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Before the Fortress Falls
Their fight for survival would change the course of history.
When rumors reach Vienna that an attack by the Ottoman army is imminent, Wilhelm von Schor, one of the emperor’s courtiers, prepares to evacuate his family—including his sister, Katja. But Katja’s reluctance to leave the city and the people she loves so well grows the farther the family carriage gets from her childhood home. When she learns that another brother, Xavier, is returning to Vienna with his musketeers, she decides to remain behind and face the shadow of war.
Katja soon reunites with Xavier and also with Toby, a dear friend from childhood. As Katja and Toby renew their friendship, an element of attraction builds on the comradery of their youth, and they quickly realize they have found something worth fighting for: love. But all too soon, the Ottomans encircle the city, blanketing its inhabitants in fear. Katja, Toby, and Xavier must each fulfill their new roles if they are to survive. In the overcrowded hospitals, below ground in the countermines, and on the ramparts defending the city walls, the three must fight for love, family, faith, and the survival of their city and everyone inside.
A Historical Novel Society Editors' Choice Title
When rumors reach Vienna that an attack by the Ottoman army is imminent, Wilhelm von Schor, one of the emperor’s courtiers, prepares to evacuate his family—including his sister, Katja. But Katja’s reluctance to leave the city and the people she loves so well grows the farther the family carriage gets from her childhood home. When she learns that another brother, Xavier, is returning to Vienna with his musketeers, she decides to remain behind and face the shadow of war.
Katja soon reunites with Xavier and also with Toby, a dear friend from childhood. As Katja and Toby renew their friendship, an element of attraction builds on the comradery of their youth, and they quickly realize they have found something worth fighting for: love. But all too soon, the Ottomans encircle the city, blanketing its inhabitants in fear. Katja, Toby, and Xavier must each fulfill their new roles if they are to survive. In the overcrowded hospitals, below ground in the countermines, and on the ramparts defending the city walls, the three must fight for love, family, faith, and the survival of their city and everyone inside.
A Historical Novel Society Editors' Choice Title
320 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2022
21 people are currently reading
2924 people want to read
About the author
A.L. Sowards
22 books1,228 followersI love books, so that makes Goodreads my favorite social media site. As a reader, I enjoy a variety of books. As a writer, I create historical novels with a wholesome mix of action, adventure, and romance. My stories have earned Whitney Awards, Foreword Indies Finalists positions, Readers’ Favorite Gold and Silver medals, a Historical Novel Society Editor’s Choice Selection, and a Praiseworthy Award.
I'm a wife and a mother of three, and I've called Washington State, Utah, and Alaska home. I'm usually reading a couple books at once and working on multiple writing projects too. Other than that, my life is pretty ordinary. I'm grateful for that. I'll let the characters in my books have all the adventures.
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Newsletter sign up: https://alsowards.com/newsletter/
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About My Goodreads Ratings:
I joined Goodreads as a reader first, but since I’m an author too, I’ve made some changes to how I rate books. For fiction, I'll give a book 5 stars if I enjoyed every page. Otherwise, I'll leave the rating blank. For nonfiction, 5 star books are ones I enjoyed enough that I’d like to read them again. They’re books I connected with and highly recommend to others. 4 star books are good books that I thought were worth reading once, and they’re also recommended.
I'm a wife and a mother of three, and I've called Washington State, Utah, and Alaska home. I'm usually reading a couple books at once and working on multiple writing projects too. Other than that, my life is pretty ordinary. I'm grateful for that. I'll let the characters in my books have all the adventures.
Stay in Touch:
Newsletter sign up: https://alsowards.com/newsletter/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.l.sowards/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ALSowards/
About My Goodreads Ratings:
I joined Goodreads as a reader first, but since I’m an author too, I’ve made some changes to how I rate books. For fiction, I'll give a book 5 stars if I enjoyed every page. Otherwise, I'll leave the rating blank. For nonfiction, 5 star books are ones I enjoyed enough that I’d like to read them again. They’re books I connected with and highly recommend to others. 4 star books are good books that I thought were worth reading once, and they’re also recommended.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
mtr-1
March 9, 2022Y’all. Her name is KATJA. I have only seen ONE OTHER BOOK with my name before—and it was nonfiction.
April 14, 2022
Vienna 1683
This novel is about the Siege of Vienna. There is a lot of historical detail in the pages, which this reader loves. Some may find the level of detail about battles to be too extensive, but I found it interesting. My favorite parts though were about Katja. I loved her joy in music and her possessiveness of her father's violin.
The novel is told in several viewpoints to give different aspects of the siege: Katja, her twin Xavier, her older brother Wilhelm and Turkish soldier Ahmed.
This novel is about the Siege of Vienna. There is a lot of historical detail in the pages, which this reader loves. Some may find the level of detail about battles to be too extensive, but I found it interesting. My favorite parts though were about Katja. I loved her joy in music and her possessiveness of her father's violin.
The novel is told in several viewpoints to give different aspects of the siege: Katja, her twin Xavier, her older brother Wilhelm and Turkish soldier Ahmed.
April 1, 2022
Just when you think Amanda can’t outdo herself…she goes and writes a story like this.
Before the Fortress Falls takes place during the siege of 1683 during the battle between the Ottoman Empire and Christianity. It is multiple perspective and I really loved getting a view from each character and their role in this deadly battle.
This is a book about bravery...and how one city held its ground against hundreds of thousands of enemy soldier just hoping and praying that reinforcements would be sent to help them. The characters in this book are fantastic. They feel like they are pulled directly from history and come alive on the page. Sowards doesn't shy away from the horrors and spoils of war and she keeps this book feeling realistic to the times and the situations of who fought here.
The romance in this book while not heavy is perfectly placed and just enough for what is happening in the story. I fell in love with these characters and felt their love and longing for one another in a time where no one knew who would live to see the next day. I was emotionally captivated and simultaneously filled with heartbreak and hope.
This story will have you gripping the pages, anxiously waiting for the outcome. This is a story full of heroism, heart and history and will be one I wont forget. A small Christian element that blended seamlessly into the plot. Hats off to Sowards for taking the time to research and do this story right. I can't wait to see what she will come out with next.
*notes for battle scenes that aren't too graphic IMO BUT might be for some, if you have any questions let me know.
Before the Fortress Falls takes place during the siege of 1683 during the battle between the Ottoman Empire and Christianity. It is multiple perspective and I really loved getting a view from each character and their role in this deadly battle.
This is a book about bravery...and how one city held its ground against hundreds of thousands of enemy soldier just hoping and praying that reinforcements would be sent to help them. The characters in this book are fantastic. They feel like they are pulled directly from history and come alive on the page. Sowards doesn't shy away from the horrors and spoils of war and she keeps this book feeling realistic to the times and the situations of who fought here.
The romance in this book while not heavy is perfectly placed and just enough for what is happening in the story. I fell in love with these characters and felt their love and longing for one another in a time where no one knew who would live to see the next day. I was emotionally captivated and simultaneously filled with heartbreak and hope.
This story will have you gripping the pages, anxiously waiting for the outcome. This is a story full of heroism, heart and history and will be one I wont forget. A small Christian element that blended seamlessly into the plot. Hats off to Sowards for taking the time to research and do this story right. I can't wait to see what she will come out with next.
*notes for battle scenes that aren't too graphic IMO BUT might be for some, if you have any questions let me know.
April 1, 2024
Audiobook review 2024:
It's been a couple of years since I first read this one and it was nice to listen to the audiobook and be reminded of what a wonderful story it is. The narrator did a good job with the various voices and getting the emotions across, especially during the tense war sections.
Original review:
Wow! I don't know why I'm always amazed each time I read a historical book written by this author but I am. A.L. Sowards always does a fantastic amount of research so she can be as historically accurate as possible, and it shows as this story came to life while I read about the Ottoman Empire attacking Vienna.
I love knowing what each character is thinking so I really liked getting the different points of view from multiple characters. There are the three siblings Wilhelm, Katja and Xavier (Katja's twin). Then Toby, a childhood friend of Katja and Xavier, shares his point of view. Toby is a joiner by trade, but becomes a counter miner during the war. The last point of view we get is Ahmed, a Turkish soldier who's fighting with the Ottoman army. I found his POV to be very interesting as he thinks he's on the right side of the war and God will help them defeat the Christians.
The romance between Katja and Toby is NOT the main storyline of the book but it's a sweet childhood friends to more story. I can't imagine meeting up with a childhood friend I hadn't seen in several years only to fall in love in the middle of a war. Would I have the courage to marry him with such a strong possibility to lose him at any time?
I didn't know anything about the 1683 siege of Vienna and found it fascinating how the city was designed to be protected from invasion since this was not the first time they had been invaded. Learning how they destroyed businesses and homes outside of the city wall to prevent the Turks from having a place to stay, the counter mining and how that worked was so interesting. I appreciated the maps and the list of terms the author included at the beginning of the book. They were very useful when I needed to know what something was or had trouble picturing where one place was in relation to another.
This isn't a just a story about a war--it's a story of a group of people coming together and fighting to keep an enemy from taking hold of everything they held dear. We see the three siblings overcome their differences and make peace with each other. There are scenes of war but the author isn't overly graphic in her descriptions. If you're like me, once you start reading this book you're not going to want to stop--so consider yourself warned.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
It's been a couple of years since I first read this one and it was nice to listen to the audiobook and be reminded of what a wonderful story it is. The narrator did a good job with the various voices and getting the emotions across, especially during the tense war sections.
