Jan Beazely and Thom Lemmons Reviews

Added January 8, 2004

King's Ransom

Authors: Jan Beazely and Thom Lemmons
Publisher: WaterBrook Press
Available At: Bookstores Everywhere
Publishing Date: September 2004
Genre: Fiction: Historical/Religious
Format: Trade Paperback
Price: $13.99
ISBN: 1-57856-778-5
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo
Rating: 8 Gargoyles

King's Ransom is priceless! This historical novel, which is based on actual places and events that may not be familiar to most readers, is both thought provoking and soul stirring.

Set during the horrific events of World War II, the small country of Bulgaria finds itself in the geographical middle of hostilities that threaten all of Europe. While this nation tries to maintain neutrality, Germany forces the issue through increasing pressure. Tsar Boris III, King of Bulgaria, makes decisions to save his country's Jewish people, fully realizing the personal cost to himself.

At a time when the world needed a hero, Tsar Boris III steps into the scene. The authors at first admitted that this story from Bulgaria's past seemed "too incredible to be real". However, with extensive research and excellent writing, this reviewer says that it's now a story that's too incredible not to read.

Boris is almost a fairy-tale king, filled with courage, honor and a genuine love for his people. Yet, he was trapped in a nightmare. Readers are taken behind the scenes to hear his intimate and intimidating talks with Hitler, and will watch as pressure was put on the king to acquiesce to the might of Germany. But Boris had a secret weapon. His heart was filled with love. Readers will applaud the courage he shows in his showdowns with Hitler. And they will also agonize over the decisions he makes for his people, at a disregard for his own future.

The intricacies of this war are shown to the reader in small enough doses to bring the horrors to a more personal and understandable level. There is a diverse cast of characters who are all affected by this war, and the authors shift scenes to highlight the changes which came upon this nation's people.

Yet, it's the plight of the Bulgarian Jews which makes up the focus of this book. As Hitler grows in power and paranoia, Boris must counteract this German leader to save his countrymen. What a startling contrast between these two men! Readers will feel intensely proud of Boris.

Intertwined in this tale of war and suffering is a gentle love story. Dobri, a sergeant in the king's guard, falls in love with Daria, a Jewish woman. Their love and hope for the future beautifully parallels the larger issues affecting Europe.

King's Ransom is a majestic story that deserves to be read and remembered.

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