Book Review: Of Love and Treason

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Kimberly's Rating (out of 5 hearts)
Title:               Of Love and Treason
Author:           Jamie Ogle*
Published:      January 23, 2024        
Pages:             384
Genre:             Historical Christian Romance
Setting:           Rome, AD 270
 
What happens when a a blind woman falls for a man whose life is in constant danger?

Valentine (as in St. Valentine), a public notarius by occupation, he’s also a clandestine leader of the underground church—a beacon of hope in the heart of the Roman Empire. His unwavering commitment to love and faith compels him to defy the emperor's marriage ban, risking his life for the sake of his convictions.

Iris, the daughter of a Roman jailor, navigates a world veiled in darkness, both literal and metaphorical. Seeking to regain her sight and alleviate her family's burdens, she embarks on a journey that leads her to Valentine and his underground church.

The story transports readers to ancient Rome, where love and faith collide with the oppressive forces of tyranny. As Valentine's bravery spreads, so too does the shadow of danger that threatens to engulf him and those he holds dear.

Amidst betrayal and peril, Valentine and Iris find themselves grappling with the complexities of their faith and the resilience of the human spirit. Theirs is a story of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion, set against the backdrop of one of history's most formidable empires.

From start to finish, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Here’s what I loved:
  • The story of Christians who faced more adversity than I’ll, thankfully, ever know. Their steadfast faith is believable and inspiring.
  • The well-developed characters, both main and secondary. I liked Val and Iris from the get-go.
  • The surprising humor that's tasteful, subtle, and perfectly placed in the story
  • The historical detail is beautifully written.
  • The love stories. Yes, plural.
  • This isn’t a happily ever after in human terms, but in heavenly.
  • The cover. Oh, my!
Have a tissue box handy, but don’t miss this book.

*You can find Jamie at www.jamieogle.com