6.10.2025

Burning Hearts by Lisa Phillips // Just Read

Burning Hearts JustRead Takeover + Review Blitz

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Burning Hearts by Lisa Phillips hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Burning Hearts 
Title: Burning Hearts 
Series: Chasing Fire: Alaska #1 
Author: Lisa Phillips 
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing 
Release Date: May 27, 2025 
Genre: Romantic Suspense

RESCUE. DANGER. DEVOTION.

THIS TIME, THEIR HEARTS ARE ON THE LINE… 

An original series created by bestselling authors Susan May Warren and Lisa Phillips. 

She came to Alaska searching for her troubled brother…and found herself kidnapped by a dangerous militia. 

Jamie Winters will risk anything to rescue her brother Tristan, even infiltrating the militia’s remote compound. But when she’s abducted, there’s only one man who can save her—Logan Crawford, the elite smokejumper she’s never stopped loving. 

Yes, Logan relocated to Alaska’s Midnight Sun smokejumpers to find Jamie and win back her heart. So when he learns she’s been taken, of course he’ll stop at nothing to bring her home safe. But when he accidentally leads the team into the militia’s deadly trap, he’s in over his head… 

And hunted. 

Now wounded and on the run, Jamie and Logan must fight for their lives in a deadly game of cat-and-mouse. But the biggest risk of all is the sparks between them…and the terrible cost of a second chance at love. 

Jumpstart your summer reading with this edge-of-your-seat journey of peril, faith, and finding the courage to love one last time in book one of the bestselling Chasing Fire: Alaska romantic suspense series.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Sunrise Publishing | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Review: 

Jamie Winters goes after her brother Tristan who has found himself entangled with a highly dangerous militant gang, but finds herself kidnapped instead. 

Logan has never stopped loving Jamie and is determined to see her safe again. An elite smokejumper he puts it all on the line to bring Jamie home safe. A high-octane suspense with a lot of action, great interaction and strong faith. Logan and Jamie must work together to evade the militia and I liked how they grew a stronger bond throughout the course of the adventure. Jamie is used to taking care of herself, and her brother, being the strong one. Logan is determined to prove to her that he can be the stable support she can depend on. 

Overall, a well written survival suspense with good emotional depth, amazing characters and strong faith. Great start to a new series, and I can't wait to find out what happens next!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

More in this Series:

Burning Rivals Burning Escape Burning Secrets Burning Truth Burning Justice


About the Author

Lisa Phillips

Lisa Phillips is a USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author of over 90 books that span Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line, independently published series romantic suspense, and thriller novels. She’s discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.

Lisa is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London and attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she met her husband. He’s from California, but nobody’s perfect. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). As a worship leader for Calvary Chapel churches in her local area, Lisa has discovered a love for mentoring new ministry members and youth worship musicians. Discover the exciting world of Last Chance County at www.lastchancecounty.com.

Connect with Lisa by visiting www.authorlisaphillips.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a paperback copy of Burning Hearts and a $10 gift card to the Sunrise Shop!

Burning Hearts JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight June 4, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on June 11, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

6.01.2025

The Pharisee's Wife by Janette Oke // Review

My Review: 
A young woman's journey to faith, as the wife of an ambitious pharisee bent on discrediting Jesus. 

Realistically set during the time of Jesus's physical ministry on earth this story does a great job of showing the culture and attitudes of the time, especially in regard to women. Mary is a young bride, pulled out of her simple life because of her great physical beauty to be the wife of a young pharisee, Enos.

My heart went out to young Mary, who quickly has her name change to Simona, leaving behind everything she knew for a cold husband, with nothing but ambition on his mind. She is a kind spirit, curious about the teacher who is healing many, and earning the devotion of her servants quickly. It is a sad story in many ways but also infused with hope. 

