Reviewed by Ray Simmons for Readers' Favorite

The King's Scrolls by Jaye L. Knight is the second book in The Ilyon Chronicles. It is an excellent example of Christian fantasy. A lot of the story is told through the eyes of Rebel twins. Another thread involves the spiritual leader of an oppressed community of miners. Timothy is the scribe creating scrolls for distribution to the masses and much of the plot involves a race for the Rebels to find him before the villains do. I liked Kyrin and her twin brother Kaden and kept reading to see what would happen to them and all their friends. Timothy the miner and his family and friends were also very easy to become attached to and root for. The description of their lives and situation was spot on. Timothy and his devotion to his people, his mission, and to God was very inspiring. And with all these things going for it, The King's Scrolls also has dragons!

The King's Scrolls is well written and I would not be surprised if The Ilyon Chronicles becomes a classic in the tradition of The Chronicles of Narnia. If you or your children enjoyed those tales, then this is a book for you. The King's Scrolls is the second book of the series and I have not read the first, but it didn't stop my enjoyment of this one. It can be read and enjoyed as a complete stand-alone novel, but I recommend reading the first one and enjoying the saga the way Jaye L. Knight intended. In a time when what is right and wrong can be very confusing for everyone, it can be very rewarding for children, teens, and young adults to read a well written morality play. But when all is said and done, the best reason to read The King's Scrolls is that it is a beautifully written adventure story with interesting characters and a well thought out plot.

Reviewed by Nathan M. Beauchamp for Readers' Favorite

Christian fiction tends to come in two flavors: books written for other Christians, and books written for a secular audience (though usually with some sort of apologetic goal such as Tosca Lee’s work). A Time to Die by Nadine Brandes is solidly in the first category. A Christian dystopia, it features a Christian heroine, and a strong Christian message. While a commendable and well-written novel, it will not appeal to those who don’t have pre-established Christian faith.

Parvin Blackwater has a year left to live. In the Eastern United States, everyone receives a clock at birth that tells them the exact second they will die. The clocks don’t simply predict when genetics will cause a natural death; they predict accidental or violent deaths as well. When Parvin loses her clock, Enforcers (the de facto police force) shove her through the continent-length wall that splits the Eastern United States from the rest of the country — the punishment for “Radicals” as those without clocks are known. She must survive in a harsh new world that her sheltered life in Unity Village has not prepared her for.

A Time to Die weaves a strong premise, interesting science fiction, a spiritual message, and a likable heroine into a compelling, well-written novel. Brandes is a fine writer, adept at visual details, arresting images, and imaginative environments. Full of entertaining extrapolations, the science fiction elements shine as well done and overall believable. The story suffers from some pacing issues in the middle third of the book, but they’re offset by the inherent grittiness of the narrative. Brandes isn’t overly protective of her heroine, and doesn’t shy away from the necessary violence the world she’s created demands.

A Time to Die never gives a fully satisfying answer to the question of how the clocks work; whether they are “magical” in the sense of always being accurate (the novel hints this might not be the case) or if they’re subject to interpretation or manipulation of some kind. Though mentioned in passing, Brandes did not address the question of what happens when people seek to avoid their demise a la final destination. Suicide is explained away with a single sentence (nobody does it in the Eastern United States). Perhaps these questions will be answered in future installments, but for me, the ending wasn’t fully satisfying because the fundamental question surrounding the clocks wasn’t answered.

That said, the world building, imagery, and excellent prose kept me eagerly turning pages and left me hungry for the next installment. Brandes has a real gift for words and the imagination to back it up. I can’t wait to see what she does next.

Reviewed by Tracy A. Fischer for Readers' Favorite

In The Story in the Stars: Gateway to Gannah, Volume One by author Yvonne Anderson, we find our heroine, Dassa, teaming up with the inscrutable Dr. Pik in the hopes of finding a cure for the Karkar plague before it decimates the population of Gannah. In a surprising alliance, as Dr. Pik has professed his hatred for the whole Gannahan race, the two must race against time in their work. When a cure is found, the story doesn’t end as Dassa and Pik need to fight off attacks by interstellar pirates and wild beasts, survive food poisoning and a plane crash and, perhaps most difficult of all, try to get along with one another until they can finish their quest.

The Story in the Stars: Gateway to Gannah, Volume One is a strong new entry in the genre of Christian science fiction. The Story in the Stars, the unifying theme of all cultures in the Universe, that all have the same story of the constellations, the same origin story of religion, underlies the religious foundation of this book. The belief that God created all under the stars, not just those from Earth, serves as the basis for the Christian religion for all. Yvonne Anderson’s attempt to unite Christian themes and science fiction in this, her debut novel, is a delicate balancing act, and one not undertaken by many novelists even more experienced than she. Her work will appeal to those who enjoy science fiction, but especially those with a Christian faith, and those who may have found themselves wondering, ‘If there are others out there in the Universe, who is to say that they, too, were not created by God and a part of His greater Creation?’

