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Her family's voyage from South Carolina turns ugly when the ship's captain maroons Lilyan and her family on an island along North Carolina's Outer Banks. There, the family is captured by pirates and taken to a secret island hideout where they witness a mock trial and a hanging.
Forced to rebuff the advances of the murderous pirate, Captain Galeo (The Shark), and fearful that her children will be auctioned off to the highest bidder, Lilyan forges an escape plan. Meanwhile, her husband, Nicholas, calls upon his skills as a captain in Brigadier General Francis Marion's militia to devise a battle plan to save his family.
Will the young couple's faith be enough to see them through? Or will their declaration to rescue Cassia from the pirates prove too high a price?
Her family's voyage from South Carolina turns ugly when the ship's captain maroons Lilyan and her family on an island along North Carolina's Outer Banks. There, the family is captured by pirates and taken to a secret island hideout where they witness a mock trial and a hanging.
Forced to rebuff the advances of the murderous pirate, Captain Galeo (The Shark), and fearful that her children will be auctioned off to the highest bidder, Lilyan forges an escape plan. Meanwhile, her husband, Nicholas, calls upon his skills as a captain in Brigadier General Francis Marion's militia to devise a battle plan to save his family.
Will the young couple's faith be enough to see them through? Or will their declaration to rescue Cassia from the pirates prove too high a price?
258 pages, Paperback
First published September 14, 2015
73 people are currently reading
390 people want to read
About the author
Susan F. Craft
15 books47 followersA history lover, Susan F. Craft researches for her novels with the same excitement as Alan Quartermain hunting for King Solomon's Mines and with the persistence of Lewis and Clark. She enjoys the chase when a clue leads her from one "treasure" to the next, to the next.
Susan recently retired from a 45-year career that included working for SC Educational Television, the SC Department of Mental Health, the SC College of Pharmacy, and the SC Senate.
Her novel The Chamomile, a Revolutionary War romantic suspense, won the SIBA Okra Pick.
Susan has two post-Revolutionary War novels being released in 2015 by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas.
Susan is a member of Romance Writers of America, the American Christian Fiction Writers, The Historical Novel Society, the SC Writers Workshop, the SC Historical Society, the Robert Burns Society, the Colonial American Christian Writers, and the Inkplots, a writers' critique group. Her short stories have been published in four of the group's collections.
Susan is represented by Linda S. Glaz, Harline Literary Agency.
Susan recently retired from a 45-year career that included working for SC Educational Television, the SC Department of Mental Health, the SC College of Pharmacy, and the SC Senate.
Her novel The Chamomile, a Revolutionary War romantic suspense, won the SIBA Okra Pick.
Susan has two post-Revolutionary War novels being released in 2015 by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas.
Susan is a member of Romance Writers of America, the American Christian Fiction Writers, The Historical Novel Society, the SC Writers Workshop, the SC Historical Society, the Robert Burns Society, the Colonial American Christian Writers, and the Inkplots, a writers' critique group. Her short stories have been published in four of the group's collections.
Susan is represented by Linda S. Glaz, Harline Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 15, 2017
I debated between giving this book 3 and 4 stars. I've enjoyed the whole trilogy, and this book is very well written. The author clearly researched her history, and it comes alive in all three books (she has an extensive list of historical references at the end of each book). And she introduces a large canvas of characters, who add depth and richness to the books. The author tells a rollicking good story, and all three books are very well paced. These books might appeal to those who liked Sara Donati's Into the Wilderness series. It takes place at roughly the same time, although in the south rather than the north, and deals with some of the same issues.
However...and there's a big however. There's just too much preaching and scripture quoting, which detract from an otherwise fine book. It seems that the preachiness and scripture references got more numerous and longer as the series progressed - a lot less in the first book than in this, the third book of the trilogy. I guess the author wrote these books for a very specific audience, and not a wider secular audience. I'm sorry, but instead of "spreading the word," it just tends to drive a lot of readers in that wider audience away.
But, as I said, this book - as well as the other two in the trilogy - tell a good story with great characters. So, I'll compromise, and give the book 3.5 stars with a ½ star taken off for all the religious sermonizing.