Overall, a story of hope and resilience set in Biblical times. Heartbreaking at times, but a good representation of the time period. Well written novel of faith from one of the pioneers of Christian fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

5.28.2025

Seven Brides for Seven Texans by Gabrielle Meyer, Erica Vetsch, Amanda Barrett, Lorna Seilstad, Keli Gwyn, Susan Page Davis and Vickie McDonough // Celebrate Lit



About the Book


Book: Seven Brides for Seven Texans

Authors: Gabrielle Meyer, Erica Vetsch, Amanda Barratt, Lorna Steilstad, Keli Gwyn, Susan Page Davis and Vickie McDonough

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: April 29, 2025

Seven stubborn brothers navigate the delicate balance between duty and desire in this sweeping saga of romance, redemption, and second chances on the rugged Texas frontier. 

 In 1874 Texas, the wealthy patriarch of the 7-Heart ranch delivers an ultimatum to his seven independent sons: marry within the year or forfeit their inheritance. The directive sends these confirmed bachelors scrambling to secure their futures while protecting their fiercely guarded freedom While the youngest brother races to be first at the altar, the other brothers are more reluctant to tie the knot. 

The Hart brothers face unique challenges on the road to romance with a cast of remarkable women: a long-lost love haunted by the past, a former sweetheart guarding her heart, a cave-dwelling lady with mysterious money, a mail-order bride who falls for the wrong man, and a Civil War nurse willing to heal a scarred soldier's heart. Will they find true love under the pressure of their father's demands, or will they sacrifice their inheritance to maintain their independence?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Lucie's Review: 

First Comes Love by Gabrielle Meyer

The youngest Hart boy, Hayes, is determined to beat his older brothers to the altar, so he puts up posters advertising for a wife all over town.  The preacher's daughter, Emma, who also is the local schoolteacher, is a headstrong goal setter. She doesn't like his plan, and takes his signs down at every turn. But can these two motivated individuals find middle ground and perhaps, love? 

A cute romance, a little more lighthearted than the other stories, it has great chemistry and opposites attract protagonists. 

The Heart of Texas by Lorna Seilstad

Chisholm Hart is a Texas Ranger, devoted to his job, he helps a young woman rescue her cousin, and get to the bottom of a cattle rustling scheme. 

Caro is a fiery woman, who loves her family and isn't afraid to stand her ground. It is a cute story with lots of action, adventure, and a dash of romance.  

The Truest Heart by Amanda Barratt

Old love is rekindled in this sweet second chance romance. 

Annie is a devoted mother, and starting over has been challenging. Her son Robby loves getting to now the Hart family, and especially takes to Travis and his father. Travis and has never loved anyone but Annie and is happy to have her back in his life, he doesn't want to waste any time convincing her to become his bride. 

Such a sweet story, with great interaction, and a wonderful plot! One of my favorites of the collection. 

 A Love Returned by Keli Gwyn

Houston Hart has become a successful business owner out in California, but he comes home to claim his piece of the inheritance. Once he get's home he is determined to show his family that he can pull his weight on the ranch. He reunites with childhood sweetheart, Coralee from the neighboring ranch. 

A sweet story of rekindled love and coming home. 

For Love or Money Susan Page Davis

Crockett Hart sees smoke and rushes to help the neighbors. Jane is a clever young woman who makes the best of a bad situation. Crockett comes over to help when he can, and he brings his brother too. I liked seeing their relationship grow, they have good interaction, and it was a heartwarming story of good things coming out of tragedy. 

Mail-Order Mayhem by Vickie McDonough

Austin Hart is the oldest of the brothers, and as his younger brothers are all getting married around him he writes for a mail-order bride. Rebekah accompanies her sister, Jenny, to Texas to meet Austin. 

Rebekah and Jenny are sisters in a tough situation, with little other options available to them but to marry well. Rebekah encourages her sister to marry Austin, as she can see what a good man he is. But the more she tries to convince her sister to give Austin a try the more it becomes harder to hide her growing feelings for Austin. 

A mixed-up mail-order bride situation that has you cheering for the protagonists to end up together against all odds. 

