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The Graham Saga #5
Serpents in the Garden
'Serpents in the Garden' is the fifth book in Anna Belfrage’s time slip series featuring time traveller Alexandra Lind and her seventeenth century husband, Matthew Graham.
After years of hard work, Matthew and Alex Graham have created a thriving home in the Colony of Maryland. About time, in Alex’s opinion, after far too many adventures she is really looking forward to some well-deserved peace and quiet.
A futile hope, as it turns out. Things start to heat up when Jacob, the third Graham son, absconds from his apprenticeship to see the world – especially as Jacob leaves behind a girl whom he has wed in a most irregular fashion.
Then there’s the infected matter of the fellow time traveller Alex feels obliged to help – no matter the risk. Worst of all, one day Philip Burley and his brothers resurface after years of absence. As determined as ever to make Matthew pay for every perceived wrong – starting with the death of their youngest brother – the Burleys play out a complicated cat and mouse game, and Alex is thrown back into an existence where her heart is constantly in her mouth, convinced as she is that one day the Burleys will achieve their purpose.
Will the Burleys succeed? And if they do, will the Graham family survive the exacted price?
'Serpents in the Garden' has been awarded a B.R.A.G. Medallion and was the Historical Novel Society's Indie Editor's Choice in 2014.
After years of hard work, Matthew and Alex Graham have created a thriving home in the Colony of Maryland. About time, in Alex’s opinion, after far too many adventures she is really looking forward to some well-deserved peace and quiet.
A futile hope, as it turns out. Things start to heat up when Jacob, the third Graham son, absconds from his apprenticeship to see the world – especially as Jacob leaves behind a girl whom he has wed in a most irregular fashion.
Then there’s the infected matter of the fellow time traveller Alex feels obliged to help – no matter the risk. Worst of all, one day Philip Burley and his brothers resurface after years of absence. As determined as ever to make Matthew pay for every perceived wrong – starting with the death of their youngest brother – the Burleys play out a complicated cat and mouse game, and Alex is thrown back into an existence where her heart is constantly in her mouth, convinced as she is that one day the Burleys will achieve their purpose.
Will the Burleys succeed? And if they do, will the Graham family survive the exacted price?
'Serpents in the Garden' has been awarded a B.R.A.G. Medallion and was the Historical Novel Society's Indie Editor's Choice in 2014.
396 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 27, 2014
143 people are currently reading
238 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 31 reviews
December 5, 2019
"I avenge my own. Best you don't forget that, aye?"
It had been years. So many years. So much resentment and hatred. Luke Graham should despise his brother's son, his nephew, but he did not. How could he? Jacob was a likeable young man, and he got on well with Luke's own son. Perhaps it was time to let bygones be bygones.
Philip Burley and his brothers, however, were determined to be avenged. Matthew Graham would die by their hands, for they had made a vow, and it was one that they intended to keep. Matthew was living on borrowed time, as was his wife, Alex. The Burley brothers would have their revenge in blood.
Matthew knew this day would come. They were always there, the Burleys', in the back of his mind. They had tried to kill him once. They would try again. It was just a question of when.
Alec Graham had thought all of her mother's paintings had been destroyed. There would be no more slipping through time, for anyone ever again. But then she hears a tale of a young man of colour, who claims he is a free man. Who claims to be equal to his white counterparts. Who claims to have fallen through time. Alex refuses to look the other way. She must help him, free him from the bonds of servitude. But at what cost to herself?
From a hastily muttered handfasting to a wedding built on a foundation of happiness and love, Serpents in the Garden (The Graham Saga #5) by Anna Belfrage is an undeniable historical time-travel triumph.
This series keeps getting better and better. Belfrage writes with such energy and such imagination that it is as if I have been swept up and transported back in time as quickly and as effortlessly as if I had fallen through one of Mercedes' magical paintings. I am beginning to wonder if The Graham Saga is indeed a time portal, for as soon as I began to read, time ceased to matter. I became fully invested in the lives of these characters and the era that it is set in. This is as close to time-travel as any reader could ever hope.
Having read this series from the beginning, it is like meeting up with old friends. Many years have passed by since Book 1, and the characters have aged. And with age comes maturity, ill-health for some, and for Matthew and Alex a mature, yet inspirational love. Their story is fresh, tantalisingly gripping, and one that I don't want to come to an end. But what I especially loved was how their children have grown up and found their own way, and are telling their own story. I cannot get enough of the Graham family. Belfrage is a storyteller that knows how to get her readers hooked and, more importantly, keep them hooked and begging for more.
