Alex MacKinnon fought at Culloden and he’s captured and his punishment is he's to be banished to the Colony of North Carolina as an indentured servant. After a long sea voyage, he’s taken to Severn plantation owned by Edmund Carey and to be trained as a blacksmith.

Joanna Carey is Edmund’s stepdaughter and at twenty she's been running the household and taking care of her younger sister for eight years, she might be the mistress of Severn, however she sees the slaves as equals and friends and wishes she could set them free and Joanna cannot due to the law.

Phineas Reeves is the her father's overseer and he proposes to Joanna, she doesn’t want to marry him, he has it in for Alex MacKinnon, when multiple tragedies strike and Reeves is quick to blame Alex and he flees. Alex feels terrible about leaving Joanna, he knows she's struggling under the weight of responsibility and he's torn between staying with the Cherokee who have taken him in and are his friends or regaining his faith in Christ and returning to North Carolina?

I received a copy of The King’s Mercy from NetGalley and WaterBrook in exchange for an honest review, for some reason their edition wouldn’t open and so I purchased my own copy of the book.

Lori Benton writes Christian based historical fiction, using Paul’s letter to Philemon in the bible she explores the concept of slavery and is it right to own another human being through her story-line written from the points of view of Alex an indentured servant and the slaves on Severn plantation and their mistress. A tale about North Carolina, living on a plantation, Cherokee Indians, the evils of slavery, trouble, betrayal and trust, being saved and vindication, mercy, faith and love.

Four stars from me, a thought provoking narrative by Lori Benton, I'm not overly religious and however I did understand the meaning included in her novel and especially about reconciliation and redemption and the wickedness of slavery.

Set in the 18th century, The King's Mercy follows the story of Alex, an indentured servant, and Joanna, the stepdaughter of his owner, in North Carolina. The blurb outlines the story, though it may be a bit too detailed.

The King's Mercy is a captivating tale that paints a vivid picture of the past and life on the plantation. The storyline kept me engaged, though it lacked the gripping intensity I usually look for. There was a sense of mystery, exploration, and reconciliation throughout the book. This is Christian fiction, and the ending was fitting, neat, and tidy.

This is my second Lori Benton book, and her meticulous research and passion for this story is evident. The author notes highlight her motivation from the book of Philemon and Paul's request.

Now that I have gotten used to her slow burn historical stories, I will definitely read more. My thanks to WaterBrook for a digital copy.

If you are looking for a book filled with historical fiction then this should be your cuppa tea…or coffee. Redemption, grace, & the weight of choices are all woven into this novel. With arranged marriages, love, loss, wars & uprisings, there is nothing settled or tame about the time period this book is set in. Take a chance, fill your cup with your favorite beverage, & read a copy of “The King’s Mercy” to discover for yourself what treasures are hidden in this work from Lori Benton. Hope you enjoy it!

I received a copy of this book as a gift. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. I received no financial compensation for reviewing books.

A sweet story of love and courage that will captivate your heart. It started a little slow for my taste but it picked up quite nicely at about 30%. After that I just couldn't put it down. So good.

The King's Mercy was originally concieved of as the retelling of an account of a man who was touched by the story of an escaped slave from one of the Letters (or epistles) in the Bible. However, like many stories it took on a life of its own and went in directions the author didn't plan for.

What emerged was a rich story set in mid-18th century America. Alex McKinnon was a man with nothing to lose deprived of family and friends and sent alone to a strange land. Joanna was a woman who appeared to have everything, but with a family facing ruin and unable to help the people she cared about.

The story follows Alex's journey towards faith and redemption. "The King's Mercy" was an apt name, as his tortured and wounded soul sough purpose and freedom before discovering mercy, faith and love where he did not expect them. Joanna has a similar arc, realizing that some friends can't be trusted and that adversity can impact people in very different ways. It did a good job of describing the lives of enslaved people in 18th century America, and didn't shy away from some of the more unpleasant realities.

The only downer for me was that I felt the story was a little too complicated, and there were too many "side characters" with their own stories. This, by turn, made the narrative a little confusing and choppy in some places.

I would certainly consider reading more novels by this author in future as this was a great introduction to her work.

I requested an Arc of this title in 2019 and subsequently purchased the ebook of my own volition. All opinions are entirely my own and this did not influence my review.

With vivid imagery and well-crafted prose that sweeps the reader into her storyworld, Lori Benton delivers yet another deeply researched and moving piece of fiction.

The King's Mercy by Lori Benton
The King's Mercy is the first book I've read by Lori Benton and it will not be my last. Lori Benton was great about putting characters together. The book was hard to put down. The characters were intriguing, likable, endearing. Lori Benton is a author that I will love reading again.

I will love to recommend this books to friends and family.

Disclaimer - I received this complimentary copy through Netgalley for a honest review. All thoughts and opinions are mine.

