Bohemian Gospel

Set in 13th-century Bohemia, this historical novel, which won Killer Nashville's 2014 Claymore Award, introduces Mouse, a young woman raised in a convent, whose life changes when her path crosses with a wounded young king. Mouse's unconventional healing skills save King Ottakar's life and he insists that she return with him to Prague to look after him until he recovers fully. Mouse hopes to prevent a further attempt on Ottakar's life as she fears it was no accident that injured him. She also wants to find out the truth about herself and escape the supernatural creatures that plague her. The otherworldly elements and the attempts on Ottakar's life add suspense to the narrative. Magic and the supernatural combine with court intrigue and romance in this absorbing but slightly uneven tale. Though the king is based on a historic figure (Ottakar II, 1233–78), many liberties are taken with fact to enhance the story. The strength of Carpenter's promising debut is its unusual Central European medieval setting and protagonist. The abrupt ending will jar readers.