My most anticipated read of 2024 is Of Love and Treason by debut author, Jamie Ogle. This exploration of St. Valentine's life takes us out of the modern idea of "Valentine's Day" back to Valentine's "day" to see what may have sparked the legend surrounding him. Listen in as we talk about what sparked Jamie's interest in this story and what we can see next from her.

 

note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.

Why Is Of Love and Treason My Most Anticipated Read of 2024?

Chatting with Jamie Ogle was wonderful.  We talked about books we love, about research, and especially about researching a book with little information out there--there's no proof that Valentine even existed, so... now what?

On top of all that, we also chatted about her next book (March of next year... EEEP!) and where she sees her writing going in the future (hint: she's staying historical!)

Of Love and Treason by Jamie Ogle

Valentine defies the emperor and becomes a hero . . . and the most wanted man in the empire. Compelled by his faith, he has nothing to lose, until a chance encounter with the daughter of a Roman jailor changes everything.

Rome, AD 270. In the wake of the emperor’s marriage ban, rumors swirl that there is one man brave enough to perform wedding ceremonies in secret. A public notarius and leader of an underground church, Valentine believes the emperor’s edict unjust and risks his own life for the sake of his convictions. But as his fame grows, so do fears for his safety.

Iris, the daughter of a Roman jailor, believes regaining her sight will ease the mounting troubles at home. Her last hope rests in searching out Valentine and his church, but the danger of associating with people labeled a threat to the empire is great. Still, as Iris's new friends lead her to faith in God, Iris is drawn to Valentine and they both begin to hope for a future together beyond the treacherous empire.

But when a past debt and a staggering betrayal collide, Valentine, Iris, and everyone they love must fight for their lives . . . and wrestle with trusting a God who can restore sight yet does not always keep His followers from peril. Discussion questions for book clubs

• Discussion questions for book clubs
• Retelling of the legend of St. Valentine
• First Christian historical romance novel set in ancient times by author Jamie Ogle

Learn more about Jamie Ogle on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.

Of Love and Treason releases January 23, 2024.

Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at:

• Apple 
• Castbox 
• Google Play
• Libsyn 
• RSS
• Spotify
• Amazon
• and more!