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Recommend this book:
The Gatekeeper's Descendants
Johanna Frank
2022 Honorable Mention
437 Pages
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Young Adult - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
A Christian fantasy science-fiction novel that delves into the riddles of life and death, The Gatekeeper’s Descendants by Johanna Frank is bold and imaginative. Pipiera arrived in the form of a curious young teenager and is still reluctant to enter the gate to the kingdom. This catches the attention of Megalos, the head gatekeeper. Megalos needs a favor as he is all worked up by a situation that requires intervention for a boy named Matthew. Pipiera accepts the task to help Matthew get his life back on track. Interventions are not her thing, and Matthew will not realize what is happening at the beginning. Things will not turn out the way Pipiera intended them to be. Matthew's life will seem to go from bad to worse. Will Pipiera still go the extra lengths to save a fledgling earth-dwelling boy, and will he ever get any assistance from Megalos?
The Gatekeeper’s Descendants will take you to the emotional brink, and it is moving enough to push you over. It ends on a convincing and happy note, but not in a formulaic resolution. Johanna Frank decodes an enticing allegory about the human soul and how good and evil battle to have custody. What happens to Pipiera and Matthew in the story is like nothing you have ever read before. It provides a reflective moment on the mysteries of death and how we fit into the grand scheme of things. I finished reading sensing something that I cannot explain, but I appreciate it. I recommend you to read it because this is a story that has something to impart to even the most cynical among us.
A Christian fantasy science-fiction novel that delves into the riddles of life and death, The Gatekeeper’s Descendants by Johanna Frank is bold and imaginative. Pipiera arrived in the form of a curious young teenager and is still reluctant to enter the gate to the kingdom. This catches the attention of Megalos, the head gatekeeper. Megalos needs a favor as he is all worked up by a situation that requires intervention for a boy named Matthew. Pipiera accepts the task to help Matthew get his life back on track. Interventions are not her thing, and Matthew will not realize what is happening at the beginning. Things will not turn out the way Pipiera intended them to be. Matthew's life will seem to go from bad to worse. Will Pipiera still go the extra lengths to save a fledgling earth-dwelling boy, and will he ever get any assistance from Megalos?
The Gatekeeper’s Descendants will take you to the emotional brink, and it is moving enough to push you over. It ends on a convincing and happy note, but not in a formulaic resolution. Johanna Frank decodes an enticing allegory about the human soul and how good and evil battle to have custody. What happens to Pipiera and Matthew in the story is like nothing you have ever read before. It provides a reflective moment on the mysteries of death and how we fit into the grand scheme of things. I finished reading sensing something that I cannot explain, but I appreciate it. I recommend you to read it because this is a story that has something to impart to even the most cynical among us.
Recommend this book:
Forbidden
Book 4 of the Forlorn series
Gina Detwiler
2022 Bronze Medal
364 Pages
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Young Adult - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
Forbidden is the fourth book in the Forlorn Series by Gina Detwiler. Following the events in Forgiven, the Watchers have been freed as the Abyss has been opened. Jared’s Watcher father, Azazel, is among the fugitives from the Abyss and is now bent on making Earth fall under his control. Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune are also among those who have escaped, but they want nothing to do with the sinister schemes of the Watchers. They find themselves facing dark forces as they try to get to the spiritual realm of the Other Side. They will have to join forces with the remaining few known as the Forbidden, who are trying to prevent the spread of evil. And Grace has the gift of Song that will be useful against the Watchers.
Forbidden is a colorful eschatological fable that draws its storyline from Judeo-Christian elements. Its elaborate plot that involves warring angels has a clear premise, and it’s easy to understand what drives them to take sides. As angels are currently proliferating in popular culture, Gina Detwiler skillfully wraps up her tale with a powerful message of faith and hope. The shifting narrative between Grace and Jared gives you a wider view of the plot as you are provided with two perspectives. This may strike you as high fantasy, but the fact that this plot equally proliferates with human characters makes it an attention-grabbing story that puts the fate of mankind at the center of it all. Lovers of Christian fantasy will enjoy this powerful adventure, and you will eagerly await the next installment.