Love At Last by Erica Vetsch

Bowie fought in the Civil War and through it all he never forgot the one nurse who showed him kindness, despite his disfigurement. He decides to take a stab in the dark and find Elise, the woman who left such an imprint on his heart. Elise has been struggling after the war working in her uncle's button factory, so she takes Bowie up on his offer of marriage. 

Can this marriage of convenience turn to real love? A sweet romance, with likable characters and plenty of heart. Bowie has a gentle hand with animals, and I like the slow build relationship. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Authors

Gabrielle Meyer, a Minnesota native, draws inspiration for her historical fiction from the rich stories and landscapes of her home state, where she lives on the banks of the upper Mississippi River with her husband and four children. A former employee of the Minnesota Historical Society, Gabrielle loves weaving real people, places, and events into her captivating tales.

Best-selling, award-winning author Erica Vetsch weaves her love for Jesus, history, romance, and sports into her stories, including The Debutante’s Code, the first in the Thorndike & Swann Regency Mystery Series. When she’s not crafting fiction or planning her next trip to a history museum.

Bestselling author Amanda Barratt brings to life overlooked moments in history through her award-winning novels, including The Warsaw SistersWithin These Walls of Sorrow, and The White Rose Resists. Based in Michigan, she’s often immersed in research, tackling her ever-growing TBR stack, or savoring a slice of lemon cake.

Carol Award finalist Lorna Seilstad explores life’s complexities with humor in her nine novels, including the Lake Manawa Summers and Gregory Sisters series, as well as several novella collections. When she’s not writing, she teaches women’s Bible classes, runs a toy store, plans weddings, or spends time with her Pyredoodle, Honey Bea.

Keli Gwyn crafts inspirational historical romances that she loves to read. A California native, she now lives in the greater Sacramento area with her husband and their sweet orange tabby, enjoying life close to family.

Vickie McDonough, a CBA, EPCA, and Amazon best-selling author of 54 books and novellas, brings the Old West to life in her award-winning romances featuring ranchers, cowboys, and lawmen. Though married to a computer geek who fears horses, she lives out her ranching dreams through her stories—and when she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, gardening, making cards, and traveling.

More from Erica

Hi, I’m Erica Vetsch, and I loved collaborating on the stories for the 7 Brides for 7 Texans collection. It was fun writing stories that were so intertwined, and working closely with the other authors in the collection to bring the whole concept together.

Initially, I was approached by a publisher, asking if I would be interested in heading up a novella collection loosely based on the idea of 7 Brides for 7 Brothers, the classic musical. The parameters were that the stories must be no longer than 25K words, be historical in setting, and that I could choose the overall concept, as well as my team of authors.

I, of course, jumped at the chance. Before I contacted anyone, I worked up a rough idea of the premise of the stories. A wealthy Texas rancher with seven strapping sons is tired of waiting for them to get married and provide him with grandchildren, so he issues an ultimatum. Get married by the end of the calendar year, or you’re disinherited.

I named all the sons after famous Texans, and gave them a birth order, then I began contacting writing friends to see if they were interested in joining the project. Everyone I asked said yes! 😊

Then the real fun began. We formed a private Facebook group, and as the characters were chosen by the various authors, the order of the stories in the collection formed, and as ideas for storylines poured in, I began creating what we came to call The Master Document.

In the MD we tracked main characters’ names and appearances, secondary characters, a map of the fictional town of Hartsville, TX, and more. It eventually ran to more than 20 pages of information. We named the town newspaper, the general store, and kept track of the layout of the Harts’ massive ranch house. Keeping these details all in one place made it easy for the authors to flesh out their story world in a way that was consistent with everyone else’s stories.

Because the stories are so closely tied and on such a tight timeline, each of the authors’ characters would appear in another author’s novella. We needed to respect each other’s visions for the characters and treat them with respect, while also having the freedom to write our own stories.

Early on, as the project coordinator, it was established that if a dispute arose between two authors on how something should go, it would be myself who would cast the final vote. However, that contingency never came into play, as all the authors worked so well together.

