Healer of Carthage

The Carthage Chronicles #1

by Lynne Gentry

A modern-day doctor gets trapped in third-century Carthage, Rome, where she uncovers buried secrets, confronts Christian persecution, and battles a deadly epidemic to save the man she loves.

A twenty-first-century doctor. A third-century plague. A love out of time.

First-year resident Dr. Lisbeth Hastings is too busy to take her father’s bizarre summons seriously. But when a tragic mistake puts her career in jeopardy, answering her father’s call seems her only hope of redeeming the devastating failure that her life has become.

While exploring the haunting cave at her father’s archaeological dig, Lisbeth falls through a hidden hole, awakening to find herself the object of a slave auction and the ruins of Roman Carthage inexplicably restored to a thriving metropolis. Is it possible that she’s traveled back in time, and, if so, how can she find her way back home?

Cyprian Thascius believes God called him to rescue the mysterious woman from the slave trader’s cell. What he doesn’t understand is why saving the church of his newfound faith requires him to love a woman whose peculiar ways could get him killed. But who is he to question God?

As their different worlds collide, it sparks an intense attraction that unites Lisbeth and Cyprian in a battle against a deadly epidemic. Even as they confront persecution, uncover buried secrets, and ignite the beginnings of a medical revolution, Roman wrath threatens to separate them forever. Can they find their way to each other through all these obstacles? Or are the eighteen hundred years between them too far of a leap?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Time Travel, Romance, Christian Fiction, Christian, Historical, Fiction

416 pages, Paperback

First published March 4, 2014

About the author

This girl who grew up on a Kansas dairy farm never wanted to be a writer, but she has always been a storyteller. Her mother called it "Selling wind in a bag." Lynne started out writing plays and skits. Then in a moment of sheer insanity, she decided to take a stab at writing full-length novels. Reinventing Leona was her first and it is no longer in print. The Carthage Chronicles are her time travel/sci-fi series. The Mt. Hope Southern Adventures series starting with WALKING SHOES and The Women of Fossil Ridge series starting with FLYING FOSSILS are her contemporary romantic comedy series. And GHOST HEART and PORT OF ORIGIN are part of her Agents of Mercy Medical Thriller series.

Lynne can milk a cow, drive a tractor, organize a banquet, prepare a kid for that first professional acting audition, or sit across the table and enjoy a cup of coffee with you.

She loves spending time with her family and medical therapy dog.

Reviews

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is a mini ‘Books For Christian Girls’ review. It is not a full content review and will not receive one. These mini-reviews are years old and just for clarity on the rating the book received on Goodreads.


5/13/2015-
"Oh, good grief. The sexual content was ridiculously high just for the amount I read. Magdalena is a man's mistress and there is a lot of mentions of her sharing his bed, making love, being naked, and (spoiler content has Sexual Content not fit for young eyes) putting things inside her private parts before having to sleeping (ie. have sex) with the man. . Not only all the mentions of nakedness, but also many mentions of rape, stripping a woman, along with other actions. A 'son of a --' is cut off as well.
I cannot begin to explain how livid I am that this book is marketed as 'Christian Fiction' with this type of content. The complete turn off on this book for me was the (spoiler) and it's up to semi-detailed mentions of all the sexual actions."

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

First-year resident Dr. Lisbeth Hastings doesn’t take her father’s letter summoning her to Egypt seriously, but after making a tragic mistake at the hospital, she decides to go to him, eager to escape the failure that her career seems to have become. While exploring a cave at her father’s archeological dig, Lisbeth falls through a hole and time itself, awakening to find herself on a slave trader’s auction block and the ruins of Carthage restored to its former Roman Empire glory. Once she realizes she has truly gone back in time, the bigger question remains – can she return home? Cyprian Thascius buys Lisbeth at the auction, feeling called by God to do so. What he doesn’t understand, is what role she will play in saving the church of his recently found faith. Their worlds collide, while an intense attraction develops between them, uniting them to fight a deadly epidemic. While facing persecution and traitors in their midst, Cyprian and Lisbeth fight to change the medical treatment of the poor. Meanwhile, Roman rule overshadows all and threatens to separate them forever.

Healer of Carthage is full of action and danger, as well as full of fascinating details of the history and setting of Carthage. Ultimately, the exciting plot is what won me over. Lynne realistically portrays how dangerous life was for Christians, slaves and those living in poverty under Roman rule. On the flipside, she shows readers how the wealthy of the Roman Empire lived lavish lifestyles, with more than they truly needed, while the poor suffered and toiled for very little. The comparison that this draws to modern times is truly striking. The medicinal practices of the time period are fascinating and sometimes a bit gruesome. Healing is believed to depend on the “will of the gods” rather than any true skill of the person doing the doctoring. Lisbeth has to mesh her present-day doctor skills with the limited resources she has in Carthage. One of the most exciting scenes is a surgery in which she has to be inventive with what the past has to offer in terms of medical technique and supplies. With this scene of heightened tension, I was hooked for the duration of the story.

Although I enjoyed Lisbeth’s character for the most part, there were some points that she came across as immature or unrealistic. I thought that once she understood she really had traveled back in time somehow that she would try not to be so conspicuous. Instead, she seems to court danger, and I felt like she was supposed to be smarter than that. For example, if you are one of the only Roman citizens visibly reacting to the Roman arena, that will probably get you noticed. It’s not the moral objection that I found unrealistic, but rather the way her reaction was portrayed. I only noticed a few instances of similar behavior, so while it didn’t ruin my enjoyment of the story as a whole, I did feel it was obvious enough to merit noting here. For the most part, Lisbeth’s spunk and tenacity are endearing.

My favorite character is definitely Magdalena. I can’t imagine being torn between two worlds, and essentially two families as she found herself to be. I think she made the right choice, but I know that had to be something that haunted her for all those years. I don’t want to go into too many details, so I can avoid spoilers for any potential readers, but I will say that I admire her strength of character and her willingness to sacrifice her well-being for those she loves.

