By Justin Newland
Publisher: Troubador Publishing
Pages: 264
Genre: Historical Fiction
There are some novels that transport readers to places rarely explored in historical fiction, and 'The Spirit of the Times' is certainly one of them. Justin Newland takes readers on an ambitious journey along the Silk Road, from the sweeping steppes of Central Asia to plague-ravaged England, weaving together history, spirituality and folklore to create a story that is both distinctive and thought-provoking.
At the heart of the novel is Karia, a young woman whose gift of prophecy proves to be as much a burden as it is a blessing. Her visions shape not only her own future but also the lives of those around her as she witnesses the relentless advance of the pestilence that will one day become known as the Black Death. Compassionate, courageous and quietly determined, Karia consistently places the welfare of others before her own. She is an engaging protagonist whose strength lies not in physical prowess, but in her resilience, empathy and unwavering sense of duty.
It is Karia's humanity that gives the novel its emotional heart. Whether comforting the dying, protecting those she loves or quietly questioning the beliefs of those around her, she remains a character whose compassion never feels forced. Even as the world around her descends into chaos, she retains a quiet dignity that makes her impossible not to care about. It is this emotional depth that carries the reader through the novel's many trials and transformations.
What impressed me most was Newland's evocation of fourteenth-century Central Asia. It is a setting rarely explored in historical fiction, yet it feels vibrant and authentic. From the bustling caravan routes of the Silk Road to the cultural and religious diversity of the Mongol world, the novel paints a vivid picture of societies connected by trade, belief and constant movement. The gradual spread of the plague creates a constant sense of unease, reminding both the characters and the reader that an invisible enemy is steadily drawing nearer.
The opening half of the novel is particularly compelling. The pacing allows the characters and their relationships to develop naturally, while the historical detail enriches the narrative without overwhelming it. Newland brings each location vividly to life, whether depicting isolated mountain communities, thriving trading cities or the endless grasslands stretching beneath the vast Central Asian sky. The research underpinning the novel is evident throughout, providing a rich foundation upon which the story unfolds.
As the narrative progresses westwards, however, the balance begins to shift. While the novel's ambitious scope is admirable, the pace of the latter chapters means that some relationships and emotional developments unfold more quickly than I would have liked. As a result, a number of important moments lose a little of the emotional weight they might otherwise have carried. Likewise, a handful of plot developments rely rather heavily on coincidence. Although these moments keep the story moving, they occasionally lessen the sense of realism that makes the opening half of the novel so immersive.
As the story progresses, the novel places increasing emphasis on its spiritual and philosophical themes. Christianity, Islam, Tengriism and Sufism are all treated with genuine respect, encouraging reflection on the common threads that connect different belief systems. As the novel approaches its conclusion, its supernatural elements become more prominent. Those who appreciate history interwoven with symbolism and spirituality will undoubtedly find much to enjoy, while readers seeking a more traditional historical narrative may find that the balance shifts away from historical realism.
Few novels attempt to combine medieval history, spiritual philosophy and the devastating march of the Black Death on such an ambitious scale. 'The Spirit of the Times' is an imaginative and memorable novel, and Newland deserves considerable credit for vividly recreating an overlooked period of history. Karia's story remains deeply engaging, the medieval world is richly realised, and the novel continually invites readers to look beyond familiar European settings to explore the wider world of the fourteenth century.
Although I felt the latter stages occasionally sacrificed some of the careful character development established in the opening chapters in favour of symbolism and philosophy, 'The Spirit of the Times' remains an ambitious and rewarding novel. Its unusual setting, richly imagined world and memorable heroine make it a thoroughly rewarding read, and Justin Newland deserves praise for shining a light on a fascinating period of history that deserves far greater attention.
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Mary Anne xxx