I am Mercy//Book Review

I recently read an historical novel by a young self-published author. I chose to read this book because the author is a young female struggling to balance writing, self-publishing, and college life and I felt kinship with that. I was in that very same place not so long ago. Also, we have the same name, so, how I could not read her book? (For those of you who aren't aware, I often go by Mandi). Anyway, that's how I came to the decision to read this book. Also, it has a very fantasy vibe and fantasy is my jam.

At any rate, after reading it, I decided I should definitely review it. However, it has taken me more weeks than it should have to actually get around to doing the review. So without further ado...

Here's my review of I am Mercy by Mandi Lynn.

Imagine living every day, knowing your family doesn’t love you. Imagine living a life in a world that looks at you as a curse. In 14th century France Aida is accused of being a witch when the Black Death wipes through her village. Abandoned by her family she is surrounded by death and disease, but when a woman who may actually be a witch tells her how to cure the plague it may mean uncovering a dark magic. But if that means being able to save those you love, wouldn’t you do it? Even if they didn’t love you back?

First off, my overall impression of the book was that it is well researched and an enjoyable read.

The book takes place in France in the 14th century. Miss Lynn expertly brings the setting vividly before the reader's imagination. Her descriptions of the places, the customs, and general life in that period of time are intriguing, fascinating, and fun. The setting comes to life beautifully and I loved that portion of the book.

Mandi Lynn's characters are interesting to say the least. They jump right off the page and demand your attention. They are all complex, fascinating people and I enjoyed seeing their various struggles, victories, and how they grew and changed throughout the story. The main character, Aida de Luna, is captivating and her story is compelling.

Miss Lynn definitely succeeds in taking the reader on a gripping journey, and should you venture to read I am Mercy be prepared to have your emotions strung out and played like a harp. Miss Lynn will no doubt quite effectively play a haunting melody with those strung out emotions. Her understanding of human emotions is astounding and since I for one am a sucker of tear-jerking stories, I loved it.

I will add, though, that it started out as a slow read and it took me several chapters to get into it. That aside, by the time I was finished I am Mercy more than earned its spot on my bookshelf.

Also, for any of my readers who are against fantasy/magic, this book definitely has some of those elements so read at your own discretion.

Here's Mandi's Website so feel free to go check it out! :)