The romance aspect was missing a little something for me. I suppose it seemed to move a little quickly, and I wanted to feel more. I wanted to be head-over-heels for their relationship, and though I never was, I did enjoy their interactions together. It took me a while to warm up to Lisbeth and Cyprian together, but by the end of the story, I was rooting for them. The way things end for them is sure to make readers eager for the next book – not exactly a cliff-hanger, but it leaves enough questions to keep you wondering until their story continues.

I’m sure there are several themes to pull from Healer of Carthage, but the two that are prominent to me are the themes of selflessness versus selfishness, as well as sacrificial love and the often difficult choices that surround these ideas. This novel is also about fighting for change, especially when it goes against popular belief and how difficult it is to sway a general selfishness of the “haves” into bettering the lives of the “have nots.” It’s about fighting for change despite an overall bleak picture. Lisbeth and Cyprian fight for change at great personal risk to themselves, and Cyprian, especially in the end, must make a difficult choice in regards to standing up for Christ or compromising on his faith. As evident by the characters, these choices come with great consequence. I admired the development that these characters went through as a result of their hardships and hope to see them pull through in book two.

Although plots involving time travel are not new, they are not often done in Christian fiction. Lynne does a wonderful job with the time travel aspect in this novel, as well as portraying the above themes and the historical details of the time. Book two promises to be just as riveting and exciting as this one, and I’m looking forward to it. I recommend Healer of Carthage for readers who are intrigued by time travel plots, and in general, those who love an exciting historical story.

[Mei · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from Netgalley for my honest review.

This is actually a 4,5 stars book!

The story is intriguing, interesting and very fast-paced!

There's a lot happening in a very short time span: the time-travel trauma for Lisbeth, the plague spreading in Carthage, the torment of Lisbeth's mother, the political intrigue, the budding persecution of Christians... It was all very interesting and I loved it!

What I didn't love was Lisbeth. As I said, I understand her trauma from being jolted from the 21st century into the 3rd, but she was too unflexible! She didn't try to understand and accept advices, but stubbornly stomped around putting everybody in danger. I wanted to slap her very, very badly!

As much as I disliked Lisbeth, that much I admired her mother Magdalena. Her courage should have been an example for Lisbeth!

They both got sold as slaves, but Lisbeth ended sold to Cyprian, young, healthy, gentle and kind, while poor Magdalena eneded sold to Aspasius, old, crippled, cruel and abusive who repeatedly raped and beaten her, who got her pregnant and then ordered her to throw away the baby when it has born with Down syndrom.

While Magdalena helps eveybody selflessly, risking and often getting beaten, Lisbeth speak when asked not to , runs around when told to stay, all for her own safety... insults powerful people without thought... Silly, silly, silly!!!

I wanted to give a medal to Cyprian for his patience!

And I wanted to poison Aspasium myself!

I enjoyed the book very much, but I must warn the readers: there's a big, big, huge cliffhanger>!!!
So, I'm left here waiting for the next part of the story!!!

[Shali · Rating 1 out of 5]

I had high hopes for Healer of Carthage. An avid reader of time-travel stories, I was, of course, immediately drawn to the idea; and as it was coupled with Christian fiction, I had naively assumed that it would not only be a clean story, but a good one.

There was quite a bit of nudity (male and female), which I was entirely uncomfortable with, and while I don't remember there being any cussing, it's possible that it was present (the way the book is written, and the attitude of the main character, suggests that it could have easily been included). There's also rape, and mention of "love-making."
Over all, I'd have to conclude that this book isn't appropriate. I don't seem to be able to understand that just because a book says it's "Christian," doesn't mean it will be clean.
Which, truly, is baffling to me. Christian fiction should at least be the one place I can go to for a good book, without being bombarded on all sides by nudity and sex.
I mean, really? There are so many ways to write a good book, without making it inappropriate. You can even get your point across, without shoving bare breasts and naked butts into my mind.


But besides that, there's the story itself.
Completely cringe-worthy and predictable, I spent most of the book attempting to rewrite it in my head.

Lisbeth, a 21-century doctor, is immature, selfish, high-and-mighty, and an all-around annoying character.
After she causes the death of one of her patients, due to her neglectful and self-centered actions, she runs away from her problems to find her father, an archaeologist digging in Africa.
When she arrives, he tells her that he's found her mother, who has been missing for the past 20 years, only Lisbeth thinks he's crazy- until she touches the mysterious drawing on a cave wall and plummets into the past. (And at this point, I rolled my eyes so hard. I'd read Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergren years ago, and the exact same thing happens in that book, too. I mean, somebody, be a bit more creative.)

Lisbeth wakes up in a slave market where she's sold to the highest bidder, and thus the story begins.
Once she becomes a slave (only she doesn't do anything a slave would do? No chores for her, no punishments for disobedience, no actual sign that she's a slave) she runs around with an I-do-what-I-want attitude, and does just that, despite the harm it might bring others.
After she initiated a total catfight over a stethoscope, while two children lay dying at her feet, I gave up entirely on trying to like her.

Long story short, she finds her mother (who is enslaved, herself, and a constant victim of rape) and "plots" her "escape." Please, we all know she isn't going anywhere.
In a half-hearted attempt to overthrow an evil and corrupt politician, Lisbeth's "master" agrees to lower himself to marry a slave girl, on the off chance that no one would recognize her (because if he doesn't have a wife, he can't run for office).
They marry, and very quickly fall in love (basically over night), and the entire time Lisbeth is fighting to stop the measles from spreading through Carthage and killing everybody.

Basically, that's it. The plot didn't feel very sturdy, and I quickly tired of Lisbeth's constant spewing of medical knowledge, and the fact that, though she says she only knows a little Latin (from hearing a friend cursing, no less) she can speak in full sentences without issue, and never falters in her translations.