Forbidden is the fourth book in the Forlorn Series by Gina Detwiler. Following the events in Forgiven, the Watchers have been freed as the Abyss has been opened. Jared’s Watcher father, Azazel, is among the fugitives from the Abyss and is now bent on making Earth fall under his control. Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune are also among those who have escaped, but they want nothing to do with the sinister schemes of the Watchers. They find themselves facing dark forces as they try to get to the spiritual realm of the Other Side. They will have to join forces with the remaining few known as the Forbidden, who are trying to prevent the spread of evil. And Grace has the gift of Song that will be useful against the Watchers.
Forbidden is a colorful eschatological fable that draws its storyline from Judeo-Christian elements. Its elaborate plot that involves warring angels has a clear premise, and it’s easy to understand what drives them to take sides. As angels are currently proliferating in popular culture, Gina Detwiler skillfully wraps up her tale with a powerful message of faith and hope. The shifting narrative between Grace and Jared gives you a wider view of the plot as you are provided with two perspectives. This may strike you as high fantasy, but the fact that this plot equally proliferates with human characters makes it an attention-grabbing story that puts the fate of mankind at the center of it all. Lovers of Christian fantasy will enjoy this powerful adventure, and you will eagerly await the next installment.
Recommend this book:
Land Without Shame
A Cody Musket Jr. Thriller
James Nathaniel Miller II
2022 Silver Medal
248 Pages
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Young Adult - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Peggy Jo Wipf for Readers' Favorite
Land Without Shame is the fourth book in James Nathaniel Miller II's Cody Musket series. This novel is about faith, forgiveness, rescuing helpless children, with a splash of romance. Cody Musket Jr. missed his secret contact when he takes a chance to save an infant that was thrown away like trash. The plane he is on is hijacked remotely and then crashes into the ocean. Diamond Casper is a selfish actress that has much to learn about herself when she wakes up on a beach after the crash. Cody's calm demeanor and faith in God throws Diamond as he has to take charge of the few survivors. Why would the island they find themselves on have armed guards? Who is the angel that is supplying them with food? Why is a shipload of children being dropped off at the island?
James Nathaniel Miller II writes with a purpose and passion. Land Without Shame shows through training, faith, and drive a man can make a difference in the lives of others. Cody brings out the best in others while helping them to accept themselves. His integrity and honor credit the way a Christian man should act. Diamond's new views in life when people were no longer fawning over her were humorous. I loved the fullness of the characters as the story unfolds into unseen adventures. Overall, I found this novel very well written. It has a serious message about child slavery but skillfully laced through the story. It is a gripping and densely packed thriller that periodically had you laughing out loud.
Land Without Shame is the fourth book in James Nathaniel Miller II's Cody Musket series. This novel is about faith, forgiveness, rescuing helpless children, with a splash of romance. Cody Musket Jr. missed his secret contact when he takes a chance to save an infant that was thrown away like trash. The plane he is on is hijacked remotely and then crashes into the ocean. Diamond Casper is a selfish actress that has much to learn about herself when she wakes up on a beach after the crash. Cody's calm demeanor and faith in God throws Diamond as he has to take charge of the few survivors. Why would the island they find themselves on have armed guards? Who is the angel that is supplying them with food? Why is a shipload of children being dropped off at the island?
James Nathaniel Miller II writes with a purpose and passion. Land Without Shame shows through training, faith, and drive a man can make a difference in the lives of others. Cody brings out the best in others while helping them to accept themselves. His integrity and honor credit the way a Christian man should act. Diamond's new views in life when people were no longer fawning over her were humorous. I loved the fullness of the characters as the story unfolds into unseen adventures. Overall, I found this novel very well written. It has a serious message about child slavery but skillfully laced through the story. It is a gripping and densely packed thriller that periodically had you laughing out loud.