Original review:
Wow! I don't know why I'm always amazed each time I read a historical book written by this author but I am. A.L. Sowards always does a fantastic amount of research so she can be as historically accurate as possible, and it shows as this story came to life while I read about the Ottoman Empire attacking Vienna.
I love knowing what each character is thinking so I really liked getting the different points of view from multiple characters. There are the three siblings Wilhelm, Katja and Xavier (Katja's twin). Then Toby, a childhood friend of Katja and Xavier, shares his point of view. Toby is a joiner by trade, but becomes a counter miner during the war. The last point of view we get is Ahmed, a Turkish soldier who's fighting with the Ottoman army. I found his POV to be very interesting as he thinks he's on the right side of the war and God will help them defeat the Christians.
The romance between Katja and Toby is NOT the main storyline of the book but it's a sweet childhood friends to more story. I can't imagine meeting up with a childhood friend I hadn't seen in several years only to fall in love in the middle of a war. Would I have the courage to marry him with such a strong possibility to lose him at any time?
I didn't know anything about the 1683 siege of Vienna and found it fascinating how the city was designed to be protected from invasion since this was not the first time they had been invaded. Learning how they destroyed businesses and homes outside of the city wall to prevent the Turks from having a place to stay, the counter mining and how that worked was so interesting. I appreciated the maps and the list of terms the author included at the beginning of the book. They were very useful when I needed to know what something was or had trouble picturing where one place was in relation to another.
This isn't a just a story about a war--it's a story of a group of people coming together and fighting to keep an enemy from taking hold of everything they held dear. We see the three siblings overcome their differences and make peace with each other. There are scenes of war but the author isn't overly graphic in her descriptions. If you're like me, once you start reading this book you're not going to want to stop--so consider yourself warned.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
March 29, 2022
I really enjoyed this action packed story by A.L Sowards! You can tell that the author really cares about history! I'll admit that I wasn't sure how I felt about this book when I started it. I don't usually read books about real life events because it makes me sad knowing that so many people suffered because of war and I am unable to do anything to help. I loved Before the Fortress Falls because of the strong characters like Katja who persevere through the tough times of war. She stayed strong and didn't want to leave so she could help fight the enemy and protect her home.
I really enjoyed the sweet romance. It is not a huge part of the book but I felt that it was perfectly placed and didn't distract from the main storyline.
If you enjoy historical fiction, you will love this one! 100% of the author's earnings for the first month this book is out, she will be donating to a charity to help Ukraine. I may not be able to help people in other countries fighting for their life's in past wars, but I can do something to help the people of Ukraine just by buying this book and supporting the author. And so can you! 🇺🇦🇺🇦
I really enjoyed the sweet romance. It is not a huge part of the book but I felt that it was perfectly placed and didn't distract from the main storyline.
If you enjoy historical fiction, you will love this one! 100% of the author's earnings for the first month this book is out, she will be donating to a charity to help Ukraine. I may not be able to help people in other countries fighting for their life's in past wars, but I can do something to help the people of Ukraine just by buying this book and supporting the author. And so can you! 🇺🇦🇺🇦
March 8, 2023
So good!! Until I can get a proper review out, here's a few things I really enjoyed:
-Captivating story; you don’t have to be a history buff to be immersed in the story.
-Multiple POVs that help round out the picture of this historical event.
-The perfect amount of romance.
-Gritty. Not overly dark or violent, but it’s not sugarcoated either.
-The sweetest sibling relationship.
-Captivating story; you don’t have to be a history buff to be immersed in the story.
-Multiple POVs that help round out the picture of this historical event.
-The perfect amount of romance.
-Gritty. Not overly dark or violent, but it’s not sugarcoated either.
-The sweetest sibling relationship.
April 8, 2022
Wow! This book was completely incredible, eye-opening, and so informative. As simple as it sounds, I am so happy with this book, and yes, even the parts that made me cry. This book was so heartbreakingly real and for that I love it all the more. The storyline, the characters, the developments, the setting, and the emotion all combine to create a beautiful story. Normally I love books overflowing with romance, and while this book did have some romance, that wasn’t the main storyline, and it was still absolutely perfect. This book gracefully portrayed the different sides of a significant historical event.
You get to follow different aspects and perspectives of those who went through the siege of Vienna. Amanda created wonderful narratives for each of her main characters that sucked you further and further into the story.
I absolutely love history and this story is filled with such great knowledge and material that helps you feel involved in the character’s lives and the events taking place. You can feel the effort and love that went into the research for this book. And even though Amanda states the holes in history in her author’s note, the facts that she does know she represented so well in a captivating literary tale.
Every time I read a book by A. L. Sowards I fall more and more in love with her style of writing and ability to make history come alive. This is another great addition to my list of favorite books and I look forward to future books by Amanda.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to leave a positive review
You get to follow different aspects and perspectives of those who went through the siege of Vienna. Amanda created wonderful narratives for each of her main characters that sucked you further and further into the story.
I absolutely love history and this story is filled with such great knowledge and material that helps you feel involved in the character’s lives and the events taking place. You can feel the effort and love that went into the research for this book. And even though Amanda states the holes in history in her author’s note, the facts that she does know she represented so well in a captivating literary tale.
Every time I read a book by A. L. Sowards I fall more and more in love with her style of writing and ability to make history come alive. This is another great addition to my list of favorite books and I look forward to future books by Amanda.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to leave a positive review
March 30, 2022
Wow! What an incredible story! I didn’t want to set this book down. I wanted to just stay in the story and read it straight through in one sitting. Unfortunately my schedule wasn’t such that I could do so. Which found me picking it up for a few minutes here and there and for some longer stretches in the evening. But I really enjoyed every minute of it!
Such an inspiring story. These characters loved their city and their family and were willing to sacrifice everything to protect against the approaching Ottoman Empire.
I loved the different character points of view that the author wrote into the story. It added so much depth and understanding. Wilhem, Katja and Xavier are siblings, and all three had moments of being the narrator. I loved it so much seeing their thoughts and feelings. Being able to understand their motivations for their actions, past and present. It had me hoping that they would be able to be reunited as some point in the story to right their misunderstandings.
There is also another character whom we are able to see his point of view. Ahmed is a Turkish soldier who is part of the Ottomon army and coming to lay siege on Vienna. Having his POV was very interesting and had me thinking about war from different perspectives.
And the last character whom we get to read through his POV is Toby, a childhood friend of Katja and Xavier’s. He is used in the war efforts of protecting the city as a counter miner. Wow! So interesting. Hard job and one I would definitely not want to have to do.
I admit there were so many emotions that I felt while reading this book. The anxiety and concern for all these characters and side characters as they are preparing to protect their lives. The excitement of characters reuniting. The nerves for characters trying to negotiate for help. The sadness and sorrow of saying goodbye to family members and the unknown of what is happening to them. The intensity of reading about the battles and skirmishes as they happened and hoping that the characters could keep their hold and protection of the city. Relief of the successes of the army protecting Vienna. Tears for the losses and goodbyes. Tears for the happy moments that came amidst the struggles and trials. Feelings of gratitude for my freedoms. Feelings of hope and inspiration from the many characters who sacrificed and wore themselves to the bone to do all that they could in the war efforts.
With all the war and conflict and fears and struggles these characters experience, there is a respite for the reader with a sweet love story. I loved watching Katja and Toby and the support they received in their friendship that grows to more. We all need hope in moments that seem there is none. But the hope that kept those protecting Vienna doing all they could to save the city, was very inspiring. I couldn’t help but feel it very strongly while reading this book.
Content: This book is clean. But there is a disclaimer that it does contain scenes and images and moments of warfare. There are battles and explosions and sword fights, shooting, hand to hand combat and there is death and destruction. The author wasn’t overly graphic but there are some scenes that there is description of blood and death. If this is a trigger for you then know this is in here.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Such an inspiring story. These characters loved their city and their family and were willing to sacrifice everything to protect against the approaching Ottoman Empire.
I loved the different character points of view that the author wrote into the story. It added so much depth and understanding. Wilhem, Katja and Xavier are siblings, and all three had moments of being the narrator. I loved it so much seeing their thoughts and feelings. Being able to understand their motivations for their actions, past and present. It had me hoping that they would be able to be reunited as some point in the story to right their misunderstandings.
There is also another character whom we are able to see his point of view. Ahmed is a Turkish soldier who is part of the Ottomon army and coming to lay siege on Vienna. Having his POV was very interesting and had me thinking about war from different perspectives.
And the last character whom we get to read through his POV is Toby, a childhood friend of Katja and Xavier’s. He is used in the war efforts of protecting the city as a counter miner. Wow! So interesting. Hard job and one I would definitely not want to have to do.
I admit there were so many emotions that I felt while reading this book. The anxiety and concern for all these characters and side characters as they are preparing to protect their lives. The excitement of characters reuniting. The nerves for characters trying to negotiate for help. The sadness and sorrow of saying goodbye to family members and the unknown of what is happening to them. The intensity of reading about the battles and skirmishes as they happened and hoping that the characters could keep their hold and protection of the city. Relief of the successes of the army protecting Vienna. Tears for the losses and goodbyes. Tears for the happy moments that came amidst the struggles and trials. Feelings of gratitude for my freedoms. Feelings of hope and inspiration from the many characters who sacrificed and wore themselves to the bone to do all that they could in the war efforts.
