"Whatever we pour our treasure into will ultimately captivate our hearts. What captivates our hearts we worship. What we worship remakes us - into its image."

What an incredible, unforgettable, epic tale of human suffering, sin, and redemption. As a newbie to Lori Benton's writing, I knew I would be settling in for a good read when I started this book based on her reputation. And this book has clearly surpassed my expectations and more. The book takes the reader seamlessly from the moors of Scotland to the bowels of an English ship to a plantation in North Carolina and beyond as Alex's life unfolds with many twists and turns. Alex is a lovable hero who is a brave, loyal and protective warrior, imprisoned during the Jacobite uprising and sent as an indentured servant to the American colony. His anger and grief are palpable, especially when he's brutally honest about his misgivings toward God. Joanna is the plantation mistress who is kind, tender, hard-working, and God-fearing. Her view on slavery is quite unique given the time period and provides a rich subplot. The characters, even the secondary ones like Reverend Pauling and Elijah, are thoroughly engaging and the plot - filled with strife, betrayals, and longings - is powerful in its intensity and captivating in its depth. God can use all things - sin, grief, pain, sorrow, and suffering - for good and Alex and Joanna learn this beautiful but heart-rending lesson one chapter at a time. 

Historical fiction fans will adore this wonderfully crafted novel. I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley and was not required to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

“D’ye still believe there’s a God?”

That’s the question Alex MacKinnon must answer. Labeled a traitor, shipped off to America, and sold as an indentured servant, Alex struggles to see the hand of God at work in his life.

Joanna Carey dreams of a life very different from the one she now lives—a life not built on the backs of slaves. But as a woman in the 1700s, is it possible to make her dream a reality?

In this sweeping historical novel, readers are drawn back in time to the early days of the Carolinas and into the lives of Alex and Joanna as they battle treachery, murder, betrayal, and unspeakable evil. Through their story, Benton beautifully illustrates the height, breadth, and depth of the true King’s mercy. 

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is my first book by Lori Benton but it will NOT be my last. It was incredible - truly beyond my skills to do a just review of it. The characterization was amazing — I felt that I truly knew the heart of each person (good and truly evil). The descriptions of each person and place had me totally immersed, whether in the war between the Brits and the Jacobites, imprisoned on board ship, living in 18th century North Carolina with the indentured and enslaved folks, being accepted as a member of a tribe of Cherokees, or listening and learning as the Word of God spoke to and changed hearts. I highly recommend this book and urge those who are interested to be prepared to have their hearts deeply moved — as well as finding it hard to put their book or Kindle down, even to sleep.

After reading all of the published books to date in the Outlander series, I found myself drawn to the description of "The King's Mercy," and of course, the reference made "For readers of Sara Donati and Diana Gabaldon" in the first line.  You may want to consider adding "readers of Ginny Dye's Bregdan Chronicles" to the description.  

The character of Alex MacKinnon and Outlander's Jamie Fraser were interchangeable in my mind as I read "The King's Mercy."  There were many similarities in both their character and in the qualities that made them natural leaders.  Just as I found Joanna Carey to be interchangeable in spirit and values with the heroine, Carrie Cromwell of the Bregdan Chronicles, fans of both series should relate to the physical, emotional, and spiritual growth of Alex MacKinnon and steadfast loyalty and faith of Joanna.  

I was surprised by the amount of scripture quoted throughout the story and the plot's strong spiritual theme and found myself needing to reread many passages to grasp the intended message.  There were also times when it was necessary to read paragraphs a second time because it was not always clear to me who was speaking.

Overall I enjoyed the story and found the writing engaging.

First off, the main female character has a great name ;) (my name. Aside from the author writing a character with my name, Joanna, I loved reading about this different setting in NC. This is a time period not often written about, but I feel like one that should be heard. I never even think of settlers during this time below Virginia, but of course they were there. I loved how MacKinnon came to America because it felt accurate. HIs whole personality was very believable. The treatment of slaves also, sadly seemed accurate based on what you hear and read. This book is probably not for young teenagers because of some of those details. I only say that because I read a lot of my mother's books when I was a teen. I had never read this author before, but I loved the book. I'd definitely recommend it and I think you'll learn a bit of history as you read.

I received this book through netgalley for my honest review. Opinions are my own.

