her children will eat their greens because they are good for you and so is taking a bath! Alex is a fabulous protagonist because as a modern reader, you can put yourself in Alex's shoes and wonder if you would do anything different to what she does. Alex is a character that I absolutely adored, she is truly wonderful and a pleasure to read about.
Matthew, on the other hand... Oh, my days. Poor Alex — she might as well have banged her head against the wall, for he would not listen to reason. His stubbornness, his loyalty to his faith, could be commended if it didn't put himself and those he loves in danger — and it wasn't even one-off, he did it again and again. Of course, I can understand his principles, and why he was so determined throughout this book to aid and abet Sandy, but at the same time, he is risking his children's lives — saying that however, I love Matthew. He had been through hell in Book 2, but he kept on walking, and he continues to do so. His spirit is not one that can be easily broken. However, Matthew feels very deeply — perhaps too deeply, and everything he has been through and witnesses leaves a mark. Despite Matthew's dalliance with the law, he has a beautiful relationship with his children, and, when they are not disagreeing, his wife! Matthew's relationship with Ian was particularly poignant in this story, and I enjoyed reading about that.
Ian's story is one of abandonment and heartbreak. He is a child who thought he knew who he was and where he came from, but in this book, he learns a truth that changes the course of his life forever. I thought Ian was masterfully portrayed. He is such a likeable young man, and I look forward to reading more about him as this series progresses.
The narrative is incredibly compelling, and it is next to impossible to put down. This book is definitely a keeper and one I will come back to again.
The Graham Saga is addictive to the extreme — not only because of the realism in Belfrage's writing, her attention to historical detailing, and of course, not forgetting, the evocative Scottish landscape — what brings a reader back to this saga is the characters themselves. I cannot wait to get my hands on Book 4!
I Highly Recommend.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde.
The Coffee Pot Book Club.
December 28, 2020
I am reading the Graham Saga in order, and certainly think that 'The Prodigal Son' works best in sequence as it were . The historical background, clampdown against the Presbyterians at the start of the Restoration period, which intensifies towards persecution is depicted well. There is a great contrast with the more 'family saga' elements with time traveller Alex (born 1976) and Matthew starting a family and running a farm. Matthew gets drawn into the religious opposition against the new regime, Alex fears for the future of their family and farm, knowing how vindictive the authorities will be if Matthew is caught. Their relationship is as dramatic as ever, with its lows, and passionate reconciliations. Mathew's evil brother Luke emerges as a toady to the new order, and sycophant to Charles II.
The time travel aspect seems less important, maybe as Alex is now firmly part of the 17th century. Still feel that the Graham Saga is continuing well, and have ordered the next book.
The time travel aspect seems less important, maybe as Alex is now firmly part of the 17th century. Still feel that the Graham Saga is continuing well, and have ordered the next book.
July 1, 2022
Romantic??
I've read several books in this series, now, and I'm if
But Matthew, in my opinion is far from a romantic or attractive character. It is not sexy to dominate your wife, to be more interested in your religion than the safety of your wife and children and your land, placing them all at grave risk. This may be historically accurate, but hardly enjoyable.
It is not sexy to force religion onto your wife when she makes it clear she isn't interested, nor deciding your newborn child 'must' become a minister!
Aside from the difficulties I see in the plot, there are multiple spelling errors, tense changes within sentences, missing commas which distort or confuse meaning, and most egregiously, failure to note changes in scenes. Sometimes the author uses a * to denote scene changes between paragraphs, more often than not just continues with nothing. Extremely irritating.
I've read several books in this series, now, and I'm if
But Matthew, in my opinion is far from a romantic or attractive character. It is not sexy to dominate your wife, to be more interested in your religion than the safety of your wife and children and your land, placing them all at grave risk. This may be historically accurate, but hardly enjoyable.
It is not sexy to force religion onto your wife when she makes it clear she isn't interested, nor deciding your newborn child 'must' become a minister!
Aside from the difficulties I see in the plot, there are multiple spelling errors, tense changes within sentences, missing commas which distort or confuse meaning, and most egregiously, failure to note changes in scenes. Sometimes the author uses a * to denote scene changes between paragraphs, more often than not just continues with nothing. Extremely irritating.
July 25, 2024
I have submitted this review after listening to the audiobook of this title within the series set box. (Audible Membership)
Not only is the persecution of those not of the right faith causing strain, but the ongoing support that Matthew gives to the reverend that have denounced and decreed as outlaws. Such aid, putting Matthew and his whole family at risk.
