Bestselling authors Mindy Starns Clark and Leslie Gould have joined forces and written a fascinating novel that weaves the past and present into one unique, sweeping saga of love, mystery, and courage. My Brother’s Crown is the first book in a new series from Harvest House Publishers known as Cousins of the Dove. It reveals a fascinating story which connects one present-day young woman named Renee Talbot with her ancestor, Catherine Gillet, who lived in France during the mid-1600s. Both women are connected not only by blood, but also by a mysterious document know as the Persecution Pamphlet, and perhaps a dark mystery that occurred many years ago…

I often enjoy novels that travel back and forth between historical and modern-day time periods, weaving the two narratives into one. This book was no exception. Its best feature was a unique storyline defined by the double perspectives and historical details. It was not perfect, however, and it seems that many strengths also had a corresponding weakness… Undeniably the characters from both stories were well developed and, for the most part, realistically portrayed. Their emotions were vivid, and truly became my emotions too. At times, however, I did not agree with a character’s actions and opinions, and found the reasons behind them to be unfounded. Although the storyline was interesting and intricate, it was not without drawbacks, as well. While it began with gusto, moving along at a fast yet highly detailed pace, this changed as time went on. Towards the middle of the book, the plot of the historical portion slowed down significantly, but thankfully picked up again towards the end. As both stories drew to a close, it became apparent that certain aspects would not be completely revealed in this book, but would continue on in a sequel set to be released in the second half of 2016.

Overall, I hope I have conveyed the fact that My Brother’s Crown is a quality, enjoyable work of fiction that possesses many excellent qualities. Although not perfect, the downfalls are minor enough that I still highly recommend this book, and the Cousins of the Dove series in general. If you enjoy intertwining stories that take place in two different time periods, don’t miss My Brother’s Crown – but be prepared to anxiously await the sequel!

This book was provided courtesy of Harvest House Publishers, in exchange for my honest review.