However...and there's a big however. There's just too much preaching and scripture quoting, which detract from an otherwise fine book. It seems that the preachiness and scripture references got more numerous and longer as the series progressed - a lot less in the first book than in this, the third book of the trilogy. I guess the author wrote these books for a very specific audience, and not a wider secular audience. I'm sorry, but instead of "spreading the word," it just tends to drive a lot of readers in that wider audience away.
But, as I said, this book - as well as the other two in the trilogy - tell a good story with great characters. So, I'll compromise, and give the book 3.5 stars with a ½ star taken off for all the religious sermonizing.
October 23, 2019
4/1799, Charleston SC. Lilyan Xanthakos (wife/mother) & her family: Nicholas “Nikki” Xanthakos (Greek, husband/father, vintner), Paul Xanthakos (14, son/brother), Marion Xanthakos (13, son/brother) were aboard the Merry Maid (schooner).
Laurel Xanthakos (16, daughter/sister) was conversing with the 1st Mate Mr. Daniel Whitehouse.
The 2 parents could see they were quite attracted to each other.
The slaves who died were tossed overboard to lighten the load.
Captain Longstreet had a skiff lowered to the ocean water so Nicholas, Paul, & Marion could rescue a brown skinned female who was still alive.
The Xanthakos family took her in & named her Cassia. She was also an expecting mother.
Lilyan hadn’t forgotten growing up & the 100’s of slave ships coming into Charleston Harbor SC.
Mr. Hennessy (Carpenter’s Mate) & Able Seaman Watson (quartermaster) had to install another canvas hammock.
Mr. Watson warned that Cassia had the Pox. Captain Longstreet would have to be told.
Captain Longstreet had ordered the Xanthakos family & Cassia dumped off the next SC island.
He gave them 3-days rations.
1st Mate Mr. Whitehouse bid them good luck/goodbye.
2 canvas shelters & a fire were built.
Cassia (mother) didn’t survive & was buried.
Baby Cassia did.
Later, ashore, 1st Mate Mr. Bowen (Akantha) confronted the Xanthakos family.
The other pirates are: Marteen, Roche, Henreques, & Manuel.
Cesare is the 1 who had taken out Nicholas.
Lilyan, Laurel & Baby Cassia were taken as booty.
Captain David Galeo would be pleased.
The captives met Samuel (African slave), Aunt Izzie (African slave), Trezza, Paolo (musician), & Jamie McDonald (Scottish, Cameron faith).
1-day Wallace was going to take Lilyan for his own.
Marteen trying to save her lay dying.
Jamie had also intervened.
Virginia (schooner). Captain Hawkins welcomed Nicholas & his family aboard.
They were going back for Cassia, Izzie, Samuel, & Paul.
11/16/1836, Asheville, NC. Allison was listening to Grandmother Lilyan (75) reminisce.
Caroline Ravenel (Allison’s mother) informed her she had passed on.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written 18th century historical fiction book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great 18th Century American Revolution era movie, or better yet a mini TV series.
A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Cambridge University Press; Heritage Beacon Fiction; Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas; LPC Free Books; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Laurel Xanthakos (16, daughter/sister) was conversing with the 1st Mate Mr. Daniel Whitehouse.
The 2 parents could see they were quite attracted to each other.
The slaves who died were tossed overboard to lighten the load.
Captain Longstreet had a skiff lowered to the ocean water so Nicholas, Paul, & Marion could rescue a brown skinned female who was still alive.
The Xanthakos family took her in & named her Cassia. She was also an expecting mother.
Lilyan hadn’t forgotten growing up & the 100’s of slave ships coming into Charleston Harbor SC.
Mr. Hennessy (Carpenter’s Mate) & Able Seaman Watson (quartermaster) had to install another canvas hammock.
Mr. Watson warned that Cassia had the Pox. Captain Longstreet would have to be told.
Captain Longstreet had ordered the Xanthakos family & Cassia dumped off the next SC island.
He gave them 3-days rations.
1st Mate Mr. Whitehouse bid them good luck/goodbye.
2 canvas shelters & a fire were built.
Cassia (mother) didn’t survive & was buried.