Ian has sought shelter with Matthew when things have changed in Luke's family, and the likeness between Matthew and Ian only becomes more pronounced as the boy gets older.
Not only is the persecution of those not of the right faith causing strain, but the ongoing support that Matthew gives to the reverend that have denounced and decreed as outlaws. Such aid, putting Matthew and his whole family at risk.
Ian has sought shelter with Matthew when things have changed in Luke's family, and the likeness between Matthew and Ian only becomes more pronounced as the boy gets older.
May 17, 2018
A continuation of the Graham Saga. The soldiers and Matthew's brother Luke continue to pester him. Matthew is continually aiding the Reverend Alexander Peden who is a religious outlaw of the times, taking great risks with his family and his own life. This contributes to a very sad result. This story is also fast moving and a very enjoyable read which ends on a very surprising not.
August 3, 2019
Excellent series keeps you on Edge
All of the books in the Graham series are excellent! I love the stories and the. Hero and heroine! I am so happy that I discovered these books after a number of them were written, as my I won't have to wait for the continuing saga of the Grahams!
All of the books in the Graham series are excellent! I love the stories and the. Hero and heroine! I am so happy that I discovered these books after a number of them were written, as my I won't have to wait for the continuing saga of the Grahams!
April 21, 2020
3.5 These are getting better and better as I go on. The pressure on Matthew's religion is getting terrible and if caught practicing he, his wife and children will be sold as indentured servants. On to book #4.
October 23, 2020
I cannot help it, I am hooked on this soap operalike series. Talk about resilience! What Alex and Matthew go through in a book is beyond awful but it makes for fast paced reading. I do not really get how Alex turned into super housewife but maybe some people are just born into the wrong century!
December 22, 2021
The Prodigal Son
Matthew and Alex new Ian looked like Matthew. Ian liked Mathew’s household. He knew something wasn’t right with thinking Matthew was his uncle. After his so called father had another child it all came out and Matthew and Ian became father and son.
Matthew and Alex new Ian looked like Matthew. Ian liked Mathew’s household. He knew something wasn’t right with thinking Matthew was his uncle. After his so called father had another child it all came out and Matthew and Ian became father and son.
January 30, 2022
If you like Outlander you should give this a try. However the main male character Matthew, is not as likeable as Jamie, and constantly gives his word then breaks it. In fact I found it hard to see why the main female (Alex) likes him so much. The historical aspect is very interesting though.
February 22, 2018
Wonderful read!!
Book 3 and everything I hoped it would be in the continuing story of Matthew, Alex and family. Looking forward to the next one.
Book 3 and everything I hoped it would be in the continuing story of Matthew, Alex and family. Looking forward to the next one.
March 15, 2019
Excellent story!
Reminiscent of OUTLANDER.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND............ ........ ..... ..... q. . ......... ... ... ...
..... ..... ............... ..... .....
Reminiscent of OUTLANDER.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND............ ........ ..... ..... q. . ......... ... ... ...
..... ..... ............... ..... .....
August 8, 2021
4.5/5.0
December 8, 2021
Enthralled
This book kept my attention, it made me laugh out loud and cry and now I'm going to go read the 4th book in the series. :)
This book kept my attention, it made me laugh out loud and cry and now I'm going to go read the 4th book in the series. :)
July 21, 2024
Listened to it while working on my quilts. Very enjoyable
November 29, 2025
I love books that make me cry. Also I love this little family 😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2022
AIBA Book of the Day: 14 February, 2022: 155/41952
Awesome Indies Book Awards is pleased to include THE PRODIGAL SON (The Graham Saga #3) by ANNA BELFRAGE in the library of Awesome Indies' Badge of Approval recipients.
Original Awesome Indies' Assessment (4 stars):
Time travel, religious persecution, murder, and fraternal hatred make for an irresistible mix in this novel.
The Prodigal Son is the third book by Anna Belfrage in her Graham Saga but it easily stands alone. The author refers briefly to previous key incidents in the series bringing new readers up to speed without dragging them into the past. I haven't read the previous books.
Back in 2002, Alex time-travelled into the second half of the seventeenth century. In this story, seven years later, she is now married with three children and living in Scotland. Her husband Matthew divorced his former wife for adultery with his brother, and both brothers regard the son of that previous marriage as theirs.
The son is one source of tension between Alex and her husband Matthew, but the greater problem is Matthew's insistence on aiding outlawed Presbyterian ministers and attending forbidden services on Sundays in secret venues.
