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The Graham Saga #7
Whither Thou Goest
In their rural home in the Colony of Maryland, Matthew and Alex Graham are still recovering from the awful events of the previous years when Luke Graham, Matthew’s estranged brother, asks them for a favour.
Alex has no problems whatsoever ignoring Luke’s sad plea for help. In her opinion Matthew’s brother is an evil excuse of a man who deserves whatever nasty stuff fate throws at him. Except, as Matthew points out, Luke is begging them to save his son – his misled Charlie, one of the Monmouth rebels – and can Charlie Graham be held responsible for his father’s ill deeds?
So off they go on yet another adventure, this time to the West Indies to find a young man neither of them knows but who faces imminent death on a sugar plantation, condemned to slavery for treason. The journey is hazardous and along the way Alex comes face to face with a most disturbing ghost from her previous life, a man she would much have preferred never to have met.
Time is running out for Charlie Graham, Matthew is haunted by reawakened memories of his days as an indentured servant, and then there’s the eerie Mr Brown, Charlie’s new owner, who will do anything to keep his secrets safe, anything at all.
Will Matthew deliver his nephew from imminent death? And will they ever make it back home?
Alex has no problems whatsoever ignoring Luke’s sad plea for help. In her opinion Matthew’s brother is an evil excuse of a man who deserves whatever nasty stuff fate throws at him. Except, as Matthew points out, Luke is begging them to save his son – his misled Charlie, one of the Monmouth rebels – and can Charlie Graham be held responsible for his father’s ill deeds?
So off they go on yet another adventure, this time to the West Indies to find a young man neither of them knows but who faces imminent death on a sugar plantation, condemned to slavery for treason. The journey is hazardous and along the way Alex comes face to face with a most disturbing ghost from her previous life, a man she would much have preferred never to have met.
Time is running out for Charlie Graham, Matthew is haunted by reawakened memories of his days as an indentured servant, and then there’s the eerie Mr Brown, Charlie’s new owner, who will do anything to keep his secrets safe, anything at all.
Will Matthew deliver his nephew from imminent death? And will they ever make it back home?
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 21, 2017
120 people are currently reading
203 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 - 26 of 26 reviews
December 18, 2014
Find this and other reviews at: http://flashlightcommentary.blogspot....
Readers often talk about escaping into novels, about stepping into the shoes of another and living a thousand different lives between the pages of their books. It's an interesting concept and one I certainly subscribe to, but it takes new meaning with each installment of The Graham Saga. Where most authors capture a moment, Anna Belfrage recreates a lifetime, an intimate portrait that few of her peers can rival.
On the surface, Wither Thou Goest is an adventure. A quest that takes the Grahams from their comfortable colonial home to the turmoil of the West Indies. It is a rescue mission complete with danger, heartbreak and intrigue. Pretty straightforward stuff, until one looks beneath the surface. Behind the scenes, every member of the family is struggling with personal demons, the ripple effects of events seen in earlier installments of the series and while I love the drama created by Charlie's situation, I found the emotional foundation of the book far more captivating.
Sarah's plight was a challenge for me, as were Ian's struggle with responsibility, Matthew's private pain and Samuel's divided loyalties. Alex's attempts to navigate the storm while managing her own conflicts represented yet another obstacle, but the dynamic illustrated by the family's interactions created an engaging and intricately complex portrait of loyalty and honor and I love the inherent contrast it bore in comparison to Luke's branch of the Graham family as well as the Burley/Connor relations.
Beautifully written, thought-provoking and intense, Whither Thou Goest lives up to its predecessors in every possible way. A must read for any fan of historic fiction.
Readers often talk about escaping into novels, about stepping into the shoes of another and living a thousand different lives between the pages of their books. It's an interesting concept and one I certainly subscribe to, but it takes new meaning with each installment of The Graham Saga. Where most authors capture a moment, Anna Belfrage recreates a lifetime, an intimate portrait that few of her peers can rival.
On the surface, Wither Thou Goest is an adventure. A quest that takes the Grahams from their comfortable colonial home to the turmoil of the West Indies. It is a rescue mission complete with danger, heartbreak and intrigue. Pretty straightforward stuff, until one looks beneath the surface. Behind the scenes, every member of the family is struggling with personal demons, the ripple effects of events seen in earlier installments of the series and while I love the drama created by Charlie's situation, I found the emotional foundation of the book far more captivating.
Sarah's plight was a challenge for me, as were Ian's struggle with responsibility, Matthew's private pain and Samuel's divided loyalties. Alex's attempts to navigate the storm while managing her own conflicts represented yet another obstacle, but the dynamic illustrated by the family's interactions created an engaging and intricately complex portrait of loyalty and honor and I love the inherent contrast it bore in comparison to Luke's branch of the Graham family as well as the Burley/Connor relations.
Beautifully written, thought-provoking and intense, Whither Thou Goest lives up to its predecessors in every possible way. A must read for any fan of historic fiction.