Matthew and Alex are still the main characters in this novel, but there are several sub-plots with their grown-up children that bewitched me. Firstly, there is young Jacob — an adventure, a risk-taker. However, at the same time, he wants to make his parents proud — he wants to be someone. Jacob is an idealist, perhaps even a dreamer, and he can be incredibly innocent and naive as to the way the world works. But he has such a good heart and is always full of good intentions — even if sometimes those intentions rebounded. I thought Jacob was fabulous, and I enjoyed reading about him.
Another character who intrigued me in this book was Luke Graham. Luke has always been the antagonist in this story. He has done some wicked things to his brother, but there were moments in this book where I found myself almost liking him. Luke becomes this anti-hero. Belfrege lets us glimpse at this other side to his character — that character that Margaret so desperately loved. I am really glad Belfrage did this and gave Luke a platform in which to tell his side of the story. Don't get me wrong, he is still despicable, and he cannot negate his past, but he is not all bad either.
Ian, since he was introduced as this little boy who was unsure who his birth father was, has always been one of my favourite characters. Belfrage is not kind to him. He goes through Hell, not once but twice, and yet Ian still maintains this air of compassion. He is wronged dreadfully in this story, and yet he does not become bitter. Ian's capacity for love and his empathy towards others makes him one of those unforgettable characters. I truly hope Ian has an easier time in Book 6!
The Burley brothers are still in fine form — causing fear, anguish and suffering. How I detest them. They have no redeemable qualities at all. They are loathsome, and I genuinely feared where it was going to end. Belfrage is very good at penning contemptible villains.
The historical backdrop to this story is balanced incredibly well with the narrative. Belfrage seemingly writes effortlessly, but of course, to be able to do that means that Belfrage has certainly done her homework. The hours of research that Belfrage has devoted to this era has to be commended because Belfrage does not limit herself to one country — London, Scotland, The Colony of Maryland, and Virginia are all represented in this story. It is such a vast historical canvas, but Belfrage has not only pulled it off, but she has excelled at it. I take my hat off to you, Ms Belfrage, you are an exceptional writer and an outstanding historian.
This series is not losing any of its momenta. I adored every sentence, every word, every syllable of Serpents in the Garden (The Graham Saga #5). Historical time-travel does not get better than this.
I Highly Recommend.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde.
The Coffee Pot Book Club.
April 7, 2014
This is my fourth Graham Saga book and I'm just as excited with this time travel tale this many books in as I was with the first one that I read. I still haven't found time to read the very first book in the series but salient facts from past books are always seamlessly woven in so a new reader never feels lost. This fifth installment continues the lives of Alex and Matthew as they make their mark in the New World having left Matthew's beloved Scotland in fear of his life because of his religious convictions.
This book seems more family focused with relationships beginning and ending, births, deaths and injuries filling the pages from beginning to end. The family is just trying to live in peace but it just doesn't seem to be their lot. Young Jacob leaves to see the world and all is not joy and happiness with everyone at the homestead. To write much more would spoil plot points. The evil Burley brothers are stalking Matthew with the intent of killing him and this particular plot development is one that about drove me crazy. They were everywhere the Grahams were. In the 17th century world they always knew where they would be at the exact time? A little too convenient and it got a little comical where it most certainly wasn't meant to be. I realize a book needs tension but their appearances were getting to be almost rote.
Despite the Burley brothers I really did enjoy the book and I thoroughly enjoy these characters and the world in which they live. It's well developed whether it's taking place in London or the New World. You feel you are in the world with the characters as the writing transports you into their lives. I can't wait for the next installment so I can continue to follow the love story of Alex and Matthew Graham.
This book seems more family focused with relationships beginning and ending, births, deaths and injuries filling the pages from beginning to end. The family is just trying to live in peace but it just doesn't seem to be their lot. Young Jacob leaves to see the world and all is not joy and happiness with everyone at the homestead. To write much more would spoil plot points. The evil Burley brothers are stalking Matthew with the intent of killing him and this particular plot development is one that about drove me crazy. They were everywhere the Grahams were. In the 17th century world they always knew where they would be at the exact time? A little too convenient and it got a little comical where it most certainly wasn't meant to be. I realize a book needs tension but their appearances were getting to be almost rote.
Despite the Burley brothers I really did enjoy the book and I thoroughly enjoy these characters and the world in which they live. It's well developed whether it's taking place in London or the New World. You feel you are in the world with the characters as the writing transports you into their lives. I can't wait for the next installment so I can continue to follow the love story of Alex and Matthew Graham.
June 26, 2014
For anyone who has read earlier books in this warm and endearing saga, this story is delightfully more of the same.
Read full review in the 2014 May issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014 May issue of InD’tale Magazine.