With all the war and conflict and fears and struggles these characters experience, there is a respite for the reader with a sweet love story. I loved watching Katja and Toby and the support they received in their friendship that grows to more. We all need hope in moments that seem there is none. But the hope that kept those protecting Vienna doing all they could to save the city, was very inspiring. I couldn’t help but feel it very strongly while reading this book.
Content: This book is clean. But there is a disclaimer that it does contain scenes and images and moments of warfare. There are battles and explosions and sword fights, shooting, hand to hand combat and there is death and destruction. The author wasn’t overly graphic but there are some scenes that there is description of blood and death. If this is a trigger for you then know this is in here.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
March 22, 2022
Wow! I had no knowledge about the Siege of Vienna in 1683. Author A.L. Sowards really brought this time and event to life in Before the Fortress Falls. This is a story of war, and the danger, death, loss, and heartache that comes with war to families, communities, and military brothers in arms. "Their fight for survival would change the course of history."
Wilhelm von Schor, prepares to evacuate his family from Vienna—including his sister, Katja, in the face of an imminent attack by the Ottoman army. "Logic and Wilhelm told her to leave. But something stronger told her to stay." Katja decides to remain behind and face the coming war, she later encounters their brother Xavier, a soldier for the Holy Roman Emperor, and a dear friend from childhood Toby Vischer. "In the overcrowded hospitals, below ground in the countermines, and on the ramparts defending the city walls, the three must fight for love, family, faith, and the survival of their city and everyone inside." This was a fight to save all of Christendom.
The inhabitants of Vienna are vastly outnumbered, and a growing fear threatens to drown out their faith as the vast Ottoman army surrounds Vienna. "They didn't have to defeat the Turks. They just had to keep the city safe long enough for reinforcements to arrive." As time went on, almost two months into the siege, they felt like their options would be to be martyrs for the faith, or slaves to an Ottoman master.
A sweet romance develops during this war, and one of the most romantic lines ever: "I can't promise to be there for you whenever you need me. But I can promise to love you until my last breath."
Music played a big part in the Schor family, their father was a professional and Katje inherited his instrument. This later plays a part in renewing the faith of Xavier and Katje.
I tell you, I am not one who turns to the back page and reads the end, and I didn't. Technically. But I did google the real battle and had to find out who won as I was reading this story.
Author A.L. Sowards did her research and her talented pen places you right there in the middle of the battle for Vienna and Christendom. I highly recommend this engaging historical fiction that had me turning pages into the wee hours of the morning!
Thank you to the author through net galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
Wilhelm von Schor, prepares to evacuate his family from Vienna—including his sister, Katja, in the face of an imminent attack by the Ottoman army. "Logic and Wilhelm told her to leave. But something stronger told her to stay." Katja decides to remain behind and face the coming war, she later encounters their brother Xavier, a soldier for the Holy Roman Emperor, and a dear friend from childhood Toby Vischer. "In the overcrowded hospitals, below ground in the countermines, and on the ramparts defending the city walls, the three must fight for love, family, faith, and the survival of their city and everyone inside." This was a fight to save all of Christendom.
The inhabitants of Vienna are vastly outnumbered, and a growing fear threatens to drown out their faith as the vast Ottoman army surrounds Vienna. "They didn't have to defeat the Turks. They just had to keep the city safe long enough for reinforcements to arrive." As time went on, almost two months into the siege, they felt like their options would be to be martyrs for the faith, or slaves to an Ottoman master.
A sweet romance develops during this war, and one of the most romantic lines ever: "I can't promise to be there for you whenever you need me. But I can promise to love you until my last breath."
Music played a big part in the Schor family, their father was a professional and Katje inherited his instrument. This later plays a part in renewing the faith of Xavier and Katje.
I tell you, I am not one who turns to the back page and reads the end, and I didn't. Technically. But I did google the real battle and had to find out who won as I was reading this story.
Author A.L. Sowards did her research and her talented pen places you right there in the middle of the battle for Vienna and Christendom. I highly recommend this engaging historical fiction that had me turning pages into the wee hours of the morning!
Thank you to the author through net galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
March 9, 2022
WOW! I was blown away by this book. One of my favorite things about an A.L. Sowards’ book is that I know I’m about to get one of the best history lessons ever. Her writing is both entertaining and informative.
I picked this one up with absolutely zero knowledge of the siege on Vienna and was swept away in every little detail. The mining and countermining aspect of this battle was extremely fascinating. With this being a book based on a battle you can expect violence, depictions of war, etc. I thought the author did a great job of not having to get into many detailed specifics and also not glorifying the violence that comes from war, and also accurately depicting the events. I would definitely recommend this book for a more mature audience.
The romance was sweet, and I fell in love with these characters. They jumped out of the pages and came to life while reading! The pacing was excellent and I had a hard time when I had to put the book down to take care of real life. I recommend some tissues and some snacks because once you pick it up, you won’t be putting it down!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
I picked this one up with absolutely zero knowledge of the siege on Vienna and was swept away in every little detail. The mining and countermining aspect of this battle was extremely fascinating. With this being a book based on a battle you can expect violence, depictions of war, etc. I thought the author did a great job of not having to get into many detailed specifics and also not glorifying the violence that comes from war, and also accurately depicting the events. I would definitely recommend this book for a more mature audience.
The romance was sweet, and I fell in love with these characters. They jumped out of the pages and came to life while reading! The pacing was excellent and I had a hard time when I had to put the book down to take care of real life. I recommend some tissues and some snacks because once you pick it up, you won’t be putting it down!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
March 29, 2024
If you like Historical Fiction, you know A.L. Sowards is well researched and provides a story rich with history. This one surpassed my expectations. I absolutely loved this story of not only a historical battle, but of a complicated family, reunited friends, and a love of music.
The story is of unprovoked attack. A city full of people willing to pull together to fend off a well established trained foe. An ambassador seeking aid from nearby nations. It is the ultimate underdog story, that proves heart and faith can get you through an impossible situation. While the story was packed with action and interesting history of war tactics, it also included the very human elements faced in war. Sibling relationships, love, loss, the plight of the vulnerable in society. There were moments of triumph, followed by moments of heartache. Sowards created a story of intensity that takes you back into time and opens up your eyes to the plight of the citizens within a city at war. I loved it!
One of my favorite parts was when the heroine plays her father’s violin in a convent turned hospital. She plays a hymn I’ve always loved and didn’t realize had been around so long. It gives the people hope and stirred within me my own hope. While the story itself is not heavily religious, there are divisions among the people because of religion, and it was nice to see their religion play a role in their lives in a natural way. I have always loved the power of music to lift spirits and this scene was written so beautifully.
“Ponder anew
What the Almighty can do,
Who with His love doth befriend thee.”
I’ve read this book and now also listened to the audio. I enjoyed this narrator. He had good inflection and enough feeling in his voice, without having too much. I really appreciated that he didn’t try to make his voice sound like a woman when reading those parts. That never sounds good. I would recommend either reading or listening to the audiobook.
The story is of unprovoked attack. A city full of people willing to pull together to fend off a well established trained foe. An ambassador seeking aid from nearby nations. It is the ultimate underdog story, that proves heart and faith can get you through an impossible situation. While the story was packed with action and interesting history of war tactics, it also included the very human elements faced in war. Sibling relationships, love, loss, the plight of the vulnerable in society. There were moments of triumph, followed by moments of heartache. Sowards created a story of intensity that takes you back into time and opens up your eyes to the plight of the citizens within a city at war. I loved it!
One of my favorite parts was when the heroine plays her father’s violin in a convent turned hospital. She plays a hymn I’ve always loved and didn’t realize had been around so long. It gives the people hope and stirred within me my own hope. While the story itself is not heavily religious, there are divisions among the people because of religion, and it was nice to see their religion play a role in their lives in a natural way. I have always loved the power of music to lift spirits and this scene was written so beautifully.
“Ponder anew
What the Almighty can do,
Who with His love doth befriend thee.”
I’ve read this book and now also listened to the audio. I enjoyed this narrator. He had good inflection and enough feeling in his voice, without having too much. I really appreciated that he didn’t try to make his voice sound like a woman when reading those parts. That never sounds good. I would recommend either reading or listening to the audiobook.
April 24, 2022
"Everyone in this city is struggling with the same thing. Hope dimmed by death and setbacks. Faith robbed by fear. But you are doing your part, even when it's hard, even when you're scared. And that's how we're going to defeat this seige."
Do not let the beautiful cover of Before The Fortress Falls fool you. If you look behind her pretty dress, you will see what this novel is truly about. This is a gritty, heartbreaking yet hopeful, detailed account of war. With all its ugliness and fear and death. But @a.l.sowards weaves an incredible tale of courage and perseverance amidst unimaginable odds. And I'm always so thankful for authors willing to dive into history beyond WWII.
This multi POV story takes place in Vienna in 1683, when the Ottoman empire was attacking the city. Katja, a young woman torn from her home, is torn between her brother who is fleeing the city and the brother that stays behind to fight. In the end, she chooses to stay in the city despite the dangers that await. She also reconnects with a childhood friend named Toby, and they grow close despite the turmoil that surrounds them.
"Love can make things more painful because fear of losing it is so sharp. But love is also what makes life so beautiful and sweet - sometimes it's the only thing that makes it worth the struggle."
I loved how this author dives into the details of history - from the way she explored military tactics to the details of countermining. She doesn't shy away from the horrors and tragedy of war. But it's balanced with hope, determination, and faith.