April 22, 2020
“You don't have to do this. You don’t owe Luke anything. That brother of yours has cost you dearly. Years in prison, further years of slavery, constant persecution back in Scotland…”
Alex was right. Matthew did not owe Luke anything. But Jacob had been Charles' friend, and if he were alive, then he would not hesitate to get on a ship and sail to Charles' aid. So it falls to Matthew, Jacob's father, to go in his son's place and rescue his nephew. Alex is determined to go with her husband. For whither her husband goest, she too will go.
But life as an indentured servant is cruel, harsh and without humanity. Time is most definitely not on Matthew's and Alex’s side.
From the death of an enemy to the birth of a longed-for child, Whither Thou Goest (The Graham Saga, Book #7) by Anna Belfrage is an emotionally charged and powerful story that will instantly transport you back in time to the 17th Century.
Oh, how I love this series. This saga sends tingles down my spine, and each book is an absolute joy from start to finish. I have to admit, that every time I pick up a book in The Graham Saga I cannot help but fear that the author is going to run out of momentum, that the story is going to fall flat because to keep up this level of engagement, to continue with a story that covers decades and two very different timelines is incredibly challenging. But each time, Belfrage nails it. Each time she delivers. Whither Thou Goest may well be my favourite book in The Graham Saga yet.
I have spoken at length about Alex and Matthew's portrayal in previous reviews and their relationship continues to fascinate in this novel. The title of this book is very appropriate. Ruth 1:16, is one of my favourite passages in the Bible, for it speaks of unquenchable love and unquestionable loyalty. It really does sum up Alex and Matthew — they are two souls who no matter what befalls them will be forever joined. It is a love larger than life, more potent than death even. Their love is not fanciful — it is not too good to be true — it is very real in the telling, very vivid. With each book, I fall more and more in love with them.
I want to come away from Alex and Matthew and have a look at a few of the secondary characters that help to make this story so very addictive. I want to start with Samuel or White Bear as his Indian father knows him by. Samuel is Alex and Matthew's thirteen-year-old son who went to live with the Indians for a year and now he does not know where he belongs. He lives with Qaachow's tribe, and he loves his Indian family dearly, but at the same time, he wants the comforts of his mother's arms. I adored Samuel, he is such a brave and compassionate young man and to be so conflicted really did pull at my heartstrings. I thought his depiction was absolutely brilliant, and I am looking forward to reading more about him in the upcoming books.
The other character I want to talk about is Michael Connor. Michael is a new character, introduced into this story, and he has the misfortune of being related to the Burleys, who are the vilest creature ever to walk the earth. However, Michael is nothing like them in the sense that he knows right from wrong, he recognises injustice, and he is wise enough to read between the lines. His act of heroism was in itself a reason for any reader to like him, but he continued to surprise me throughout this book, and he grew into a character that was the epitome of romance and chivalry. He became a happy ending for a character that was in dire need of one. I adored Michael. His struggles to become a better man than his uncles, and his determination to turn towards love instead of giving into hate made him all the more heroic.
Belfrage first introduced her readers to the absolute horrors of slavery and indentured servitude in Like Chaff in the Wind (The Graham Saga Book #2), but she has revisited the vile practice in this novel. Through young Charles Graham, we experience the brutal physical and psychological domination of a young man who so happened to be on Monmouth's side during the ill-fated Rebellion of 1685. Charles, a once proud young man, is subjected to unimaginable suffering. After witnessing his best friend suffer a traitor's death, Charles finds himself on a ship sailing to the West Indies, his sentence, one of life as an indentured servant — but that was only the beginning of his torturous journey. Charles' depiction brought tears to my eyes. His plight is insufferable, and unlike Matthew, who once found himself in the same desperate situation, Charles' sprit was broken before he even reached the plantation. He isn’t defiant. He accepts the way life is with an almost resigned understanding that this is where he will die. He becomes a slave's slave. His situation is heartbreaking. Indentured servitude in history is always eclipsed by the brutality of the African slave trade, but it was as cruel, and many white men were sent to these far off places to die. Hanging would have been merciful compared to the hell many of these men suffered. Belfrage does not shy away from the abject misery, and the appalling treatment that these men, women and children faced on a daily basis. Beating, sexual abuse, starvation, a complete disregard for humanity, Belfrage has captured it in prose in all of its ugliness. Belfrage also asks her readers to think about the morality, in a historical setting, of one person owning another human being. The slave owners look at these people as stock — they dehumanise them and seemingly delight in their misery. Mr Sassafras Brown is the very essence of immorality, and yet he puts on airs of civilisation and thinks himself better than the unfortunate beasts that are dying for him out in his fields of sugar. He is a vile man who does not see that what he is doing is so fundamentally wrong. Charles' story is very humbling, and one that I will never forget.