October 15, 2021
An amazing series
I have to admit, I have never actually reviewed a book. So at this point, it is about the series so far. And all I can say is where Outlander was epic, this is wonderful. Not as bloody and dark as Outlander, but very well written, great characters, beautiful research, and a fun tale despite the dark times. I am sorry Outlander fans, I read all her books, but Anna's Grahams are more interesting, much much less dark, and so very intriguing. Start with the first book, then find yourself on book five and moving on. You will not be sorry.
I have to admit, I have never actually reviewed a book. So at this point, it is about the series so far. And all I can say is where Outlander was epic, this is wonderful. Not as bloody and dark as Outlander, but very well written, great characters, beautiful research, and a fun tale despite the dark times. I am sorry Outlander fans, I read all her books, but Anna's Grahams are more interesting, much much less dark, and so very intriguing. Start with the first book, then find yourself on book five and moving on. You will not be sorry.
August 8, 2019
This Series Keeps Getting Better and Better
The Graham family series just keeps getting More and more better! I fell in love with the lead charcters, the time travelling Alex and her love, Matthew when they first met, and have continued to be enthralled with the mixture of history and fiction that makes these books so engaging. Similar to the " Outlander" series, but much easier to read, I cannot wait to read the rest of this series!
The Graham family series just keeps getting More and more better! I fell in love with the lead charcters, the time travelling Alex and her love, Matthew when they first met, and have continued to be enthralled with the mixture of history and fiction that makes these books so engaging. Similar to the " Outlander" series, but much easier to read, I cannot wait to read the rest of this series!
April 17, 2024
Excellent entertaining
Love the love story between Alex and Mathew. The discription of how hard work and harsh enviroment did not stop the early Americans from finding their place and starting a new life. Recommend for anybody who enjoys historical novels and a bit of mystery. I have not been able to but down any of the books in this series after starting one.
Love the love story between Alex and Mathew. The discription of how hard work and harsh enviroment did not stop the early Americans from finding their place and starting a new life. Recommend for anybody who enjoys historical novels and a bit of mystery. I have not been able to but down any of the books in this series after starting one.
January 24, 2019
What an amazing storyteller Anna Belfrage is! She keeps me turning the pages wanting to find out what happens next. On to the next book in this series. Read this series but be sure to start with the first book and read them in order.
December 29, 2021
Serpents in the Garden
Some serpents are bad people. Some bad people were always after Matthew and his family. Some were hurt and some fell in love. Always a mystery to other families as how they keep going on in their lives.
Some serpents are bad people. Some bad people were always after Matthew and his family. Some were hurt and some fell in love. Always a mystery to other families as how they keep going on in their lives.
August 1, 2024
I have submitted this review after listening to the audiobook of this title. (Audible)
Life should be good. They have worked towards making a good life in their adopted country. However, there's always someone wanting to put their spanner in the workings and disrupt a peaceful life.
Various people reap what they sow, but again often, the innocents are the ones that get hurt.
Life should be good. They have worked towards making a good life in their adopted country. However, there's always someone wanting to put their spanner in the workings and disrupt a peaceful life.
Various people reap what they sow, but again often, the innocents are the ones that get hurt.
December 23, 2018
Enjoyed, far better than previous book.
April 27, 2020
Better than any so far!
December 2, 2020
Obviously I am hooked. There is a dimension to Matthew and Alex story which is way different than Claire and Jamie but you will have to read to find out(unless you directly ask me to spoil!)
June 8, 2024
Wonderfully written and brought together.
April 4, 2014
I recently received a copy of Serpents in the Garden by Anna Belfrage in exchange for an honest review. I’ve read several time slip novels during the past year or so and I’m always fascinated by the idea of time travel and what it would be like to find yourself in another era. This novel is the first one that has transported me to seventeenth century America and I enjoyed the experience. Serpents in the Garden is well written and has a plot that keeps the reader’s attention. I was intrigued by the storylines of each of the main characters and found myself wanting to continue reading about a particular character whenever the narrative shifted away from his or her story. I knew we would get back to it but I was impatient to find out what happened next.
There is a good contrast in settings between the American wilderness and seventeenth century London. The author describes both settings vividly so that they are easy for the reader to imagine. I was especially intrigued by the world of the English apothecary.
Characters are, of course, central to any story. This was my first introduction to Alex and her family but I related easily to the twenty-first century woman who has found herself in a very different world from her own. Alex is a modern woman who has been dropped into the past and I thought she is very credible as such. Her husband, Matthew is also realistically drawn, reacting with a mix of courage and fear in dangerous situations. He isn’t a larger than life hero but a man who faces what life throws at him. I like this believable portrayal of a character. I found the main characters engaging and quickly became immersed in their stories. I also particularly liked some of the minor characters such as the feisty Mrs Parson and Alex’s wily brother-in-law, Simon Melville.