Alex fears for her husband's life and the impact on her children if he is caught for his crimes, the most likely penalty being his death and the rest of the family being sold into slavery in America. Matthew is torn between his love for his wife and family, and his total faith in his religion and his desire to help his religious brethren and to offer food and shelter to ministers on the run from the law.
The tension and the strain on the family is palpable, and added to Alex's stress, is the problem that being an emancipated 21st century woman, she isn't ideally cast in the role of a subjugated 17th century wife. It's easy to empathise with Alex, and in her, the author has created a vivid character, strong, principled, independent, yet, loving her new life because of her husband and family.
Matthew is equally strong, but his upbringing and principles are very different to those of his wife, and yet, he kills for her and for his religion.
It's a complex and interesting novel with a finely-tuned plot and credible characters. There are some sad and emotive moments which avoid falling into sentimentality. The story ends plausibly, but with a question in the air of possible change for the next book in the series (extract included afterwards).
The moral and ethical dilemmas are fascinating. The story gives a good insight into religious fervour and how far men will take it. Do you turn your back on political lawbreakers? Or do you risk your life and that of your family to help them? No easy answers.
I don't usually choose historical fiction but I thought this book sounded interesting, so I would recommend it, not just to those who normally read historical novels but, to anyone who wants a good read. The author adds a useful historical note at the end, setting the events in context.
It gets a deserved four stars based on the interesting plot, strong characters, the pacing of the story, and the overall professional finish.
I received this book free of charge from the author in return for an honest review.
June 26, 2013
Find this and other reviews at: http://flashlightcommentary.blogspot....
I've grown to love Anna Belfrage's work. The imaginative story she has created for Alexandra Lind and Matthew Graham is a joy to read, but her attention to detail and sense of history make her books truly special which is why I was so eager to read her latest release, The Prodigal Son.
The third installment of the Graham Saga focuses on the religious conflicts that marked the seventeenth century. As a result, there is significant focus on what constitutes religious and moral justice as well as what lengths one must go to uphold one's beliefs. While these questions fascinate me, they also illustrate Belfrage's talent for folding history into her narrative. You see, The Prodigal Son, indeed the entire Graham Saga, is at its heart about the life Alex and Matthew share, how despite all, it withstands the tempest of war and sway of political/theologic upheaval. Belfrage never looses sight of that, carefully relating the larger story through the personalized experiences of her cast.
Speaking of Alex and Matthew, I have to commend Belfrage for her realistic of romantic affection and the intricacies of married life. These books simply wouldn't work if Alex and Matthew enjoyed a traditional happily ever after. Make no mistake, the two are deliriously happy with one another, but their life together isn't all sunshine and roses. They disagree, they argue, they test one another, and they don't always make up right away. In general I think there is a tendency to sugar coat reality in fiction, but I also feel there is much to be said for pragmatism, the idea that a real happy ever after requires patience, dedication and compromise.
This dedication to lifelike human emotion reaches to every member of Belfrage's cast, but is particularly evident when considering Ian and Alex. Perhaps it is because I can relate to him, having been in his shoes as a child, or because I could relate to her, as I walk in her shoes every day, but this relationship struck a huge chord in me. Yes, this is fiction, but Belfrage's profound understanding of the the human condition and sensitive representation of it in her novel is nothing short of extraordinary.
Reading The Graham Saga in order isn't necessarily required, but personally I'd recommend starting from the beginning. Each installment represents a stand alone chapter in Alex and Matthew's life together, but I think the relationships between her cast members are best appreciated when the reader has full knowledge of their individual histories. That being said, I greatly enjoyed The Prodigal Son and can't wait to see where life will take the Graham family next.
I've grown to love Anna Belfrage's work. The imaginative story she has created for Alexandra Lind and Matthew Graham is a joy to read, but her attention to detail and sense of history make her books truly special which is why I was so eager to read her latest release, The Prodigal Son.
The third installment of the Graham Saga focuses on the religious conflicts that marked the seventeenth century. As a result, there is significant focus on what constitutes religious and moral justice as well as what lengths one must go to uphold one's beliefs. While these questions fascinate me, they also illustrate Belfrage's talent for folding history into her narrative. You see, The Prodigal Son, indeed the entire Graham Saga, is at its heart about the life Alex and Matthew share, how despite all, it withstands the tempest of war and sway of political/theologic upheaval. Belfrage never looses sight of that, carefully relating the larger story through the personalized experiences of her cast.