I also couldn't help but notice the similarities of this war and the one taking place in Ukraine. Before The Fortress Falls highlights a city full of ordinary people trying to defend their homeland against thousands of highly trained soldiers, standing up to unimaginable odds, and praying help will come. @a.l.sowards but have sensed that too, as she is donating ALL profits from April sales of her book to Ukraine charity organizations.
I encourage you to pick this one up! I hosted an IG LIVE interview with author @a.l.sowards to discuss this book. Check that out to learn more!
If you want to see more of what I'm reading each day, follow me on my Bookstagram
To watch my monthly updates and author chats, check out my Book Tube channel
To read my in depth reviews and see author Q&A's, head to my blogAll audio books are from Libro FM to support my local bookstore, The Book Bar in Denver.
Do not let the beautiful cover of Before The Fortress Falls fool you. If you look behind her pretty dress, you will see what this novel is truly about. This is a gritty, heartbreaking yet hopeful, detailed account of war. With all its ugliness and fear and death. But @a.l.sowards weaves an incredible tale of courage and perseverance amidst unimaginable odds. And I'm always so thankful for authors willing to dive into history beyond WWII.
This multi POV story takes place in Vienna in 1683, when the Ottoman empire was attacking the city. Katja, a young woman torn from her home, is torn between her brother who is fleeing the city and the brother that stays behind to fight. In the end, she chooses to stay in the city despite the dangers that await. She also reconnects with a childhood friend named Toby, and they grow close despite the turmoil that surrounds them.
"Love can make things more painful because fear of losing it is so sharp. But love is also what makes life so beautiful and sweet - sometimes it's the only thing that makes it worth the struggle."
I loved how this author dives into the details of history - from the way she explored military tactics to the details of countermining. She doesn't shy away from the horrors and tragedy of war. But it's balanced with hope, determination, and faith.
I also couldn't help but notice the similarities of this war and the one taking place in Ukraine. Before The Fortress Falls highlights a city full of ordinary people trying to defend their homeland against thousands of highly trained soldiers, standing up to unimaginable odds, and praying help will come. @a.l.sowards but have sensed that too, as she is donating ALL profits from April sales of her book to Ukraine charity organizations.
I encourage you to pick this one up! I hosted an IG LIVE interview with author @a.l.sowards to discuss this book. Check that out to learn more!
If you want to see more of what I'm reading each day, follow me on my Bookstagram
To watch my monthly updates and author chats, check out my Book Tube channel
To read my in depth reviews and see author Q&A's, head to my blogAll audio books are from Libro FM to support my local bookstore, The Book Bar in Denver.
March 30, 2022
Inspiring, beautifully written. AL Sowards does it again with her descriptions. I can always, always count on this author for an amazing read. There is a lot in this book to love, with unforgettable characters and their incredible journeys of growth, struggles, and never giving up. Plus a well written romance, loyalty, and love.
April 12, 2022
I was honestly nervous starting this book. When it starts with a detailed map and glossary of terms I get kind of lost. I fully didn't understand all that was going on but I enjoyed the story immensely! A big part of the story is about war but I didn't find it too graphic. I loved all the characters! A family who is separated by war and disagreements, the connection of twin siblings, a childhood friendship rekindled and grows to more, and friends gained and lost along the way. There were moments of despair and agony but also moments of hope and enlightenment. It was beautifully written!
"Love is enough, Katja. Enough for us to be happy now, with whatever time we have. I know it’s hard. I know we might have only days or weeks. But have faith; have courage. Don’t let our happiness be one more casualty of this war.”
"Love is enough, Katja. Enough for us to be happy now, with whatever time we have. I know it’s hard. I know we might have only days or weeks. But have faith; have courage. Don’t let our happiness be one more casualty of this war.”
April 8, 2022
If you ever want to read fantastic historical fiction, A.L. Sowards is your go-to author. She does her research so well and a lot of it. Before The Fortress Falls is a splendid combination of war and military strategizing, a budding romance, family relationships, forgiveness, and sacrifice for religion and country.
The story is told from five different perspectives: Turkish soldier Ahmed, three siblings, Katja, Xavier, and Wilhelm, and old family friend and woodworker, Toby. This novel showcases the siege of Vienna by the Ottoman Empire in 1863. The people of Vienna held off 300,000 Turkish soldiers for two months until other countries came to help them. I knew very little of this time period or this military siege. It was fascinating to read about the strategies that went into the fighting between the two sides.
This novel is very inspiring. The Viennese people had such strength and love for their people, country, and God. There are so many tragic moments that show what these brave people went through. The characters are written so well and all so unique. There was some violence in the battle scenes but nothing overly graphic. This novel is about war. So you should expect this. I also was enamored by the love story. There was typical angst but also love and devotion. If you like Historical Fiction or Historical Romance. I highly recommend Before the Fortress Falls as your next read.
The story is told from five different perspectives: Turkish soldier Ahmed, three siblings, Katja, Xavier, and Wilhelm, and old family friend and woodworker, Toby. This novel showcases the siege of Vienna by the Ottoman Empire in 1863. The people of Vienna held off 300,000 Turkish soldiers for two months until other countries came to help them. I knew very little of this time period or this military siege. It was fascinating to read about the strategies that went into the fighting between the two sides.
This novel is very inspiring. The Viennese people had such strength and love for their people, country, and God. There are so many tragic moments that show what these brave people went through. The characters are written so well and all so unique. There was some violence in the battle scenes but nothing overly graphic. This novel is about war. So you should expect this. I also was enamored by the love story. There was typical angst but also love and devotion. If you like Historical Fiction or Historical Romance. I highly recommend Before the Fortress Falls as your next read.
April 3, 2022
Where are my historical fiction fans at? (Romance lovers, read on, this is for you too)
You guys. This book.
Look, I talk about my love for books pretty often. This one is at the top of my favorite historical fictions that I have read this year. You don’t want to miss it if you’re a historical fan.
I felt every emotion in this book, fear, sadness, hurt for these innocent people, love for the relationships that blossomed. I bawled. I was a cheater and skipped to the epilogue to make sure I wasn’t reading a tragedy—and yet I still cried knowing how the story ended!!! 😅 A.L Sowards delivers a message of faith, perseverance, and love when all hope seems lost. “We came. We saw. God Conquered”
I couldn’t help but think of Ukraine while in the depths of these pages. Everyone loves a good underdog story, but to see the underdog conquer after being attacked unprovoked, you can’t help but cheer for them.
This is the story of the Siege of Vienna in 1683. I’m ashamed to admit, either I have the worst memory (quite possible) or I honestly can’t remember learning about this in school. I learned so much while reading this book and it didn’t feel like I cracked open a textbook. No. This was a gripping tale of survival and selfless acts that saved a city that should’ve fallen in days.
Now. My romance friends. This is a childhood friends trope, a brother’s best friend trope, the she-nurses-him-back-to-health trope. You get all the good stuff with some seriously good kisses. I signed up for this with expecting to not get much of a love story, but wow. Wow. Sparks flew and it was SO. GOOD. Sowards may advertise historical fiction, but her romance writing skills and kiss scenes are on point 👌🏻
This is another book that will be added to my collection of highly recommended, 5 star, must read, historical novels. A story everyone should know.
You guys. This book.
Look, I talk about my love for books pretty often. This one is at the top of my favorite historical fictions that I have read this year. You don’t want to miss it if you’re a historical fan.
I felt every emotion in this book, fear, sadness, hurt for these innocent people, love for the relationships that blossomed. I bawled. I was a cheater and skipped to the epilogue to make sure I wasn’t reading a tragedy—and yet I still cried knowing how the story ended!!! 😅 A.L Sowards delivers a message of faith, perseverance, and love when all hope seems lost. “We came. We saw. God Conquered”
I couldn’t help but think of Ukraine while in the depths of these pages. Everyone loves a good underdog story, but to see the underdog conquer after being attacked unprovoked, you can’t help but cheer for them.
This is the story of the Siege of Vienna in 1683. I’m ashamed to admit, either I have the worst memory (quite possible) or I honestly can’t remember learning about this in school. I learned so much while reading this book and it didn’t feel like I cracked open a textbook. No. This was a gripping tale of survival and selfless acts that saved a city that should’ve fallen in days.
Now. My romance friends. This is a childhood friends trope, a brother’s best friend trope, the she-nurses-him-back-to-health trope. You get all the good stuff with some seriously good kisses. I signed up for this with expecting to not get much of a love story, but wow. Wow. Sparks flew and it was SO. GOOD. Sowards may advertise historical fiction, but her romance writing skills and kiss scenes are on point 👌🏻
This is another book that will be added to my collection of highly recommended, 5 star, must read, historical novels. A story everyone should know.
March 8, 2022
Oh. my. word. This book is intense, powerful, and inspiring. Impossible to put down!
It is the gripping story of the siege of Vienna in 1683, a battle between the Ottoman empire and Christianity. Told through the POV of five characters - siblings Katja, Xavier, and Wilhelm, woodworker/family friend Toby, and Turkish soldier Ahmed - the story showcases the immense courage and sacrifice of the people of Vienna as they fought to maintain control of their city until reinforcements could arrive. One city against 300,000 Turkish soldiers.
The numerous battle and military strategizing scenes were so fascinating, but this was not just a story about war. This was also a story about family and healing, faith and miracles, and love and hope. These were intertwined with the historical scenes and the result was an emotional rollercoaster of the very best kind. This is an exceptional read that will stay with me long after I finished it.