I did not find it difficult to pick up the threads of the story even though this is the fifth book in a series. Details from previous books were seamlessly woven into this novel and explained so that the reader isn’t confused. It’s possible to read Serpents in the Garden as a standalone book or as part of the series.
All the strands of the story come together for a satisfying conclusion to the book. But it’s not the end of the story: one key strand is left hanging, making the reader eager to start the next book
in the series. It seems I’ll have the next novel to add to my TBR pile....
I can honestly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, fantasy/time-slip or just a good story.
There is a good contrast in settings between the American wilderness and seventeenth century London. The author describes both settings vividly so that they are easy for the reader to imagine. I was especially intrigued by the world of the English apothecary.
Characters are, of course, central to any story. This was my first introduction to Alex and her family but I related easily to the twenty-first century woman who has found herself in a very different world from her own. Alex is a modern woman who has been dropped into the past and I thought she is very credible as such. Her husband, Matthew is also realistically drawn, reacting with a mix of courage and fear in dangerous situations. He isn’t a larger than life hero but a man who faces what life throws at him. I like this believable portrayal of a character. I found the main characters engaging and quickly became immersed in their stories. I also particularly liked some of the minor characters such as the feisty Mrs Parson and Alex’s wily brother-in-law, Simon Melville.
I did not find it difficult to pick up the threads of the story even though this is the fifth book in a series. Details from previous books were seamlessly woven into this novel and explained so that the reader isn’t confused. It’s possible to read Serpents in the Garden as a standalone book or as part of the series.
All the strands of the story come together for a satisfying conclusion to the book. But it’s not the end of the story: one key strand is left hanging, making the reader eager to start the next book
in the series. It seems I’ll have the next novel to add to my TBR pile....
I can honestly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, fantasy/time-slip or just a good story.
May 19, 2014
Fans of Anna Belfrage's time slip series The Graham Saga may have shared my apprehensions that the younger generation of Grahams would be replacing their parents Alex, who was born in the 1960's, and Matthew, who is very much a 17th century Scotsman. Rest assured that such is not the case. Although the failed marriages, bittersweet love affairs and broken betrothals of the younger Grahams and their contemporaries are important to the plot, this is still very much Alex and Matthew's story. And they still have a difficult time keeping their hands off one another, even when a thumping or a spanking seems more appropriate than a sexual romp. The tenderness is still there, but the physical expression of their love is as passionate and intense as when they met two decades earlier. While the plot line in this installment stays entirely in the Seventeenth Century, Ms. Belgrage introduces startling teasers about Alex's connection to the past which promises surreal happenings in future books that leaves us looking at the calendar and hoping she writes at her usual pace.
Not only are we confronted by a set of utterly despicable villains in Serpent in the Garden in the band of marauding brothers first seen in an earlier installment, but we also glimpse Matthew's heretofore vicious brother Luke from another point of view. In addition, there are hints of yet another malevolent person in the shadows and an Indian hiding in the forest waiting for an opportunity to take what he thinks he is due. And yet, the installment does not leave us hanging from a cliff by bloody fingernails. We are satisfied with where this segment of the journey has taken us, but eager to move on.
The sheer size of the cast of characters suggests that this is not apt to be an easy read for anyone not intimately familiar with the dynamic of Alex's journey back in time, the reason for the hostile relationship between Matthew and his brother Luke, or even who all the young people are or why the Graham family fled Scotland, but the strength of the relationship between Alex and Matthew will seduce even the first time reader into going back to The Rip in the Veil to catch up before the next book is unveiled. All of Ms. Belfrage's books are five star efforts, beautifully written and cleverly plotted by an author whose many-faceted talents include a profound understanding of love, courage, fidelity and principle. I am waiting for the next episode with confidence I shall not be disappointed when it comes.
Not only are we confronted by a set of utterly despicable villains in Serpent in the Garden in the band of marauding brothers first seen in an earlier installment, but we also glimpse Matthew's heretofore vicious brother Luke from another point of view. In addition, there are hints of yet another malevolent person in the shadows and an Indian hiding in the forest waiting for an opportunity to take what he thinks he is due. And yet, the installment does not leave us hanging from a cliff by bloody fingernails. We are satisfied with where this segment of the journey has taken us, but eager to move on.
