Queen Mary’s reign has brought stability to Laurence’s family—but it has also hidden dangerous truths. When the words of a martyr awaken questions he cannot ignore, Laurence is drawn toward a forbidden faith that could cost him everything.

London is no longer safe. The Bishop’s soldiers hunt those who don’t hold to Catholicism. Friends turn away. Trust becomes dangerous. As fear tightens its grip, Laurence must decide whom to believe—and what he is willing to lose.

As the Voice of the ashes calls him forward, will he stand for truth, even if it means standing alone?

Readers say:

Rating: 5 out of 5.

I received this book in the mail on Sunday, and by Tuesday, it was already devoured. And now I am weeping because I desire to read it again for the first time. 

What is so special about this book? 

It tells the story of Laurence, a Catholic Priest’s son, who gets saved and becomes a Protestant in a time where Catholicism is the main religion, and anything else is heresy. So converting means you will most likely face death. 

This novel is the absolute definition of a God-honoring historical fiction read, and it will truly encourage you in your walk with the Lord.

 There was nothing I didn’t like about it. It was extremely wholesome, though I do recommend it for ages 12+ due to a little bit of violence, but it is nothing extreme.

This book is going straight into my most-loved book category! I HIGHLY recommend it.

Braylynne

Rating: 5 out of 5.

As a work of historical fiction, I think this is the best I’ve read of that time period – good, appropriate style and diction with a message or choice for everyone, regardless of what your position in life is. I would recommend you read it for yourself to find out what the message is; it’ll be clearer that way. And read the WHOLE thing. Don’t stop part way through; you’ll miss out if you do.

As a teacher of ESL, I’m glad I can even recommend it to C1 level students. The vocabulary and style make for a comfortable read with a clear message, while improving vocabulary and diction.

Clear and thought provoking.

R.V.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

This is perhaps the best historical fiction I can recall reading. The historical accuracy lines up well with stories I have read from the Martyr’s Mirror. The plot is realistic.

My favourite part is the way the author walks the reader through whatever inner conflict he may have to come to the right place at the end. It doesn’t matter whether it’s someone who is afraid what others will think, someone who is holding onto some deep personal hurt, or someone who believes himself to have committed an unpardonable sin. Everyone is brought to the right conclusion at the end – if he is willing to be lead there.

The evil parts of life are not denied or avoided, but the author does not focus on all the gory details. “The lash fell.” “The wood crackled into flame.” This quite pleasingly contrasts with other reports of the persecution against the protestants where torture is described in gory detail.

To sum it all up, it is a thought provoking, upbuilding, engaging book – profitable for the young person seeking truth.

S.V.