Graham's Garden — the Graham's homestead in the Colony of Maryland is a symbol of freedom and peace, and despite not being immune to the evil inherent of humanity, it remains a sanctuary of sorts for the Graham's clan. It has become their home in all sense of the word, not only for the Grahams but also strangely for me as well. I have walked the floors of the homestead with the Grahams and their family, I have celebrated in their successes and commiserate with their losses. This book, this setting, is now so achingly familiar that I could almost imagine myself there, that I lived and am living this life with them. Not many authors can connect with their readers at such an emotional level, but Belfrage can.
Whither Thou Goest (The Graham Saga, Book #7) by Anna Belfrage is a historical triumph. I cannot praise this series enough. It is absolutely superb, and I cannot wait to get my hands on Book #8.
I Highly Recommend.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde.
The Coffee Pot Book Club.
December 4, 2014
I feel very possessive of the characters in Anna's books by now, since this is the seventh book in the series, with their quite strength, devotion, loyalty, love, and most of all humor. The humor and courage that Anna's main time-slip character Alexandra Lind exudes over hundreds and hundreds of pages reminds me now of Anna (and she'll either love or hate I said that--but she's extremely strong and super funny herself). I can't imagine not having Alex and Matthew in my life, so I pleasantly urge Anna to soon enough make them immortal. Hey, it happens, it could happen!!
Since I am not the type of reviewer that regurgitates plots, as I feel you should experience them for yourself and I never want to accidentally spoil anything, what can I say in a review for a seventh book in the series? Well, speaking of plot, and that it IS the seventh book, I can tell you that no matter what adventures that Alex has been on since time-slipping back in time from 2002 to the 17th Century, where she meets her soul mate Matthew Graham, Anna has twisted, turned, and intertwined plots in such a fashion, while keeping characters and historical facts in check, with not only grace, but with flawless precision. Also, with less long-winded sentences than the one I was just compelled to write.
No seriously, she writes with a flowing ability, filled with every ounce of love she's squeezed from herself and put onto the page. I DO think that with each book, I enjoyed her writing more and felt it increasingly absorbing, captivating, and beautiful. The details she presents with each location in time, history, or as in this book their travels (yep, back aboard a ship) make me feel as if I've time slipped myself and traveled back in time. In this book, Anna's personal experiences with Latin American culture shine through. I felt as if I landed on a beach and was observing that section of the book while sipping mango juice.
With Anna's characters, as by now Alex and Matthew are older and much of the plot surrounds their children or extended family, she creates such distinct, vivid, and dimensional characters. There are those we love and those we hate. There are the normal issues for the time periods and locations, in this seventh book they are in the Colony of Maryland, and as a reader I feel the hardships as well as the love, the heartbreak as well as the joys. But also, there are the ghosts of their past to deal with, which keeps it extra interesting.
Anna does a tremendous job of balancing that all out within her novels, but especially this one in particular. And what I love most about Alex, besides her humor, is her unwavering desire to protect her children and make them happy. Second most, I love how she "keeps it real," you know when she is hurt and why, and so does her family, but I adore their respect for her and how they appreciate her undying love and devotion. In other words, we feel her emotions are true and authentic and so her character is one that most readers can relate to easier.
As for Matthew, he does also shine in the novel, as this book's plot takes him deep within himself to a place and time he probably wishes not to remember, as he helps his brother and nephew, at the peril and danger of himself and family. But that's what he does, isn't it? Always helping others? He does always somehow seem to find himself taking issues of the decade on with full speed. It's his involvement that allows Anna to show us the social and religious undercurrents of the times they are in. I'm curious what decision he is about to make at the end of this seventh novel...ah, the suspense!
As for Matthew and Anna together, what a match made and watching their relationship and life unfold before my eyes is a pleasure. That's why I like this title, Whither Thou Goest, as it truly is Alex's motto to Matthew. "After all, where you go, I go, right?" said Alex.
On a personal note, I really enjoyed the story line in this book about Samuel, or White Bear, who is Alex's son that was "adopted" by a Native American tribe. It was so touching and very well-done. I appreciated her portrayal of Native Americans. It reminded me of a story in my own heritage, when my ancestor was captured by the Native Americans during the American Revolution. He lived with them for a year before escaping back to where I live now and setting up a homestead. A story is told about meeting one of his fellow tribe members years later and it still being cordial. I often wonder what it was like for him to live with them and how he felt later in life about the experience. Somehow Anna channeled not only a mother's emotion of this to Alex, but also she handled it well from all sides--Samuel, his adopted tribe, and Matthew--giving them all a voice in the matter that seemed realistic.
Anyway, I digress. Anna has many plot points to tie-up in this novel, new plots to move forward, old vendettas and issues to resolve, as well as new ones to decipher, and I am looking forward to seeing what her next, and most likely, final novel will hold in store. She seamlessly writes each and every one in a way that you are engaged and moved along in the story without any hindrance or comment. That's why I think as I reader I most feel as if I am walking in a new place myself, removing myself from my world as I know it, and entering into a new adventure. I do hope she continues on with the series though, through the Graham children, if I must be selfish.