Her husband, Cyprian, has very little to show for being the secondary MC. He felt barely touched upon, and only his Christian faith and kindness made him stand apart.

Over all, I am unimpressed.

[Lisa Carter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Despite having a Master's in history, I really don't read that many historical fiction books. That said, I really like Lynne Gentry's debut novel in the The Carthage Chronicles.

After a visit to Rome, North Africa, and Pompeii several years ago, I've developed a fondness for Roman empire era books. Healer of Carthage did not disappoint.

Gentry weaves accurate historical facts (I'm a stickler for that) with amazing characterization and sensory details into a timeless adventure.
All the sights, sounds, and smells of life in the brutal Roman era come vividly to life in this fascinating story of what has changed over the last thousand years (give or take)—and what has not.

With the added hook of time travel (how in the world, you ask? you'll have to read to find out more.), this novel grips the reader from beginning to end. You'll find yourself reluctant to temporarily suspend your reading for a break, for dinner, or for bed. You will also find yourself thinking about these star-crossed, unforgettable characters long after you close the book.
So excited for the next Carthage Chronicle. Don't miss Healer of Carthage. Happy reading.

[Ryanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Man that book started good and just became a really fricken weird amalgamation of Outlander and A Mark of the Lion but with big plot holes. I feel like I missed several chapters of information but I didn’t.

[Sally · Rating 4 out of 5]

Healer of Carthage is the first in the new historical series by new author Lynne Gentry, not that it reads like a debut novel. This is the story of a doctor who, while investigating her mother’s disappearance 23 years previously, falls down the proverbial rabbit hole. When she comes to her senses, she finds she’s about to be sold to the arrogant and lecherous regional governor. She’s eventually bought, however, by another man of standing in the city but she doesn’t see it as an escape. Instead, she plans to get away at the first opportunity. Naturally, those plans come to nothing.

It was fascinating to learn that Cyprian did exist in third century Carthage, as did some of the other Christians in the city. I’d not heard of Saint Cyprian before, so I researched him before going deep into the novel. What I discovered influenced my expectations for this novel. I wanted to skip to the end so I could see how certain events played out. Gentry has taken some liberties with the life of Cyprian, but some condense the time frame while at least one is essential to furthering the plot.

Although initially slow to start, Healer of Carthage does pick up once Lisbeth lands in ancient Carthage. It was fascinating to read about improvisational medicine and plausible in that not everyone survived. Some aspects do sound contrived, such as Lisbeth conveniently landing in Carthage (when she began her time travel in a different country) and being able to speak the language needed to communicate with Cyprian and others. Characters such as Laurentius, the young man with Down-syndrome, shine. The proconsul, Aspasius, will make your skin crawl. I found myself getting deeper and deeper into this novel, wondering how it would end. Sadly, I could only find myself exclaiming, “WHAT??” after getting to the final page. It ends on a cliffhanger!

Thank you to Howard Books for my complimentary copy of Healer of Carthage, which I received in exchange for an honest review.

[Infosifter · Rating 1 out of 5]

I gave up on this in frustrated disappointment. I think most readers have at least one subject they can't help being pedantic about, and one of mine is linguistics and language learning. In this book, the main character can't remember the words for wife and marriage one second and literally a paragraph later is discussing how the plumbing in a Roman bath works in the same language. This might happen to an engineer, but not a typical person.Nope, not happening in the real world! Also, the lead male character does not act very much like a Christian. If you treasure chastity in yourself and others and you're a man, you don't clutch angry slave women to your muscular chest. You also don't marry a woman of unknown beliefs -- an unthinkable risk to your persecuted congregation -- in order to gain political office. On top of all that, the supposed heroin is an absolute spiteful brat! I kept wishing someone would haul off and slap her, or that I could reach through the pages and do it myself! I really loved the premise for this book, and I was very sad that it didn't measure up.

[Regan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I totally enjoyed this book. I'm a huge fan of time travel but not of religious books so I was a little slow starting on it because I just didn't want to get blasted with a lot of religious doctrine. It's nothing like that. Yes, the start of christianity and what converts had to deal with is part of the story line, but it's not a lot of gratuitous preaching but a very important thread to the story, especially for the hero's personal crisis. I've already ordered books 2 and 3.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good

[Bethany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be sure and fastened your seat belts, because author Lynne Gentry will take you on a fast-paced, exciting ride back in time to third century Carthage, Rome. Brace yourself to take part in a thrilling journey with doctor Lisbeth Hastings, as she puts her medical training to good use when helping the people of Rome, when a deadly sickness causes many to die in Carthage. Filled with lots of twists and turns, fast paced action and excitement, and a lot of heart; this ride is sure to delight all historical fiction fans-leaving you eager for the next trip to Carthage!

I had never heard of this author, but when I had the opportunity to review her newest book Healer of Carthage, after reading the synopsis and seeing that this book had potential I decided to give it a try. I'm so glad I did, as I think this book will make it to my favorite list of books read this year! It reminded me a lot of the popular young adult fiction River of Time series by Lisa Bergren, which is also a time travel series. But, Healer of Carthage had a unique doctor/medical aspect which made the book all the more enjoyable.

This book is pure action, and is so fast paced and exciting, that there was never a dull moment, and I had no problem turning pages! The plot was written very nicely, and flowed easily. I really enjoyed seeing the true Lisbeth come out during the trying time of traveling back in time to ancient Rome, with no idea of how to return to the current world. I loved seeing her grow and mature in her worldview and how her perspectives changed after going back in time; and I loved seeing how she changed and started making the most of the time she was given. As well as the other valuable life lessons she learned during her time in Carthage.

