Book Review--The King's Scrolls by Jaye L. Knight

Following the harrowing events that brought them to Landale Forest, Jace and Kyrin have settled comfortably into their new lives and the mission of protecting those under the emperor’s persecution. The fast approach of winter brings with it the anticipation of a quiet few months ahead. That is until the arrival of four mysterious, dragon-riding cretes who seek aid in a mission of great importance—not only to their own people, but to all followers of Elôm.

Hidden in the vast mining valley north of Valcré, a faithful crete has spent years sharing his knowledge with the destitute miners and their families and is known to possess what may be Arcacia’s last surviving copies of the King’s Scrolls—the Word of Elôm. Joining the cretes, those in Landale must find the crete teacher and bring him to safety, but it is a race against time. Should Daican’s men find him first, execution and the destruction of the Scrolls is certain.

When disaster strikes, all seems lost. Could Elôm have a plan even in the enemy’s triumph?

Through My Window

Jaye L. Knight's second book in The Illyon Chronicles begins with a crisp, intriguing pace, picking up shortly where the first book left off. So as a warning to any new reader, go back and read Resistance before The King's Scrolls.

No doubt Jaye's greatest strength is knowing her characters. Nearly each character she writes, even some of the villains, possess some quality that makes you feel as if you like you know them in real life. This story focuses mostly on the Altair family, especially Kyrin. As such, Kyrin blooms into an even more admirable yet relatable heroine, and her heart is truly one to aspire to. Fans of Jace, do not worry, he is a prominent character, learning his true strengths. Kaden continues to amuse, all brother characters must. We also receive some new favorites, my most adored among them being the irrepressible Talas.

But as characters are Jaye's greatest strength, they're also probably her greatest weakness. While she keeps admirable focus and balance of the main characters, so many of the minor characters, even those much beloved, are lost in the bustle. But while this might be a sad thing for readers hoping to see more of fellows like Trev and Trask, it doesn't cheapen the excellence of the book.

The world of Illyon expands in this book as well, introducing one of its most exotic races, the cretes. I was expecting a bit more otherness to their people then what was given, but that was my own notion. Despite not being what I'd expected, they were quite interesting and cool, as were their dragons!

This story is more emotional than the first since we deal with terrible loss, even more insecurities, betrayal, and intense family conflict.

I can't say I've encountered anything this author's written for younger fantasy fans to be warned away from. There is violence, yes, but it's mild in description. And the romances are all so very sweet and chaste. 

Jaye has built a strong setting, characters, plot, and fanbase, and there is little doubt that it will only grow stronger. I eagerly look forward to the next book, especially since I hear it will focus more on Jace. 

The King's Scrolls Blog Tour--Talas Interview

The King's Scrolls by Jaye L. Knight is releasing!!! And I'm doing an interview with a minor but very fun character named Talas! So come enjoy the fun!

Following the harrowing events that brought them to Landale Forest, Jace and Kyrin have settled comfortably into their new lives and the mission of protecting those under the emperor’s persecution. The fast approach of winter brings with it the anticipation of a quiet few months ahead. That is until the arrival of four mysterious, dragon-riding cretes who seek aid in a mission of great importance—not only to their own people, but to all followers of Elôm.

Hidden in the vast mining valley north of Valcré, a faithful crete has spent years sharing his knowledge with the destitute miners and their families and is known to possess what may be Arcacia’s last surviving copies of the King’s Scrolls—the Word of Elôm. Joining the cretes, those in Landale must find the crete teacher and bring him to safety, but it is a race against time. Should Daican’s men find him first, execution and the destruction of the Scrolls is certain.

When disaster strikes, all seems lost. Could Elôm have a plan even in the enemy’s triumph?

Available on Amazon!

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Welcome to my blog, Talas! It is such an honor to meet you! I really can't believe I have a crete here at my very own blog. Could you tell my readers a bit about yourself, your kind, and your culture?

Thanks for having me! I hear you’re probably my biggest fan. *grins* Let’s see, where to start? I’m right in the middle of seven children. I have two older brothers, an older sister, and three younger sisters. It can get a little crazy around our place, especially back before my brothers got married and moved out. *laughs* But cretes like big families and all the commotion. My grandfather also lives with us. He’s fun to have around. My people must seem pretty elusive to outsiders. We’re not exactly known for being trusting or open with others. And I have to warn you, if you ever come in contact with others from my race, we are very blunt. We don’t hesitate to say what’s on our minds. You get used to it, but at first, it can seem really rude. I think the biggest difference between us and Ilyon’s other races is that we build our homes and cities in the trees. You won’t find us living or sleeping on the ground if we can help it. We’re also the only ones who can train dragons. They say it’s because we’re the only ones skilled enough. I tend to think it’s because we’re the only ones foolhardy enough.

