Land of the Living and the Dead by Shauna Lawless

This is the third novel in the Gael Song Series. This novel is full of Irish history, folklore, and mythology. The author has created unforgettable characters who are both good and evil. I hesitate to say more for fear of exposing spoilers. I find myself wishing that this would someday be a movie. Again, I was pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed this historical fantasy. I couldn't put the book down, and I anxiously await the fourth book in the series. Again, kudos to Shauna Lawless.

Silk Road by Colin Falconer

 This is a great historical fiction read. In 1260 CE, a knight and a cantankerous priest travel the treacherous Silk Road in an attempt to bring Christianity to the Mongol tribes of the East Asian steppes. The author vividly describes the differing landscapes, cultures, and customs of the Mongol people. The story centers on Josseran Sarrazini, a Frank Templar Knight charged with seeing the Priest on his mission. It is an epic adventure from start to finish. The characters struggle with duty, faith, and sin while enduring personality clashes with others and their host. I love reading about different cultures and religions. This novel was utterly engrossing, and I highly recommend it to all who enjoy historical fiction and adventure. Happy reading!