Recommend this book:
Branded
Joseph T. Humphrey
2022 Gold Medal
514 Pages
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Young Adult - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Branded by Joseph T. Humphrey is a fantasy novel revolving around a high-schooler named Henry Murphy, whose seventeen years of life turn out to be far less normal than they seem. The book begins with a prologue of baby Henry being rushed with his parents into another dimension. The fear is palpable, and they are definitely being chased. The book then moves to Henry as a teen, working for a baseball scholarship and being encouraged by his friend Charlotte. As the truth begins to unfold, Henry, Charley, Dawn, and Thom, who slowly remember the force they fled another realm from, are confronted with an actual battle between the darkness of the Nekura and the safe protection of The Light.
It is extremely rare for me to be at a loss for words, but here I am, gobsmacked and blown away by Branded. Joseph T. Humphrey is an exceptionally gifted storyteller and, paired with a plot and characters he's turned from ink into flesh, this series is a winner. I'll spare you the pun connecting that last sentence to an inkblot but, trust me, you will want to know when you get to chapter 161. There is tension on every single page. There is intrigue, fear, conspiracy, gremlins, war, mashed potatoes in safe houses, and school receptionists with beehive hair. I was most impressed with the personalities given to even the most ancillary characters, and the running dialogue feels organic. As a reader, it takes a great deal of trust to embark on a new fantasy series. Branded is well worth your trust and pays out fantastically. I am so excited to see the direction we are hurtled into next.
Branded by Joseph T. Humphrey is a fantasy novel revolving around a high-schooler named Henry Murphy, whose seventeen years of life turn out to be far less normal than they seem. The book begins with a prologue of baby Henry being rushed with his parents into another dimension. The fear is palpable, and they are definitely being chased. The book then moves to Henry as a teen, working for a baseball scholarship and being encouraged by his friend Charlotte. As the truth begins to unfold, Henry, Charley, Dawn, and Thom, who slowly remember the force they fled another realm from, are confronted with an actual battle between the darkness of the Nekura and the safe protection of The Light.
It is extremely rare for me to be at a loss for words, but here I am, gobsmacked and blown away by Branded. Joseph T. Humphrey is an exceptionally gifted storyteller and, paired with a plot and characters he's turned from ink into flesh, this series is a winner. I'll spare you the pun connecting that last sentence to an inkblot but, trust me, you will want to know when you get to chapter 161. There is tension on every single page. There is intrigue, fear, conspiracy, gremlins, war, mashed potatoes in safe houses, and school receptionists with beehive hair. I was most impressed with the personalities given to even the most ancillary characters, and the running dialogue feels organic. As a reader, it takes a great deal of trust to embark on a new fantasy series. Branded is well worth your trust and pays out fantastically. I am so excited to see the direction we are hurtled into next.
Recommend this book:
Praise Petals
Lisa A. McCombs
2021 Silver Medal
144 Pages
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Young Adult - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Donna Parrey for Readers' Favorite
Praise Petals is one of the novels in the Church of Go series, a Young Adult book with a light Christian air about it. Author Lisa A. McCombs introduces readers to a number of young people, each hiding behind their own insecurities. As the book progresses, we meet Rose, obsessed by her unibrow; Lilly, a shoo-in for a part in a “Mean Girls” remake; and a host of other high school girls with their own issues and backstories. Rose’s long-time best friend, the cross-eyed Jay Allen, is out of town for eye surgery, which has her feeling lost. McCombs tells Rose’s story in 35 chapters, each short enough to lure readers in and convince them to stay for one more chapter … over and over again.
Readers, especially fans of Young Adult literature, will enjoy getting to know Rose and the group of girls that author Lisa A. McCombs introduces in Praise Petals. These young ladies are cast together by Pastor Larry at the Church of Go to form a singing group. The girls’ voices may harmonize well, but their differing personalities may not mesh quite so nicely. McCombs sets readers up to boo-hiss Lilly “Godzilly” Jenkins from the get-go. We play along with Rose’s coping strategy of finding new words, alphabetically, to describe her nemesis. Nevertheless, the time these young women spend together gradually reveals the social angst, family situations, and circumstances that influence their various outlooks and allows them to learn how to support one another. Readers of Praise Petals will find themselves grateful for the Pastor Larry in their lives.