"Whatever we pour our treasure into will ultimately captivate our hearts. What captivates our hearts we worship. What we worship remakes us - into its image."

What an incredible, unforgettable, epic tale of human suffering, sin, and redemption. As a newbie to Lori Benton's writing, I knew I would be settling in for a good read when I started this book based on her reputation. And this book has clearly surpassed my expectations and more. The book takes the reader seamlessly from the moors of Scotland to the bowels of an English ship to a plantation in North Carolina and beyond as Alex's life unfolds with many twists and turns. Alex is a lovable hero who is a brave, loyal and protective warrior, imprisoned during the Jacobite uprising and sent as an indentured servant to the American colony. His anger and grief are palpable, especially when he's brutally honest about his misgivings toward God. Joanna is the plantation mistress who is kind, tender, hard-working, and God-fearing. Her view on slavery is quite unique given the time period and provides a rich subplot. The characters, even the secondary ones like Reverend Pauling and Elijah, are thoroughly engaging and the plot - filled with strife, betrayals, and longings - is powerful in its intensity and captivating in its depth. God can use all things - sin, grief, pain, sorrow, and suffering - for good and Alex and Joanna learn this beautiful but heart-rending lesson one chapter at a time.

Historical fiction fans will adore this wonderfully crafted novel. I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley and was not required to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

“D’ye still believe there’s a God?”

That’s the question Alex MacKinnon must answer. Labeled a traitor, shipped off to America, and sold as an indentured servant, Alex struggles to see the hand of God at work in his life.

Joanna Carey dreams of a life very different from the one she now lives—a life not built on the backs of slaves. But as a woman in the 1700s, is it possible to make her dream a reality?

In this sweeping historical novel, readers are drawn back in time to the early days of the Carolinas and into the lives of Alex and Joanna as they battle treachery, murder, betrayal, and unspeakable evil. Through their story, Benton beautifully illustrates the height, breadth, and depth of the true King’s mercy.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is my first book by Lori Benton but it will NOT be my last. It was incredible - truly beyond my skills to do a just review of it. The characterization was amazing — I felt that I truly knew the heart of each person (good and truly evil). The descriptions of each person and place had me totally immersed, whether in the war between the Brits and the Jacobites, imprisoned on board ship, living in 18th century North Carolina with the indentured and enslaved folks, being accepted as a member of a tribe of Cherokees, or listening and learning as the Word of God spoke to and changed hearts. I highly recommend this book and urge those who are interested to be prepared to have their hearts deeply moved — as well as finding it hard to put their book or Kindle down, even to sleep.

After reading all of the published books to date in the Outlander series, I found myself drawn to the description of "The King's Mercy," and of course, the reference made "For readers of Sara Donati and Diana Gabaldon" in the first line. You may want to consider adding "readers of Ginny Dye's Bregdan Chronicles" to the description.

The character of Alex MacKinnon and Outlander's Jamie Fraser were interchangeable in my mind as I read "The King's Mercy." There were many similarities in both their character and in the qualities that made them natural leaders. Just as I found Joanna Carey to be interchangeable in spirit and values with the heroine, Carrie Cromwell of the Bregdan Chronicles, fans of both series should relate to the physical, emotional, and spiritual growth of Alex MacKinnon and steadfast loyalty and faith of Joanna.

I was surprised by the amount of scripture quoted throughout the story and the plot's strong spiritual theme and found myself needing to reread many passages to grasp the intended message. There were also times when it was necessary to read paragraphs a second time because it was not always clear to me who was speaking.

Overall I enjoyed the story and found the writing engaging.

First off, the main female character has a great name ;) (my name. Aside from the author writing a character with my name, Joanna, I loved reading about this different setting in NC. This is a time period not often written about, but I feel like one that should be heard. I never even think of settlers during this time below Virginia, but of course they were there. I loved how MacKinnon came to America because it felt accurate. HIs whole personality was very believable. The treatment of slaves also, sadly seemed accurate based on what you hear and read. This book is probably not for young teenagers because of some of those details. I only say that because I read a lot of my mother's books when I was a teen. I had never read this author before, but I loved the book. I'd definitely recommend it and I think you'll learn a bit of history as you read.

I received this book through netgalley for my honest review. Opinions are my own.

For some reason, whenever I imagined the main male character, I thought of Chris Hemsworth! He would have a totally wrong accent though! Ha!

Lori Benton writes such interesting and captivating stories...they remind me of a mini series. So rich and full of imagery. But I know why I took so long to get into her books. They always seem to start with some conflict or the man in dire straits. I just don't enjoy those types of scenes. I'm OK once I get past the first chapter or two.

I liked the main female protagonist...kind hearted Joanna who lived out her faith in the way she interacted with people. While Alex was not a believer till later in the book, he was a good man who even made a corn-husk doll for Joanna's sister. I dd not like the way he deserted Joanna and left her to her fate though!

