Beneath a Crescent Shadow

Content levels

Trigger warnings

Positive tags

Hero archetypes

Heroine archetypes

Tropes

Themes

Synopsis

After an arranged marriage, Konstantin and Suzana must find a way to meet the demands of a conquering Ottoman sultan amid a torrent of setbacks and dangers much closer to their Balkan home. The Balkans, 1373 A devastating battle claimed the lives of Konstantin’s father, uncle, and most of their Serb army, leaving Konstantin to rule as a vassal of the Ottoman sultan, a role he is wholly unprepared for. Between war, famine, and a persistent band of brigands, this young, new ruler is nearly bankrupt. He will need to find a wealthy bride if he is to have any hope of saving his lands and securing his future. A betrothal to Suzana, the daughter of a prosperous merchant, is soon arranged, and upon meeting her, Konstantin immediately feels hope that their marriage could someday grow into love. Yet from the moment of Konstantin and Suzana’s betrothal, enemies threaten their lives, outlaws prey on their lands, and the terrors of Suzana’s abusive past haunt their fragile new relationship. As this onslaught of threats closes in, the two face challenges that will test their love, their faith, and their hope of saving their people from the heavy weight of Ottoman oppression.

Tags

Is Beneath a Crescent Shadow appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 16 and up.

This historical romance set in 1373 Balkans features war aftermath, references to past domestic abuse, and threats of violence from outlaws and Ottoman forces. The romance is clean (closed door) with focus on emotional healing and trust-building between arranged marriage partners.