Before the Fortress Falls, by A. L. Sowards is a historical fiction novel about family, love, faith, and survival. In 1683 Vienna, Katja Schor learns from her brother Wilhelm, a courtier of Emperor Leopold, that the emperor is leaving Vienna (to secure allies against an invasion by the Ottoman Empire), and so are the Schors. Katja does not want to leave her beloved city. She hears that her other brother, Xavier, a soldier, is returning to Vienna with his regiment. She hasn’t seen Xavier in over a year - since his falling out with Wilhelm. On their way to Linz, Katja makes the impulsive decision to return to Vienna on foot, unbeknownst to Wilhelm. Her sister-in-law only half-heartedly tries to stop her. In Vienna, preparations are being made against the imminent invasion. Everyone, including Katja, must do their part. Katja runs into a childhood friend, Tobias, and she cannot deny that her interest in him quickly becomes more than just the rekindling of a friendship. Tobias is not of a prominent, affluent family, like the Schors, so that’s an obstacle - not to mention that their city is about to be attacked - and their army is desperately outnumbered. Should the Ottoman army prevail, they will kill or enslave anyone who remains in the city. What will Wilhelm do? Will Katja find Xavier? Will the walls around Vienna hold? Will reinforcements arrive in time? Will Emperor Leopold find allies to help? No spoilers here!!

I recently read Heirs of Falcon Point, written by a group of authors, and absolutely loved the opening chapters (my favorite of the entire novel). Credit for these chapters goes to A. L. Sowards. After finishing the novel, I was sure to note this new to me author for future reference. When I came upon this book in NetGalley, I instantly requested it. As expected, this talented story teller has written another great novel. Before the Fortress Falls is jam packed with history (you will even find a glossary of terminology and a diagram or two within the first few pages), this novel will take readers to 17th century Vienna. There is a lot of realism in this novel. Characters are relatable and the storyline doesn't feel embellished. This makes the characters so much more relatable and the plotline believable. This story will pull on your heart strings. You may even shed a tear or two. It was truly well crafted and I can't wait to read another by this talented author.

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

“‘Why do you come up here so often when it causes you discomfort?’ Katja climbed the final few steps and halted at the view… ‘I come to witness.’ Her voice was but a whisper.”

How can I put into words the feelings I’ve felt while reading this masterpiece? I’ve wept, smiled, and been touched by this powerful yet tender story of love, loss, faith, family, and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. Before the Fortress Falls tells the true story of the siege of Vienna of 1683. While considered historical fiction, the author has taken great pains to include as accurate a portrayal as possible.

It’s a story of courage about a people who were surrounded on all sides. (To say history repeats itself is never more true than now when a different people face an equally impossible situation in March 2022.) They were outnumbered and the city was to be conquered not for any noble reasons but for greed and power. Through the endearing characters of Katja, Toby, Xavier, and Wilhelm, A.L. Sowards shares the physical battles as well as the emotional and spiritual battles of love, hope, and forgiveness. I find it best not to know much going in, but just know that this is a beautiful story of romance and hope in spite of the horrendous circumstances. Interestingly, as there are two sides to every battle, the author provides the voice of Ahmed to share the Turkish perspective and experiences of the siege.

I loved the way Katja’s music played an important role in this story. It’s a gentle reminder that even in the darkest times, music and beauty can nourish the soul and provide comfort. I loved the relationships in the story especially between Katja and Toby and Xavier. I also enjoyed Wilhelm’s perspective that helped us see the diplomatic efforts to save Vienna. Faith also plays a poignant role in this story and is expertly woven throughout.

While there are battle scenes depicted as well as deaths and injuries, it is not overly graphic and the author perfectly balances the need for accurately portraying what happened with reader sensibilities. This story really captured my heart . It’s a must read and I highly recommend it to those who love historical fiction and romance. Have your tissues handy because this will definitely tug at your heartstrings. Thanks to the author and publisher for providing an advanced copy of this story. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review. ( )

Before the Fortress Falls by A. L. Sowards is a great example of why I enjoy historical fiction. I get to learn more about a slice of history while reading an intriguing and fascinating story. With obvious impeccable research and a knack for creating colorful, engaging characters, Sowards has written a compelling and riveting fictionalized account of the siege of Vienna in 1683 by the Ottomans. Katja Schor is a courageous, plucky heroine determined to do what she can to help defend her city. While her brother Wilhelm evacuates his family and rides for help from Vienna’s allies, her other brother Xavier returns to the city to fight. Their childhood friend, Toby plays a big part of the story also as he reunites with Katja.

There are several points of view which add different perspectives to the fight. Parts of the story were a little hard for me to read, as they included quite graphic accounts of the fighting action and violence, but the author did a wonderful job of accurately portraying the events without going overboard. Plenty of action, suspense, intrigue, and a dash of romance make this book a memorable read. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Covenant Communications through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. ( )