The sheer size of the cast of characters suggests that this is not apt to be an easy read for anyone not intimately familiar with the dynamic of Alex's journey back in time, the reason for the hostile relationship between Matthew and his brother Luke, or even who all the young people are or why the Graham family fled Scotland, but the strength of the relationship between Alex and Matthew will seduce even the first time reader into going back to The Rip in the Veil to catch up before the next book is unveiled. All of Ms. Belfrage's books are five star efforts, beautifully written and cleverly plotted by an author whose many-faceted talents include a profound understanding of love, courage, fidelity and principle. I am waiting for the next episode with confidence I shall not be disappointed when it comes.
May 4, 2014
Anna Belfrage’s novel, Serpents in the Garden, has something for everyone. There is lots of romance and erotica, a fair amount of violence, some history and a lot of period details, and for lovers of fantasy, time travel.
The Grahams, Alex, Matthew and their growing family have fled Scotland due to religious persecution of the Covenanters and have settled in colonial Maryland of the 17th century. Alex was born and raised in the late 20th and early 21st century but she found herself in a time warp at a crossroads during a terrible thunderstorm and ended up in the 17th century. She was found by Matthew Graham. She and Matthew took to each other like Mandarin ducks and they married and have had ten children, nine of whom survive. She seems to have adjusted remarkably well to life in the 17th century.
The Grahams have a farm in Maryland, prosperous at these things go. At the beginning of the book, Jacob, the eldest son is apprenticed to a lawyer in Providence, and a younger son, Daniel, is apprenticed to a minister in Boston. Jacob has a great yearning to go to sea and see the world. After marrying the lawyer’s daughter, Betty, in a “hand fast,” ceremony, contrary to her father’s wishes, he stows away on a ship bound for England. Poor Betty is soundly whipped and packed off to the Grahams.
Graham’s Garden, as the farm is called would be a paradise, but, as the title suggests, there are serpents in the garden. There are, of course, Indians, always a concern, and there are also the brothers Phillip, Walter and Steven Burley, scoundrels of the lowest sort. Matthew has killed their youngest brother in self-defense, and the surviving brothers have sworn revenge. Throughout the book the encounters between the Grahams and the Burleys become increasingly violent.
The family is also plagued by domestic strife. Matthew has a son, Ian, by his first marriage who is married to a woman named Jenny and lives on a nearby farm. Jenny’s father, Peter, has married a much younger woman named Constance who is as nasty as they come and she and Jenny fight like cats. On top of that, their bond servant, Patrick, seduces Jenny and she becomes pregnant, not knowing whether the father is Patrick or Ian.
Serpents in the Garden is a very rich and engaging novel which held my interest throughout. I’m not a great fan of the use of time travel or other violations of the laws of physics in historical novels, but, as Diana Gabaldon might attest, there are many readers who are.
The Grahams, Alex, Matthew and their growing family have fled Scotland due to religious persecution of the Covenanters and have settled in colonial Maryland of the 17th century. Alex was born and raised in the late 20th and early 21st century but she found herself in a time warp at a crossroads during a terrible thunderstorm and ended up in the 17th century. She was found by Matthew Graham. She and Matthew took to each other like Mandarin ducks and they married and have had ten children, nine of whom survive. She seems to have adjusted remarkably well to life in the 17th century.
The Grahams have a farm in Maryland, prosperous at these things go. At the beginning of the book, Jacob, the eldest son is apprenticed to a lawyer in Providence, and a younger son, Daniel, is apprenticed to a minister in Boston. Jacob has a great yearning to go to sea and see the world. After marrying the lawyer’s daughter, Betty, in a “hand fast,” ceremony, contrary to her father’s wishes, he stows away on a ship bound for England. Poor Betty is soundly whipped and packed off to the Grahams.
Graham’s Garden, as the farm is called would be a paradise, but, as the title suggests, there are serpents in the garden. There are, of course, Indians, always a concern, and there are also the brothers Phillip, Walter and Steven Burley, scoundrels of the lowest sort. Matthew has killed their youngest brother in self-defense, and the surviving brothers have sworn revenge. Throughout the book the encounters between the Grahams and the Burleys become increasingly violent.
The family is also plagued by domestic strife. Matthew has a son, Ian, by his first marriage who is married to a woman named Jenny and lives on a nearby farm. Jenny’s father, Peter, has married a much younger woman named Constance who is as nasty as they come and she and Jenny fight like cats. On top of that, their bond servant, Patrick, seduces Jenny and she becomes pregnant, not knowing whether the father is Patrick or Ian.
Serpents in the Garden is a very rich and engaging novel which held my interest throughout. I’m not a great fan of the use of time travel or other violations of the laws of physics in historical novels, but, as Diana Gabaldon might attest, there are many readers who are.