Baby Cassia did.
Later, ashore, 1st Mate Mr. Bowen (Akantha) confronted the Xanthakos family.
The other pirates are: Marteen, Roche, Henreques, & Manuel.
Cesare is the 1 who had taken out Nicholas.
Lilyan, Laurel & Baby Cassia were taken as booty.
Captain David Galeo would be pleased.
The captives met Samuel (African slave), Aunt Izzie (African slave), Trezza, Paolo (musician), & Jamie McDonald (Scottish, Cameron faith).
1-day Wallace was going to take Lilyan for his own.
Marteen trying to save her lay dying.
Jamie had also intervened.
Virginia (schooner). Captain Hawkins welcomed Nicholas & his family aboard.
They were going back for Cassia, Izzie, Samuel, & Paul.
11/16/1836, Asheville, NC. Allison was listening to Grandmother Lilyan (75) reminisce.
Caroline Ravenel (Allison’s mother) informed her she had passed on.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written 18th century historical fiction book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great 18th Century American Revolution era movie, or better yet a mini TV series.
A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Cambridge University Press; Heritage Beacon Fiction; Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas; LPC Free Books; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
August 23, 2019
Cassia simply sets the story of the Xanthakos family rolling along. It turned into a storm when the family finds themselves castoff on an island infested with pirates. And by the time Lilyan and her daughter are forced to watch the pirate leader set up a mock trial with the defendant found guilty ....No, I won't tell you any more except to say, the story kept racing along , mixing the sweetness of the family's love and concern for each other, with surreal battle between the pirates and government militia. I confess it sent my spine tingling as I read Craft's well researched story .
November 19, 2018
Enjoyable book. I did not know it was part of a trilogy, but it seems a complete book without having read the others. I would actually read it again and will share it with my friends. Engaging, believable story. I like a book that contains facts new to me. The characters knowledge and use of herbs as well as mountain lore seemed genuine. Gospel message is clear, but not preachy.
December 7, 2018
Wonderful ending
Lilyan and Nikki's storyline is one to remember, to have a love like theirs is something, the way this author has written their relationship is so deep and personal it makes me emotional and I start crying!. I read book 2 first, then I read this one, now I am going back to read the first book on how they met. Love this family!
Lilyan and Nikki's storyline is one to remember, to have a love like theirs is something, the way this author has written their relationship is so deep and personal it makes me emotional and I start crying!. I read book 2 first, then I read this one, now I am going back to read the first book on how they met. Love this family!
July 22, 2019
An awesome book, like her others! You get an historical story you can't put down, (especially if you've read Camomile and/or Laurel - although this book is good on it's own.) and get to see what it looks like to be a real Christian. Seeing how people who really love the Lord live their lives during good times and bad times and just every day life. I'll always recommend her books.
July 30, 2020
Great trilogy
Three books worth reading. This trilogy of books is very interesting to read. There is lots of excitement, adventure and a family filled with love. It is also a very “clean” book to read. You have to read them in order Would recommend to all who love historical fiction.
Three books worth reading. This trilogy of books is very interesting to read. There is lots of excitement, adventure and a family filled with love. It is also a very “clean” book to read. You have to read them in order Would recommend to all who love historical fiction.
July 1, 2017
WOW What a book!
I will be honest, not sure I could be as brave as all were in this book, but reading it I pray I could. My what characters, storylines, twists and turns. Thank you Ms. Craft for the book.
I will be honest, not sure I could be as brave as all were in this book, but reading it I pray I could. My what characters, storylines, twists and turns. Thank you Ms. Craft for the book.
July 6, 2018
Providence and pirates
This is a touching story of love for God and family while surviving hardship and loss. Adventure, romance, danger and suspense complete with history and descriptive scenes keep the pages turning.
This is a touching story of love for God and family while surviving hardship and loss. Adventure, romance, danger and suspense complete with history and descriptive scenes keep the pages turning.
July 20, 2018
A beautiful story
I only read this one book of the series. I couldn’t put it down. The faith of this family and their trust in God through even the very hardest times was truly inspiring. The love they had for one another was something very special.