For some reason, whenever I imagined the main male character, I thought of Chris Hemsworth! He would have a totally wrong accent though! Ha!

Lori Benton writes such interesting and captivating stories...they remind me of a mini series. So rich and full of imagery. But I know why I took so long to get into her books. They always seem to start with some conflict or the man in dire straits. I just don't enjoy those types of scenes. I'm OK once I get past the first chapter or two.

I liked the main female protagonist...kind hearted Joanna who lived out her faith in the way she interacted with people. While Alex was not a believer till later in the book, he was a good man who even made a corn-husk doll for Joanna's sister. I dd not like the way he deserted Joanna and left her to her fate though!

There are some really dark parts in the narrative related to slavery and child abuse. Am so glad for the happy endings! 

I can't put my finger on it but though I enjoyed the story, I found myself skipping many paragraphs. I still can't wait to see what Lori Benton will write about next!

Thank you Netgalley and WaterBrook & Multnomah for the review copy. Sorry it took so long. I'm working hard on clearing my backlog.

This book intreguied me from the beginning. I love history and this story drew you in right away! The more I learned of Alex the more I liked him. He was strong both physically but mentally as well. His faith was rocked with all the horrors he saw and was inflicted upon him. But when he came to Severn he was confronted with people who helped him see compassion despite all the horrors that continued.
Joanna was such a beautiful lady, both inside and out! She was filled with compassion and saw people for who they were not just their station in life! Her faith in God was rock solid despite losing her mother, and having to deal with Mr Reeves. 
Each one of the characters in this book was detailed perfectly and you saw each one for who they were. 
I was so excited when I saw the illustration and similarity of Paul from the Bible in the story!!
Lori Benton is a new author to me, but you can be assured that I will be reading more of her books in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Oversight! I read this book last summer, and as I was thinking about the plot—months later!—I discovered I’d never left my review. How could this be? This was one of my favorite reads of 2019! Lori Benton never fails to sweep the reader into a tale that bends into may blind curves. She takes what most would consider “plot enough” and manages to enlarge it in ways that truly keeps the reader on edge. This was a big story, with a huge premise and wide-ranging setting, and a cast of characters filled with great depth. If you’re ready to settle in and get swept up into an epic, read The King’s Mercy. You won’t be disappointed.

I enjoyed this book!  It was a look into what happened to the rebellious Scots who were not killed or executed by the English.  I did begin to suspect the ending long before all the events started unraveling.  But there were still some things I hadn't expected.  I love historical fiction and this book was very interesting and engaging.

Lori Benton chooses words with great attention to details. Her prose is rich. Her dialogue spot on. The characters speak with authentic voices drawing you into the narrative. I just finished reading Benton’s latest novel , The King’s Mercy, and found it entirely enjoyable. The setting spans the North Carolina landscape from the coast to the mountains. It’s a complete story with mystery, romance, history, and rock solid Christian theology. Her leading characters eventually arrive at a happy ending. The plot twists and turns make you wonder if better days for them will truly arrive. A repulsive character keeps you guessing throughout the story and his backstory and abhorrent behavior is revealed in its entirety.

I’m not sure which I liked best - the description of the North Carolina landscape, the rugged Scotsman, the faithful itinerant pastor, the Native American community, or the heroine, Joanna. Fans of historical fiction will be pleased to spend time with the characters in this book.

The King’s Mercy was a 2019 summer release and in my TBR queue. I’m so glad I picked it up to read. I was drawn to it because previously I read, A Flight of Arrows and found it to be equally satisfying. The e-book I read was an ARC that I accepted from the publisher. The review is my honest opinion of this historical fiction book..#TheKingsMercy#NetGalley

The King’s Mercy by Lori Benton is a story of the early years in America where the rich rule and the poor serve them. The story begins in the summer of 1747 in North Carolina. Alex McKinnon has been spared being hanged to be sent as an indentured servant to Severn Plantation. His is unusually tall and is given the job of training to become the blacksmith for Severn. Not feeling that has been much mercy shown to him he has turned away from God. When times get even darker will he turn back to the God he knew?
I enjoyed this book. It is a nice long story so you really get to know the characters. The portrayal of the way the slaves are treated are mostly realistic but at times a bit more ideals of the future. I do imagine some slave owners were more protective and cared for their property than others. Everyone in the story is not who they first appear to be and there is evil lurking around many corners. I give this book 5 of 5 stars as it kept my attention and made me want to read until I got to the end. This book will appeal to a wide audience of readers who enjoy historical fiction.
I received an advance copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

I JUST CAN'T EVEN. *Is flabbergasted*

This is my first Lori Benton book, and after having a couple of hours of "cool down time" to slowly adjust back into reality I believe I'm ready to write a coherent review. *clears throat*

I will--to be sure--picking up more of Benton's books, and possibly placing them on my shelf of the treasured library at home.