Unlike more cretes, you are much more open and friendly with the outside world and people. What makes you different? 

You can thank my grandfather for that . . . or blame him, if you happen to be a crete. He’s always been that way, and I guess it passed down to me . . . and my youngest sister. He’s also had more dealings with people outside of our cities. He used to tell me stories of where he’s traveled when I was young. From that, I think I developed a fascination with the outside world that most cretes just don’t have any interest in. Especially younger cretes like me.

Dragons are very important to the cretes. You're quite skilled with them, I understand. How old were you when you flew your first dragon and what was the experience like?

*laughs* I’ve been on dragons since I was born. All cretes have. It’s the only way to get from city to city. As for when I first flew a dragon alone? That would be five years old. That might seem young, but cretes mature faster than humans or other races. I was still pretty small though, but I had an old, well-trained dragon. I learned everything I know about flying from working with him. Once we retired him, I got my current dragon, Storm. She’s only a couple of years old, so I should have her for the rest of my life. Since I grew up flying, I can’t say the experience was as grand as it would be for someone who has never flown before, but I do love it. Flying is in a crete’s blood. It would probably drive us crazy not to be able to get off the ground like that.

Not all cretes are believers in Elôm, but you are. Could you tell us how you came to believe in him and how it affects your life?

My family has a strong faith in Elôm, so that is how I was raised. My parents were very dedicated about teaching and guiding us to believe in Him and follow our faith consistently. For me, it gives me strength I know I wouldn’t have otherwise. We cretes have a problem with pride and stubbornness. We tend to rely too heavily on ourselves and who we are as a race. But, thankfully, through good teaching and experience, I’ve learned the dangers of such thinking.

You have a cousin named Leetra, and you two are polar opposites. Could you tell us a bit about your relationship with her? 

Ah, Leetra. *chuckles* Our families have always hung out a lot. She’s more like a younger sister to me than a cousin. She’s always liked to hang out with the guys, rather than the girls, so she would follow me and my brothers around and do what we did. I kind of hate to admit it, but she’s probably even better than me at most things we do. But I don’t really mind. She can be frustrating, but she would probably say the same thing about me. The hard part is trying to get her to lighten up sometimes.

Is there an area in the world that you've always wanted to visit? Or something you've always dreamed of visiting?

I’ve actually been around quite a bit—the perks of having a dragon. But the one place I haven’t seen at all is the talcrins’ island country, Arda. I’d really like to see it. I hear it has a very different feel from the rest of Ilyon.

Persecution is growing heavier in your world. If you were captured and pushed to recant your faith, what would keep you strong? 

I think the influence my family has had on me would play a big part. As I mentioned, my parents raised my siblings and me to keep our faith at the center of our lives. I know without it, I really have nothing, so even if it meant death, I would cling to it.

* * *

About the Author

Jaye L. Knight is a homeschool graduated indie author with a passion for writing Christian fantasy and clean new adult fiction. Armed with an active imagination and love for adventure, Jaye weaves stories of truth, faith, and courage with the message that even in the deepest darkness, God’s love shines as a light to offer hope. She has been penning stories since the age of eight and resides in the Northwoods of Wisconsin.

You can connect with Jaye on her website, blog, Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Etsy.

* * *

Resistance Kindle Sale

Haven’t begun the adventure into Ilyon? From February 17th - 23rd, get Resistance , the award-winning first book of Ilyon Chronicles for your Kindle on sale for only 99 cents! Check it out on Amazon!

Giveaway

Share in the excitement of the release and enter to win a themed Epic Winter giveaway! Prize pack includes an autographed copy of The King’s Scrolls, a CD by Future World Music (some of Jaye’s favorite writing music), a dragon bookmark, a stone hawk pendant (much like the ones mentioned in the book), and a few packages of Twining’s Winter Spice tea to sip while you read! (Giveaway is open to US residents only. Cannot be shipped internationally.)

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Tuesday, February 17

·         Tour Introduction at Jaye L. Knight

·         Author Interview at Crafty Booksheeps

·         Review at Musings of a Middle Age Author

·         Author Interview at Seasons of Humility

·         Author Interview and Book Spotlight at A Brighter Destiny

·         Review and Author Interview at A Writer’s Heart

Wednesday, February 18

·         Review at To Be A Person

·         Author Interview at Leah’s Bookshelf

·         Review at The Destiny of One

·         Author Interview and Book Spotlight at Reflection

·         Author Interview and Character Spotlight (Liam) at Thilly Little Nothings