March 31, 2014
Serpents in the Garden is book five in Anna Belfrage's time slip series. It's been an interesting ride in following along with this family and their adventures in history, with Alex coming from modern times and incorporating pretty well in to Matthew's 17th Century world, all things considered. As they've moved on now to the New World, and as the present keeps appearing into the past, we see how both times collide. Then, there are the new characters introduced and assisted in each novel that really make each story unique. Yet, there is also a seamless feel to them as well.
As this is book five, we start to see more of their children as they grow, and in this novel we experience watching Jacob and Daniel find their career paths, Ian and his wife Jenny struggle, people out for revenge due to Matthew's actions, and more. The life of Matthew and Alex is always full of love, but also outside conflicts and the violence with others who believe they've been wronged heat up in this book as much as the sexual scenes. If you love a lot of action and steamy romance, this book will keep you turning the pages!
There's always feisty and independent Alex, and loyal and patient Matthew, and though they do get into tiffs now and again, they have a deep love that transcends all the plots of all the novels. But the romance part isn't what draws me to her books, it's that she's written a well-done novel of time travel that features Alex fitting in and making a life in history. I enjoy her deep character development. It's been exciting, as a modern woman, seeing Alex travel from my period and into all the various tumultuous periods of history. Seeing the struggles of life during these travels through her eyes, is enlightening.
Anna is a wonderful storyteller and her books are always well-written. This series is definitely one you'll want to collect with its sweeping saga of prose and its elegant and gorgeous covers. You could probably start with any of them and enjoy the story, the way they are written, but I definitely thinking buying the whole set is worth it if you like historical romance with a twist.
As this is book five, we start to see more of their children as they grow, and in this novel we experience watching Jacob and Daniel find their career paths, Ian and his wife Jenny struggle, people out for revenge due to Matthew's actions, and more. The life of Matthew and Alex is always full of love, but also outside conflicts and the violence with others who believe they've been wronged heat up in this book as much as the sexual scenes. If you love a lot of action and steamy romance, this book will keep you turning the pages!
There's always feisty and independent Alex, and loyal and patient Matthew, and though they do get into tiffs now and again, they have a deep love that transcends all the plots of all the novels. But the romance part isn't what draws me to her books, it's that she's written a well-done novel of time travel that features Alex fitting in and making a life in history. I enjoy her deep character development. It's been exciting, as a modern woman, seeing Alex travel from my period and into all the various tumultuous periods of history. Seeing the struggles of life during these travels through her eyes, is enlightening.
Anna is a wonderful storyteller and her books are always well-written. This series is definitely one you'll want to collect with its sweeping saga of prose and its elegant and gorgeous covers. You could probably start with any of them and enjoy the story, the way they are written, but I definitely thinking buying the whole set is worth it if you like historical romance with a twist.
March 25, 2014
Find this and other reviews at: http://flashlightcommentary.blogspot....
I've been in love with the Graham saga for a few years now, but contrary to what you might think that doesn't actually work in Anna Belfrage's favor. My admiration for her work means I have higher expectations and that I'm less inclined to make allowances as I know what she's capable of. If anything my favor means the pressure is on.
Serpents in the Garden is book five in the series so it's safe to say the stakes have never been higher and I'm happy to report that once again Belfrage managed to impress. Avoiding familiar patterns and recycled material, she continues the Graham family story with the same originality and spirit that drew me to her books in the first place.
In reading Serpents in the Garden I was struck by Belfrage's ability to maintain tension. After so many installments I was worried I'd get the sense that any particular character was too important to be in real jeopardy, but that didn't happen and I think that sort of vulnerability really makes the book.
The other thing that stands out, the diversity within Belfrage's cast. There are base similarities, but by and large each character feels like an individual, managing their own struggles in their own way. Alex in particular appeals to me, but I like that as a reader I can get into the head of each character - protagonist and antagonist alike - and understand their view of the world.
Another wonderful read, I can't wait to see where Belfrage takes the Grahams next!
I've been in love with the Graham saga for a few years now, but contrary to what you might think that doesn't actually work in Anna Belfrage's favor. My admiration for her work means I have higher expectations and that I'm less inclined to make allowances as I know what she's capable of. If anything my favor means the pressure is on.
Serpents in the Garden is book five in the series so it's safe to say the stakes have never been higher and I'm happy to report that once again Belfrage managed to impress. Avoiding familiar patterns and recycled material, she continues the Graham family story with the same originality and spirit that drew me to her books in the first place.
In reading Serpents in the Garden I was struck by Belfrage's ability to maintain tension. After so many installments I was worried I'd get the sense that any particular character was too important to be in real jeopardy, but that didn't happen and I think that sort of vulnerability really makes the book.