Praise Petals is one of the novels in the Church of Go series, a Young Adult book with a light Christian air about it. Author Lisa A. McCombs introduces readers to a number of young people, each hiding behind their own insecurities. As the book progresses, we meet Rose, obsessed by her unibrow; Lilly, a shoo-in for a part in a “Mean Girls” remake; and a host of other high school girls with their own issues and backstories. Rose’s long-time best friend, the cross-eyed Jay Allen, is out of town for eye surgery, which has her feeling lost. McCombs tells Rose’s story in 35 chapters, each short enough to lure readers in and convince them to stay for one more chapter … over and over again.
Readers, especially fans of Young Adult literature, will enjoy getting to know Rose and the group of girls that author Lisa A. McCombs introduces in Praise Petals. These young ladies are cast together by Pastor Larry at the Church of Go to form a singing group. The girls’ voices may harmonize well, but their differing personalities may not mesh quite so nicely. McCombs sets readers up to boo-hiss Lilly “Godzilly” Jenkins from the get-go. We play along with Rose’s coping strategy of finding new words, alphabetically, to describe her nemesis. Nevertheless, the time these young women spend together gradually reveals the social angst, family situations, and circumstances that influence their various outlooks and allows them to learn how to support one another. Readers of Praise Petals will find themselves grateful for the Pastor Larry in their lives.
Recommend this book:
Blood or Loyalty
The Wayward Sons of the Empyrean
Adam Miller
2021 Bronze Medal
280 Pages
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Young Adult - Religious Theme
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Blood or Loyalty is a work of fiction in the religious fantasy genre and serves as the first installment in The Wayward Sons of the Empyrean series. It is aimed at young adults and was penned by Adam Miller. The book is a retelling of the Christian story of Lucifer’s rebellion against God and the war between the angels that follows. As Gabriel and his brother Lucifer learn about the heavens their Father has created, the mention of one name sends Lucifer and his followers into a rebellion fuelled by jealousy that has the potential to destroy heaven itself.
It's a challenge to explore Christian scripture in a way that makes it truly exciting and dynamic for the modern or casual reader who isn’t a keen historian or theologian. Telling the stories of creation according to the Old Testament, whilst inspiring awe in the already devout, can be quite inaccessible to those outside of the Christian faith. However, Adam Miller has excelled in producing an insightful and exciting retelling of Lucifer’s rebellion against God at the dawn of creation. The epic conflict between Gabriel and Lucifer is told via a trail of world-building that doesn’t stray too far from scripture, action worthy of a modern blockbuster. The personal drama between the angelic brothers brings this cornerstone story from Christianity into the 21st century. I’m happy to recommend Blood or Loyalty to readers everywhere; it’s an unforgettable read and I could not be more excited to see where future books in this series go.
Blood or Loyalty is a work of fiction in the religious fantasy genre and serves as the first installment in The Wayward Sons of the Empyrean series. It is aimed at young adults and was penned by Adam Miller. The book is a retelling of the Christian story of Lucifer’s rebellion against God and the war between the angels that follows. As Gabriel and his brother Lucifer learn about the heavens their Father has created, the mention of one name sends Lucifer and his followers into a rebellion fuelled by jealousy that has the potential to destroy heaven itself.
It's a challenge to explore Christian scripture in a way that makes it truly exciting and dynamic for the modern or casual reader who isn’t a keen historian or theologian. Telling the stories of creation according to the Old Testament, whilst inspiring awe in the already devout, can be quite inaccessible to those outside of the Christian faith. However, Adam Miller has excelled in producing an insightful and exciting retelling of Lucifer’s rebellion against God at the dawn of creation. The epic conflict between Gabriel and Lucifer is told via a trail of world-building that doesn’t stray too far from scripture, action worthy of a modern blockbuster. The personal drama between the angelic brothers brings this cornerstone story from Christianity into the 21st century. I’m happy to recommend Blood or Loyalty to readers everywhere; it’s an unforgettable read and I could not be more excited to see where future books in this series go.