Anna writes Whither Thou Goest with flowing pen, flawless structure and sentences, intriguing and engaging plot, dimensional characters filled with emotion and authenticity, and gorgeous imagery. This is an excellent series worth the money so you should splurge on the entire set, as you'll want to read this series from the start.
I was given a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Since I am not the type of reviewer that regurgitates plots, as I feel you should experience them for yourself and I never want to accidentally spoil anything, what can I say in a review for a seventh book in the series? Well, speaking of plot, and that it IS the seventh book, I can tell you that no matter what adventures that Alex has been on since time-slipping back in time from 2002 to the 17th Century, where she meets her soul mate Matthew Graham, Anna has twisted, turned, and intertwined plots in such a fashion, while keeping characters and historical facts in check, with not only grace, but with flawless precision. Also, with less long-winded sentences than the one I was just compelled to write.
No seriously, she writes with a flowing ability, filled with every ounce of love she's squeezed from herself and put onto the page. I DO think that with each book, I enjoyed her writing more and felt it increasingly absorbing, captivating, and beautiful. The details she presents with each location in time, history, or as in this book their travels (yep, back aboard a ship) make me feel as if I've time slipped myself and traveled back in time. In this book, Anna's personal experiences with Latin American culture shine through. I felt as if I landed on a beach and was observing that section of the book while sipping mango juice.
With Anna's characters, as by now Alex and Matthew are older and much of the plot surrounds their children or extended family, she creates such distinct, vivid, and dimensional characters. There are those we love and those we hate. There are the normal issues for the time periods and locations, in this seventh book they are in the Colony of Maryland, and as a reader I feel the hardships as well as the love, the heartbreak as well as the joys. But also, there are the ghosts of their past to deal with, which keeps it extra interesting.
Anna does a tremendous job of balancing that all out within her novels, but especially this one in particular. And what I love most about Alex, besides her humor, is her unwavering desire to protect her children and make them happy. Second most, I love how she "keeps it real," you know when she is hurt and why, and so does her family, but I adore their respect for her and how they appreciate her undying love and devotion. In other words, we feel her emotions are true and authentic and so her character is one that most readers can relate to easier.
As for Matthew, he does also shine in the novel, as this book's plot takes him deep within himself to a place and time he probably wishes not to remember, as he helps his brother and nephew, at the peril and danger of himself and family. But that's what he does, isn't it? Always helping others? He does always somehow seem to find himself taking issues of the decade on with full speed. It's his involvement that allows Anna to show us the social and religious undercurrents of the times they are in. I'm curious what decision he is about to make at the end of this seventh novel...ah, the suspense!
As for Matthew and Anna together, what a match made and watching their relationship and life unfold before my eyes is a pleasure. That's why I like this title, Whither Thou Goest, as it truly is Alex's motto to Matthew. "After all, where you go, I go, right?" said Alex.
On a personal note, I really enjoyed the story line in this book about Samuel, or White Bear, who is Alex's son that was "adopted" by a Native American tribe. It was so touching and very well-done. I appreciated her portrayal of Native Americans. It reminded me of a story in my own heritage, when my ancestor was captured by the Native Americans during the American Revolution. He lived with them for a year before escaping back to where I live now and setting up a homestead. A story is told about meeting one of his fellow tribe members years later and it still being cordial. I often wonder what it was like for him to live with them and how he felt later in life about the experience. Somehow Anna channeled not only a mother's emotion of this to Alex, but also she handled it well from all sides--Samuel, his adopted tribe, and Matthew--giving them all a voice in the matter that seemed realistic.
Anyway, I digress. Anna has many plot points to tie-up in this novel, new plots to move forward, old vendettas and issues to resolve, as well as new ones to decipher, and I am looking forward to seeing what her next, and most likely, final novel will hold in store. She seamlessly writes each and every one in a way that you are engaged and moved along in the story without any hindrance or comment. That's why I think as I reader I most feel as if I am walking in a new place myself, removing myself from my world as I know it, and entering into a new adventure. I do hope she continues on with the series though, through the Graham children, if I must be selfish.
Anna writes Whither Thou Goest with flowing pen, flawless structure and sentences, intriguing and engaging plot, dimensional characters filled with emotion and authenticity, and gorgeous imagery. This is an excellent series worth the money so you should splurge on the entire set, as you'll want to read this series from the start.
I was given a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2017
This is the seventh book in The Graham Saga. It is a story of a time traveling woman. It takes place in America, at a time when there is much upheaval and dysfunction. Her family has been through many tragedies and still her love for her man never falters.
After being accused of being a witch, more or less, Alex is more than less inclined to help her asshole of a brother in law. Nobody can blame her for that. He has been the cause of much strife in Alex and Matthew's lives. His son is punished for treason and sentenced to die on a plantation. Even though there is no love loss between the brothers, Alex and Matthew feel it is their duty owed their dead son (who loved Lukes boy) to go fetch him from Barbados. Poor Alex is back on a ship and sicker than a dog, yet again.