Reviewed by Cheryl E. Rodriguez for Readers' Favorite

Four in the Garden by Rick Hocker is a thought provoking account of man’s relationship with God. This beautifully written allegory portrays the forging of trust between Cherished and the Creator. Cherished is created and placed in the garden; from conception the Creator is there to guide, protect and serve him. Encouraged to explore his world, Cherished discovers friendship and adversity. Not every being that crosses his path is good, some are disguised, cloaked in a false light. Free will challenges Cherished, and temptation leads to separation and ultimately isolation. Cherished learns that his choices have consequences, mistakes are necessary for growth, “trust grows by trusting” and “true devotion is motivated by love alone.” Through it all, Cherished is transformed into a beloved Companion.

Rick Hocker’s Four in the Garden is a symbolic narrative bathed with spiritual meaning. It bursts with proverbial moral lessons, profound philosophical ideas, and Godly principles. It is a treasure chest overflowing with nuggets of truth. Hocker’s writing style is extremely figurative, imaginative and sensory; his descriptions entice the senses. The chapters are short and focus on a single topic, but also are in chronological order, portraying the dynamic growth of the main character. Four in the Garden is a first person account from Cherished’s point of view. However, at times the story is told through the voice of an omniscient narrator who objectively fills in necessary information. Four in the Garden is a refreshing narrative, full of Selah moments. It challenges the reader to search out their own soul, to discover their own personal relationship with their Creator. Four in the Garden is one book I will read again and again.

Reviewed by Ray Simmons for Readers' Favorite

In Of The Persecuted (Legends of The Woodlands Volume 1) by Angie Brashear, Laila Pennedy is a young female character that many teen girls will relate to. She has had a very trying young life, but remains strong in her faith and still manages to be generous, caring, and optimistic. Lars Landre is the young man who saves her life and helps her on a perilous journey to reach the hidden village of the Faithful, called Tuveil. There are trials and tribulations on the journey to Tuveil, and Lars and Laila will encounter friendship, death, and betrayal before they can reach the fabled village of the Faithful.

Of The Persecuted (Legends of The Woodlands Volume 1) by Angie Brashear is a quick, delightful read for young people. It has overtones of Christianity, much like the Narnia Chronicles, without direct reference to Christianity itself. It is a great book for young readers in that the story is a clear struggle between right and wrong with corresponding themes of faith, endurance, loyalty, love, and friendship.

This is a book I can give to my own son and daughter to read. Lars and Leila are great examples for young people to emulate. Lars is young but he may be the Chosen, the one who will help rescue the Woodlands from the armies of Vatten Rendow and The Maker's adversary, The Master of Lies. The action moves quickly in Of The Persecuted and Angie Brashear includes many powerful and inspiring scenes in this awesome tale of good and evil. This is the first book in the series and young people can follow their heroes as they grow stronger in faith and love.

Reviewed by Tania Staley for Readers' Favorite

Rogue, by P.A. Minyard, is a fascinating blend of historical fiction and fantasy. Daniel joined the Union army in order to make a difference and to protect his land and his family from the threats of the Confederacy, but in a fatal clash on the battlefield he learns that there are hidden dangers even more deadly. Like many soldiers at the battle of Antietam, Daniel died, but death at the hands of a demon allows for choices to be made. Dying from the wound of a demon allows a person of noble heart to become a Beloved, a chosen warrior for God who abolishes demons by absorbing their power and giving it back to the Lord. Daniel agrees to become a Beloved in order to remain with his family and protect them, but little does he know that Benedict, the demon who killed him, has a sinister plan that threatens not only his existence, but will pull his younger brother into the fray as well. Will these brothers be able to win the fight against evil, or will they succumb to Benedict’s dark desires?

P.A. Minyard’s Rogue is an exciting tale unlike any I have ever read. The unique blend of historical fiction, paranormal, romance, and fantasy elements make this a tale that is sure to please a wide fan base. The action scenes are gripping and there were many times I found my breath catching and a lump in my throat as I read, but it is the drama of the Civil War that Minyard has woven throughout the text that makes this tale stand out. While creating a wonderfully fantastical story, the author has also been true to historical elements, such as family bonds and the hardships people faced during this time period. This is a book that I will certainly be urging the readers in my life to check out, and, though this book is a complete tale, it is my sincere hope that Minyard will return to this world again and give readers another treat.

Reviewed by Julia Schemmer for Readers' Favorite

The pursuit of a personal desire can lead oneself into a journey like no other. In Shadow’s Fire: A Chance Beginning, by exquisite author Christopher Patterson, this is just the case! From giving up everything to pursue a life of promise, potential and purpose to leaving the family that embraced them through life, the book is chock-full of characters that will inspire, motivate, and empower you to pursue your dream. Of course, no book would be good without some action! Patterson employs a strong use of battles and events that will keep you reading into the wee hours of the morning, on the edge of your seat with every turn of the page. Through its intense three hundred and twenty pages, you will find yourself saddened when you reach the last page. Patterson does not just describe a fantasy land; he brings it to life through his stunning use of imagery, character development, and plot twists and turns at every corner.