Absolutely my favorite book so far from this author. Definitely 5 stars!
Things to know before you read:
The romance between Katja and Toby is very sweet but is a side story in the overall plot. If you go in thinking this is mainly a romance book, you will probably be disappointed.
There are a lot of battle scenes but nothing that was gratuitously bloody. The most graphic it gets is a few parts when heads are chopped off and placed on pikes.
The maps and terms at the beginning of the book were extremely helpful - I highly recommend you use them!
Have some tissues handy. Trust me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but a positive review was not required.
It is the gripping story of the siege of Vienna in 1683, a battle between the Ottoman empire and Christianity. Told through the POV of five characters - siblings Katja, Xavier, and Wilhelm, woodworker/family friend Toby, and Turkish soldier Ahmed - the story showcases the immense courage and sacrifice of the people of Vienna as they fought to maintain control of their city until reinforcements could arrive. One city against 300,000 Turkish soldiers.
The numerous battle and military strategizing scenes were so fascinating, but this was not just a story about war. This was also a story about family and healing, faith and miracles, and love and hope. These were intertwined with the historical scenes and the result was an emotional rollercoaster of the very best kind. This is an exceptional read that will stay with me long after I finished it.
Absolutely my favorite book so far from this author. Definitely 5 stars!
Things to know before you read:
The romance between Katja and Toby is very sweet but is a side story in the overall plot. If you go in thinking this is mainly a romance book, you will probably be disappointed.
There are a lot of battle scenes but nothing that was gratuitously bloody. The most graphic it gets is a few parts when heads are chopped off and placed on pikes.
The maps and terms at the beginning of the book were extremely helpful - I highly recommend you use them!
Have some tissues handy. Trust me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but a positive review was not required.
February 16, 2022
What an amazing book! So impressed with the story, the characters, and the tone through all of it.
Before the Fortress Falls is based on the historical fact of the siege of Vienna in 1683 by the Ottoman Empire forces for almost two months. The story follows Katjia, her two brothers, Wilhem and Xavier, and her childhood friend Toby (it even includes a few scenes in Ahmed's POV, one of the Turks).
As the siege continues, day after day, week after week, we see the characters prove themselves almost beyond what they can take. The stakes keep climbing, and we're witnesses to their struggles and wonder how much longer they can go like this.
The writing is excellent and the historic elements are so expertly woven in that I felt I was there, watching from the sidelines.
It's not all about the siege and the war. There's also a sweet romance, family relationships, friendships, loyalty and hope. The ending was satisfying and well done.
I highly recommend, especially to those tired of Regence romance.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
Before the Fortress Falls is based on the historical fact of the siege of Vienna in 1683 by the Ottoman Empire forces for almost two months. The story follows Katjia, her two brothers, Wilhem and Xavier, and her childhood friend Toby (it even includes a few scenes in Ahmed's POV, one of the Turks).
As the siege continues, day after day, week after week, we see the characters prove themselves almost beyond what they can take. The stakes keep climbing, and we're witnesses to their struggles and wonder how much longer they can go like this.
The writing is excellent and the historic elements are so expertly woven in that I felt I was there, watching from the sidelines.
It's not all about the siege and the war. There's also a sweet romance, family relationships, friendships, loyalty and hope. The ending was satisfying and well done.
I highly recommend, especially to those tired of Regence romance.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
April 2, 2022
I have had the privilege of reading this book twice. The first time I read it was in July 2020 when it was still a work in progress. I loved it then and hoped that it would be picked up and published quickly. Here we are in April 2022 on Publication Day and I've just finished reading it for a second time but this time with a completely different perspective. The novel is set in 1683 at the time when the extremely large army of the Ottoman Empire were doing their very best to capture the Imperial city of Vienna which was a base for Christendom at the time. The story begins a few short days before attacks begin and the city goes under siege. For the reader it starts in the home of the Von Schor family as Wilhelm tells his sister Katya that it s time to leave the city for safety as they will go to seek help from others to return and fight against the Ottomans.
The Von Schor family has had their share of troubles since the death of their patriarch. Wilhelm is the eldest and his two siblings are twins, Katja (Katharina) and Xavier. A little over a year before our story begins, Xavier and Wilhelm had a falling out and Xavier left the city and has not returned or resolved things. Wilhelm's wife is expecting their second child and though similar in age to Katja their relationship has been tense since Xavier's departure.
This is the point where the story suddenly took on a whole new life for me seen through the lens of the past six weeks since the Ukraine has been under attack. Decisions had to be made and made quickly. Was it better to leave Vienna or stay and fight? Would it be cowardly to go or would it just make sense? If the fortress fell the likely result for survivors would be slavery, rape or death. They knew they were outnumbered and would be unable do hold the fortress without help. For those who stayed, they knew they would have to take up arms to protect themselves and work as a team that included women and children all doing their best to hold out until help would come. This book was written long before the attack on Ukraine but it mirrors what is happening in real life now in so many respects and that made the novel even more real to me and kept me with bated breath even though I knew how things were going to turn out.
This is not a part of history that I ever studied in school, but Sowards has been a master instructor for me ( as she has in other of her novels that I have read). Her research is exhaustive and her diagrams, maps and extensive vocabulary list are extremely helpful in visualizing the story she is telling. It is the kind of book that gets me searching for pictures so I can better understand just what the different weapons looked like or what the different hairstyles were. Suffice it to say, I learned a lot about the time and the political influences that went into the battle for Vienna.
The story is told from the perspectives of the Schor siblings, Tobias Vischer, a master joiner and long time friend of the Schor twins, but also through the eyes of Ahmed, a Janissarie of the Ottomans who hoped to earn some of the spoils of victory so he could woo the woman he loved. Wilhelm makes the decision to leave with his pregnant wife and Katja, but circumstances change and Katja leaves the carriage taking them away to protect her heirloom violin and support her hometown. On her way back to their home she reconnects with Toby, whom she hasn't seen in years. He is staying to help protect the city. Xavier enters the picture when he arrives with a group of soldiers to help prevent the Ottomans from succeeding, but many of the soldiers, including Xavier, are sick with the bloody "flux" or dysentery. Katja nurses him back to health all the while sewing sand bags to add to the fortifications. Toby becomes a counter-miner though he has no experience with mining. His job is to discover where the Turks have their mines and try to destroy them before the Turks can damage the walls of the city. The weapons are vastly different to those used in today's war, but the devastation is similar. Food gets ever more scarce. So many are sick or wounded. There aren't enough weapons, but the spirit of the Viennese is immense and they all work their hardest to survive never knowing whether help will arrive in time.
This is a book full of action and the battles have a level of realism that may be disturbing to some but which likely downplays just how awful it really was. It was a nail-biter for me and as is true with war, death was ever present. Friends were lost. Hope wavered at times as exhaustion set in. Sleep was almost non-existent on occasion (including for me as I read through the middle of the night!) and yet Hope was never completely extinguished and when Katja payed her violin for her patients and her brother, it burned ever brighter. Love and faith helped them hold together as family, friends and as a relationship developed between Katja and Toby.
This story kept me enthralled. It made me cry and haul out the kleenex. It made me think of those suffering under siege right now and stop to say a prayer on their behalf. It showed that in war everyone loses but that it is possible to survive and rebuild. This battle apparently had a momentous impact on history, really weakening the power of the Turks and allowing Christianity to flourish with fewer incursions after the siege. There is much food for discussion here and I would highly recommend this book to others.
Many thanks to #NetGalley, #Covenant Communications and the Author for allowing me to read and advanced readers copy. All opinions are entirely my own.
A.L. Sowards has chosen to donate her earnings for this book (through April 2022) which will go to charities benefiting victims of the war in Ukraine.
The Von Schor family has had their share of troubles since the death of their patriarch. Wilhelm is the eldest and his two siblings are twins, Katja (Katharina) and Xavier. A little over a year before our story begins, Xavier and Wilhelm had a falling out and Xavier left the city and has not returned or resolved things. Wilhelm's wife is expecting their second child and though similar in age to Katja their relationship has been tense since Xavier's departure.
This is the point where the story suddenly took on a whole new life for me seen through the lens of the past six weeks since the Ukraine has been under attack. Decisions had to be made and made quickly. Was it better to leave Vienna or stay and fight? Would it be cowardly to go or would it just make sense? If the fortress fell the likely result for survivors would be slavery, rape or death. They knew they were outnumbered and would be unable do hold the fortress without help. For those who stayed, they knew they would have to take up arms to protect themselves and work as a team that included women and children all doing their best to hold out until help would come. This book was written long before the attack on Ukraine but it mirrors what is happening in real life now in so many respects and that made the novel even more real to me and kept me with bated breath even though I knew how things were going to turn out.
This is not a part of history that I ever studied in school, but Sowards has been a master instructor for me ( as she has in other of her novels that I have read). Her research is exhaustive and her diagrams, maps and extensive vocabulary list are extremely helpful in visualizing the story she is telling. It is the kind of book that gets me searching for pictures so I can better understand just what the different weapons looked like or what the different hairstyles were. Suffice it to say, I learned a lot about the time and the political influences that went into the battle for Vienna.