I must say that there is only one book to go in this saga and I will be sad to be finished. This family has been a part of my life for the last month and I can't help but think I will morn their loss. Happy Reading :)
After being accused of being a witch, more or less, Alex is more than less inclined to help her asshole of a brother in law. Nobody can blame her for that. He has been the cause of much strife in Alex and Matthew's lives. His son is punished for treason and sentenced to die on a plantation. Even though there is no love loss between the brothers, Alex and Matthew feel it is their duty owed their dead son (who loved Lukes boy) to go fetch him from Barbados. Poor Alex is back on a ship and sicker than a dog, yet again.
I must say that there is only one book to go in this saga and I will be sad to be finished. This family has been a part of my life for the last month and I can't help but think I will morn their loss. Happy Reading :)
August 3, 2024
I have submitted this review after listening to the audiobook of this title. (Audible)
Matthew was asked a favour from his estranged brother, and for the memory of his deceased son, Jacob, both Matthew and Alex took a ship to Jamaica.
It's a somewhat eventful voyage, and as usual, they meet new and old friends along the way.
Whilst they are away, the home front is also in turmoil, with Alex's rebellious spirit showing up in her daughters.
Matthew was asked a favour from his estranged brother, and for the memory of his deceased son, Jacob, both Matthew and Alex took a ship to Jamaica.
It's a somewhat eventful voyage, and as usual, they meet new and old friends along the way.
Whilst they are away, the home front is also in turmoil, with Alex's rebellious spirit showing up in her daughters.
January 2, 2022
Whither Thou Goest
Matthew”s family with 10 children and a wife from the future married for close to 30 years has definitely had their share of troubles. Murderers, Indians and ministers up turning their lives. All in all Matthew and his wife stayed together.
Matthew”s family with 10 children and a wife from the future married for close to 30 years has definitely had their share of troubles. Murderers, Indians and ministers up turning their lives. All in all Matthew and his wife stayed together.
September 11, 2018
Excellent
I enjoyed every minute of this book. I like the way history is blended with the story. Will be sorry when the series ends
I enjoyed every minute of this book. I like the way history is blended with the story. Will be sorry when the series ends
January 7, 2019
Loved
Intense story, lots of emotion. Anna Belfrage writes another great one. Thanks for the each into another time. Keep writing!
Intense story, lots of emotion. Anna Belfrage writes another great one. Thanks for the each into another time. Keep writing!
February 17, 2019
Another winner from Anna Belfrage! I adore this family saga. On to book #8.
May 3, 2020
3.5 stars and onto #8
January 15, 2021
so friggin good. Luke needs Matthews help in this one.
December 20, 2014
This must be a record for me: reading three books in the same series within less than a year. For several years I’ve been following Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series but I don’t often get through even two of the books in a year. I dip in and out of them when I’m in the mood. This year I received copies of the Graham Saga novels as they were released in exchange for honest reviews. I started reading and just kept going. Whither Thou Goest by Anna Belfrage, who is on a Historical Fiction Virtual Blog Tour with the book, is number 7 in an eight book timeslip historical fiction series set in the seventeenth century. I reviewed Book 5, Serpents in the Garden, in April and Book 6, Revenge and Retribution, in September. I enjoyed books 5 and 6 so I had no qualms about reviewing the next book too.
I’m sure to repeat myself in this review as everything I’ve said about previous books in the series holds true about this one. It is a well written, engaging story that allowed me to escape into an earlier century and live in that world for a while. I wouldn’t want to find myself trapped in the seventeenth century as one of the main characters, Alex, has done but I loved slipping into it to follow the Grahams’ story.
Once again the plot moves along at an enervating pace, blending the events in each character’s life to paint the overall picture. In this book the task Matthew and Alex undertake is the focus of the story but events affecting other members of the Graham clan are not ignored either. There’s more than enough happening to keep the reader’s attention.
I enjoy the diverse settings that I find in these novels. We began this story in the familiar setting of the Grahams’ homestead and eventually arrived on an exotic Caribbean island that wasn’t paradise for some of its inhabitants. The author vividly depicts the wonders and the horrors of each place included in the story.
While we encountered old and new characters throughout the story, Matthew and Alex dominated this book. After three novels, I still find them believable, engaging characters who are each a product of the era they were born into. I don’t always like everything that Matthew does but I believe a man from his era would behave as he does. I especially enjoyed watching the couple’s relationship deepen as the years pass, despite the many trials they have faced. In this novel, Alex’s brother-in-law, Simon Melville, redeemed himself in my eyes after his selfish actions in the previous book. I was also touched by the relationship between Ruth and Father Munoz.
I can honestly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, timeslip stories or just a good tale.
I’m sure to repeat myself in this review as everything I’ve said about previous books in the series holds true about this one. It is a well written, engaging story that allowed me to escape into an earlier century and live in that world for a while. I wouldn’t want to find myself trapped in the seventeenth century as one of the main characters, Alex, has done but I loved slipping into it to follow the Grahams’ story.