And then there is Cyprian. For sure he is my favorite character, though I really liked Lisbeth too. This guy was a model Christian, and I loved his courage for standing up for what he believed in and how his Christianity effected his choices. I thought it was neat how many of the main characters in this novel, including Cyrian were real people who actually lived during the third century in Rome, and thought that was a neat aspect of the book. He was such a strong sturdy Christian character that I really admired and respected, and I can't wait to see more of him in the second book in this series!

Another thing I loved about this novel was the historical detail, and getting to view it through 21st-century Lisbeth's eyes. There were lots of historical details that were interesting to read about, and it was obvious that this author did her research. I felt like I learned a lot, and got a good idea of third century Roman life through reading this book.

Due to some mature content including detailed injuries/violence with the Romans and their persecution of Christians, coliseum scenes, as well as some mature marital content and a lady who's body is in slavery to a man who misuses her, I'd recommend younger readers read with caution as some of the scenes are a bit detailed. I felt like at times the author wrote these mature scenes with descriptive details, and would only recommend this book to mature readers, around the ages of 16+.

This is definitely an interesting novel from a new-to-me author that has a unique writing style that I've not read anything like before, and I'm super excited about the next book in The Carthage Chronicles series, Return to Exile! I highly recommend this book to fans of Lisa Bergren's River of Time series, or fans of time travel and historical fiction novels!

D I S C L A I M E R :: I received a free copy of Healer of Carthage from the publisher for the sole purpose of this review. I was not paid to write this review. All thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own, honest and unbiased.

[Kathleen (Kat) Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when Dr. Lisbeth Hastings thinks her life can't get anymore complicated than what it is as a first year resident trying to stay ahead of her game, she finds herself thrust into an ancient history she had only read about before. Losing her mother 23 years ago during an archaeological dig, she has taken over the helm studying to follow in her mother's footsteps as a doctor. Only where her mother excelled, Lisbeth is struggling with trying to appease everyone she can. But when sleep deprivation finally begins to take its toll and a young child she provides a hurried diagnosis for ends up dying, Lisbeth is given a two week reprieve to get her head straight or face more serious consequences.

Doubting her ability whether she will ever be able to make her mother proud, Lisbeth uses the two weeks to join her father while he continues to search for her long lost mother in a cave in Tunisia called the "Cave of Swimmers. He believes he may have uncovered clues to point to where she may have gone, which Lisbeth writes off to a medical diagnosis of perhaps Alzheimer's. But when she wanders into the cave looking for her father, she happens upon some ancient cave paintings of colorful swimmers on the wall. When she places her hand on one of them, she is immediately transported beneath the ground to third-century ancient Carthage in Rome where she is about to be sold as a slave to proconsul Aspasius. Fortunately for Lisbeth being fluent in a variety of languages allows her to speak Latin, the language of this time in history.But just before the deal is about to be sealed, Cyprian Thascius claims victory of her sale instead which Lisbeth isn't too happy with.

When she learns that Cyprian has done her a favor, all she can think of is how to escape and find her way back to her father, who now has lost both his wife and daughter in the Cave of Swimmers. But what Lisbeth will soon discover is that her medical skills will enable her to help heal what is impacted the poor people of Carthage, a deadly plague that if left unchecked will spell doom for the town. But she is about to discover an alliance she never dreamed she would, when she realizes that her mother is the famed healer of Carthage and working as a slave for Aspasius, a violent and temperamental ruler for Carthage who is targeting the destruction of all the Christians. Now she must find a way to escape along with saving her mother before time runs out for them both!

I received Healer of Carthage by Lynne Gentry compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own. This is the first novel in the Carthage Chronicles Series and one that employs a variety of genres to make this one an amazing read and one you will want to follow along in the journey that Lisbeth must undertake. First she must deal with her own inadequacies as a failing doctor and discover that she truly does possess talents that can help people even if she doubts herself. Taking a modern doctor and thrusting her back in time, is a wonderful premise that really works for this series. She can understand simple medical issues that can be cured if only enough time were available like the discovery of citrus and even antibiotics but she must utilize what she has available to help cure the plague that is ravaging the city. I easily rate this novel a 5 out of 5 stars and can't wait for the next one in this series, which you get a sneak peek at in this one along with a reader's discussion guide that is perfect for book clubs.

[Victor Gentile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lynne Gentry in her new book, “Healer Of Carthage” Book One in The Carthage Chronicles series published by Howard Books brings us into the life of Dr. Lisbeth Hastings.

From the back cover: A twenty-first-century doctor. A third-century plague. A love out of time.

First-year resident Dr. Lisbeth Hastings is too busy to take her father’s bizarre summons seriously. But when a tragic mistake puts her career in jeopardy, answering her father’s call seems her only hope of redeeming the devastating failure that her life has become.

While exploring the haunting cave at her father’s archaeological dig, Lisbeth falls through a hidden hole, awakening to find herself the object of a slave auction and the ruins of Roman Carthage inexplicably restored to a thriving metropolis. Is it possible that she’s traveled back in time, and, if so, how can she find her way back home?

Cyprian Thascius believes God called him to rescue the mysterious woman from the slave trader’s cell. What he doesn’t understand is why saving the church of his newfound faith requires him to love a woman whose peculiar ways could get him killed. But who is he to question God?

As their different worlds collide, it sparks an intense attraction that unites Lisbeth and Cyprian in a battle against a deadly epidemic. Even as they confront persecution, uncover buried secrets, and ignite the beginnings of a medical revolution, Roman wrath threatens to separate them forever. Can they find their way to each other through all these obstacles? Or are the eighteen hundred years between them too far of a leap?