TBH most of my five star books surprise me in an amazing way, which is why they end up on my Favorites shelf. ((I'm not a super-duper critical person, although I can be.)) Well, The King's Mercy did just that, it surprised me...over and over and over again. My life is all the better for it too. Now I have the memory of this beautiful story world to add to my collection.

Setting ~ 1747 - 1748 .... in Scotland, on ships, in North Carolina, in the mountains, swamps, and the plantation. They were all adequately researched and detailed.

Plot ~ I JUST CAN'T EVEN. I don't know where to begin...my thoughts in this area are very messy. It was riveting and I didn't want to leave. The King's Mercy is a Christian Historical Fiction, and I don't normally read such because they don't provide the wild rides that I like. However, this book did just what I love. I yanked me by the throat and hurled me through 400+ pages of wonder in the unexpected.

Description ~ So up my alley. It provided a perfect amount of detail in every scene, allowing me to just float right along the pages without forcing myself to imagine. It worked like details are supposed to.

Content ~ Yes. It's more of an Adult's Novel then YA. While I wouldn't say it's unclean it certainly hints at a lot of things sexually related. Not in an un-Christian manner, however. There is death, but it's not gory. Being an Adult Novel it was certainly trying to bring to light the evil deeds done in darkness, without saying so much as to be vile.

Romance ~ Centered on Christ and not like insta-love. It was solid and entertaining, completely swoon-worthy for fangirls like me. ^.^ While each character did dwell on the other a lot--after about halfway through--I found it to be relatable and understandable. I admire the way Benton crafted it, and I love her style. Slow-paced and yet fast-paced too.....so contradicting.

Characters ~ Like people are supposed to be. Real. Relatable. Full of emotion and different than the person next to them. I fell deeply in love with them all. My chest aches at the thought of letting them all go. I have a memory of each of them to add to my collection...and it makes me sad being left with only that memory.

Overall ~ I'm reading more by Lori Benton. I'm a fangirl of this. It deserves an infinity of stars and love.

**FTC DISCLOSURE** I received a copy of this from NetGalley. All opinions are my own and are not in any way biased. I'm not affiliated with the author. :) Since this is only my opinion I don't wish for it to be taken personally. Thank you. ^.^

The beginning of this book was enjoyable and I was well absorbed into the characters but found the encounters in Severn and thereafter to be so farfetched.  I felt the spiritual aspect that ran through the story (though not present in the beginning) didn't enhance as much as distract.  I thought the story had a good plot but was predictable and found that a bit frustrating.

Alex MacKinnon is a pardoned Jacobite who is exiled to the Colonies. He ends up on a North Carolina plantation owned by a widower and managed by a rather suspicious character.

The widower's stepdaughter, Joanna Carey, tries to help keep things running as the plantation meets various setbacks. One of these is blamed on the new indenture, Alex, which leads to a turning point in the story.

There is a strong romance thread involving the two main characters and also a spiritual message which comes into sharp focus at the end of the story. The writing is strong. I would not recommend it for younger readers, however, because the villain is a little over-the-top.