The other thing that stands out, the diversity within Belfrage's cast. There are base similarities, but by and large each character feels like an individual, managing their own struggles in their own way. Alex in particular appeals to me, but I like that as a reader I can get into the head of each character - protagonist and antagonist alike - and understand their view of the world.
Another wonderful read, I can't wait to see where Belfrage takes the Grahams next!
October 3, 2015
“Serpents in the Garden” by Anna Belfrage is a historical novel with a time slip twist, the fifth in the Graham Saga series about Alex, a modern day woman who is stuck in 17th century Maryland, and her family.
Married to Matthew Graham she has by now adapted to her new surroundings and has grown up children who are ready to leave the nest and make their own mark in the world.
It is probably advisable to read the previous books in the saga to fully appreciate the characters and the complex background for each of their story lines. Although Belfrage does a splendid job at introducing each character I often felt I had missed out by not reading the previous novels.
Having said that, the book is a well-crafted family saga with a great setting and it includes some interesting historical facts and aspects which were new and fascinating to me.
The book keeps up suspense by switching between the storylines, always maintaining an air of suspense.
As with most epics, this book has plenty of romance and dramas. I most enjoyed the plot concerning the threatening Burley brothers and their impact on the Graham family, and as European, I found the information contained about slaves, Native Indians and colonial society most fascinating.
Perfectly infused with the flavour of the 17th century but with the occasional modern perspective by Alex this should please readers of family epics and 17th century history alike.
I reviewed this for the Historical Novel Society Indie Reviews
Married to Matthew Graham she has by now adapted to her new surroundings and has grown up children who are ready to leave the nest and make their own mark in the world.
It is probably advisable to read the previous books in the saga to fully appreciate the characters and the complex background for each of their story lines. Although Belfrage does a splendid job at introducing each character I often felt I had missed out by not reading the previous novels.
Having said that, the book is a well-crafted family saga with a great setting and it includes some interesting historical facts and aspects which were new and fascinating to me.
The book keeps up suspense by switching between the storylines, always maintaining an air of suspense.
As with most epics, this book has plenty of romance and dramas. I most enjoyed the plot concerning the threatening Burley brothers and their impact on the Graham family, and as European, I found the information contained about slaves, Native Indians and colonial society most fascinating.
Perfectly infused with the flavour of the 17th century but with the occasional modern perspective by Alex this should please readers of family epics and 17th century history alike.
I reviewed this for the Historical Novel Society Indie Reviews
March 26, 2014
As posted at JustOneMoreChapter.com
This is book 5 in the Graham Saga. Having gotten to know the family in books 3 and 4 sitting down with Serpent in the Garden was like getting together with old friends and catching up on their lives. Even though I began this series with book 3 my enjoyment of this series was not hampered at all (books 1 & 2 are patiently waiting for me).
In the past I have read series that seem to just go on and on with the material stretched and situations getting unbelievable and yea even ridiculous. It's a heavy burden for authors that write series, to keep the story from getting boring and outlandish. Which is totally not the case here. Anna Belfrage has written a book that had me captivated from the start, the story lines were original, fitting the time period and environment accurately. The author has made me full in love with Alex, Matthew and their family, they are real and genuine.
I loved the fact that there were no wasted words or fullers in this book. You know the words that just seem to take up space with no real relevance to the flow of the book and at times you might even skim over. None of that in this book, everything flowed together perfectly and at the right speed, right to the end.
Oh and that very last paragraph, yea I can't wait till Retribution comes in August.
This is book 5 in the Graham Saga. Having gotten to know the family in books 3 and 4 sitting down with Serpent in the Garden was like getting together with old friends and catching up on their lives. Even though I began this series with book 3 my enjoyment of this series was not hampered at all (books 1 & 2 are patiently waiting for me).
In the past I have read series that seem to just go on and on with the material stretched and situations getting unbelievable and yea even ridiculous. It's a heavy burden for authors that write series, to keep the story from getting boring and outlandish. Which is totally not the case here. Anna Belfrage has written a book that had me captivated from the start, the story lines were original, fitting the time period and environment accurately. The author has made me full in love with Alex, Matthew and their family, they are real and genuine.
I loved the fact that there were no wasted words or fullers in this book. You know the words that just seem to take up space with no real relevance to the flow of the book and at times you might even skim over. None of that in this book, everything flowed together perfectly and at the right speed, right to the end.
Oh and that very last paragraph, yea I can't wait till Retribution comes in August.