Historical fiction and time travel. When done right these two together make a terrific story. And I am here to tell you that Lynne Gentry knows how to put these two together and “Healer of Carthage” is a great ride! Going back in time makes you a fish out of water whenever and wherever you show up. Plus you cannot disrupt the time line because that will change the future you came from. Lisbeth is going to be sold as a slave but God has Cyprian to rescue her and keep her out of trouble. God also has Lisbeth, who is a doctor, there because Carthage is having an epidemic. Ms. Gentry has given us an action adventure tale that will get your nerves all jangled as you read furiously trying to keep up with the story. And there is a romance. Plus this is a thriller and Lisbeth’s life is in great danger. I cannot tell you more because that will spoil the story but I guarantee you, you will not be disappointed in reading this book. The characters are marvelous and they live and breathe on these pages. For a lot of reasons that I cannot tell you I am so looking forward to book two!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Howard Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Kristen Mayfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy WOW! When I finished Healer of Carthage I was breathless, speechless, and in LOVE! I mean, seriously, who doesn’t love a dreamy, good looking, muscular, Christian man in a toga!? But I’m getting ahead of myself!

Dr Lisbeth Hastings is a first year Medical Resident in Dallas, but an unfortunate incident happens and she gets placed on probation at her hospital. Lisbeth goes to Tunis, Tunisia to visit her dad, an archeologist, at the Cave of the Swimmers – the exact place her mother disappeared 23 years earlier never to be seen or heard from since. One night she’s there Lisbeth runs in the cave, she sees one of the paintings on the wall of the “swimmers” and when she touches it she’s sucked into the ground. When Lisbeth wakes up she’s being auctioned off as a slave in Carthage. She’s about to be bought by the disgusting and deplorable Proconsul, Aspasius, when – the good-looking dreamboat in a toga I mentioned earlier – Cyprian outbids Aspasius and carries her to his estate. There she eventually realizes she somehow got sucked through a time portal into the third century. Long story short, Lisbeth runs into someone she knows and she gets to put her medical skills to use and helps the local healer take care of the people who were dying from the plague epidemic that’s sweeping through the city and becomes known as a healer herself. All the while, Lisbeth fights her attraction (a losing battle, if you ask me) to Cyprian, the man who saved her from the evil Proconsul, Aspasius.

Lynne Gentry will suck you through the time portal and make you believe that you are in Carthage with Lisbeth, Cyprian, and all of the other wonderfully drawn and colorful characters in The Healer of Carthage. I felt like I could literally smell, taste, and feel everything that Lisbeth did and I was right next to her as she helped to heal the sick and dying in Carthage. I fell in love with Cyprian right along with Lisbeth and I wanted to stay in third century Carthage with her as well! I felt the fear that those in the fledgling Christian church felt as they were being persecuted and murdered for not bowing down to the Roman gods. I also felt their strength, courage, and devotion as they chose to stand firm in their belief of the one true God and His Son who came to die for our sins.

I was speechless when I finished the book & bawling my eyes out because I had just about every kind of emotion running through my mind and I wanted more! I was wishing that there was more and that the second book would be coming out soon. The Healer of Carthage is one of the most beautiful and captivating love stories that I have read in quite a while, and trust me, I will not be waiting patiently for the second book in The Carthage Chronicles, Return to Exile, to come out January 6, 2015!

Would I recommend this book to others? Without a doubt, in fact, I already have! I’ve bought a few copies for myself and a few of my loved ones! Lynne Gentry, you are one of my new favorites!!

*My gratitude and thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me a free copy for my honest opinion.

[J. Else · Rating 3 out of 5]

This author keeps leaving out moments when significant emotional changes occur. One minute, the main character hates her mom. The next chapter, all is forgiven. One minute Lisbeth & Cyprian can barely be in a room together. The next chapter, they're madly in love. Readers are not let in on the moments where changes of the heart are discovered. Its basically summarized in the following chapter.

I was not a big fan of the main character. She was so strong willed, she never listened to anyone. After the fact, she might think that perhaps the other person was right "but I'm right too!" she'd justify to herself. It got a little frustrating. She's in ancient history. She would have benefited from listening a couple times instead of jumping into things. She got more people in trouble doing that than it was worth.



After Lisbeth returns, she never notices what the date is? When her and her dad book a flight back to the States, there was no date on the ticket? They were just given random seats on a random day? I like the concept and all of her redemption, but with all the technology, she would have seen when it was.

Also, Lisbeth is given all the credit for the Cyprian hospital. This time period is remembered because of Cyprian's generosity and eventual exile for his work, but he's given virtually no credit. The exile was just kind of hastily thrown in. I think he could have been brought into things more. And his plague "immunity" was never explained, which is why I think the author left Cyprian out.

There was no religious struggle. Everything just sort of happens. One of my favorite things about the book "One Night With The King" was that faith was not easy, especially during difficult times. Lisbeth goes from being disgusted by their beliefs to embracing it like its something easy to shift into.

Lastly, are there Latin words for "stethoscope" and an attitude response of "whatever?" Too many modern words were used that I thought were not possible to say in Latin. But maybe the words are there! It just felt too out of place.

I liked things about this book. However, I think the execution needed a little more development, especially when it comes to baring character emotions. That moment when Lisbeth & Cyprian admit their love, that moment when things clicked for Lisbeth that her mother was stuck in Carthage because she was unable to return, the moment when Lisbeth decides to stay and help Cyprian. It all is summarized instead of written about in real time.



Because I like the setting and the situations, I would read the next book. I think the author is a good writer, she just needs a little more depth to her characters and sharing that depth with the reader.