The story is told from the perspectives of the Schor siblings, Tobias Vischer, a master joiner and long time friend of the Schor twins, but also through the eyes of Ahmed, a Janissarie of the Ottomans who hoped to earn some of the spoils of victory so he could woo the woman he loved. Wilhelm makes the decision to leave with his pregnant wife and Katja, but circumstances change and Katja leaves the carriage taking them away to protect her heirloom violin and support her hometown. On her way back to their home she reconnects with Toby, whom she hasn't seen in years. He is staying to help protect the city. Xavier enters the picture when he arrives with a group of soldiers to help prevent the Ottomans from succeeding, but many of the soldiers, including Xavier, are sick with the bloody "flux" or dysentery. Katja nurses him back to health all the while sewing sand bags to add to the fortifications. Toby becomes a counter-miner though he has no experience with mining. His job is to discover where the Turks have their mines and try to destroy them before the Turks can damage the walls of the city. The weapons are vastly different to those used in today's war, but the devastation is similar. Food gets ever more scarce. So many are sick or wounded. There aren't enough weapons, but the spirit of the Viennese is immense and they all work their hardest to survive never knowing whether help will arrive in time.
This is a book full of action and the battles have a level of realism that may be disturbing to some but which likely downplays just how awful it really was. It was a nail-biter for me and as is true with war, death was ever present. Friends were lost. Hope wavered at times as exhaustion set in. Sleep was almost non-existent on occasion (including for me as I read through the middle of the night!) and yet Hope was never completely extinguished and when Katja payed her violin for her patients and her brother, it burned ever brighter. Love and faith helped them hold together as family, friends and as a relationship developed between Katja and Toby.
This story kept me enthralled. It made me cry and haul out the kleenex. It made me think of those suffering under siege right now and stop to say a prayer on their behalf. It showed that in war everyone loses but that it is possible to survive and rebuild. This battle apparently had a momentous impact on history, really weakening the power of the Turks and allowing Christianity to flourish with fewer incursions after the siege. There is much food for discussion here and I would highly recommend this book to others.
Many thanks to #NetGalley, #Covenant Communications and the Author for allowing me to read and advanced readers copy. All opinions are entirely my own.
A.L. Sowards has chosen to donate her earnings for this book (through April 2022) which will go to charities benefiting victims of the war in Ukraine.
May 18, 2022
Dearest Lady Sowards,
How do I express my total love for this book? It has captured my heart and I won’t even ask for it back. I’m perfectly content with the arrangement, for this book is supremely, superbly written!
Tackling multiple POVs in one book is a tricky feat and not always accomplished well. But you pulled it off with nary a hitch. It was absolutely perfect and now I couldn’t imagine reading this book from any less than all five characters’ POV.
Watching each of these characters grow in the circumstances they found themselves in was outstanding. I felt inspired multiple times through reading. Each of them learn more of themselves, their neighbors and friends, and the people they love most. They make mistakes and do better. I love how they were all real in their humanness, but not so flawed they were difficult to love. I truly did care about each of the main characters and found myself often sitting on the edge of my seat as I frantically read, trying to go faster, waiting to see what would happen. Katja was brave and selfless, moving forward in the face of her fears and loving fiercely. Toby might have been my favorite. He was wise and kind and the best of characters. Xavier was such a firebird! I loved his passion, love for his country and family, and dedication to his people. I might not have liked Wilhelm as much at first, but I fully loved him by the end. Getting inside his head was one of my favorites.
I felt like you balanced the historical details with the stories inside so well. I loved how I felt like I was learning about an important historical event from the inside. I know that part is fiction, but you wrote it so well, it could have been true accounts. And the way you painted the scene was masterful! I almost felt as if I were present, seeing and smelling and feeling everything.
I loved all the action, romance, intrigue, suspense, and raw human emotion. I smiled, I laughed, I chewed my nails (metaphorically speaking), I swooned, I cried. I felt all the feelings. This book wasn’t just a nice read, it was a full experience. It was riveting and phenomenal and I think everyone should read it!
Forever your admirer and fan,
Jessica
**Many thanks to the author for an advanced copy of the book. I voluntarily wrote this honest review, which opinion belongs only to myself.
Quotes I loved:
He loved how alive she was, as if she were so full of passion and energy that she couldn’t help but let a little of it overflow.
Studying Toby’s faced with her eyes had been pleasant, but exploring it with her fingers was even better.
If the dark tunnels of the counter minds hadn’t scared him, why should he let fear of rejection make him pause?
“There is nothing silly about fear. Nor is it something to be ashamed of.” -Toby
“Isn’t fear a weakness?”
Toby shrugged. “Only if you let it keep you from your fury or let it keep you from taking a risk that might bring happiness.”
“Loving music and beauty, that’s part of who you are.” -Toby
The notes pulled at his imagination, taking him somewhere with peace and hope and promise.
The violin might be hard on her hands, but making music was good for her soul.
“I believe in God . . . so why is my faith so shaken? Why am I so scared all the time?” -Katja
“Love can make things more painful because fear of losing it is so sharp. But love is also what makes life so beautiful and sweet – sometimes it’s the only thing that makes it worth the struggle.” -Toby
“ do you suppose things will ever go back to how they were before this happened? Tobys chest rose and sink in a steady rhythm with each of his breaths. No. Because you will have lived through these times, and these times will change you. They’ll make you stronger, they’ll make you more grateful for the things you want took for granted, and they’ll help you remember what is most important.”
“ you keep working, and you keep praying. Grip your hope tightly and don’t let it go. Clouds may darken it, may blot it out completely, but it’s worth holding onto, even when you can’t feel it or see it.”
She wasn’t weak because she was worried and afraid she would be weak only if she gave up.
“I can’t promise that the city won’t fall out that I won’t die tomorrow. I can’t promise to be there for you whenever you need me. But I can promise to love you until my last breath.” -Toby
Massive courage wasn’t so much about how she felt but about how she acted. . . . She might feel fear, but she wouldn’t let it stop her.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
How do I express my total love for this book? It has captured my heart and I won’t even ask for it back. I’m perfectly content with the arrangement, for this book is supremely, superbly written!
Tackling multiple POVs in one book is a tricky feat and not always accomplished well. But you pulled it off with nary a hitch. It was absolutely perfect and now I couldn’t imagine reading this book from any less than all five characters’ POV.
Watching each of these characters grow in the circumstances they found themselves in was outstanding. I felt inspired multiple times through reading. Each of them learn more of themselves, their neighbors and friends, and the people they love most. They make mistakes and do better. I love how they were all real in their humanness, but not so flawed they were difficult to love. I truly did care about each of the main characters and found myself often sitting on the edge of my seat as I frantically read, trying to go faster, waiting to see what would happen. Katja was brave and selfless, moving forward in the face of her fears and loving fiercely. Toby might have been my favorite. He was wise and kind and the best of characters. Xavier was such a firebird! I loved his passion, love for his country and family, and dedication to his people. I might not have liked Wilhelm as much at first, but I fully loved him by the end. Getting inside his head was one of my favorites.
I felt like you balanced the historical details with the stories inside so well. I loved how I felt like I was learning about an important historical event from the inside. I know that part is fiction, but you wrote it so well, it could have been true accounts. And the way you painted the scene was masterful! I almost felt as if I were present, seeing and smelling and feeling everything.
I loved all the action, romance, intrigue, suspense, and raw human emotion. I smiled, I laughed, I chewed my nails (metaphorically speaking), I swooned, I cried. I felt all the feelings. This book wasn’t just a nice read, it was a full experience. It was riveting and phenomenal and I think everyone should read it!
Forever your admirer and fan,
Jessica
**Many thanks to the author for an advanced copy of the book. I voluntarily wrote this honest review, which opinion belongs only to myself.
Quotes I loved:
He loved how alive she was, as if she were so full of passion and energy that she couldn’t help but let a little of it overflow.
Studying Toby’s faced with her eyes had been pleasant, but exploring it with her fingers was even better.
If the dark tunnels of the counter minds hadn’t scared him, why should he let fear of rejection make him pause?
“There is nothing silly about fear. Nor is it something to be ashamed of.” -Toby
“Isn’t fear a weakness?”
Toby shrugged. “Only if you let it keep you from your fury or let it keep you from taking a risk that might bring happiness.”
“Loving music and beauty, that’s part of who you are.” -Toby
The notes pulled at his imagination, taking him somewhere with peace and hope and promise.
The violin might be hard on her hands, but making music was good for her soul.
“I believe in God . . . so why is my faith so shaken? Why am I so scared all the time?” -Katja
“Love can make things more painful because fear of losing it is so sharp. But love is also what makes life so beautiful and sweet – sometimes it’s the only thing that makes it worth the struggle.” -Toby
“ do you suppose things will ever go back to how they were before this happened? Tobys chest rose and sink in a steady rhythm with each of his breaths. No. Because you will have lived through these times, and these times will change you. They’ll make you stronger, they’ll make you more grateful for the things you want took for granted, and they’ll help you remember what is most important.”
“ you keep working, and you keep praying. Grip your hope tightly and don’t let it go. Clouds may darken it, may blot it out completely, but it’s worth holding onto, even when you can’t feel it or see it.”
She wasn’t weak because she was worried and afraid she would be weak only if she gave up.
“I can’t promise that the city won’t fall out that I won’t die tomorrow. I can’t promise to be there for you whenever you need me. But I can promise to love you until my last breath.” -Toby
Massive courage wasn’t so much about how she felt but about how she acted. . . . She might feel fear, but she wouldn’t let it stop her.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 28, 2022
4.5 stars
Wow! This was a stunning book. This book started off a bit slower for me but I knew that it could happen. My brain takes a while to process things so it took me a little while to read, but it was a great book! Before the Fortress Falls is by A.L. Sowards. The characters were so engaging and the story was beautiful. It was fun to read from different perspectives and I think it really made the story interesting.