Speaking of Alex and Matthew, I have to commend Belfrage for her realistic of romantic affection and the intricacies of married life. These books simply wouldn't work if Alex and Matthew enjoyed a traditional happily ever after. Make no mistake, the two are deliriously happy with one another, but their life together isn't all sunshine and roses. They disagree, they argue, they test one another, and they don't always make up right away. In general I think there is a tendency to sugar coat reality in fiction, but I also feel there is much to be said for pragmatism, the idea that a real happy ever after requires patience, dedication and compromise.
This dedication to lifelike human emotion reaches to every member of Belfrage's cast, but is particularly evident when considering Ian and Alex. Perhaps it is because I can relate to him, having been in his shoes as a child, or because I could relate to her, as I walk in her shoes every day, but this relationship struck a huge chord in me. Yes, this is fiction, but Belfrage's profound understanding of the the human condition and sensitive representation of it in her novel is nothing short of extraordinary.
Reading The Graham Saga in order isn't necessarily required, but personally I'd recommend starting from the beginning. Each installment represents a stand alone chapter in Alex and Matthew's life together, but I think the relationships between her cast members are best appreciated when the reader has full knowledge of their individual histories. That being said, I greatly enjoyed The Prodigal Son and can't wait to see where life will take the Graham family next.
February 8, 2016
This was a very enjoyable read - The Prodigal Son by Anna Belfrage 4 stars
The tale of Matthew Graham is both and sad and a happy one. The happiness is gained from the deeply abiding love he shares with Alex – a woman who originates from a time far advanced from his era of the 1660s. The sadness comes as a product of the turbulent times in which they are living. 17th Century Ayrshire, Scotland, is an unstable location to live in where religious persecution and incredible cruelty abounds, the factions of Roman Catholicism at odds with Presbyterian Christian doctrine. The well researched historical aspects shine through in this novel as Anna Belfrage portrays what it was like, on a daily basis, for the families who risked dying, or being mistreated, as a result of the principles maintained and the religious choices made by the man of the house.
The author plunges the reader into the situation where Matthew is torn between choosing to act upon his religious beliefs in helping outlawed preachers, some of these very good friends of his, and continuing to practise his religious observances which have been banned by the king. All of these friendly and supportive acts put his wife and family at serious risk of being punished along with him if he is caught in wrongdoing by the forces of the King and cause strife between him and his wife, Alex. There are many instances of this repeated in the novel, the problem of being detected a continuous one for Matthew Graham. He relents only a little when under pressure from Alex, who is essentially as trapped as he is in her own 21st Century influences.
There are some very tense and indeed some incredibly emotional moments during the long tale when events happen which are outwith the control of Matthew and Alex. In employing the time-travel aspects of the novel, the author is able to neatly weave in many situations where otherwise anachronisms would need to be avoided in a historical novel. We get glimpses of Alex using her twenty-first century knowledge to enhance her 17th Century harsh life, touches of humour creeping in as well to lighten the tedium of the role of the 17th Century wife of the hearth and home. The role of the boy Ian, as son and nephew throughout the novel, is an important one and how Alex accepts the boy at her table is an interesting one. It’s hard to know, but a typical 17th century Scottish wife would probably have been very guided by the man of the house and would have had no such truck with a boy whose parentage was suspect. The time travel/ fantasy aspects make it easier to overcome many prejudices of the times.
The tale of Matthew Graham is both and sad and a happy one. The happiness is gained from the deeply abiding love he shares with Alex – a woman who originates from a time far advanced from his era of the 1660s. The sadness comes as a product of the turbulent times in which they are living. 17th Century Ayrshire, Scotland, is an unstable location to live in where religious persecution and incredible cruelty abounds, the factions of Roman Catholicism at odds with Presbyterian Christian doctrine. The well researched historical aspects shine through in this novel as Anna Belfrage portrays what it was like, on a daily basis, for the families who risked dying, or being mistreated, as a result of the principles maintained and the religious choices made by the man of the house.
The author plunges the reader into the situation where Matthew is torn between choosing to act upon his religious beliefs in helping outlawed preachers, some of these very good friends of his, and continuing to practise his religious observances which have been banned by the king. All of these friendly and supportive acts put his wife and family at serious risk of being punished along with him if he is caught in wrongdoing by the forces of the King and cause strife between him and his wife, Alex. There are many instances of this repeated in the novel, the problem of being detected a continuous one for Matthew Graham. He relents only a little when under pressure from Alex, who is essentially as trapped as he is in her own 21st Century influences.