I only read this one book of the series. I couldn’t put it down. The faith of this family and their trust in God through even the very hardest times was truly inspiring. The love they had for one another was something very special.
September 23, 2019
Third and the final book in Susan Craft's adventures of the Xanthakos Family. A historical novel of the adventures of Lilyan and her family. The book includes romance and adventure in a tale of determination. History and adventure abound in this Christian story line and setting.
July 31, 2020
Really enjoyed.
I read the series of the three books and had trouble putting each down. It was so nice to read a fabulous story which didn't have smut or nasty language. Really good Christian principles woven throughout.
I read the series of the three books and had trouble putting each down. It was so nice to read a fabulous story which didn't have smut or nasty language. Really good Christian principles woven throughout.
August 9, 2017
Good reading
I liked it very much. Faith and family, Godo and country. Pirates are still scary to this day. It is sad how people find others to exploit.
I liked it very much. Faith and family, Godo and country. Pirates are still scary to this day. It is sad how people find others to exploit.
November 12, 2017
Wonderful story!
I would definitely read more by this author. This was surely an adventure. It was well-written. I do recommend this book.
I would definitely read more by this author. This was surely an adventure. It was well-written. I do recommend this book.
July 21, 2019
Pirates
Enjoyed this book immensely. Became involved with each person and the writing was very professional and expressive. Would recommend this book to everyone.
Enjoyed this book immensely. Became involved with each person and the writing was very professional and expressive. Would recommend this book to everyone.
February 25, 2017
The last book in the Xanthakos Family Trilogy, Ms Craft doesn't fail to deliver adventure, romance and inspiration. The Xanthakos family is growing up and the love between Nicholas and Lilyan is no less alive than it was the day she knocked his shin with a stone. As the family grows, both blood relatives and those who were encompassed by their love, there is always room for one more. When an act of kindness results in them being abandoned on an island and the birth of baby Cassia, they find themselves facing almost as much trouble as they have in the past. When Nicholas leaves to find assistance, they are discovered by pirates who have their own agenda. And so the race is on to find and protect those who have been abducted, resulting in a last bloody battle. Lilyan and Nicholas' children have grown up with parents who are living letters and they follow in their parents' footsteps. They are strong, compassionate and resourceful. Cal was a fun introduction to the story and proved his worth. The end of an exciting family saga.
October 7, 2015
Fans of family saga-style novels will find a richer, deeper and more harrowing story than ever before when they read "Cassia". Susan Craft presents a stark and authentic look at an under-represented era, delivering the sights, sounds and senses of the period with a relatable style of storytelling. The characters are fully fleshed out and their complex relationships and belief systems become second nature to the reader as the story goes on. The plot of seeking peace and understanding is dealt with compassionately, despite its vivid and moving tribulations. Lilyan Xanthakos in particular is a character that every reader will feel deeply for. She is such a strong women that my admiration abounds.
The story takes place in 1799, Lilyan and Nikki have taken their family—sons Paul and Marion and daughter Laurel—on a voyage from their South Carolina home. Lilyan saves a slave girl from a dump of slaves from another ship, but an illness is discovered and the Captain of their ship leaves them marooned on a deserted island along North Carolina's Outer Banks. The slave girl dies, but delivers her child first, and so Cassia is born. Lilyan is given the babe by the slave to care for, and care for her; she does, through hell and high water. Nikki goes for help but Lillyan and the children are captured by pirates and taken to a secret island hideout of the evil Captain Galeo (the Shark). Lilyan forges an escape plan. I love that the author has included a Scottish hero into the story that mans to save them from the retched pirates. Meanwhile, her husband, Nicholas, calls upon his skills as a captain in Brigadier General Francis Marion's militia to devise a battle plan to save his family. And so the adventure continues.
Watching Laurel grow into women of great character just like her mother and following the romance that blossoms between her suitors is quite enduring and sweet to watch even in the mist of fear and possible death. Will the Scot from the Highlands win or the rich first mate of the shipping company claim her hand in marriage?