August 31, 2016
Serpents in the Garden is the 5th book in the series and the third that I have read. I love this series. Why? I love time travel books, it would be so cool I think to be able to go bsack in time. In this 5th book we watch the family grow and evolve from just Matthew, Alex and Ian to their growing family and friends. It is the time where the oldest children are ready to go out on their own to learn a trade or in the case of Jacob, to see the world. Things don't always go as planned. It is a hard life in a young country, with the threat of Indian attacks and old enemies that threaten their very existence. Even though this is a historical series, to me it is more character driven, where the reader gets into the lives and loves of these people rather than into the conflicts of the era. Alex is a strong woman who not only is protective, nurturing but she is fierce when her or her family is in danger. Matthew as patriarch of the family is the protector of all he holds dear and will do all that he can to keep everyone safe from harm. Will he succeed?? Guess I will have to read the next book and I highly recommend this series...
Thanks to the author and Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours for my copy of the book, I was not compensated for my review.
Thanks to the author and Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours for my copy of the book, I was not compensated for my review.
January 9, 2020
'Serpents in the Garden' is the fifth book in Anna Belfrage's time slip series featuring time traveller Alexandra Lind and her seventeenth century husband, Matthew Graham.
After years of hard work, Matthew and Alex Graham have created a thriving home in the Colony of Maryland. About time, in Alex's opinion, after far too many adventures she is really looking forward to some well-deserved peace and quiet. A futile hope, as it turns out. Things start to heat up when Jacob, the third Graham son, absconds from his apprenticeship to see the world - especially as Jacob leaves behind a girl whom he has wed in a most irregular fashion. Then there's the infected matter of the fellow time traveller Alex feels obliged to help - no matter the risk. Worst of all, one day Philip Burley and his brothers resurface after years of absence. As determined as ever to make Matthew pay for every perceived wrong - starting with the death of their youngest brother - the Burleys play out a complicated cat and mouse game, and Alex is thrown back into an existence where her heart is constantly in her mouth, convinced as she is that one day the Burleys will achieve their purpose. Will the Burleys succeed? And if they do, will the Graham family survive the exacted price?
After years of hard work, Matthew and Alex Graham have created a thriving home in the Colony of Maryland. About time, in Alex's opinion, after far too many adventures she is really looking forward to some well-deserved peace and quiet. A futile hope, as it turns out. Things start to heat up when Jacob, the third Graham son, absconds from his apprenticeship to see the world - especially as Jacob leaves behind a girl whom he has wed in a most irregular fashion. Then there's the infected matter of the fellow time traveller Alex feels obliged to help - no matter the risk. Worst of all, one day Philip Burley and his brothers resurface after years of absence. As determined as ever to make Matthew pay for every perceived wrong - starting with the death of their youngest brother - the Burleys play out a complicated cat and mouse game, and Alex is thrown back into an existence where her heart is constantly in her mouth, convinced as she is that one day the Burleys will achieve their purpose. Will the Burleys succeed? And if they do, will the Graham family survive the exacted price?
March 8, 2014
I have so enjoyed this series with Alex and Matthew becoming a part of my family with my thoughts often turning to them. With another 3 books to go which have yet to be released the wait for book 6 is going to be unbearable! For anyone who likes Time Slip Historical Novel (and doesn't mind quite a few full on sex scenes!)I total recommend The Graham Saga :)
January 4, 2015
Can't get enough!
The stories of Matthew and Alex is fantastic. The kids they have and there journey to adult hood. The terrible Beasley brothers it's such a wonderful story. Can't wait to start the next book.
The stories of Matthew and Alex is fantastic. The kids they have and there journey to adult hood. The terrible Beasley brothers it's such a wonderful story. Can't wait to start the next book.
April 13, 2014
Fans of Diana Gabaldon will love it! Read all about it on MINA'S BOOKSHELF
http://minadecaro.blogspot.com/2014/0...
http://minadecaro.blogspot.com/2014/0...
March 28, 2014
Fans of Diana Gabaldon will love it! Read all about it on MINA'S BOOKSHELF
http://minadecaro.blogspot.com/2014/0...
http://minadecaro.blogspot.com/2014/0...
February 17, 2015
We are proud to announce that SERPENTS IN THE GARDEN by Anna Belfrage is a B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!
May 7, 2015
This is the one
This is the book in the series that I've been waiting for. Some questions answered, some ends resolved, but fortunately, some new mysteries to ponder!
This is the book in the series that I've been waiting for. Some questions answered, some ends resolved, but fortunately, some new mysteries to ponder!
December 3, 2016
Great
I just purchased the sixth book of this series and am enjoyed them so very much! I will hate to see them end!
I just purchased the sixth book of this series and am enjoyed them so very much! I will hate to see them end!
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