[Hope Fields · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lynne Gentry wrote a compelling story that had me staying up late at nights just to read it! I thought that all of the main characters were well-developed except for Cyprian. Whenever the story was in his perspective, I never knew what he was really thinking. There were some times when the author revealed his thoughts fully, but it was not often and as a result I did not come to love Cyprian as well as I might. Because I was not fully engaged with this character, I was a little lost when Lisbeth finally realized her deep love for him. Aside from the many descriptions and thoughts Lisbeth has about Cyprian's muscular, tan body, I don't really know him or feel for him throughout the story. Since I really like the character Lisbeth who loves Cyprian, I guess I liked him then.
Also, Cyprian's "pastor" of the new Christian church encourages Cyprian to marry Lisbeth who is an unbeliever based on the Biblical story of Hosea and Gomer which Francine Rivers famously depicted in her story Redeeming Love. However, I believe that this Biblical account is not a basis for an unequally yoked marriage. It makes no sense for a believer to knowingly marry someone who does not share his or her faith in Jesus Christ. It is a common fallacy for most Christians to believe that once they get married to an unbeliever they will change that person to become a Christian. Paul warned Christians of this erred thinking and directly cautions that it is not wise for a Christian to do so. The story of Hosea and Gomer is simply a "one-time" example of God's utter and great love for Israel who had gone astray and worshiping other gods. In this story, I believe that Gomer is a part of the Jewish culture, yet strayed away from God and was a prostitute, hence the allegory that we draw that God still loves HIS people, Israel even after they ran away from Him.
I am writing all of this to make the point that I think it is unbiblical for Gentry to say that Cyprian can marry Lisbeth because of the Biblical story of Gomer and Hosea. That story is like God's command to Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac to Him on an altar. Do Christians take away from this story that we should then all go and kill our sons and daughters on an altar to God? NO! We draw from this lesson that there are things that we can figuratively "sacrifice" to God.
Anyway, I did not agree with this part of the story and am interested in finding out in the next book how their relationship will play out.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is incredible. I read Lynne Gentry's first book Reinventing Leona and really enjoyed it...but HEALER OF CARTHAGE brings out a side of Gentry I will not soon forget. Don't get hung up with the "time travel" part, if you're not a "time travel" reader...I have only read 1 time travel book before but was so drawn to this book, I went for it. I'm so glad I did. The time travel adds sooooo much tension to the book, I am amazed how seamlessly the author wove the story through these diverse eras.

The history and lifestyle felt so authentic and real I could taste the wine, smell the oils used for healing, and feel the dust beneath my feet. I have not read a lot about Carthage but the intensity and the beautiful details of this book roped me in quickly—I didn't want the story to end. I won't go into all the details of the plot, you can read the publisher's summary for that...but what I will tell you is that Lisbeth is a character that you will simply fall in love with. She's feisty and independent (so like a modern woman)...but still carries the scars from her mother's abandonment. In Carthage these wounds begin to heal, so far away from her reality. Cyprian was an amazing character...and come to find out, HE'S REAL! I loved Cyprian and Lisbeth on the page together...the writing was poetic as their romanced blossomed.

I read and reread some of my favorite lines from the author's eloquent writing. She earned every one of the 5 stars (and more) that I'm rating this book. The plot will keep those pages turning...you will not want to put the book down. The "cast of characters" will help you see what life was like in Carthage and the state of affairs of the early church.

I cannot remember the last time when the ending of a book left me so satisfied yet so unbelievably HUNGRY for the next in the series. You better believe I will be buying book 2 in The Carthage Chronicles as soon as it hits the book shelves. I'm a Gentry fan for life.

[Abigail · Rating 3 out of 5]

So I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would, in a way. It wasn't as saccharine sweet as I thought it was going to be, and there were actually some really dark situations which made the book more realistic. I thought the information about ancient Carthage was kind of interesting, though I question the research a bit because of some other things in the book. First off, the whole charge nurse telling the residents what to do in the hospital. That doesn't happen. Not like it's portrayed in the book (I'm married to a nurse. This is what happens.)

I also didn't find Lisbeth's command of Latin very convincing either. When she first arrives in Carthage, she's grasping to remember rudimentary Latin, but all of a sudden she's speaking completely fluently with no communication issues, and lots of English slang that you wouldn't have in Latin. It made the linguist in me cringe and I felt like it wasn't done well.

The book had a few predictable moments the identity of Laurentius, Lisbeth being pregnant but it wasn't too bad. Honestly, Lisbeth's character annoyed me for pretty much the entire book and I much would've rather read a book series about Magdalena I think.

All in all though this was a decent story, and if you're interested in early church history or historical Christian fiction you might want to check this out as it's better than a lot of stuff in that genre I've read.

[Catherine Richmond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outlander fans, this is what to read while you're waiting for Gabaldon's next book!

When first year resident Dr. Lisbeth Hastings is put on probation due to a medical error, she uses the time to check on her father. She travels to Tunisia, then to the archeological site where her father claims he's found her mother, who has been missing for 23 years. Before she can assess the old man for Alzheimer's, the cave floor drops out beneath her. She awakes a slave in 3rd century Carthage. Imminent death awaits at every turn from a vicious proconsul, violent soldiers, and a deadly epidemic, yet somehow a young man with Down syndrome managed to survive. Lisbeth desperately needs to find her way back to the 21st century and her medical career.

Author Lynne Gentry weaves the ordeal of residency, fascinating archeological discoveries, the brutality of occupied Carthage, and timeless spiritual lessons into a suspense-filled romance.

[Kristine Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lynne Gentry's novel, The Healer Of Carthage, is one of the freshest stories I have read this year. Lisbeth is a first year , overworked medical student. he switches patients at the request of her fiance with tragic results. At the same time she receives a letter from her archeologist father, demanding she come to him at the site where her mother disappeared many years ago. Fearing for her father's sanity , she drops everything and joins him at the Cave Of The Swimmers. What happens next is a fantastic story that will drag you in and cause the loss of sleep. I found myself stealing whatever time I could in order to find out what happens next.
Gentry's descriptions bring ancient Carthage to life, I could all but smell the horrid conditions she describes. She carefully weaves history and fiction to keep her readers enthralled. My only problem is that the book ended and now I must wait until next year to continue the adventure!

[(Liene) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this story and am definitely looking forward to reading the sequel!

It's a book that made me feel many things and, most importantly, made me think. I like that in a book. I really cared a lot for the characters and wish the next book was out already!