I am an adventure book junkie, so I had high expectations when I first picked up Shadow’s Fire: A Chance Beginning. However, I am thoroughly impressed that author Christopher Patterson was able to meet (and sometimes overreach!) each expectation to the fullest extent of excellence. This book is a treasure, a find, and you will be happy you decided to read it. I loved the struggles that each character had to endure while pursuing their own destiny. It gave me hope to realize that there are going to be battles, but there are also going to be victories. I laughed, I cried, and I was drawn into every word of the fantastic story Patterson so diligently laid out for the reader.

Reviewed by Sarah Westmoreland for Readers' Favorite

Resistance, by Jaye L. Knight, is the first book in the Ilyon Chronicles: a Christian Fantasy series set in the mythical world of Ilyon. There, a small and widespread group of people secretly worship the One True God, Elôm. The majority of the population, however, worship the emperor’s false gods, Aertus and Vilai. Trapped in Tarvin Hall, a special facility built to raise gifted children in the service of the emperor, twin brother and sister, Kaden and Kyrrin, fight to maintain their secret faith. But when Kyrrin is summoned to the palace by the Emperor, himself, to enter into his service two full years before most of the students at Tarvin Hall are chosen, it becomes more and more difficult to stay safely hidden. What will become of her if the emperor discovers her faith in Elôm? What will become of Kaden? Meanwhile, a great distance away, the half-Ryrik, Jace, struggles to decide if Elôm really loves him, or if his Ryrik blood makes him a soulless monster, as everyone claims. This struggle is brought to a head as the emperor’s men slaughter the only family he has ever known, trying to find Jace’s adopted father, Rayad, to kill him for his faith in Elôm. Will Jace find strength in his faith, or will this violent act be the cruelty that will push him over the edge?

From the first sentence, this story grabs you, refusing to let you go until you’ve finished it. I have read a lot of fantasy, and a lot of Christian fantasy, but I can only name a small handful of books that come near to the quality of this work. The descriptions are so clear and concise, and the characters are developed so fully and so realistically, that it is easy to believe that they are real. So many times, Christian authors put the morals at the forefront of their stories, sacrificing the story in the process. Jaye L. Knight did an amazing job of keeping the Christian morals and values at the forefront of the book, without making it sound cheesy or overdone in any way. The characters are strong, and faithful, but they are also broken, and damaged. They laugh, they cry, they feel afraid, and they make mistakes. There is a level of realism and relatability that I have only very rarely seen before. The plot is thick and suspenseful, and will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. But once you do reach the end, it leaves you searching for more. I am eagerly awaiting the next installment in the Ilyon Chronicles, and I would certainly recommend this book!

Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite

The King of the Trees by William D. Burt is a fantasy story. Rolin lives with his dad in Beechtown in a big forest. Their job is collecting honey from their many beehives and selling it on Market Day. But on Market Day, Rolin finds himself being chased by Greencloaks who want his grandmother's jeweled pendant. The adventures of Rolin begin when he is taken on a fantasy trip and encounters batwolves, dragons, grumpy griffins, and other exciting creatures. Will Rolin be able to discover the mystery behind his grandmother's jewelry box?

This book is an absolute delight. Children and adults will be enchanted. It is an excellent book to read aloud and it is ideal for those who love nature and trees. The glossary/pronunciation guide at the back helps readers to learn the words they do not know. Adventure stories open the minds of children to imagination and creativity because authors always come up with whimsy and magic.

The black and white sketches are as appealing as the fantasy itself. The strange lands, the interesting people, and the imaginative names all are enjoyable to a reader who is looking for some adventure and excitement. The book also has a nice Christian message which adds to the depth of the story. It is always good to write a story with a message for children because that is the best way to advise them. I recommend this book for children because it is a beautifully woven tale.

Reviewed by April Gilly for Readers' Favorite

Doubt by Anne-Rae Vasquez is about the Truth Seekers and their mission to find the truth. Originally an online role-playing game, creator Harry Doubt takes the game offline in the hopes of finding out what happened to his mother who disappeared. Harry continues his father's work with a man his father worked with and eventually discovers that the man knows more that he says. Harry quickly learns that things aren't what they seem when things start happening that he had no reason to believe would happen. Cristal, one of Harry's top Truth Seekers, is quickly pulled into what is going on and starts to learn the truth behind the strange things that have been happening to her all her life. With the help of a fellow Truth Seeker, Cristal and Harry find that things are very different, but that there is hope of finding Harry's missing mother and Cristal's missing father.

Doubt by Anne-Rae Vasquez is really slow-paced but then starts to pick up, and once that happened the book became amazing. Doubt is well written with great imagery and some plot twists that I never saw coming. There aren't many books that have such a unique plot twist. Once religion is brought into Doubt, the book gets a little weird but when the pieces start falling into place it making sense. When the background stories of some of the paranormal creatures come to light, the book gets even better. There were two thing about Doubt that I didn't enjoy but the book was so awesome that it was easy to overlook.