Educated And Entertained

Mercy’s Refuge by Rita Gerlach is a comprehensive historical novel about the journey to the New World by the Separatists in 1620. Fact meets fiction in this glorious new novel.

Rita Gerlach has clearly researched this topic thoroughly as the reader is educated as we read.

These were brave men and women who faced horrendous conditions as storms battered the Mayflower. The people had to put their trust and hope in God that He would safely deliver them.

We journey with the characters from England to the Netherlands, back to England and across to America. Due to colourful descriptions, the reader is able to ‘see’ and ‘experience’ the novel with our senses on full alert. I did find at times I was gritting my teeth as the action was tense!

At times there are tragedies which horrify the reader as we are emotionally invested in the novel. It is based on fact and real life is not always kind.

The ruling classes seek to exert their wills and desire on those further down the social scale. It takes strength to stand up to the higher classes and faith that justice and common sense will prevail.

The characters were well drawn. It was a pure delight to witness old and new friendships.

I always enjoy Rita Gerlach’s novels. She educates and entertains while producing a top notch story. Mercy’s Refuge was a thoroughly marvellous read. I knew very little about the Mayflower when I began but now my horizons have expanded and my knowledge is deepened as I spent a wonderful afternoon in the company of the characters.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. 

JULIA WILSON