There are many themes in the book that aren't the focus, yet they really got to me. Some are things I am passionate about, so it took a while to get through, thinking about it all.
I would have rated it 5 stars, but it took a good chunk of the book to get into the story. After the first 100 pages or so, though, it really picks up and is a story that will stay with you.

I like that in the end of the book, the author included notes on what about the story was made up and what was based on actual facts, some things were known, but other facts were new to me and I appreciated that a lot!

[Reeda Booke · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great time travel read where a medical student falls down a hole and wakes up in ancient Carthage during Roman rule at the time of a great plague. The author weaves well researched historical facts into a turbulent story where not only does the heroine has to deal with the outbreak of a disease but it is also set amidst a time of great trouble for for the early Christians. Looking forward to the sequel. Highly recommended!

[Gretchen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was a little skeptical of this book at first but, it turned out to be a really good book! I was most skeptical about the history and Latin in this book because I take Latin, but she did a really good job on that part. The characters were very believable and realistic. The suspense was so intense I could not put the book down. I would definitely recommend this book to people who like history and time travel.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books of 2014. An intriguing and interesting blend of modern day medicine and ancient Carthage. I could not put this book down and once finished, I pre-ordered book two. It's that good.

[Lillian Slater · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It was about a modern day doctor and a 3rd century lawyer. Will they ever find a way to bridge the years between them? Or will true love go to the wayside? Plus... this is only the first book in the series!

[BookWoman_KZ · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars

Healer of Carthage by Lynne Gentry is the first book in the Carthage Chronicles, and I really enjoyed it!

The story follows Dr. Lisbeth Hastings, who, after struggling with a life altering mistake in her medical career, unexpectedly finds herself transported back in time to third-century Carthage. What begins as confusion and dangerous quickly turns into a gripping adventure as she’s thrust into the harsh realities of Roman life, slavery, and persecution, and drawn into the world of the early church.

I thought this was such a unique read-Christian fiction with time travel set in the third century?! Definitely not something I’ve come across before, and I loved it.

The medical scenes were some of my favorites. Watching Lisbeth try to make do with so few resources was fascinating, and the book didn’t shy away from showing the suffering and injustice under Roman rule, which made everything feel so vivid and real. Cyprian and Laurentius (the young man with Down syndrome) really stood out to me, and the proconsul- ugh, one of those villains who seriously makes your skin crawl.

There were a few parts that felt a little too convenient… like how quickly Lisbeth picked up a new language, but it wasn’t enough to distract from the story. The romance between Lisbeth and Cyprian was rushed and as a reader I wanted to feel the build up instead of kinda just being told they had feelings for each other, but by the end, I was invested in their relationship.

The themes of faith, sacrificial love, and standing up for what’s right even when it’s risky were powerful. I also appreciated how the story touched on the contrast between the wealthy and the poor, and how Christians of that time lived with courage in the face of persecution.

The book ends on a dramatic note that left me saying, “Wait, what?!” and now I’m eager to dive into the second book, Return to Exile, to see what happens next.

⚠️ Spoilers & Recap for Healer of Carthage






• Lisbeth Hastings – a modern-day doctor, struggling after a tragic mistake at the hospital, travels to Egypt to see her archaeologist father. While exploring a cave at his dig site, she falls through a hole and finds herself in 3rd century Carthage.
• Slave Auction & Rescue – Lisbeth is captured and put on the auction block. She’s nearly sold to the cruel and corrupt proconsul Aspasius, but is instead bought by Cyprian Thascius, a wealthy man who feels God has called him to intervene.
• Life in Carthage – Lisbeth discovers the brutal realities of Roman rule: Christians persecuted, slaves suffering, the poor neglected. She uses her modern medical training to help treat illnesses (measles) with whatever resources she can find.

Key Characters
• Cyprian Thascius – A respected man in Carthage, secretly a Christian. He becomes Lisbeth’s protector and eventual love interest.
• Laurentius – A young man with Down syndrome who plays a touching role in the story. -Lisbeth’s brother
• Aspasius – The corrupt proconsul, power-hungry and lecherous, set up as the main villain.-Owns Lisbeth’s mom
• Magdalena – Lisbeth’s missing mother, she time traveled many, many years ago leaving Lisbeth and dad for 10 + years . She is a character torn between two worlds, whose strength and sacrifices stand out.

• Faith & Persecution – Lisbeth witnesses the courage of early Christians and their willingness to stand firm in faith despite torture, betrayal, and threats from Roman rule. Cyprian himself wrestles with leadership, faith, and the cost of discipleship.
• Romance – A relationship develops between Lisbeth and Cyprian, founded more on shared mission than love, I quickly turned into love.
• Conflict & Epidemic – Lisbeth and Cyprian must unite their skills to fight a deadly outbreak. This becomes both a test of her abilities and of Cyprian’s faith as Christians are blamed and persecuted.
• Ending / Cliffhanger – Just when Lisbeth seems to have found her place and love in Carthage, the story ends on a cliffhanger, leaving her fate, and the future of her relationship with Cyprian uncertain. Cyprian is banished from Carthage after declaring he is a Christian. Lisbeth is taken by Aspasius but her mom, Magdalena, devises a plan and sends Lisbeth back to the future.
Bomb Drop- Lisbeth is pregnant!! She is determined to find her way back to the past to find Cyprian!!!

[Rachel Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's no secret that I love all things Ancient Rome. Which, of course, is why I had to read this book. And, I loved it. It was so rich with history and intrigue and was very enjoyable to read.

Oh Lisbeth. Our main character. Yeah, I couldn't really stand her. From the beginning, she was rude and selfish, and all-around disagreeable. Then, she somehow travels back to the third century, which is a miracle in itself, and doesn't take a moment to listen to anyone else or figure out what's going on. She rushes into things without thinking about it, thinking only of herself. And the way she treated her mother...yeah, Lisbeth wasn't winning herself any favors.