Once again the plot moves along at an enervating pace, blending the events in each character’s life to paint the overall picture. In this book the task Matthew and Alex undertake is the focus of the story but events affecting other members of the Graham clan are not ignored either. There’s more than enough happening to keep the reader’s attention.
I enjoy the diverse settings that I find in these novels. We began this story in the familiar setting of the Grahams’ homestead and eventually arrived on an exotic Caribbean island that wasn’t paradise for some of its inhabitants. The author vividly depicts the wonders and the horrors of each place included in the story.
While we encountered old and new characters throughout the story, Matthew and Alex dominated this book. After three novels, I still find them believable, engaging characters who are each a product of the era they were born into. I don’t always like everything that Matthew does but I believe a man from his era would behave as he does. I especially enjoyed watching the couple’s relationship deepen as the years pass, despite the many trials they have faced. In this novel, Alex’s brother-in-law, Simon Melville, redeemed himself in my eyes after his selfish actions in the previous book. I was also touched by the relationship between Ruth and Father Munoz.
I can honestly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, timeslip stories or just a good tale.
December 2, 2014
The Graham Saga continues with this seventh installment and I fell right back into the lives of Alex and Matthew as if I had never left. Whither Thou Goest begins with young Sarah at the end of her pregnancy; and she does not want anything to do with the baby as it was conceived in rape. Things seem calm around the farm but word soon filters in that one of those accursed Burley Brothers is still alive and heading their way. They know that he will gather some men and come back again to try and kill Matthew.
But this tale is about much more than the threat of the Burleys. (You know by now I have issues with these ever present villains.) Another dark character from the Graham’s past comes to the fore in this book – Matthew’s brother Luke. It was due to Luke’s misdeeds that Matthew was sold into what basically constituted slavery. But now Luke needs Matthew’s help – will it be given?
Luke’s son Charlie finds himself in a world of trouble in the West Indies and Luke is begging Matthew to rescue him. Alex knows you can’t put the sins of the father onto a child so off they go on yet another dangerous adventure. This being the main plot in this installment of the series but there are enough subplots to keep things very interesting as the various Graham children set out on their own. Alex does not like to let her little birds out into the world.
As usual I enjoyed following this couple along on their adventures both local and abroad. These characters are very well developed at this point and I feel like I know them. That doesn’t mean that someone could not pick up this book and appreciate the story for itself. Enough of the backstory is given to keep a reader on an even keel so that it can stand alone. It is though, much enriched by having read the volumes that come before. It ends on a wonderful note (maybe?) setting up the final volume for a very special finale to a memorable series of books.
But this tale is about much more than the threat of the Burleys. (You know by now I have issues with these ever present villains.) Another dark character from the Graham’s past comes to the fore in this book – Matthew’s brother Luke. It was due to Luke’s misdeeds that Matthew was sold into what basically constituted slavery. But now Luke needs Matthew’s help – will it be given?
Luke’s son Charlie finds himself in a world of trouble in the West Indies and Luke is begging Matthew to rescue him. Alex knows you can’t put the sins of the father onto a child so off they go on yet another dangerous adventure. This being the main plot in this installment of the series but there are enough subplots to keep things very interesting as the various Graham children set out on their own. Alex does not like to let her little birds out into the world.
As usual I enjoyed following this couple along on their adventures both local and abroad. These characters are very well developed at this point and I feel like I know them. That doesn’t mean that someone could not pick up this book and appreciate the story for itself. Enough of the backstory is given to keep a reader on an even keel so that it can stand alone. It is though, much enriched by having read the volumes that come before. It ends on a wonderful note (maybe?) setting up the final volume for a very special finale to a memorable series of books.
December 16, 2014
Even after seven books, Anna Belfrage does not disappoint! Whither Thou Goest is the latest book in the Graham Saga and follows Alex and Matthew on new adventures.
It's hard to believe that Alex and Matthew are getting older because they still seem as energetic as they did from day one. Belfrage does a wonderful job of showing how much they still love each other and has created this ideal couple out of Alex and Matthew. I love how they still face every hurdle head on and together and that no matter where they go, mischief seems to find them.
There was a lot going on in this book but the story definitely had a slower pace to it. I appreciated that this book wasn't super action packed because after the last book, I think the characters (and the reader) needed a break! Don't get me wrong, there was action in this book but it was just on a much smaller scale. The reader got to know some of Graham children better; Sarah and David both moved to the forefront of this story and it was fun to watch them develop as characters.
Oh boy, can Belfrage write some villains. Angel Munoz was about as evil as they come and Sassafras Brown was super creepy. They aren't the Burleys, but they were both pretty bad. I'm curious about the Angel past/future connection and look forward to seeing if there is more about that in the next book. In fact, I really look forward to the next book in general. This book did a great job of getting things ready for the last book; I'm so excited to see how things turn out and can't wait to see if all of my questions will be answered.
Overall, Whither Thou Goest is another hit. Like I always say in these reviews, if you haven't read the series, go do it! I can't stress enough how much I love everything about it. 4 stars.
