Under the Inquisition tells the story of reformed Christians in 16 th century Italy. It is a captivating tale that is especially endearing to post-Lutheran Christians. Intended for high school students and adults, the novel lets you travel back in time and experience the trials of Christianity's early reformed believers. Walshe takes the reader to another time and place. It's as though we are there, watching all that is taking place. Early in the story, I felt the stone walls of the home of a suspected Lutheran and heard the oars lapping at the lake as an escape was made.

Bible verses are woven into the tale to remind us whom these brave souls are standing up for, whom they follow. Periodically, we are brought to our current place in time and reminded that we modern-day believers have not had such a battle. Those who left the Roman Catholic Church centuries ago paved a smoother road for us. We learn of those burned at the stake, those tortured and ordered to recant Luther's beliefs, and those forced out of their homes to a foreign land.

I found Walshe's use of Italian to be an added bonus in the storytelling. I enjoyed reading Italian phrases, and they only added to my ability to get lost in the tale. I shivered as the rain fell on the first group forced out of Italy, and I cringed as the author described the rack being used to torture.

This is a must read for anyone studying the Reformation or for those who love historical works. Educational and entertaining at the same time, the book also brings to light matters of faith. Highly recommended!