There are some really dark parts in the narrative related to slavery and child abuse. Am so glad for the happy endings!

I can't put my finger on it but though I enjoyed the story, I found myself skipping many paragraphs. I still can't wait to see what Lori Benton will write about next!

Thank you Netgalley and WaterBrook & Multnomah for the review copy. Sorry it took so long. I'm working hard on clearing my backlog.

This book intreguied me from the beginning. I love history and this story drew you in right away! The more I learned of Alex the more I liked him. He was strong both physically but mentally as well. His faith was rocked with all the horrors he saw and was inflicted upon him. But when he came to Severn he was confronted with people who helped him see compassion despite all the horrors that continued.
Joanna was such a beautiful lady, both inside and out! She was filled with compassion and saw people for who they were not just their station in life! Her faith in God was rock solid despite losing her mother, and having to deal with Mr Reeves.
Each one of the characters in this book was detailed perfectly and you saw each one for who they were.
I was so excited when I saw the illustration and similarity of Paul from the Bible in the story!!
Lori Benton is a new author to me, but you can be assured that I will be reading more of her books in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Oversight! I read this book last summer, and as I was thinking about the plot—months later!—I discovered I’d never left my review. How could this be? This was one of my favorite reads of 2019! Lori Benton never fails to sweep the reader into a tale that bends into may blind curves. She takes what most would consider “plot enough” and manages to enlarge it in ways that truly keeps the reader on edge. This was a big story, with a huge premise and wide-ranging setting, and a cast of characters filled with great depth. If you’re ready to settle in and get swept up into an epic, read The King’s Mercy. You won’t be disappointed.

I enjoyed this book! It was a look into what happened to the rebellious Scots who were not killed or executed by the English. I did begin to suspect the ending long before all the events started unraveling. But there were still some things I hadn't expected. I love historical fiction and this book was very interesting and engaging.

Lori Benton chooses words with great attention to details. Her prose is rich. Her dialogue spot on. The characters speak with authentic voices drawing you into the narrative. I just finished reading Benton’s latest novel , The King’s Mercy, and found it entirely enjoyable. The setting spans the North Carolina landscape from the coast to the mountains. It’s a complete story with mystery, romance, history, and rock solid Christian theology. Her leading characters eventually arrive at a happy ending. The plot twists and turns make you wonder if better days for them will truly arrive. A repulsive character keeps you guessing throughout the story and his backstory and abhorrent behavior is revealed in its entirety.

I’m not sure which I liked best - the description of the North Carolina landscape, the rugged Scotsman, the faithful itinerant pastor, the Native American community, or the heroine, Joanna. Fans of historical fiction will be pleased to spend time with the characters in this book.

The King’s Mercy was a 2019 summer release and in my TBR queue. I’m so glad I picked it up to read. I was drawn to it because previously I read, A Flight of Arrows and found it to be equally satisfying. The e-book I read was an ARC that I accepted from the publisher. The review is my honest opinion of this historical fiction book..#TheKingsMercy#NetGalley

The King’s Mercy by Lori Benton is a story of the early years in America where the rich rule and the poor serve them. The story begins in the summer of 1747 in North Carolina. Alex McKinnon has been spared being hanged to be sent as an indentured servant to Severn Plantation. His is unusually tall and is given the job of training to become the blacksmith for Severn. Not feeling that has been much mercy shown to him he has turned away from God. When times get even darker will he turn back to the God he knew?
I enjoyed this book. It is a nice long story so you really get to know the characters. The portrayal of the way the slaves are treated are mostly realistic but at times a bit more ideals of the future. I do imagine some slave owners were more protective and cared for their property than others. Everyone in the story is not who they first appear to be and there is evil lurking around many corners. I give this book 5 of 5 stars as it kept my attention and made me want to read until I got to the end. This book will appeal to a wide audience of readers who enjoy historical fiction.
I received an advance copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

The beginning of this book was enjoyable and I was well absorbed into the characters but found the encounters in Severn and thereafter to be so farfetched. I felt the spiritual aspect that ran through the story (though not present in the beginning) didn't enhance as much as distract. I thought the story had a good plot but was predictable and found that a bit frustrating.

Alex MacKinnon is a pardoned Jacobite who is exiled to the Colonies. He ends up on a North Carolina plantation owned by a widower and managed by a rather suspicious character.

The widower's stepdaughter, Joanna Carey, tries to help keep things running as the plantation meets various setbacks. One of these is blamed on the new indenture, Alex, which leads to a turning point in the story.

There is a strong romance thread involving the two main characters and also a spiritual message which comes into sharp focus at the end of the story. The writing is strong. I would not recommend it for younger readers, however, because the villain is a little over-the-top.