Susan Craft skillfully keeps the reader on the hook, and her tantalizing and believable tale has it all– romance, adventure, and mystery. Her story-telling ability is top-notch. In fact, her prose rolls off the pages like a breath of fresh spring air. I love, love the faith and prayers that the family puts forth throughout the book. It is really inspiring. I highly recommend all of Susan Craft's books, and look forward to reading more from this all inspired author.
The story takes place in 1799, Lilyan and Nikki have taken their family—sons Paul and Marion and daughter Laurel—on a voyage from their South Carolina home. Lilyan saves a slave girl from a dump of slaves from another ship, but an illness is discovered and the Captain of their ship leaves them marooned on a deserted island along North Carolina's Outer Banks. The slave girl dies, but delivers her child first, and so Cassia is born. Lilyan is given the babe by the slave to care for, and care for her; she does, through hell and high water. Nikki goes for help but Lillyan and the children are captured by pirates and taken to a secret island hideout of the evil Captain Galeo (the Shark). Lilyan forges an escape plan. I love that the author has included a Scottish hero into the story that mans to save them from the retched pirates. Meanwhile, her husband, Nicholas, calls upon his skills as a captain in Brigadier General Francis Marion's militia to devise a battle plan to save his family. And so the adventure continues.
Watching Laurel grow into women of great character just like her mother and following the romance that blossoms between her suitors is quite enduring and sweet to watch even in the mist of fear and possible death. Will the Scot from the Highlands win or the rich first mate of the shipping company claim her hand in marriage?
Susan Craft skillfully keeps the reader on the hook, and her tantalizing and believable tale has it all– romance, adventure, and mystery. Her story-telling ability is top-notch. In fact, her prose rolls off the pages like a breath of fresh spring air. I love, love the faith and prayers that the family puts forth throughout the book. It is really inspiring. I highly recommend all of Susan Craft's books, and look forward to reading more from this all inspired author.
September 15, 2015
This third story of the early American historical family saga starting with The Chamomile wraps of the story of the Greek Xanthakos family. Plenty of references to their past adventures didn’t interfere with the telling of this adventure. If you like pirates, ships at sea, family love and sacrifice, you’ll love this gentle, faith-based tale of strong women who are willing to do what they must to save not only their own family but the lives of strangers.
Lilyan’s life is an adventure as one experience builds upon another. Her daughter has reached marriageable age, and Lilyan and Nicholas wonder if they’ve done well enough as parents. She’s attracted to men of valor in their own way, and both have declared their intentions. Both are capable men who would be a good match, both could save her, but only one can hold her heart. On the ship, the family witnesses a dreadful event when a slave ship dumps its dead and dying. She demands they care for one of the dying at the risk of the entire ship and ends up put ashore on a pirate island. Deciding reluctantly to separate, Lilyan waits while Nicholas goes for help, but neither realize the danger that waits when the pirates see who’s been set ashore on the other side of their island.
The title of this story refers to a promise as much as a character who plays a subtle, circular role rather than an overt one. Lilyan is a good judge of character and proves it when her life and that of her children are at stake.
An epilogue wraps up the family saga. Told from Lilyan’s point of view throughout, This novel is recommended for those who are fans of early American history and love the references to everyday objects, the lifestyle, and costuming. Those who read Cassia before the others will find their interest piqued and want to pick up the other stories.
Lilyan’s life is an adventure as one experience builds upon another. Her daughter has reached marriageable age, and Lilyan and Nicholas wonder if they’ve done well enough as parents. She’s attracted to men of valor in their own way, and both have declared their intentions. Both are capable men who would be a good match, both could save her, but only one can hold her heart. On the ship, the family witnesses a dreadful event when a slave ship dumps its dead and dying. She demands they care for one of the dying at the risk of the entire ship and ends up put ashore on a pirate island. Deciding reluctantly to separate, Lilyan waits while Nicholas goes for help, but neither realize the danger that waits when the pirates see who’s been set ashore on the other side of their island.
The title of this story refers to a promise as much as a character who plays a subtle, circular role rather than an overt one. Lilyan is a good judge of character and proves it when her life and that of her children are at stake.