Katja was a strong character who was trying to do what she thought was best. Although the Ottoman army was coming, she chose to stay in Vienna. I thought that Katja was an interesting character, she felt so real. Life was hard, they were in the midst of a siege and yet she did not give up. However I liked how there were still times when she was afraid or when she felt overwhelmed, but how she still pressed on and looked to God.
Toby was also a wonderful character, his life had not been easy but he worked hard. I liked his strength and his willingness to help serve his home city. Although he was afraid, he still wanted to protect his home. He was human though and there were times when he got discouraged. However though it all he still worked hard and he even encouraged Katja when she got down.
Toby and Katja had a sweet romance. They had been old friends,and it was sweet to read about them. I liked how their romance was a slow burn, it was definitely cute to read about them interacting and helping each other. They had their troubles and an invasion to fight off, but they worked together.
Xavier and Wilhelm were some of the other perspectives that you got to see. I really liked reading from both of their perspectives. Tgey had a few different views on life, but they both wanted to save their home city. Although they fought and disagreed, they were still family. I really liked the family feel of this book. Katja, Wilhelm, and Xavier all had different views on life and ideas, but they still cared for each other even when things got hard.
The action was very exciting in this book and it was definitely fascinating to read about. I felt as if I learned a lot from the battle scenes and from what the soldiers did to try and prepare for battle. It was really engaging. There are some more gruesome wounds and deaths mentioned but it fits the book and the scene.
Before the Fortress Falls is a wonderful book and I would definitely recommend it! Before the Fortress Falls is a historical romance book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
Wow! This was a stunning book. This book started off a bit slower for me but I knew that it could happen. My brain takes a while to process things so it took me a little while to read, but it was a great book! Before the Fortress Falls is by A.L. Sowards. The characters were so engaging and the story was beautiful. It was fun to read from different perspectives and I think it really made the story interesting.
Katja was a strong character who was trying to do what she thought was best. Although the Ottoman army was coming, she chose to stay in Vienna. I thought that Katja was an interesting character, she felt so real. Life was hard, they were in the midst of a siege and yet she did not give up. However I liked how there were still times when she was afraid or when she felt overwhelmed, but how she still pressed on and looked to God.
Toby was also a wonderful character, his life had not been easy but he worked hard. I liked his strength and his willingness to help serve his home city. Although he was afraid, he still wanted to protect his home. He was human though and there were times when he got discouraged. However though it all he still worked hard and he even encouraged Katja when she got down.
Toby and Katja had a sweet romance. They had been old friends,and it was sweet to read about them. I liked how their romance was a slow burn, it was definitely cute to read about them interacting and helping each other. They had their troubles and an invasion to fight off, but they worked together.
Xavier and Wilhelm were some of the other perspectives that you got to see. I really liked reading from both of their perspectives. Tgey had a few different views on life, but they both wanted to save their home city. Although they fought and disagreed, they were still family. I really liked the family feel of this book. Katja, Wilhelm, and Xavier all had different views on life and ideas, but they still cared for each other even when things got hard.
The action was very exciting in this book and it was definitely fascinating to read about. I felt as if I learned a lot from the battle scenes and from what the soldiers did to try and prepare for battle. It was really engaging. There are some more gruesome wounds and deaths mentioned but it fits the book and the scene.
Before the Fortress Falls is a wonderful book and I would definitely recommend it! Before the Fortress Falls is a historical romance book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
April 2, 2022
A.L. Sowards has once again woven us a tale of historical fiction that opens our eyes and sheds light on a time period that you might not know about, but when you’re done reading it you find yourself understanding more a piece of history… and becoming better because of it.
This book takes place during the 1600s siege of Vienna. A time of non-stop fighting between the Christians and the Muslims. Through different perspectives she is able to shine light on both sides of the story that I appreciated. The book follows the Schor siblings as they each have a different role during the war. One nursing wounded soldiers, one as a soldier fighting, and one leading the behind-the-scenes politics. You also get to know their lifelong friend Toby and his job as a counter miner. Which I found so interesting!
Learning these different aspects creates a well-rounded story and a gift of educating you, but the pacing makes you not want to put it down. There are definitely moments of sadness, anxiety, happiness, love, fear and joy.
There is a romance interwoven into the book between Katja and Toby, and while not being central to the plot, it creates a balance and sense of hope during a dark time. Their love was sweet and inspiring and I’m so glad she included it.
I had thoughts and feelings throughout this book not only of past wars, but also of events happening in our world today. Our eyes need to be open to these acts of bravery and the people that stand in the face of hopelessness and never give up. It was truly inspiring.
I may also have envisioned Lord of the Rings The Two Towers a few times. 😂
I highly recommend this book to all lovers of historical fiction, and even if you don’t think it’s your cup of tea I would say try this one anyways. It may be a story you just find yourself really needing to hear.
This book takes place during the 1600s siege of Vienna. A time of non-stop fighting between the Christians and the Muslims. Through different perspectives she is able to shine light on both sides of the story that I appreciated. The book follows the Schor siblings as they each have a different role during the war. One nursing wounded soldiers, one as a soldier fighting, and one leading the behind-the-scenes politics. You also get to know their lifelong friend Toby and his job as a counter miner. Which I found so interesting!
Learning these different aspects creates a well-rounded story and a gift of educating you, but the pacing makes you not want to put it down. There are definitely moments of sadness, anxiety, happiness, love, fear and joy.
There is a romance interwoven into the book between Katja and Toby, and while not being central to the plot, it creates a balance and sense of hope during a dark time. Their love was sweet and inspiring and I’m so glad she included it.
I had thoughts and feelings throughout this book not only of past wars, but also of events happening in our world today. Our eyes need to be open to these acts of bravery and the people that stand in the face of hopelessness and never give up. It was truly inspiring.
I may also have envisioned Lord of the Rings The Two Towers a few times. 😂
I highly recommend this book to all lovers of historical fiction, and even if you don’t think it’s your cup of tea I would say try this one anyways. It may be a story you just find yourself really needing to hear.
March 29, 2022
This is set during the siege of Vienna in 1683. I loved that Sowards used multiple narrators to tell the story and to add different perspectives to the story - the effort to bring in reinforcements, the day to day combat to protect the wall and the city, the underground work to thwart the Turkish miners, and the work many were involved in inside the city to care for the sick and wounded. I love how Sowards weaves fictional characters with actual people. She beautifully weaves together historical accounts with the stories of the characters she created.
I loved the juxtaposition of Katja and Toby finding love and the battle to save Vienna. It's a beautiful reminder that there is hope to be found in our darkest moments. And I love the beautiful reminder that our source of hope is Christ - that He died for us and was resurrected for us and that because of Him we will find peace after we die.
I love this book. Sowards is a master of historical fiction! I highly recommend it!
I loved the juxtaposition of Katja and Toby finding love and the battle to save Vienna. It's a beautiful reminder that there is hope to be found in our darkest moments. And I love the beautiful reminder that our source of hope is Christ - that He died for us and was resurrected for us and that because of Him we will find peace after we die.
I love this book. Sowards is a master of historical fiction! I highly recommend it!
March 17, 2022
4.5/5 stars
Often when I go to historical sites I imagine what it might have been like to have lived there or what people would have done when an event took place. A.L. Sowards has written a fascinating story that places you right in the midst of a crucial time in the history of Vienna. With such gripping detail, I felt like I was sewing sandbags along with Katja, fighting alongside Toby, and feeling the sense of dread as the Turks were bombarding the city. History truly came alive as Katja, her brothers, and Toby all had important parts to play in the destiny of Vienna. Each person had a different role that provided a rich and in depth perspective of the siege.
With poignant events during the siege, I saw what people living during this time would have felt. I loved the healing and reconciliation that took place between Katja’s brothers. Toby and Katja’s tender love story showed that there is hope to continue on, even through the most difficult of circumstances. Death is shown in the battles, but if that is too much for you, you can skim through those details. At points it was intense, but was well done and necessary to show the reality of what was occurring. I recommend reading this richly detailed and interesting book if you like historical fiction or historical romance.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy of the book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Often when I go to historical sites I imagine what it might have been like to have lived there or what people would have done when an event took place. A.L. Sowards has written a fascinating story that places you right in the midst of a crucial time in the history of Vienna. With such gripping detail, I felt like I was sewing sandbags along with Katja, fighting alongside Toby, and feeling the sense of dread as the Turks were bombarding the city. History truly came alive as Katja, her brothers, and Toby all had important parts to play in the destiny of Vienna. Each person had a different role that provided a rich and in depth perspective of the siege.
With poignant events during the siege, I saw what people living during this time would have felt. I loved the healing and reconciliation that took place between Katja’s brothers. Toby and Katja’s tender love story showed that there is hope to continue on, even through the most difficult of circumstances. Death is shown in the battles, but if that is too much for you, you can skim through those details. At points it was intense, but was well done and necessary to show the reality of what was occurring. I recommend reading this richly detailed and interesting book if you like historical fiction or historical romance.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy of the book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
April 9, 2022
This piece of historical fiction is set in the 1600’s and tells the story of the siege of Vienna by the Ottoman Turks. Greatly outnumbered, the small band of Vienna’s soldiers hold the bastions against 100,000 to 300,000 Turks who are determined to annihilate the infidel Christians. This is fascinating history I’ve never heard about before (one reason I always love this author’s books). The type of warfare described intrigued me. There was the above ground battle with cannons and muskets and an underground war with miners and counterminers, digging tunnels to try to get under their defensive buildings and blast the foundations out from under them, giving the Turks ways to infiltrate closer to the city.