It's hard to believe that Alex and Matthew are getting older because they still seem as energetic as they did from day one. Belfrage does a wonderful job of showing how much they still love each other and has created this ideal couple out of Alex and Matthew. I love how they still face every hurdle head on and together and that no matter where they go, mischief seems to find them.
There was a lot going on in this book but the story definitely had a slower pace to it. I appreciated that this book wasn't super action packed because after the last book, I think the characters (and the reader) needed a break! Don't get me wrong, there was action in this book but it was just on a much smaller scale. The reader got to know some of Graham children better; Sarah and David both moved to the forefront of this story and it was fun to watch them develop as characters.
Oh boy, can Belfrage write some villains. Angel Munoz was about as evil as they come and Sassafras Brown was super creepy. They aren't the Burleys, but they were both pretty bad. I'm curious about the Angel past/future connection and look forward to seeing if there is more about that in the next book. In fact, I really look forward to the next book in general. This book did a great job of getting things ready for the last book; I'm so excited to see how things turn out and can't wait to see if all of my questions will be answered.
Overall, Whither Thou Goest is another hit. Like I always say in these reviews, if you haven't read the series, go do it! I can't stress enough how much I love everything about it. 4 stars.
December 3, 2014
Taking place after the traumatic events that took of Revenge & Retribution, I was really anxious to get my hands on this book. How was my favorite family coping with the aftermath and consequences of that horrible time? This reader really needed to know. In saying all this you can read each of these books as a stand alone, but I am pretty sure that if you read one you will want to go back and read this whole series.
The Grahams are a real, honest, hard working, down to earth family. There is never a full moment with Alex and Matthew, which continues in Whither Thou Goest. What I really love about this book (and actually the whole series) is the genuine portrait of Colony American. The harsh elements of living off the land, with the Indians, runaway slaves, religious expectations, inadequate medical knowledge are always put to the test. With this book the author takes it a step further and gives us a look at indentured slaves in Jamaica and Barbados, something that I was not familiar with at all.
Anna Belfrage's writing style is one of my favorites. I can sit with her books and next thing I know it's an hour later, it's so easy to get lost in this saga. Her characters are well developed and the authors vast knowledge of this time period is evident here. Not to be rushed but enjoyed I know I will be very disappointed when this series ends. But to earn 5 stars from me means it's a book that I can see myself rereading, so yes I can see me enjoying this series again.
My copy provided by author as part of book tour. See this and other reviews at my link text
The Grahams are a real, honest, hard working, down to earth family. There is never a full moment with Alex and Matthew, which continues in Whither Thou Goest. What I really love about this book (and actually the whole series) is the genuine portrait of Colony American. The harsh elements of living off the land, with the Indians, runaway slaves, religious expectations, inadequate medical knowledge are always put to the test. With this book the author takes it a step further and gives us a look at indentured slaves in Jamaica and Barbados, something that I was not familiar with at all.
Anna Belfrage's writing style is one of my favorites. I can sit with her books and next thing I know it's an hour later, it's so easy to get lost in this saga. Her characters are well developed and the authors vast knowledge of this time period is evident here. Not to be rushed but enjoyed I know I will be very disappointed when this series ends. But to earn 5 stars from me means it's a book that I can see myself rereading, so yes I can see me enjoying this series again.
My copy provided by author as part of book tour. See this and other reviews at my link text
December 10, 2014
I absolutely love this series. Reading an Anna Belfrage book is like a great cup of coffee, when you finish you are completely satisfied. This is the seventh book in the Graham Saga with Alexander Lind, time traveler living in the seventeenth century with her husband Matthew Graham. Together they have a large family with typical family situations. Their daughter Sarah, who wants nothing to do with the baby she bore because of a violent act upon her, son Samuel who is now living with an Indian tribe, daughter Ruth who is married to a minister and then there is David, who has a sense of adventure about him and a proclivity for getting into trouble.
When Alex and Matthew receive a letter from Matt's brother Luke, who neither of them like Luke, as he was pretty vicious to Matt at one time, which you need to read about in an earlier book. He has requested their help in rescuing his son, Charlie. Charlie got in with the wrong crowd and was arrested for treason and sentenced to life as an indentured servant on a Caribbean Island. They accept the request and they are off to another adventure. An adventure fraught with danger. The Burley brothers are dead and can't harm them anymore but there are still unsavory, dangerous people out for the Graham family.
The Graham Saga is such a wonderful series, very well written, strong characters and accurate historical detail. A historical fiction, romance and suspense all in one! I highly recommend the whole series!
When Alex and Matthew receive a letter from Matt's brother Luke, who neither of them like Luke, as he was pretty vicious to Matt at one time, which you need to read about in an earlier book. He has requested their help in rescuing his son, Charlie. Charlie got in with the wrong crowd and was arrested for treason and sentenced to life as an indentured servant on a Caribbean Island. They accept the request and they are off to another adventure. An adventure fraught with danger. The Burley brothers are dead and can't harm them anymore but there are still unsavory, dangerous people out for the Graham family.