An epilogue wraps up the family saga. Told from Lilyan’s point of view throughout, This novel is recommended for those who are fans of early American history and love the references to everyday objects, the lifestyle, and costuming. Those who read Cassia before the others will find their interest piqued and want to pick up the other stories.
January 29, 2016
Cassia book 3 Xanthakos Family Trilogy***** by Susan F. Craft
Cassia is the third book following Lilyan and Nikki Xanthakos' family. April 1799, Lilyan and Nikki have taken their family—sons Paul and Marion and daughter Laurel—on a voyage from their South Carolina home. Lilyan hopes this voyage is uneventful, however her hopes were dashed when they were marooned on a deserted island along North Carolina's Outer Banks. Lilyan, Paul and Laurel are captured by pirates and taken to a secret island hideout of the evil Captain Galeo (the Shark). How can she save her children? Will Nikki and Marion find them before it's too late?
This is a story full of adventure, suspenseful—tense situations, and evil pirates that keep you on the edge of your seat. I like the way Lilyan and Nikki's strong family love and devotion, along with their strong enduring faith impacts their family and those around them. One thing I love, that has been included in each book, is the unique blessing Lilyan and Nikki have. Lilyan's determination to survive is felt as she prays for guidance and forms plans to escape. There are some humorous parts of the story that had me chuckling—like when Marion said, “I am book-ended by weeping, happy women”. The budding romance is sweet to watch even in the mist of fear and possible death. Susan Craft weaves history throughout the story in great detail making this a fantastic story.
~I received a PDF copy of this book from the author, this is my honest review~
Cassia is the third book following Lilyan and Nikki Xanthakos' family. April 1799, Lilyan and Nikki have taken their family—sons Paul and Marion and daughter Laurel—on a voyage from their South Carolina home. Lilyan hopes this voyage is uneventful, however her hopes were dashed when they were marooned on a deserted island along North Carolina's Outer Banks. Lilyan, Paul and Laurel are captured by pirates and taken to a secret island hideout of the evil Captain Galeo (the Shark). How can she save her children? Will Nikki and Marion find them before it's too late?
This is a story full of adventure, suspenseful—tense situations, and evil pirates that keep you on the edge of your seat. I like the way Lilyan and Nikki's strong family love and devotion, along with their strong enduring faith impacts their family and those around them. One thing I love, that has been included in each book, is the unique blessing Lilyan and Nikki have. Lilyan's determination to survive is felt as she prays for guidance and forms plans to escape. There are some humorous parts of the story that had me chuckling—like when Marion said, “I am book-ended by weeping, happy women”. The budding romance is sweet to watch even in the mist of fear and possible death. Susan Craft weaves history throughout the story in great detail making this a fantastic story.
~I received a PDF copy of this book from the author, this is my honest review~
September 14, 2015
Cassia***** by Susan F. Craft
Cassia is the third book following Lilyan and Nikki Xanthakos' family. April 1799, Lilyan and Nikki have taken their family—sons Paul and Marion and daughter Laurel—on a voyage from their South Carolina home. Lilyan hopes this voyage is uneventful, however her hopes were dashed when they were marooned on a deserted island along North Carolina's Outer Banks. Lilyan, Paul and Laurel are captured by pirates and taken to a secret island hideout of the evil Captain Galeo (the Shark). How can she save her children? Will Nikki and Marion find them before it's too late?
This is a story full of adventure, suspenseful—tense situations, and evil pirates that keep you on the edge of your seat. I like the way Lilyan and Nikki's strong family love and devotion, along with their strong enduring faith impacts their family and those around them. One thing I love, that has been included in each book, is the unique blessing Lilyan and Nikki have. Lilyan's determination to survive is felt as she prays for guidance and forms plans to escape. There are some humorous parts of the story that had me chuckling—like when Marion said, “I am book-ended by weeping, happy women”. The budding romance is sweet to watch even in the mist of fear and possible death. Susan Craft weaves history throughout the story in great detail making this a fantastic story.
