Dark Shadows is a well written page turner. You will be compelled to finish this story that is so well developed that you will be unable to put it down.

Ms. Petkan does not disappoint readers; her characters and story line are fully integrated--so well that you identify and empathize with Mercy the main character. This is a book about destiny and one you must read!

Please see my review on Amazon.com

A very well written historical fiction set in one of my favorite time periods. The characters are complex and interesting. I loved Mercy's character and look forward to any future installments in this series. Very well done.

This novel reminded me of the writing of Charles Dickens. The story is complex, tragic, uplifting, and enthralling. The author has a wonderful way of writing that draws the readers into the world she has created. Although there is sadness in this story, I never felt overwhelmed by it. Instead, I was engrossed in the plot and found myself hoping for a good outcome.

The main character was named Mercy because of the circumstances of her birth. Her poor mother suffered greatly and shouted, “Mercy” over and over. With such a start to her life, it seems she will be cursed to suffer. The question is, will Mercy Carver rise above the awful circumstances of her beginnings? You need to read and find out. This is a gem of a book.

Well-written historical fiction. Recommended.

This book is a page turner about the ramifications of arranged marriage. Mercy’s Grandparents promised her in marriage to 'Big Joe' when she turns eighteen. Mercy was not a willing participant, and “Big Joe” was having no of it. The author builds up the suspense as the situation between Big Joe and Mercy accelerates into a full scale confrontation. This is the second book I had the chance to read by the author and I must admit, Jana Petken has done a wonderful job presenting her information to the reader with enough suspense to keep the story interesting and the pace moving. I thoroughly enjoyed it.