One of the most challenging aspects of the project was, that as the project lead, and the one writing the final story in the collection, I needed to know the most about all the stories. Just before the deadline to turn our stories into the publisher, each author sent their story along to me to read for continuity. I spent a long weekend at author Gabrielle Meyer’s house, and we read every novella aloud, making notes for consistency and continuity throughout. These notes were turned in to the project editor, and she used them in her editing process to make sure seven separate stories felt cohesive.

It truly was a fun—and to me—unique, project, and when the publisher asked if I would like to head up a follow up collection, I was eager to say yes, and thus 7 Brides for 7 Texas Rangers was born.

Both of these intertwined collections went out of print, but they are now being released once more, this time through Wild Heart Books. I’m thrilled that we can tell our stories to new readers and prolong the lives of these characters.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 21

Pens Pages & Pulses, May 21

Texas Book-aholic, May 22

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 23

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 24

Simple Harvest Reads, May 24 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Devoted To Hope, May 25

For Him and My Family, May 25

Stories By Gina, May 26 (Author Interview)

Jeanette’s Thoughts, May 26

She Lives to Read, May 27

lakesidelivingsite, May 27

Labor Not in Vain, May 28

Tell Tale Book Reviews, May 28

Cover Lover Book Review, May 29

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 29

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 30

Holly’s Book Corner, May 30

Books You Can Feel Good About, May 31

Blossoms and Blessings, June 1

Jodie Wolfe, June 1

Pause for Tales, June 2

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, June 2

 Leslie’s Library Escape, June 3

Giveaway


To celebrate their tour, the Wild Heart Books Authors are giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!


Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54225


5.27.2025

The Sheriff Next Door by Julia Ruth // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A heartwarming romance that brought a smile to my face, full of faith, fake-dating-tropes, and likable protagonists.

Dax Adams returns to his hometown to be the sheriff, and after a run-in with the local veterinarian Violet Spencer they agree to pretend to be seeing each other to get their well-meaning families off their backs. 

A really cute rom-com, with an adorable, heartwarming plot, great interaction, and characters that are serious about their faith. I loved both Violet and Dax's families, and how they genuinely wanted the best for them. It was sweet seeing everyone get so excited about Violet and Dax. 

An engaging quick read, with fantastic characters, and a sweet plot. I liked this feel-good faith-based romance, Highly recommend! 


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

5.26.2025

Every Deadly Suspicion by Janice Cantore // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Convicted of murder 30 years ago, Police Chief Hanna Keyes's father is being released from prison early. But his release is bringing up ghosts from the past in what was long thought to be a cold case. Hanna is taking a second look for answers, but things just aren't adding up. 

A fast-paced and intense read with a lot going on, high stakes investigation with ties to the past and the present. Hanna wants to help her friend finally have the answers to what happened to her parents 30 years ago. I admired Hanna for her strength and courage to fight for the truth, and I liked how she held fast to her faith through it all. 

I raced through this book, because I simply couldn't put it down. Action packed, with big revelations, secrets from the past, plus strong faith, romance, and fantastic emotional depth. Another amazing read from Janice Cantore!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Burning of Rosemont Abbey by Naomi Stephens // Review


Lucie's Review:

When Rosemont Abbey burns down, people are quick to point fingers at Louisa's twin brother, Paul, who has suddenly disappeared. She knows that something is terribly wrong, and she is determined to prove that her brother wasn't at fault, but what terrible secrets will she and Inspector Malcom Sinclair uncover in pursuit of the truth. 

A little slow to start, as the pieces fall into place and we get to know the full cast of characters. Malcom and Louisa begin at odds with each other, not quite trusting each other, with tension that becomes banter. Great for fans of BBC dramas, with building storytelling, that makes for excellent reader payoff. 

Well-developed characters, great relationship building, and a suspenseful plot. Satisfying read, great atmospheric world building, and a wonderful tension throughout. Very enjoyable read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

5.21.2025

To Kiss a Knight by Grace Hitchcock // Review

My Review: 

A regency romance that will sweep you off your feet! 
 