~I received a PDF copy of this book from the author for my honest review~
Cassia is the third book following Lilyan and Nikki Xanthakos' family. April 1799, Lilyan and Nikki have taken their family—sons Paul and Marion and daughter Laurel—on a voyage from their South Carolina home. Lilyan hopes this voyage is uneventful, however her hopes were dashed when they were marooned on a deserted island along North Carolina's Outer Banks. Lilyan, Paul and Laurel are captured by pirates and taken to a secret island hideout of the evil Captain Galeo (the Shark). How can she save her children? Will Nikki and Marion find them before it's too late?
This is a story full of adventure, suspenseful—tense situations, and evil pirates that keep you on the edge of your seat. I like the way Lilyan and Nikki's strong family love and devotion, along with their strong enduring faith impacts their family and those around them. One thing I love, that has been included in each book, is the unique blessing Lilyan and Nikki have. Lilyan's determination to survive is felt as she prays for guidance and forms plans to escape. There are some humorous parts of the story that had me chuckling—like when Marion said, “I am book-ended by weeping, happy women”. The budding romance is sweet to watch even in the mist of fear and possible death. Susan Craft weaves history throughout the story in great detail making this a fantastic story.
~I received a PDF copy of this book from the author for my honest review~
September 14, 2015
Susan Craft spends time in developing scenes, plot, and people. I first read "Laurel" and was impressed with those writing strengths.
In "Cassia," the story of the Xanthakos family continues but this time on pirate-infested islands and the high seas. The reader can feel the love between Lilyan and Nicholas when they are parted and children dispersed into danger. I characterize the pace as steady; however, suspense does build and some plot twists rise and fall like a roller coaster.
I honestly didn't see how this would end well . . . and won't spoil it either. Things do get tense in a number of places.
I can count on Susan to show her characters are fallible. Conditions are not perfect for those who follow God. Even in dark places, they wonder which way to go, but the bent of their journey is in His direction and with His principles.
An additional theme—everyone doesn't always end up in a happy-ever-after. Not every individual chooses God but some do.
Good job from Susan Craft, a researcher par excellence!
In "Cassia," the story of the Xanthakos family continues but this time on pirate-infested islands and the high seas. The reader can feel the love between Lilyan and Nicholas when they are parted and children dispersed into danger. I characterize the pace as steady; however, suspense does build and some plot twists rise and fall like a roller coaster.
I honestly didn't see how this would end well . . . and won't spoil it either. Things do get tense in a number of places.
I can count on Susan to show her characters are fallible. Conditions are not perfect for those who follow God. Even in dark places, they wonder which way to go, but the bent of their journey is in His direction and with His principles.
An additional theme—everyone doesn't always end up in a happy-ever-after. Not every individual chooses God but some do.
Good job from Susan Craft, a researcher par excellence!
September 27, 2015
It’s difficult to pinpoint what I appreciate the most about Susan Craft’s latest release entitled “Cassia.” Is it the well-crafted and impeccably researched story? The amazing tale filled with love and adventure? Or the fact that the author describes the true face of evil, not falling into the unrealistic device of romanticizing pirates who seek to kill and destroy? It is each of these aspects of this third book in her series (that includes “Chamomile” and “Laurel”) that had me riveted to my kindle late into the night. I am just saddened to bid farewell to these precious characters, so skillfully created by the author.
But I applaud Ms. Craft’s satisfying finish to an amazing family saga. And I never fear that the author has short-changed us on getting the historical facts correct. Her amazing ability to blend details from the past with an enticing story for present day readers never ceases to amaze me.
Another five star novel to satisfy this historical romance reader. Well done!
But I applaud Ms. Craft’s satisfying finish to an amazing family saga. And I never fear that the author has short-changed us on getting the historical facts correct. Her amazing ability to blend details from the past with an enticing story for present day readers never ceases to amaze me.
Another five star novel to satisfy this historical romance reader. Well done!
January 4, 2017
I reserve five stars for only the best of books and Cassia gets that rating hands down. The story of Lilyann and Nickolas Xanthokos continues in this third of three books set in the Post Revolutionary War state of South Carolina. What should have been a pleasant family trip turns into a nightmare when the captain of their ship abandons the family on a remote island for a kind deed only to be captured by the most vile of pirates, Captain Galeo. Susan Craft intricately weaves detail, historical notes,spiritual wisdom, and lovely description into her story line and ends her chapters in a way that made me afraid to go on yet longing for more. I also loved the romance angle. This is a book about a couple madly in love with each other after almost twenty years of marriage. Their faith and love is tested but their commitment to stay faithful and keep their family intact is truly inspiring. Awesome, awesome book!