Recommend this book:
Miracles and Mayhem
A Testimony of God’s Ever-Present Love and Protection
Belinda Smith-Cicarella
2021 Honorable Mention
138 Pages
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Young Adult - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Daniel D Staats for Readers' Favorite
Have you ever been pulled into the ocean by a tsunami? Have you ever been chased in a jungle by a wild animal? Belinda Smith-Cicarella has had these and many other events happen in her life. To say she has led an exciting life is an understatement. She shares her extraordinary circumstances in Miracles and Mayhem. Belinda knows how to share a story for all it is worth. The events that have happened in her life are heart-stopping. How did she survive? She describes the part that God has played in her life and in keeping her alive. Read this book to find out who the mysterious guardian was. This guardian kept rescuing Belinda from certain death. If Belinda’s life does not get your heart pumping faster, then you must be dead. Miracles and Mayhem is as exciting as it sounds.
Belinda Smith-Cicarella has authored a unique, exciting adventure story of her life that she calls Miracles and Mayhem. Her writing style draws you in, inviting you into her personal life as she details adventure after adventure that highlights God’s glory and protection. Her descriptions of the almost disasters in her life are realistic. Her style is easy to read and engaging. The events are written in such a way that they build to a crescendo. Many of the stories will have your heart pounding as Belinda writes in such a way that you feel like you are there with her. After reading this book, you will start looking at life differently and seeking to see the hand of God in your life. Since God is all-benevolent, He will do for you what He did for Belinda.
Have you ever been pulled into the ocean by a tsunami? Have you ever been chased in a jungle by a wild animal? Belinda Smith-Cicarella has had these and many other events happen in her life. To say she has led an exciting life is an understatement. She shares her extraordinary circumstances in Miracles and Mayhem. Belinda knows how to share a story for all it is worth. The events that have happened in her life are heart-stopping. How did she survive? She describes the part that God has played in her life and in keeping her alive. Read this book to find out who the mysterious guardian was. This guardian kept rescuing Belinda from certain death. If Belinda’s life does not get your heart pumping faster, then you must be dead. Miracles and Mayhem is as exciting as it sounds.
Belinda Smith-Cicarella has authored a unique, exciting adventure story of her life that she calls Miracles and Mayhem. Her writing style draws you in, inviting you into her personal life as she details adventure after adventure that highlights God’s glory and protection. Her descriptions of the almost disasters in her life are realistic. Her style is easy to read and engaging. The events are written in such a way that they build to a crescendo. Many of the stories will have your heart pounding as Belinda writes in such a way that you feel like you are there with her. After reading this book, you will start looking at life differently and seeking to see the hand of God in your life. Since God is all-benevolent, He will do for you what He did for Belinda.
Recommend this book:
Two Kingdoms
The epic struggle for truth and purpose amidst encroaching darkness - a medieval fantasy
DC Moore
2021 Finalist
556 Pages
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Young Adult - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite
Two Kingdoms: The epic struggle for truth and purpose amidst encroaching darkness - a medieval fantasy by DC Moore is a completely engrossing YA fantasy journey. This debut novel has all you want in a medieval story: character-driven storylines, life-defining choices, compelling conflict and dialogue, illustrations, and a religious theme woven throughout. The plot has two warring kingdoms and three young characters find themselves in the thick of it--Hugh, Marie, and Stephen; a blacksmith, a knight's daughter, and a squire. They each set out to find themselves with the aid of a map that logs their spiritual quest. After losing loved ones, Hugh is torn between vengeance and forgiveness; Marie clashes with her father over her dreams and goals; Stephen's self-doubt and low self-esteem is a barrier to tackling a task that seems too much to handle. But how can they trust in a king they can't see?
This book couldn't have come at a better time for young adult readers. Though written before 2020, the story features a pandemic, but besides that, the internal and external struggles of the characters parallel the struggles teenagers are grappling with today. I enjoyed the religious symbolism of the book (for example, "The Chronicle" representing the Bible), and the dynamic imagery, as well as the multi-dimensionality of the characters. They seem so real, and YA audiences will connect with them right away. I'm sure older readers will recognize their younger selves in some of these scenarios. As you read, you will get caught up in the danger, the mystery, and the suspense as it unfolds for each of the three teens. You'll find an evil overlord out to kill the king and his faithful followers. As the lives of the three converge, they find their trust in this king tested beyond measure. Who will they choose? What price will they pay? This book goes deeper than the average YA fantasy. You will become emotionally attached to this story, and its impact will stay with you and cause you to think about your own experiences and the choices you would make if you were in the shoes of the characters. If you're looking for an entertaining novel with a deep spiritual meaning, your search stops here. Two Kingdoms by D.C. Moore is a YA fantasy novel with substance and heart.