It took four tries to get through the first couple of chapters. I took a hiatus from fantasy to read this one. Not really a good idea. So, I had to take a couple of months off from reading and gave this one another try. I did make it through. The story overall was very well written and nice. I didn't like the villain and while his heinous acts were not mentioned until the end, my skin all but crawled every time he took the stage. The author was very discrete with his acts and honestly, most of it went right over my head. I cannot imagine what he did to those girls, except Jemma.
Joanna and Alex were amazing. I loved Elijah and my heart bled for him. This was definitely the epitome of a historical novel. I enjoyed reading about the battle between Scotland and England. I'm not familiar with that history so I cannot say how accurate it is but that didn't dimension its entertainment value.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The King’s Mercy takes place in the mid 1700’s and is the story of Alex MacKinnon, a Scottish Jacobite who has been taken captive by the British and exiled to the American colonies as an indentured servant. He is to serve a retired British Navy captain for seven years as a blacksmith, but he longs for his freedom. Joanna Carey is the captain’s step-daughter who runs the household at the Severn plantation, but she’s unhappy — not just with her role as mistress of the plantation, but with the slave/owner relationship and with the constant drive her father has to build a bigger plantation and to have more. She yearns for a simpler life, for freedom for the slaves, and for freedom for herself. She finds an unlikely ally in the new blacksmith, but finding a way to make their shared vision happen seems unlikely, especially when a more suitable suitor has her step-father’s approval.

I loved every bit of The King’s Mercy. Alex was such an intense, magnetic character — an all-or-nothing, masculine, emotional man. I couldn’t help but like him from the beginning. Joanna was so relatable — a woman who, on the outside held everything and everyone together, but on the inside, she was screaming for someone to want what was best for her and to do for her what she constantly did for everyone else. I loved the progression of Alex’s faith throughout the story. I enjoyed the unpredictable turns the story took, and there was constant action — never a dull moment. The King’s Mercy was a complete pleasure to read from start to finish.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not obligated to give a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

Following the battle of Culloden, Alex MacKinnon is captured by the King's men. At the King's mercy he is exiled to North Carolina to serve a seven year indenture. 

On arrival he meets Joanna Carey, step daughter to the owner of the plantation and romance begins to blossom but not is all as it seems for she has already been asked for her hand in marriage by the plantations overseer Phineas Reeves.

When accidents keep happening and slaves begin to disappear Alex finds himself blamed, given the chance to escape he takes it.

He returns when he learns of Reeves' plans but will he make it back in time before tragedy strikes?

I was totally immersed in this story from the first page. I love the characters created especially Alex and Moon. 

I was pleasantly surprised by the history in this book as I was previously unaware of how people ended up serving indentures.

This is the first I've read by this author and I would be happy to read more.

For those looking for some historical fiction with romance I'd recommend this!

Also loved the Gaelic and Scottish referenced thrown in!

I think I have read all of this author's books now, and I've not been disappointed once.  This particular novel is a little different from her others, but I enjoyed it just as much as the others and it helped to round out the created world she is developing.
Easy to sink into, good story to ponder, great characters with flaws and redemptions.  Well rounded read.
I was given a digital copy of this book through NetGalley to enjoy and review.  All opinions are expressly my own.

Using her expansive knowledge of early American history, Lori Benton once again crafts an immersive story that will make any reader grateful for air conditioning and cars. Sadly, the accuracies of the time period include the the main character Joanna, who has many favorable qualities but depends on the men around her to move her own life forward. Readers who enjoy a historical fiction will undoubtably enjoy this novel and the vibrant character of Alex MacKinnon. Those who like to also read about strong female characters may find this story to be frustratingly too accurate to the time period.

The King's Mercy is a story somewhat different from the rest of Lori's other books. While the narrative does still feature Native Americans, they play a much smaller part in this than they have in her other works.

I was pleasantly surprised by the history woven into this story. While I had already known that many people had been forced into indenture by various kings as a form of punishment, I had not known of the conflict which took place in this book which resulted in Alex's being sent to the colonies. These little nuggets of history are why I love author's like Lori Benton.

However, I was not as taken with this book has I have been with Lori's others. It was still an enjoyable read, but I did not find myself relating as well with the characters or the events of the story. While the day to day tasks and mannerisms of this book are perhaps better researched, the historical events did not seem to play as great of a part.

Still, I appreciated the diversity of characters and the differing view points they all had on the same events. And once Joanna began to question whether or not her life, and that of those around her, truly had to remain as it always had been, I was excited to find out how she would go about changing things... or perhaps what plans God had for all of them.

I think that this will be a great read for those who enjoy novels set on plantations, as well as stories surrounding the issue of slavery and human suffering. For fans of Lori's usual tales of the clash and melding of Native American and White culture, however, this may not be your preferred one of Lori's books.

I have provided an honest review after receiving an ARC from the publisher.