Vivienne is fleeing an unwanted arranged marriage when her getaway coach is stopped by a bold and dashing highwayman. An authoress who writes under a pseudonym, she is shocked to find that she has unwittingly stolen an identity. Can a facade born of convenience, lead to lasting love?

Delightful regency romance, with a riveting plot, and enchanting characters, it combines the best tropes in this charming rom-com. Vivienne is a woman with a plan, she is quick thinking and industrious but isn't immune to her imagination getting ahead of her. She is genuine and has a big heart, instantly loving Bash's feisty grandmother, seeing her as family. Bash is everything a knight should be, dashing and honorable, seeking the most noble of outcomes. I liked how he is there for Evie when she needs him, protecting her from brigands and from the wagging tongues of society. Grandmother Larksby is hilarious, and mischievous in her often-under-estimated old age. Charlotte, Muriel, and Tess are wonderful friends to Evie. 

Overall, a charming regency rom-com, with a spunky, book-loving heroine and a noble knight. A full cast of characters, wonderful plot, and witty dialogue. Solid clean romance, with strong themes of faith and trusting God. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

5.15.2025

Mary the Missionary: A Kenyan Adventure by Yvonne M. Morgan, illustrated by Jack Foster // Celebrate Lit



About the Book

Book: Mary the Missionary, A Kenyan Adventure

Author: Yvonne M Morgan

Genre: Children’s Early Reader

Release date: February 1, 2025

A Kenya Adventure

Are you ready for an adventure in Kenya? After singing “Jesus Loves the Little Children” in Sunday School, Mary has many questions about children in other countries. When her parents learn about a mission trip to Kenya, they decided to experience another culture as a family. Mary encounters many trials on her Kenyan adventure. In the end, she learns that she and her new friends aren’t different, and Jesus loves all children.

Through colorful illustrations and engaging storytelling, “Mary the Missionary” teaches important lessons about acceptance, empathy, and love. As Mary meets children from different cultures and backgrounds, she learns to see the world through their eyes and understand the unique challenges they face. Along the way, she also discovers the unifying power of faith and how it transcends all barriers.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review: 

A heartwarming chapter book, great for early readers who are just getting into chapter books. 

Mary is a young girl excited to learn, with a heart for others. When she shows interest in learning about how children in other countries live and worship God, her parents decide to bring her with on a mission trip to Kenya. In Kenya, Mary learns about the culture and makes new friends, as well as seeing the faith of her friends in action. 

This is an enjoyable story that can be read to a child, or is great for a young reader who is into chapter books. Mary is a sweet and sensitive child, I liked that she was willing to learn, and be thankful for the blessings that she had in her life. I also liked that her parents were supportive and nurturing of her positive interest in missions. A delightful read, with strong themes of faith and friendship, I liked how they were also respectful to those around them from another culture. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author



Yvonne M Morgan takes readers of all ages on a journey of faith, hope, and love with encouraging words. Her captivating storytelling will inspire readers to trust in the Lord and give them hope. Yvonne’s insightful reflections will resonate with anyone who wants a deeper relationship with God.

 

 

 

 

More from Yvonne

As my grandchildren grew, I started writing children’s books. I wanted them to read engaging, faith-based stories filled with fun illustrations and valuable lessons that would nurture their faith. As the children grew, I wanted to continue their lessons, tailoring them to their expanding interests and abilities. The book, “Mary the Missionary, A Kenyan Adventure,” shares the message of God’s love, and how we are all his children despite our differences.

 

The memories of my mission trips to Kenya, filled with the warmth of the people and the beauty of the landscape, led me to choose it for Mary’s visit. I loved the vibrant tapestry of cultures and the welcoming smiles of the people I met during my visits. To help your children explore Kenya, I’ve added free resources to my website; these include downloadable activity books and captivating information. Here is a link to those resources: https://yvonne-morgan.com/mary-the-missionary-resources.