Two Kingdoms: The epic struggle for truth and purpose amidst encroaching darkness - a medieval fantasy by DC Moore is a completely engrossing YA fantasy journey. This debut novel has all you want in a medieval story: character-driven storylines, life-defining choices, compelling conflict and dialogue, illustrations, and a religious theme woven throughout. The plot has two warring kingdoms and three young characters find themselves in the thick of it--Hugh, Marie, and Stephen; a blacksmith, a knight's daughter, and a squire. They each set out to find themselves with the aid of a map that logs their spiritual quest. After losing loved ones, Hugh is torn between vengeance and forgiveness; Marie clashes with her father over her dreams and goals; Stephen's self-doubt and low self-esteem is a barrier to tackling a task that seems too much to handle. But how can they trust in a king they can't see?
This book couldn't have come at a better time for young adult readers. Though written before 2020, the story features a pandemic, but besides that, the internal and external struggles of the characters parallel the struggles teenagers are grappling with today. I enjoyed the religious symbolism of the book (for example, "The Chronicle" representing the Bible), and the dynamic imagery, as well as the multi-dimensionality of the characters. They seem so real, and YA audiences will connect with them right away. I'm sure older readers will recognize their younger selves in some of these scenarios. As you read, you will get caught up in the danger, the mystery, and the suspense as it unfolds for each of the three teens. You'll find an evil overlord out to kill the king and his faithful followers. As the lives of the three converge, they find their trust in this king tested beyond measure. Who will they choose? What price will they pay? This book goes deeper than the average YA fantasy. You will become emotionally attached to this story, and its impact will stay with you and cause you to think about your own experiences and the choices you would make if you were in the shoes of the characters. If you're looking for an entertaining novel with a deep spiritual meaning, your search stops here. Two Kingdoms by D.C. Moore is a YA fantasy novel with substance and heart.
Recommend this book:
Guardians of the Garden
Theresa Pocock
2021 Gold Medal
320 Pages
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Young Adult - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
Guardians of the Garden by Theresa Pocock is a YA fairy tale. Miriam Miller just wants a normal life. Her family doesn’t want her, and neither does her town, Edenia, and she doesn’t want to be the Guardian of the Garden of Eden. But she has no choice. Seth Johnson’s sister is dying of cancer and to try to save her, they move to the USA. Ending up in Edenia, Seth promises to do whatever it takes to save his sister – anything, even if it means his own heart is on the line. Seth and Miriam are drawn to one another, but neither has time to deal with what Fate has in store for them. Seth is battling to save his sister, and Miriam’s job as guardian makes her the one thing standing between immortality and world destruction. What happens when their worlds collide in a resounding crash? Can Miriam stop the world from coming to an end? Will Seth save his sister?
Guardians of the Garden by Theresa Pocock is an amazing tale, part fantasy, part mythology, and part fairytale with a healthy dose of the real world thrown in. This is a work of art, a tense, action-packed plot with plenty of humor and lots of mystery that will pull you right into it – Alice in Wonderland, eat your heart out, this is much more exciting. It’s more than just a fairy tale, though. It’s a story of responsibility, families, and secrets, a story that deals with coming of age and all that goes with it, with well-developed characters that will have you running through every emotion you can possibly think of. It is an intriguing story, a new take on the genre with lots of magic and religion mixed in. It does end on a big cliffhanger, so we’ll have to wait for the next book to see what happens next.
