Title: White Storks of Mercy Trilogy: Book Two – Reunion
Author: Joni Anderson van Berkel
Genre: Epic Fantasy, Time Travel, Magical Realism, Mythology
Book Blurb:
The epic journey that commenced in White Storks of Mercy—Formation continues in a world where reality and fantasy coexist. The Great and Honorable Zendala, formerly known as Tara, leads the legendary coterie through time searching for her last two recruits.
These graceful birds are vested with eternal life and the power to transform into women. As humans, they are called the Merciful Ones. The mystical creatures find that it is not easy to be peacemakers from the past striving to save the world for the future.
Follow them as they rescue a Celtic Druidess with fiery red hair and encounter a young Portuguese woman with sky-blue eyes and diamond shaped pupils. Is she connected to Zendala’s sister, Reba, the ancient Egyptian Siamese cat?
White Storks of Mercy—Reunion is the second book in the trilogy by Joni Anderson van Berkel. Expect more magic, mystery, mythology, and mayhem. Once again, this novel promises to enchant its readers.
Watch the book trailer: https://youtu.be/RZBEmnYoah4
My Review:
The war to end all wars is on the horizon...will the White Storks of Mercy offer humanitarian aid to all who suffer, or will their plans be thwarted? The White Storks of Mercy - Reunion is book two of the trilogy and it is quite moving. The descriptive narration is immersive in its lyrical form. The characters are beautifully written. The historical accuracy is impressive. The world-building is flawless. The story itself will sweep you away.
Let's start with the characters. There are returning characters as well as new ones to interact with. Each of the 'white storks' have a backstory which shapes them into who they are today and how they transform to help the cause. I connected with all the characters and truly got caught up in the story. How each character reacts to humans' propensity for war is a dichotomy today.
The narration is so beautifully portrayed, it is the reason why I love reading this author's work. The way every scene, emotion, movement, and dialogue are detailed with an almost poetic nature allows the reader to become part of the story. The author paints a story like an artist with a canvas. Stunning.
The setting and world-building work well to offset the characters and action. The setting switches to various points in history but it's not jarring. The author takes her time with transitions as well as historical details. It allows the reader to soak it all in.
Another brilliant book by this author. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, more than I did the first book. If you're looking for a lush, original story to dive into, pick up The White Storks of Mercy - Reunion.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Buy it Now:
Book Bub - https://www.bookbub.com/books/white-storks-of-mercy-trilogy-reunion-by-joni-anderson-van-berkel
Giveaway –
Enter to win one of twelve print copies of White Storks of Mercy: Reunion (book two):
US residents only
Runs February 21 – March 28, 2024.
Winner will be drawn on March 29, 2024.
Author Biography:
JONI ANDERSON VAN BERKEL is a Colorado-born writer and artist who lives in Zurich, Switzerland. She is happily married to her Dutchman from Amsterdam.
She was educated at the University of Colorado and holds both Bachelor of Science and Master of Architecture degrees.
Joni studied script writing in Europe and wrote her first screenplay, Bad Julia, with the late David Sherwin. She is currently working on the script, White Storks of Mercy Trilogy – Formation.
She has spent more than ten years writing her trilogy, White Storks of Mercy. The first two books, Formation and Reunion are available on Amazon. The third book of her trilogy, Reconciliation, is coming soon.
Social Media Links:
Instagram @whitestorksofmercy
Reviewed by: Nancy