Inspired by the vision of the Young Lady Sapphira, Rosalind of Ipsworth joins a group of men, women, and children as a defender of the cross, seeking to free captives from prisons near Tripoli. She gladly gives herself to the cause, as she’s haunted by a tragic mistake and no longer deserves such joys as marriage and family might bring.

Sir Randel Penigree was reared to serve in the church, but dreams of protecting the innocent as a knight. Joining a crusade to escape humiliation at home, he finds himself drawn to Rosalind as they partner to train and protect a group of young adolescents. When they face political machinations, danger, and an unknown enemy bent on their destruction, they are forced to reconsider their priorities and the very nature of the God they serve.

My Thoughts

Rosalind and Sir Randel embark on a treacherous adventure with a large load of emotional baggage. Rosalind is still determined to deny herself any happiness as she continues to grieve her unborn child. Sir Randel has regrets of his own haunting him in his dreams and occasionally snatching his awareness during the day.

Although I enjoyed the first two books of this series, Courageous quickly sailed away from my expectations and my heart just wouldn’t go along for the ride. Even though the plot wasn’t my cup of tea, I liked the characters and the thread of redemption was beautifully woven through their struggles. Watching both Rosalind and Sir Randel learn to forgive themselves and accept God’s grace as sufficient was an encouraging reminder to do the same in my own non-fiction life!

Catching up with young Sadie of the Ghosts was a treat and she is joined by several new interesting and entertaining children on the Crusade. The epilogue is a satisfying conclusion including all the friends we’ve met along the way and a delightful happily ever after.

I requested the opportunity to read and review this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author

Dina Sleiman writes stories of passion and grace. Most of the time you will find this Virginia Beach resident reading, biking, dancing, or hanging out with her husband and three children, preferably at the oceanfront.

Since finishing her Professional Writing MA in 1994, she has enjoyed many opportunities to teach literature, writing, and the arts. Dina also serves as an acquisitions and content editor for WhiteFire Publishing.