But the other characters. I loved them. From Magdalena, who was strong even when having to live with a brute who abused her, to Ruth who was kind and helpful to Lisbeth no matter how rude she was. And of course, Cyprian, the kind Christian who was trying to help Lisbeth only to have her lash out at him over and over again. He was a new convert, keeping his faith under wraps to avoid persecution, even as he accepted many others into his home and helped them, even the sick.

This book was filled with history, and was obviously well researched. Carthage came alive in this novel, from the descriptions of the buildings and places, to the people. The gladiator games, the Senate house, all were described in a way that made you feel like you were experiencing it. Everything was on point, even up to the wedding and the festivities that would occur.

This was a very enjoyable, entertaining book. There is no preaching at you, instead the faith aspect comes at you very gently, as Cyprian and his people learn what their newfound faith means, and as Lisbeth slowly comes to terms with this "cult". Even with such a disagreeable main character, this book was very enjoyable to read.

I received an eARC from the publisher, this did not even affect my honest opinion.
This review first appears on The NerdHerd Reads

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having been seduced by a sense of historical adventure and romance in the ebook prequel (A Perfect Fit) I quickly dived into the Healer of Carthage.

It didn’t take long to realise Lisbeth, the heroine in this novel was the daughter of the couple in the prequel, however, Gentry quickly established intrigue by highlighting that Lisbeth’s mother had disappeared. It wasn’t long before Gentry upped the intrigue by transporting Lisbeth back to 3rd century Carthage.

And then the adventure really started.

Gentry takes the reader into Lisbeth’s new world with powerful descriptions of the times. A world where a measles pandemic is beginning, home made medicines are the norm, slave girls are bought and sold like livestock and mercy is in short supply.

We are introduced to some wonderfully developed characters: Cyprian the highly regarded solicitor who has a secret life, his mentor, the Bishop and Ruth, the latter’s wife. The ruler of Cartage is tyrannical Aspasius who Gentry portrays brilliantly and the rascal Felicissimus who infiltrates Cyprian’s world only to have grander aspirations of his own.

The character of Mama was my favourite. She has lived a life of terrible struggle exposed to a foreign world where her compassion and skills enabled her to demonstrate Christ’s love to others by becoming the local ‘healer.’ But it’s her devotion for her children, one disabled, where she excels.

The romance between Cyprian and Lisbeth is delightfully portrayed, as is the tension that prevails between Roman rule and Christian faith. Lisbeth’s journey from agnostic to a believer was a bit rushed and lacked depth however I expect we’ll see more of that in the next two novels.

The demonstration of Christ’s mercifulness though was excellent. There were so many examples of its power and how the lack of it can poison a society.

This is an excellent debut novel and Gentry leaves the reader with a lot to consider at the end encouraging us to grab the second installment that I look forward to reading.

Highly recommended for all those who enjoy an ancient historical romance.

[Michael Otto · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a time travel, romance, action and history lesson all in one. The main character Dr. Lisbeth Hastings as a child was part of an archaeological family who made trips to Italy to investigate the ruins and dig up the past. She learned Italian and the language it descended from - Latin. On one these trips they somehow lose her mother who disappears. As a result Lisbeth decides to concentrate on her studies, specifically medicine which leads her be a doctor. As an adult she answers her father's call to go to his dig exploring a haunting cave only awakening to herself in Roman Carthage.
Her manner of transport immediately remains me of John Carter who also exploring a cave awakens to find himself in another location though not one in history rather one in space since he finds himself on the planet Mars.
Getting back to Lisbeth who now finds herself in 3rd century Carthage being rescued by Cyprian Thascius, a Roman senator. Now for every hero & heroine there is usually a villain around to match. That villain is I feel Aspasius. How do these 3 interact with each other as well as others, find out by reading this exciting historical fiction book.

[Ian · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my second time reading Lynne Gentry's debut novel, the first being when it first released ten years ago. The story holds up excellently and in fact, is very timely considering the popularity of time travel content in all its various forms now and the timelessness of the historical significance of Carthage.

We meet Lisbeth, an overworked resident in a busy Dallas hospital, who is grappling with her fears of making a mistake and the still ever present mystery of the disappearance of her mother many years ago. She visits her Dad who is an another of his archeological digs not far from where her mom disappeared all this years ago. Suddenly, and very mysteriously Lisbeth is transported back to 3rd century Carthage.

And then the adventure really starts.

Gentry takes the reader into Lisbeth’s new world with powerful descriptions of the times. A world where a measles pandemic is beginning, home made medicines are the norm, slave girls are bought and sold like livestock and mercy is in short supply.

We are introduced to some wonderfully developed characters: Cyprian the highly regarded solicitor who has a secret life, his mentor, the Bishop and Ruth, the latter’s wife. The ruler of Cartage is tyrannical Aspasius who Gentry portrays brilliantly and the rascal Felicissimus who infiltrates Cyprian’s world only to have grander aspirations of his own.

The character of Mama was my favourite. She has lived a life of terrible struggle exposed to a foreign world where her compassion and skills enabled her to demonstrate Christ’s love to others by becoming the local ‘healer.’ But it’s her devotion for her children, one disabled, where she excels.

The romance between Cyprian and Lisbeth is delightfully portrayed, as is the tension that prevails between Roman rule and Christian faith. Lisbeth’s journey from agnostic to a believer was a bit rushed and lacked depth however I expect we’ll see more of that in the next two novels.

The demonstration of Christ’s mercifulness though was excellent. There were so many examples of its power and how the lack of it can poison a society.

This is an excellent debut novel and Gentry leaves the reader with a lot to consider at the end encouraging us to grab the second installment that I look forward to reading.

Highly recommended for all those who enjoy an ancient historical romance with a dollop of time travel.