The Warrior Maiden by Melanie Dickerson

In 1423, 18-year-old Mulan longs to travel from her village in Lithuania to distant lands and fight against the ruthless Teutonic Knights. However, she is expected to fulfill the traditional role of all women in her vicinity—to marry, bear children, cook, clean, and sew. A possible marriage to the village butcher is looming. Still, Mulan is filled with a “strange yearning” to fight injustice and brutality meted out on innocent victims.

When Mulan’s father unexpectedly dies, the family is in danger of losing their home and land. Mulan can’t stand idly by doing nothing. She makes a decision that will change her life, disguising herself as a young male soldier and volunteering to fight in her father’s stead.

As Mulan struggles to make her way in the world of men and warfare, she lives in constant fear of being discovered. Wolfgang, a fellow soldier and Mulan’s trusted companion, eventually discovers her secret. When the other soldiers also learn the truth, Mulan continues to show fearlessness, determination, and resourcefulness as a female warrior, despite accusations of being the devil’s servant.

Billed as a "a fresh reimagining of the classic Mulan tale,” Dickerson sets the story, based on the legendary Chinese warrior Hua Mulan, in 15th century Lithuania. This novelfor young adults portrays a time when armies on both sides of a conflict fought in the name of God, each claiming to be the rightful followers of Christ. It also reveals how Christianity was foundational to culture and people’s worldview. Author Melanie Dickerson adeptly weaves biblical truths about justice, righteousness, and the power of prayer throughout this swashbuckling adventure, replete with a blooming romance. (Thomas Nelson)