January 7, 2017
I was eager to read Cassia, Susan's final episode of the Xanthakos' family trilogy because I had enjoyed The Chamomile and Laurel. These books tell the story of a strong and loving family that thrives despite enduring incredible hardships and loss.
Their faith in the Lord is the basis of their strength.
Like the first two stories, Cassia is filled with romance, action, and suspense. It's a page turner because you never know what is coming next. Ms. Craft ability to go into incredible detail on such a variety of subjects demonstrates her obvious love of research.
I’m looking forward to more books from this terrific author.
Their faith in the Lord is the basis of their strength.
Like the first two stories, Cassia is filled with romance, action, and suspense. It's a page turner because you never know what is coming next. Ms. Craft ability to go into incredible detail on such a variety of subjects demonstrates her obvious love of research.
I’m looking forward to more books from this terrific author.
August 2, 2016
Too goodie-goodie
I guess if I were looking for something religious or faith related to read this would have been a more interesting read, but it isn't to my taste. In addition, religious or not, this family is too perfect and everything good, and everything unrealistic. It should be listed in children's section and religious section....not historic romance. It was beyond belief....a pleasant fairytale.
With everything that befalls this family, and with all the evil characters, prayers are always answered in the positive. I would only recommend to children ages eight to fourteen. Rather boring to this adult.
I guess if I were looking for something religious or faith related to read this would have been a more interesting read, but it isn't to my taste. In addition, religious or not, this family is too perfect and everything good, and everything unrealistic. It should be listed in children's section and religious section....not historic romance. It was beyond belief....a pleasant fairytale.
With everything that befalls this family, and with all the evil characters, prayers are always answered in the positive. I would only recommend to children ages eight to fourteen. Rather boring to this adult.
October 21, 2015
Rescuing a slave from a slave ship, protecting her newborn babe, and being captured by pirates make Cassia an exciting book. The author, Susan F. Craft wrote a passage of scripture at the beginning of each chapter, making me look for the clues as to how that particular passage was reflected within. An excellent read.
December 12, 2016
Splendid adventure
Well-written tale of the high seas and pirates along the outer banks of North Carolina. A brave Greek/American family survived hardships to return home, bringing friends along with them. Includes clear gospel teaching and deeds with Scripture references.
Well-written tale of the high seas and pirates along the outer banks of North Carolina. A brave Greek/American family survived hardships to return home, bringing friends along with them. Includes clear gospel teaching and deeds with Scripture references.
April 10, 2017
Nicholas and Lilyan Xanthakos, of the book Cassia, are well-developed lead characters. They are a couple deeply in love with each other and with their family of three children. Through extremely difficult circumstances, the family kept their faith and love for one another. It is an intense story of the days and dangers of pirates on the sea, a scathing look at how raw was their lifestyle.
Craft wasn’t afraid to use uncommon words and disclose evil as well as good. Her words painted pictures until I felt I knew Lilyan, a strong and courageous woman.
Cassia was a dark slave from another ship who Nicholas and his sons rescued from the sea after she had been tossed overboard to die. Though she didn’t live long, she gave birth to a tiny girl. The family also named her Cassia and made sure she had a good home.
Their simple family voyage turned brutal leaving them stranded on an island, vulnerable to ruthless pirates as their family is split apart. They are determined and full of faith that their family will be reunited.
Craft wasn’t afraid to use uncommon words and disclose evil as well as good. Her words painted pictures until I felt I knew Lilyan, a strong and courageous woman.
Cassia was a dark slave from another ship who Nicholas and his sons rescued from the sea after she had been tossed overboard to die. Though she didn’t live long, she gave birth to a tiny girl. The family also named her Cassia and made sure she had a good home.
Their simple family voyage turned brutal leaving them stranded on an island, vulnerable to ruthless pirates as their family is split apart. They are determined and full of faith that their family will be reunited.
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