·         Author Interview at Dreams and Dragons

·         Book Spotlight at One Servant's Heart

·         Book Spotlight at Venturing to Other Worlds

Thursday, February 19

·         Q&A Session at Ilyon Chronicles - Behind the Scenes

·         Review and Author Interview at Crumpets 'n' Cream

·         Character Interview (Marcus) at Morgan Elizabeth Huneke

·         Review and Author Interview at Spreading the Word

·         Character Spotlight (Marcus) at Reflection

·         Author Interview at Rivershore Books

·         Review and Author Interview at Red Lettering

·         Review at Written Rest

Friday, February 20

·         Q&A Session at Ilyon Chronicles - Behind the Scenes

·         Review at Melody Jackson, Author

·         Review at Anything, Everything

·         Author Interview at Guns and Roses

·         Character Interview (Talas) at The Writer’s Window

·         Review at O. Scarlett! Reviews

·         Review and Author Interview at Zerina Blossom

·         Review at Leah’s Bookshelf

Saturday, February 21

·         Q&A Session at Ilyon Chronicles - Behind the Scenes

·         Review at The American Anglophile

·         Review and Book Spotlight at Vic's Media Room

·         Author Interview at Butterflies of the Imagination

·         Review and Author Interview at Tialla’s Tellings

·         Review and Character Interview (Liam) at Writings, Ramblings, and Reflections

·         Character Spotlight and Character Interview (Timothy) at Written Rest

Sunday, February 22

·         Review and Author Interview at Claire M. Banschbach- Thoughts and Rants

·         Character Spotlight (Aaron) at The Art of Storytelling

·         Book and Character Spotlight (General Veshiron) at Tell Tale Book Reviews

·         Review at Reality Calling

·         Character Spotlight (Leetra) at Zerina Blossom

Monday, February 23

·         Q&A Session at Ilyon Chronicles - Behind the Scenes

·         Character Interview (Captain Darq) at Knitted By God's Plan

·         Review at Backing Books

·         Realm Explorers post at Letters from Annie Douglass Lima

·         Character Interview (Aaron) at However Improbable

·         Character Spotlight (Daniel) at Finding the True Fairy Tale

·         Author Interview at Pencils Can Change the World

Tuesday, February 24

·         Q&A Session at Ilyon Chronicles - Behind the Scenes

·         Review at Shire Reviews

·         Review and Author Interview at Elvish Pens, Fantastical Writings

·         Review and Author Interview at The Pen of a Ready Writer

·         Character Interview (Leetra) at A Writer’s Faith

Wednesday, February 25

·         Tour Conclusion at Jaye L. Knight

Book Review: A.D. 30 by Ted Dekker

A sweeping epic set in the harsh deserts of Arabia and ancient Palestine.

A war that rages between kingdoms on the earth and in the heart.

The harrowing journey of the woman at the center of it all.

Step back in time to the year of our Lord...A.D. 30.


The outcast daughter of one of the most powerful Bedouin sheikhs in Arabia, Maviah is called on to protect the very people who rejected her. When their enemies launch a sudden attack with devastating consequences, Maviah escapes with the help of two of her father's warriors--Saba who speaks more with is sword than his voice and Judah, a Jew who comes from a tribe that can read the stars. Their journey will be fraught with terrible danger. If they can survive the vast forbidding sands of a desert that is deadly to most, they will reach a brutal world subjugated by kings and emperors. There Maviah must secure an unlikely alliance with King Herod of the Jews.

But Maviah's path leads her unexpectedly to another man. An enigmatic teacher who speaks of a way in this life which offers greater power than any kingdom. His name is Yeshua, and his words turn everything known on its head. Though following him may present even greater danger, his may be the only way for Maviah to save her people--and herself.

Through My Window

This is one of the best historical novel of this time era that I have read, on par with Ben-Hur and The Bronze Bow.

I've never read Ted Dekker before. Indeed, he is famous for quite a different genre! I'm not going to dash off to read his other books. But whenever he wants to write more biblical historical fiction, I will be right there, thank you.

This novel brings you straight into the harsh and fascinating culture of the Bedu and surrounding tribes. The writing style is more classic than I'm used to, but this fit the type of story perfectly.

And the emotion! Oh, the emotion of these characters. What characters. Maviah is truly compelling and sympathetic and strong. It's always a delight to see a male author portray a heroine with such conviction and respect. As for our heroes, they also are wonderful. Judah, ah, Judah. So classic in all the best ways and yet also unique and fun! And then there's a character who might have fallen into the typical, despicable, flirtatious woman with no moral compass...but instead I quite adored her.

Yeshua. Like the tagline promises, this is indeed a special look at the mystery and wonder of God. I felt like I was there. For me, an aspiring author who hopes to one day write a fantastical allegory on this time period without being repetitive and preachy...this was an incredible inspiration.