Guardians of the Garden by Theresa Pocock is a YA fairy tale. Miriam Miller just wants a normal life. Her family doesn’t want her, and neither does her town, Edenia, and she doesn’t want to be the Guardian of the Garden of Eden. But she has no choice. Seth Johnson’s sister is dying of cancer and to try to save her, they move to the USA. Ending up in Edenia, Seth promises to do whatever it takes to save his sister – anything, even if it means his own heart is on the line. Seth and Miriam are drawn to one another, but neither has time to deal with what Fate has in store for them. Seth is battling to save his sister, and Miriam’s job as guardian makes her the one thing standing between immortality and world destruction. What happens when their worlds collide in a resounding crash? Can Miriam stop the world from coming to an end? Will Seth save his sister?
Guardians of the Garden by Theresa Pocock is an amazing tale, part fantasy, part mythology, and part fairytale with a healthy dose of the real world thrown in. This is a work of art, a tense, action-packed plot with plenty of humor and lots of mystery that will pull you right into it – Alice in Wonderland, eat your heart out, this is much more exciting. It’s more than just a fairy tale, though. It’s a story of responsibility, families, and secrets, a story that deals with coming of age and all that goes with it, with well-developed characters that will have you running through every emotion you can possibly think of. It is an intriguing story, a new take on the genre with lots of magic and religion mixed in. It does end on a big cliffhanger, so we’ll have to wait for the next book to see what happens next.
Recommend this book:
The Adventures of Jules Khan
A Teenage Muslim Superhero
Karim K Devji
2020 Finalist
167 Pages
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Young Adult - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Kimberlee J Benart for Readers' Favorite
The Adventures of Jules Khan: A Teenage Muslim Superhero by Karim K Devji is an action-filled young adult fantasy with a strong spiritual thread which crosses all faiths. Set in the World War II era, it describes the coming-of-age of a superhero with fantastical powers while the theme of respecting people, regardless of religion, nationality, or culture, is emphasized throughout. Born in Europe of mixed religious and ethnic heritage, Jules is sent to a secret boarding school in Africa at the age of thirteen to learn martial arts along with spiritual and intellectual studies to prepare him to become the protector of a book that holds the secret to world peace. At eighteen, Jules heads to Harvard and is immediately pursued from one country to another by the warmongering National Weapons Association that wants the book.
In The Adventures of Jules Khan, Devji gives us a teenage superhero for our times; a spunky and faith-filled young man who is a proponent of world peace through understanding what unites us. Although Jules is a Muslim superhero, the story is engaging for teens of any faith and Devji is respectful of all traditions. Prayer and meditation are as much Jules’ weapons against evil as the impressive superpowers he possesses. There are a series of violent encounters in the story, but Jules is always a defendant, not an initiator of it. The narrative is descriptive and moves along at a good pace. The story is told in Jules’ own words and laced with his charming sense of humor. My favorite scene is when he initially gains his powers. It’s pure fantasy and utterly beautiful in construction. An entertaining and thought-provoking read. I hope we see more of Jules and more from Devji.
The Adventures of Jules Khan: A Teenage Muslim Superhero by Karim K Devji is an action-filled young adult fantasy with a strong spiritual thread which crosses all faiths. Set in the World War II era, it describes the coming-of-age of a superhero with fantastical powers while the theme of respecting people, regardless of religion, nationality, or culture, is emphasized throughout. Born in Europe of mixed religious and ethnic heritage, Jules is sent to a secret boarding school in Africa at the age of thirteen to learn martial arts along with spiritual and intellectual studies to prepare him to become the protector of a book that holds the secret to world peace. At eighteen, Jules heads to Harvard and is immediately pursued from one country to another by the warmongering National Weapons Association that wants the book.
In The Adventures of Jules Khan, Devji gives us a teenage superhero for our times; a spunky and faith-filled young man who is a proponent of world peace through understanding what unites us. Although Jules is a Muslim superhero, the story is engaging for teens of any faith and Devji is respectful of all traditions. Prayer and meditation are as much Jules’ weapons against evil as the impressive superpowers he possesses. There are a series of violent encounters in the story, but Jules is always a defendant, not an initiator of it. The narrative is descriptive and moves along at a good pace. The story is told in Jules’ own words and laced with his charming sense of humor. My favorite scene is when he initially gains his powers. It’s pure fantasy and utterly beautiful in construction. An entertaining and thought-provoking read. I hope we see more of Jules and more from Devji.
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