In Kenya, Ugali is used as a fork to pick up their food. Ugali Recipe to try with your children:

Ingredients:

1 cup maize meal / corn meal

2 cups normal water

Instructions:

Heat water over medium heat in a deep pan. Make sure you use a pan with a handle.

Add the maize meal or cornmeal and keep on stirring with a strong wooden spoon.

Keep stirring and pressing the mixture against the sides of the pan to break up the lumps.

As the mixture becomes thicker, it becomes more difficult to mix but keep mixing and breaking up the lumps.

The mixture with begin to come away from the sides of the pan.

Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes.

At this point transfer the ugali to a platter. Place the plate over the pan and turn it upside down.

Or you can transfer to a small heatproof bowl. Pat it down into shape. Place a plate over the bowl and turn it over.

Enjoy piping hot ugali with your favorite stew or curry.



Rural School in Kenya

Blog Stops

Vicky Sluiter, May 3

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 4

Texas Book-aholic, May 5

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, May 6

Lots of Helpers, May 7

Mary Hake, May 7

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 8

Leslie’s Library Escape, May 9

Older & Smarter?, May 10

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 11

ABBA’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 12

For Him and My Family, May 13

Fiction Book Lover, May 14 (Author Interview)

Roads to Everywhere, May 14

Labor Not in Vain, May 15

Lights in a Dark World, May 16

Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Yvonne is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

 http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54212


5.13.2025

Smoky Mountain Escape by Rhonda Starnes // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Sheriff Heath Dalton stumbles upon two gunmen burying body, and the tables quickly turn leaving Heath without a weapon and killers on his tail. He tries to get help, but ends up stranded in the mountains with nurse, Kayla Eldridge, as they fight the odds together against man and the elements. 

Heath and Kayla have plenty of time to get to know each other while fighting for their lives in the wilderness. They bond over their shared situation and faith. They both have to use their wits and think on their feet. 

Intense and action packed, with killers always a step behind. It seemed like everything that could go wrong did for a while. 

Overall, a fast paced read with a lot going on and plenty of tension throughout. Great ending, and engaging romance!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

5.12.2025

Illuminary by Chawna Schroeder // Celebrate Lit



About the Book

 


Book: Illuminary (The Sceptre & the Stylus Book One)

Author: Chawna Schroeder

Genre: YA Fantasy inspired by A Little Princess

Release date: April 8, 2025

Glimpse the past, illuminate the future.

Yosarai Patican dreams of becoming an illuminator in a country that values art above all else. A lofty goal that finally seems within reach when she earns a position at the prestigious Academy of the Seven Arts. Although Yosarai loathes to leave behind her quiet country life, she travels to the capital, determined to live up to her mother’s fame as one of Indel’s greatest artists.

Prince Xander never planned to become king. Indeed, he never wanted to become king. But when his father dies suddenly, he is thrust into the middle of coronation preparations—and assassination attempts. With everyone around him in increasing danger, Xander decides to hide in neighboring Indel until the time for him to be crowned king arrives.

Posing as an inventor struggling with aesthetics, Xander enlists Yosarai’s aid as part of his cover, but soon he suspects she knows more than she should. But when danger threatens and secrets are exposed, entering a competition reputed as cutthroat may be the only way for them to protect everything they hold dear.

 My Review: 

A thrilling adventure, full of puzzles, competition, and friendship. 

Yosarai dreams of following in her mother's footsteps and becoming an illuminator at the Academy of the Seven Arts. I liked that she has a beautiful relationship with her father, and how she is always looking out for others. Xander is a prince in hiding, and quickly finds an ally in Yosarai and her father. 

There is fantastic world building in this riveting fantasy, set in a world that is believably Victorian Steampunk and Indian/Middle Eastern all at once! I loved the attention to detail and intentionality, in creating this original blend of cultures. 

The first in an exciting new series, we follow Yosarai and her friends as they work together to stand up to challenges and solve puzzle in a competition. I loved Rivka and Massard! Strong themes of faith and friendship are present throughout. 