The Graham Saga is such a wonderful series, very well written, strong characters and accurate historical detail. A historical fiction, romance and suspense all in one! I highly recommend the whole series!
January 9, 2020
In their rural home in the Colony of Maryland, Matthew and Alex Graham are still recovering from the awful events of the previous years when Luke Graham, Matthew’s estranged brother, asks them for a favour.
Alex has no problems whatsoever ignoring Luke’s sad plea for help. In her opinion Matthew’s brother is an evil excuse of a man who deserves whatever nasty stuff fate throws at him. Except, as Matthew points out, Luke is begging them to save his son – his misled Charlie, one of the Monmouth rebels – and can Charlie Graham be held responsible for his father’s ill deeds?
So off they go on yet another adventure, this time to the West Indies to find a young man neither of them knows but who faces imminent death on a sugar plantation, condemned to slavery for treason. The journey is hazardous and along the way Alex comes face to face with a most disturbing ghost from her previous life, a man she would much have preferred never to have met.
Time is running out for Charlie Graham, Matthew is haunted by reawakened memories of his days as an indentured servant, and then there’s the eerie Mr Brown, Charlie’s new owner, who will do anything to keep his secrets safe, anything at all.
Alex has no problems whatsoever ignoring Luke’s sad plea for help. In her opinion Matthew’s brother is an evil excuse of a man who deserves whatever nasty stuff fate throws at him. Except, as Matthew points out, Luke is begging them to save his son – his misled Charlie, one of the Monmouth rebels – and can Charlie Graham be held responsible for his father’s ill deeds?
So off they go on yet another adventure, this time to the West Indies to find a young man neither of them knows but who faces imminent death on a sugar plantation, condemned to slavery for treason. The journey is hazardous and along the way Alex comes face to face with a most disturbing ghost from her previous life, a man she would much have preferred never to have met.
Time is running out for Charlie Graham, Matthew is haunted by reawakened memories of his days as an indentured servant, and then there’s the eerie Mr Brown, Charlie’s new owner, who will do anything to keep his secrets safe, anything at all.
December 23, 2014
Copy received from Historical Book Tours for an honest review
This is my second book by Anna Belfrage and gleefully I have one more to read, A Newfound Land. Although this is a series each book can be read as a standalone, I just find that it's more gratifying when they are read in order. Although I didn't read them in order and still really enjoyed them. I think that one of the secrets behind Ms. Belfrage's success is that she gets the human emotions that really connect the family in the Graham Saga. Aside from the great characters that Belfrage presents her writing is so smooth and elegant. She moves from scene to scene with grace. She also has a great suspense factor that always surprises me. Just when it seemed that Alex and Mathew would be free from their ghost they show up and they are forced to protect their loved ones! I personally can't wait to see what else Ms. Belgrade has in store for this family and for her readers!
This is my second book by Anna Belfrage and gleefully I have one more to read, A Newfound Land. Although this is a series each book can be read as a standalone, I just find that it's more gratifying when they are read in order. Although I didn't read them in order and still really enjoyed them. I think that one of the secrets behind Ms. Belfrage's success is that she gets the human emotions that really connect the family in the Graham Saga. Aside from the great characters that Belfrage presents her writing is so smooth and elegant. She moves from scene to scene with grace. She also has a great suspense factor that always surprises me. Just when it seemed that Alex and Mathew would be free from their ghost they show up and they are forced to protect their loved ones! I personally can't wait to see what else Ms. Belgrade has in store for this family and for her readers!
March 4, 2016
love this series .They are my favorites next to outlander .Love the story line and all the characters and always something going on .I am just glad I don't live in that time period .I don't think I would survive the hardships of then .
June 10, 2015
An example of using nearly all the tools in an author’s arsenal, Ms. Belfrage’s novel is a delight for the senses.
Read full review in the 2015 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2015 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
November 25, 2016
I really liked this instalment of The Graham Saga, specially coming after all the sorrow of the previous one. I still think the Leon situation could have been explored a bit more, like helping him get back to his time.
January 10, 2015
Excellent
Such a wonderful story. Action, love, family it has it all. It's another must read for the Graham Saga. Can't wait to start book 8!!!
Such a wonderful story. Action, love, family it has it all. It's another must read for the Graham Saga. Can't wait to start book 8!!!
March 8, 2015
Optimal ending
Honor, justice and sweet homecomings...a chance to say goodbye to the past and acceptance of their futures. I will miss them all.
Honor, justice and sweet homecomings...a chance to say goodbye to the past and acceptance of their futures. I will miss them all.
October 2, 2015
We are proud to announce that WHITHER THOU GOEST 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!
November 6, 2015
The tale continua ...and I continue to enjoy...how can I almost be done with this entire series?!
November 22, 2015
Good series to read
I've read all 7 books and at times they are predictable but I do like the writing style and subject matter of the grahams and their family .
I've read all 7 books and at times they are predictable but I do like the writing style and subject matter of the grahams and their family .
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