Teen Book Review: The Merchant's Curse

The Merchant’s Curse by Antony Kolenc

Summary:

In this thrilling installment of the award-winning series, The Harwood Mysteries, Xan is living in Lincoln as a merchant’s apprentice to his uncle. But all is not well.

Uncle William’s business partner has become deathly ill after he angered a mysterious, scarred woman in the marketplace. Nigel, the reckless nephew of William’s business partner, has put them in danger by befriending an enemy of the King.

Why is there a band of brutes lurking near Uncle William’s shop?
Does the disfigured woman in the marketplace really have power over life and death?
Will Nigel stop his dealings with a known traitor?

Review: 

Antony Kolenc has a new adventure to add to his wildly popular middle-grade series, The Harwood Mysteries. The newest installment, The Merchant’s Curse, is brimming with danger and a puzzling mystery that will keep the reader guessing. If you haven’t already discovered these books, you really need to check them out. Each novel is full of intrigue, mystery, faith, and history—a winning combination that makes the books incredibly hard to put down. The target audience may be young teens, but readers of all ages will enjoy these stories.

The main character, Xan, is such a great, faith-filled character. After a heart-breaking tragedy, Xan is forced to leave the life he once knew. As he discovers truths about his past and himself, he becomes involved in several intriguing mysteries and despite his good intentions, keeps finding himself in perilous situations. His natural curiosity and inquisitiveness make him someone whom young teens can easily relate to.

One of the things I love about this series is the strong female characters that assist Xan on his quests, making these stories perfect for everyone. I’ve also really enjoyed seeing all the characters grow in virtue through the course of the series. In this newest book, The Merchant’s Curse, Xan attempts to understand the wisdom of Solomon as he uncovers an unsettling mystery threatening his newfound happiness.

Amazon Link

https://www.amazon.com/Merchants-Curse-Harwood-Mysteries/dp/0829454276

A note from Reviewer:

As a writer and a mother, I’m always searching for wonderful Christian books for teens of all ages. I truly believe one way we can encourage teens in their faith is through fiction with positive messages, embedded in great stories. There are many fantastic Christian and Catholic teen novels out today but they can be hard to find. I’m excited to share some of these books with you. For more book suggestions for the whole family visit my website or join my News, Clues and Reviews updates.

Leslea Wahl

www.LesleaWahl.com