There are some very tense and indeed some incredibly emotional moments during the long tale when events happen which are outwith the control of Matthew and Alex. In employing the time-travel aspects of the novel, the author is able to neatly weave in many situations where otherwise anachronisms would need to be avoided in a historical novel. We get glimpses of Alex using her twenty-first century knowledge to enhance her 17th Century harsh life, touches of humour creeping in as well to lighten the tedium of the role of the 17th Century wife of the hearth and home. The role of the boy Ian, as son and nephew throughout the novel, is an important one and how Alex accepts the boy at her table is an interesting one. It’s hard to know, but a typical 17th century Scottish wife would probably have been very guided by the man of the house and would have had no such truck with a boy whose parentage was suspect. The time travel/ fantasy aspects make it easier to overcome many prejudices of the times.
September 12, 2013
The Prodigal Son - A Story of 17th Century Scotland
This page turner of a story is set in Scotland during the reign of Charles II, in the middle of the seventeenth Century. I knew little about the period and even though this is a work of fiction, I learned quite a bit about repression of the Scottish people because of their beliefs in the Presbyterian church. This is not a religious book in any stretch of the imagination. It is set during a time of great turmoil, civil war and religious persecution. There were strong feelings on both sides regarding religion.
The Prodigal Son, is the third book in a series written by Anna Belfrage. It stands on its own merit and can be read without reading the first two volumes. The story is seen through the eyes of one family, beginning 1665. The two major characters are Alex Lind, who is a 21st Century time slip-wife of Matthew Graham a rigid, staunch Presbyterian, who is determine to defend his religion, and its ministers, even at the cost of losing his life and family.
Alex, an intelligent, strong-willed, feisty woman is just as determined to bring him to her way of thinking and make him understand that he should think of she and the children first.
The novel is a page turner full of plot twists and emotional mine fields which tug at the reader's hearts. There are a couple of scenes in which the reader may shed tears, I won't give them away. There are several subplots which involved the continual harassment by English soldiers as they try to catch Matthew hiding renegade minister's; Matthew's brother, Luke, who hates Matthew's guts; and the relationship Matthew has with his ex-wife, Margaret--she arbitrarily dumps her son, Ian, into the lap of Alex and Matthew's and leaves Scotland to be with Luke, who is now her husband.
It is Ian and the protection Presbyterian Minister, Sandy Peden, by Matthew, which the story revolves around. Although the book title, The Prodigal Son, is obviously about Ian, I was a little confused as it seemed so much emphasis at the beginning of the story was placed on hiding and protecting Sandy Peden from the English which is seen throughout the entire story. However, the theme became much clearer as Ian's relationship to Alex and Matthew grows stronger as the story progresses. This is but a small detail.
This story is well-written and each character has his or her own distinctive voice. You will not want to put this story down until you reach the end.
This page turner of a story is set in Scotland during the reign of Charles II, in the middle of the seventeenth Century. I knew little about the period and even though this is a work of fiction, I learned quite a bit about repression of the Scottish people because of their beliefs in the Presbyterian church. This is not a religious book in any stretch of the imagination. It is set during a time of great turmoil, civil war and religious persecution. There were strong feelings on both sides regarding religion.
The Prodigal Son, is the third book in a series written by Anna Belfrage. It stands on its own merit and can be read without reading the first two volumes. The story is seen through the eyes of one family, beginning 1665. The two major characters are Alex Lind, who is a 21st Century time slip-wife of Matthew Graham a rigid, staunch Presbyterian, who is determine to defend his religion, and its ministers, even at the cost of losing his life and family.
Alex, an intelligent, strong-willed, feisty woman is just as determined to bring him to her way of thinking and make him understand that he should think of she and the children first.
The novel is a page turner full of plot twists and emotional mine fields which tug at the reader's hearts. There are a couple of scenes in which the reader may shed tears, I won't give them away. There are several subplots which involved the continual harassment by English soldiers as they try to catch Matthew hiding renegade minister's; Matthew's brother, Luke, who hates Matthew's guts; and the relationship Matthew has with his ex-wife, Margaret--she arbitrarily dumps her son, Ian, into the lap of Alex and Matthew's and leaves Scotland to be with Luke, who is now her husband.
It is Ian and the protection Presbyterian Minister, Sandy Peden, by Matthew, which the story revolves around. Although the book title, The Prodigal Son, is obviously about Ian, I was a little confused as it seemed so much emphasis at the beginning of the story was placed on hiding and protecting Sandy Peden from the English which is seen throughout the entire story. However, the theme became much clearer as Ian's relationship to Alex and Matthew grows stronger as the story progresses. This is but a small detail.
This story is well-written and each character has his or her own distinctive voice. You will not want to put this story down until you reach the end.
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