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I have been writing since early childhood, and by the age of eleven, I had completed a little book of fairy tales, with my own illustrations. At the age of twenty-three I was published by the University of Toronto Press in non-fiction. I first became intrigued by Constantinople when I read mention of the mysterious light phenomena that plagued the city in the last days of its existence – phenomena that still baffle modern scientists. All I knew then about the ancient city of Constantinople was that it had been the seat of the Roman Empire for eleven hundred years and was all that remained of that great civilization. Much later, I came across another reference to Constantinople's last days and an image of fire, death, and crumbling walls flashed into my mind. I was overcome with a moment of intense emotion. I began to read about the period, and the more I read, the more involved I became. I knew I had to tell that story. After my husband’s death to cancer, I polished what I had begun. New York editors were taken with it but their marketing teams weren't convinced that Constantinople could sell. Here it is, finally, my tribute to my husband, and to the emperor I will never forget, TOMORROW WE WILL KNOW.
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Tomorrow We Will Know: A Novel of Imperial Constantinople 1453 by Sandra Worth is set in the last days of the Byzantine Empire, specifically during the siege of Constantinople in the early 1450s. The story follows Emperor Constantine XI and his struggles to keep the Ottoman invaders out while his life falls apart. Constantine becomes the emperor when his brother Theodore passes away. Suddenly, Constantine has to let go of everything he loves to serve his people, even his love Zoe Notaras. Zoe is the daughter of a grand duke with big dreams that somehow become bigger than her feelings. To make matters worse, they cannot disclose their love for each other, considering the new Ottoman ruler Mehmet is getting ready to take over Constantinople right from under their feet. Constantine tries to fight for his people, but he is not prepared for losing Zoe. Can he keep her and his empire too?
Very few historical novels have the effect that Tomorrow We Will Know had on me. It is rich with diverse characters, has incredible details, and provides a magical experience that we expect from a well-written novel. The story delivers a vivid depiction of the fall of Constantinople and the conflict, while also doing justice to Zoe, Constantine, and Justiniani, whom you will discover as you get into the story. I love how Sandra Worth explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the clash of civilizations between the East and the West and does justice to them all. I also love that there is romance, suspense, and constant action that creates an immersive experience unlike any other. No historical fiction novel has been successful in holding my attention as this story did. It is a history lesson and entertainment all rolled into one.