Overall, an exiting adventure with strong themes of faith, justice, and friendship. I'm excited to see where this fantastic new series leads!

 I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Click here to get your copy!


About the Author



Chawna Schroeder loves exploring the wonder of God through the intersection of imagination and faith. When she isn’t reading or writing, she may be found practicing piano, reading biblical Greek or Hebrew, preparing for the Bible study she teaches, or working onone of her handwork projects while enjoying a movie.

 

 

 

More from Chawna

Why I Love “A Little Princess”

Illuminary begins a fantasy trilogy loosely inspired by A Little Princess. This classic novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a book I’ve read almost annually since I was a preteen, with some years containing two or more readings. It is a story that never fails to enchant me no matter how often I read it, and it carries for me the same magic that Anne of Green Gables has for many other girls.

Yet unlike Anne, who endears herself to almost all who meet her, the young heroine of A Little Princess, Sara Crewe, is known to be a somewhat divisive character—the kind you either adore or hate the moment you meet her, much like the characters within the story itself. So, what draws me back to this young protagonist again and again?

The reasons are many. I love her imagination, her intelligence, her ability for the perfect comeback, her courage in the face of horrifying circumstances, her uniqueness—all characteristics that I’ve tried to endow upon the heroine of Illuminary to some extent.

But I think the thing I hope my heroine in Illuminary emulates most is Sara’s unshakeable character. For Sara is a principled young lady, and no matter what is thrown at her, she holds onto those principles without wavering.

Often in literature, it seems like the good, principled characters, when they are faced with great difficulty, end up struggling with their principles, debating whether they are good or worthwhile. In some stories, those characters even outright reject those principles for a time.

While these are good and needed stories to tell, sometimes they are portrayed as the only accurate arcs for such characters—as if characters holding onto their principles and maintaining their integrity is somehow unrealistic. A charge originating, I suppose, from those too sweet, too perfect characters found in morality tales.

Yet while such characters of integrity and principle might be rare, Scripture shows us that hard times don’t have to shake one’s principles or undermine one’s integrity. Both Joseph in the book of Genesis and Daniel in the book bearing his name exemplify this kind of life. And we see this same principled integrity in Sara Crewe.

It is not that she is some perfectly sweet heroine. Sara has a temper, struggles with some uncharitable thoughts toward others, and even misjudges another character terribly. Nor does she fail to grow. The Sara at the end of the story is definitely a more mature, thoughtful, and understanding girl than the one who began the tale.

But the core essence of her character—her politeness, generosity, and compassion as summarized by her wish to act like a princess—does not change in the story. The core characteristics that make Sara Crewe, Sara Crewe, are unshaken. They may grow and expand with the character, but these essential attributes characterize her throughout the entire story. Even in her darkest moments she holds fast to them.

That is both hopeful and encouraging. For we all will face hard and difficult times. A Little Princess doesn’t deny that reality. Rather, it says that those hard times don’t have to destroy us and that holding onto one’s integrity, one’s faith, is possible.

For me, that is what makes Sara Crewe and A Little Princess truly magical—and what I hope will make Illuminary magical for its readers.

Blog Stops

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, April 29

Artistic Nobody, April 30 (Author Interview)

CeCe Reads and Sings, April 30

The Lofty Pages, May 1

Wishful Endings, May 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 3 (Spotlight)

Simple Harvest Reads, May 3 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 4

Guild Master, May 5 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, May 6

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 7

Tell Tale Book Reviews, May 8

Inklings and Notions, May 9

Fiction Book Lover, May 10 (Author Interview)

Blogging With Carol, May 11

Labor Not in Vain, May 12

Giveaway


To celebrate her tour, Chawna is giving away the grand prize of a 2.5” x 9.5” poster of Psalm 46:5 and 10-11 illuminated by artist and calligrapher Timothy Botts, a signed copy of the book, a $25 Amazon gift card, a glass stylus, and 5 bookish stickers!!


Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54208