Roseanna M. White, who is one of the best Christian fiction writers in my opinion, has expanded her writing territory. While sticking to her tried and true historical fiction genre, Shadowed Loyalty ventures into the theme of prohibition era mafia families. This was a first for me, and I quite enjoyed this read. First off, being of Italian background myself, I found the cultural elements throughout to be quite accurate. Historical elements were also true to the time which gives evidence of the level of research conducted in order to write such a novel. Readers will not find this book to be cliché. There is a lot a realism in both the characters and the plotline. I found this refreshing. Characters are complex, develop well, and feel relatable. The plot line developed to a good climax and while there is a solid conclusion, not every 'i' is dotted, nor is every 't' crossed. Again, this is what made the book feel so much more realistic, while still leaving me with a satisfying conclusion. There are some dark themes in this book (as would be expected with a mafia theme). I would say that while evil is mentioned, it is not glorified. Evil/sin is not all resolved by the end either (which would not make this book realistic), but readers are left with a hope that God's light would shine in the dark places in the time to come. I recommend this novel to historical fiction fans, especially those looking for an era/theme less commonly covered in Christian fiction.

I received a complementary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are entirely my own. ( )

Shadowed Loyalty by Roseanna M. White is a stand-alone novel set during the Roaring Twenties. Sabina Mancari has always known that her father was a mob boss but she didn’t pay that much attention until she is caught in the cross-fire. Usually, stories are written from the perspective of outside of the Mafia looking in but this story is written from the inside looking out. To me this was a big departure from Ms. White’s usual writing style. I felt like this was more of a secular romance than a Christian one. There were quite a few romantic scenes and topics that went a little too far. Hopefully her next book goes back to the writing style that we have come to love.

I received this book from the author for my honest review. ( )

Isn't this cover great?!! I love the retro cover for this book. It fits the story perfectly! This is one period in history that I haven't come across while reading historical fiction books. So, it was fun to take a trip back in history to the Roaring Twenties during prohibition and organized crime. I also found the point of view of this novel to be unique in that the gangster's own daughter was the main character. Often, the viewpoint is seen from the law enforcement side of the situation, and this provides another angle into the family life of a crime boss. Many subjects come up in this novel--alcohol, prostitution, brothels, and murder, to name a few. The author doesn't gloss over the awful details of organized crime.

While the beginning of this book opens with a riveting situation of guns drawn and Sabina's world crashing all around her, the rest of the book focuses mainly on Sabina's relationship with her family, the undercover Prohibition agent, and Lorenzo, the boy she's known all her life. Sabina is conflicted inside and the reader feels that as she and Lorenzo go back and forth. It's a little trying at times. I enjoyed reading the background of how things in Italy influenced how the Italian mafia operated here in America. Although, I wish the author would have played up the prominent mobster that shows up toward the end of the story. I think that element wasn't played through to its fullest potential. Overall, it was an interesting story, but not one of my favorites.

***I received a complimentary e-book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own. ( )

What a roaring story! Roseanna M. White wrote a thrilling narrative of family, love, and loyalty set in 1920’s Chicago. Sabina is the daughter of a mafioso in Chicago, in the early 1920’s. In this story she grapples with her worth, her faith, and how to honor God while loving her law-breaking family. Lorenzo Capecce is the son of a mafia lieutenant, and has felt the call of God on his life since he was young. He learns how to follow that call while continuing to love and honor his family and the love of his life, Sabina. Both characters had to learn how to forgive, to stand against temptation, and communicate well as a couple. As with several other books by Roseanna, there were actually 4 character POVs in this novel. She does a good job of helping you see the antagonist’s perspective and motives. There was also a love triangle, which is honestly one of my least favorite tropes. But it was done well. As usual, the historical descriptions were also well done and accurate. This was such an exciting story- if I’d had the time, I could have read it in one sitting! This is one you don’t want to miss!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone. ( )

This novel easily transported me to the 1920s with its great descriptions of the glitz and glam of the era. The historical aspects of the story were really fascinating and I learned a lot about the mafia and the way it affected families. The book drew me in immediately with its exciting opening, lagged just a bit in the middle, and ended once again with an engaging ending. The novel has the characteristic Roseanna twists that make her books so wonderful. I liked the complexity of the characters and their relationships. The ending had some thought provoking spiritual truths that added spiritual depth. I enjoyed this novel overall and recommend it to lovers of historical fiction!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. ( )