Katya and Toby and Xavier and Wilhelm are some of the characters we meet in this story, which had everything I love in a book—thrilling battle scenes, serious emotional appeal, a unique setting and people, and even a little romance. This book really tugged at my heart, making me feel the fear, the anxiety, the hopelessness and triumph through each battle scene and conflict. I was right there with the characters, worrying each day that today would be the last day of freedom, praying that their allies would show up to deliver them from annihilation and slavery. Loved this book. The ending really packed an emotional punch that made the harrowing conflict worth it. If you want to learn about a new piece of history you’ve probably never read about before, this book should be put on your must-read list.
Katya and Toby and Xavier and Wilhelm are some of the characters we meet in this story, which had everything I love in a book—thrilling battle scenes, serious emotional appeal, a unique setting and people, and even a little romance. This book really tugged at my heart, making me feel the fear, the anxiety, the hopelessness and triumph through each battle scene and conflict. I was right there with the characters, worrying each day that today would be the last day of freedom, praying that their allies would show up to deliver them from annihilation and slavery. Loved this book. The ending really packed an emotional punch that made the harrowing conflict worth it. If you want to learn about a new piece of history you’ve probably never read about before, this book should be put on your must-read list.
March 31, 2022
European history was my favorite in college. I enjoyed this book so much. There was so much history and research packed into this story that you felt like you were there living it with them. I of course loved the love story between Katja and Toby, but I really enjoyed all the other points of view as well. It helped give a well rounded story, as well as included more history that we would not have had if we'd only had Katja and Toby's POV.
There is a warning at the beginning that while it is a clean novel, there are still some sensitive and harder parts of war that were addressed. There were parts that were a little harder for me to read, but I still appreciated them being part of the story. War is awful and I appreciate the way the author handled it.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley. This is my honest review.
There is a warning at the beginning that while it is a clean novel, there are still some sensitive and harder parts of war that were addressed. There were parts that were a little harder for me to read, but I still appreciated them being part of the story. War is awful and I appreciate the way the author handled it.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley. This is my honest review.
March 29, 2022
This book was such a timely read, given current events. Meticulously researched, the story of three siblings fighting for freedom, Christianity, and each other shows both the best and worst of humanity. Sowards takes her readers and places them in the middle of seventeenth century Vienna, waiting for the city to fall and praying that it doesn’t. I took my time with this book, wanting to understand the details and really immerse myself in the story. It was worth every minute.
Though this book does have a sweet romance at the heart of it, I would label it as more historical fiction.
4.5 stars, rounded up.
Though this book does have a sweet romance at the heart of it, I would label it as more historical fiction.
4.5 stars, rounded up.
April 2, 2022
“Love can make things more painful because fear of losing it is so sharp. But love is also what makes life so beautiful and sweet - sometimes it’s the only thing that makes it worth the struggle.”
Rumors that Vienna is about to be attacked by the Ottoman army are rampant, so Wilhelm von Schor evacuates along with his family. But his sister Katja is reluctant to leave. When she hears her twin brother might be headed back to Vienna to protect it, she impulsively decides to get out of the family carriage and walks back to her home. She ends up reuniting with her twin, Xavier, and her childhood friend, Toby. Katja is happy to be with both of them but when the Ottomans attack, she wonders if she made the wrong choice in staying behind. She can’t do anything about that, and gets to work helping wherever she can in her city. With Xavier on the front lines, Toby in the countermines, and Katja volunteering in the hospital, they all wonder if reinforcements will come before their city falls.
This was such an exciting book! It captured my attention from the first page, and kept it until the end! It also made me even more sympathetic towards people who have to live in war zones, and I hope I never have to. This is a story of love, faith, and war based on real events, and I cried several times while reading it. This book is really good, even if some of the events were hard to read about.
Content note: as it is a war story, there’s a lot of violence and some desecration of bodies. I didn’t feel like the descriptions were overly gory though.
I received a complementary copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rumors that Vienna is about to be attacked by the Ottoman army are rampant, so Wilhelm von Schor evacuates along with his family. But his sister Katja is reluctant to leave. When she hears her twin brother might be headed back to Vienna to protect it, she impulsively decides to get out of the family carriage and walks back to her home. She ends up reuniting with her twin, Xavier, and her childhood friend, Toby. Katja is happy to be with both of them but when the Ottomans attack, she wonders if she made the wrong choice in staying behind. She can’t do anything about that, and gets to work helping wherever she can in her city. With Xavier on the front lines, Toby in the countermines, and Katja volunteering in the hospital, they all wonder if reinforcements will come before their city falls.
This was such an exciting book! It captured my attention from the first page, and kept it until the end! It also made me even more sympathetic towards people who have to live in war zones, and I hope I never have to. This is a story of love, faith, and war based on real events, and I cried several times while reading it. This book is really good, even if some of the events were hard to read about.
Content note: as it is a war story, there’s a lot of violence and some desecration of bodies. I didn’t feel like the descriptions were overly gory though.
I received a complementary copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 18, 2023
Oh. My. Goodness. I cannot recommend this book enough. I’m a huge fan of all of A.L. Sowards’ books but she really blew me away with this one. So here’s two things that are really sticking with me.
First, I absolutely love the way she gave so many different perspectives throughout the book. You get to read from the perspective of the advancing Ottoman army (Ahmed), the Imperial Forces defending Vienna above and below the ground (Toby and Xavier), those supporting the army from within the walls (Katja), and the diplomats trying to recruit allies (Wilhelm). Every angle was covered and each was given justice. The characters were so real and so incredibly human. They had faults and they made mistakes but they also learned and they loved and ahh it was just so good!
Second, the emotion. WOW was this an emotional roller coaster. Tissues are 100% a necessity as I was crying through most of it. Not just a few tears either, like, for real crying people. Through heartbreak and tragedy but also through hope. A.L. Sowards does a fantastic job weaving the emotion into this story by contrasting fear and despair with love and hope. I absolutely love this quote from the book that seems to so perfectly encompass all of this. “Love can make things more painful because fear of losing it is so sharp. But love is also what makes life so beautiful and sweet - sometimes it’s the only thing that makes it worth the struggle… You keep working, and you keep praying. Grip your hope tightly and don’t let it go. Clouds may darken it, may blot it out completely, but it’s worth holding on to, even when you can’t feel it or see it.”
This book made an impact on me and I know I’ll be rereading it. Such an amazing and inspiring story and definitely one of my all time favorite books.
First, I absolutely love the way she gave so many different perspectives throughout the book. You get to read from the perspective of the advancing Ottoman army (Ahmed), the Imperial Forces defending Vienna above and below the ground (Toby and Xavier), those supporting the army from within the walls (Katja), and the diplomats trying to recruit allies (Wilhelm). Every angle was covered and each was given justice. The characters were so real and so incredibly human. They had faults and they made mistakes but they also learned and they loved and ahh it was just so good!
Second, the emotion. WOW was this an emotional roller coaster. Tissues are 100% a necessity as I was crying through most of it. Not just a few tears either, like, for real crying people. Through heartbreak and tragedy but also through hope. A.L. Sowards does a fantastic job weaving the emotion into this story by contrasting fear and despair with love and hope. I absolutely love this quote from the book that seems to so perfectly encompass all of this. “Love can make things more painful because fear of losing it is so sharp. But love is also what makes life so beautiful and sweet - sometimes it’s the only thing that makes it worth the struggle… You keep working, and you keep praying. Grip your hope tightly and don’t let it go. Clouds may darken it, may blot it out completely, but it’s worth holding on to, even when you can’t feel it or see it.”
This book made an impact on me and I know I’ll be rereading it. Such an amazing and inspiring story and definitely one of my all time favorite books.
April 1, 2022
"Before the Fortress Falls" is about a pivotal battle that occurred at Vienna in 1683. There were five point-of-view characters to provide "firsthand" experience of various aspects of the battle: Wilhelm worked as a diplomat to help gather an army of allies to break the siege; his brother Xavier lead a group of musketeers tasked with defending the walls of Vienna; his sister Katja helped with the sick and injured in the hospital; their childhood friend, Toby, used his carpentry skills to shore up the countermines and take the battle underground. Plus brief scenes from the viewpoint of an enemy officer. At first, it felt like the characters mainly existed to allow the reader to experience the major events of the siege. Interesting historical details about the siege were woven into the suspenseful writing and brought the siege alive in my imagination.
About halfway through, I started to care about what happened to them. Toby and Katja managed to spend more time together, renewing their friendship but also supporting each other through the hard times and falling in love. Toby, Katja, and Xavier struggled with the loss of friends and eventually the feeling that it was a hopeless battle. Xavier (and the others) found hope and strength from his Christian faith and his belief in a better life after death. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this suspenseful historical, especially to anyone interested in what it'd be like to be in a siege.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
About halfway through, I started to care about what happened to them. Toby and Katja managed to spend more time together, renewing their friendship but also supporting each other through the hard times and falling in love. Toby, Katja, and Xavier struggled with the loss of friends and eventually the feeling that it was a hopeless battle. Xavier (and the others) found hope and strength from his Christian faith and his belief in a better life after death. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this suspenseful historical, especially to anyone interested in what it'd be like to be in a siege.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
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