I was also pleasantly surprised by how clean this book was. Granted, younger readers might still be cautious for there is harsh violence, including the murder of an infant, but nothing is disturbing in detail. Also, some readers might be surprised by how carelessly some characters deem sexual morality and yet are not villains. Yet everything stayed very mild.

I thought that this was an entire story. Imagine my horror when I discovered the story ends off on an unresolved note. Where's the sequel? There has to be the sequel! *begin to panic...* Oh. There is a sequel. A.D. 33. Coming out 2015. I need it now.

Best Blogger award

Rayne Spyrell and Ghostie tagged for this a LONG time ago, but better late than never, right?

Ghostie's Questions

1. What is you favorite aspect of blogging?
Definitely interacting with my readers! I have such lovely friends and followers here, and it's really wonderful to get into conversation in the comments. :)

2. Your least favorite?
Em, I don't like the fact that just anyone can read the blog and possibly comment with junk or steal pictures. But it is the Internet age. :/
 

3. What's one of the best books you've read this year?

THIS YEAR? As in 2015? Well, when you asked this, it was 2014. So Golden Daughter by Anne Elisabeth Stengl. One of the best books period. 

 

4. Describe yourself in five words.

Imaginative, determined, head-strong, and compassionate.

5. If you were supreme ruler of the world, what would be the first thing you'd do?

Ask NOT to be the supreme ruler of the world. 

 

6. What Disney character do you relate to most? (Yes, I did just ask that.)

Okay...Belle? We like books, we like helping people, we love family, we kind of feel awkward in town. 

7. Do you have many siblings? 

Just one! But he's the right one! :) Big brothers are the best!

8. Think of a book, any book at all. Now, what's one thing you would change about that book?

It just so happens The Silmarillion has been on my mind as of late. :) So that one. And as for what I would change? Look for that in the last question. 

 

9. Who is one of your biggest role models? (Besides the obvious answer.)
Anne Elisabeth Stengl is an incredible role model for any author considering her dedication to her writing. But she really is a wonderful person to aspire to in character as well, with her kind interaction with her fans and the amazing opportunities and encouragement she has provided for aspiring authors. 
 

10. Autumn or spring?

Spring, I guess...Autumn is beautiful, but there are too many yellow-jackets. (If I publicly embarrass myself, it probably involves yellow-jackets.)

11. What's a yet-unreleased book or movie you are really excited about?

Poison Crown by Anne Elisabeth Stengl!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

12. Realistic fiction, or speculative? Why?

 Well, probably speculative, but I like the sort of speculative that's realistic if that makes sense. Something that feels incredibly real and true, even though its in another world. 

13. What is one of your favorite non-fiction books?

 Whoa. I really had to stop and think about that one there. Oh! Oh, but I just got it! Hope Rising by Kim Meeder!

14. What's something happening this month that you are really excited about?
 Well, the winners for Five Enchanted Roses were just announced, and even though I didn't win, it is still awfully exciting! 

15. Alright then; the last question. You have just had a mysterious ring of great power that can turn the wearer invisible entrusted into your care, and told that it must--must--be destroyed at all costs. What are you going to do? 

I'm going to try to figure out how to destroy it, seek wise council and true friends. My epic journey awaits!

Rayne's Questions

2.  What is your favorite genre of music?

That really, really varies...

3.  If you had to choose another time period to live in, which era would you choose?

Oh...oo...I can think of all the reasons why I wouldn't want to live in a time period...but uh, maybe the Victorian age. I loved the dresses.

4.  If you could go back in time to meet any historical figure, who would you want to meet?
Hmm....every historical figure I'm thinking of right now I can't really say I'd want to meet in person. Uh....Oh! Maybe Queen Esther! 

5.  If I said the word "faerie", what would be the first thing to come to your mind?

Eanrin, faerie knight and bard of Goldstone Wood!  

6.  Are mermaids charming, friendly creatures who rescue you from shipwrecks and fall in love with the prince-  Or are they dangerous predators who cause the shipwrecks? What is your opinion?

I suspect there are all different sorts. Personally, I've developed a theory that their personality matches their habitat. Mermaids who live in streams or creeks (and thus are are small, unless they are of a more elemental nature) would be much more innocent and friendly, but I suspect ocean mermaids are treacherous, powerful, and completely unpredictable. 

7.  If you were a color, what would you be?

Sky blue? Yes, I think so. Bright, optimistic, and eager for possibilities. I don't know, it just seems like the most fitting color.

8.  What are your thoughts on foreshadowing in fiction?  Do you like it, or does it just distract you?

I highly approve! Especially if the foreshadowing is just subtle enough that you don't see it until you actually reach that point in the book and you realize it was leading up to it! 

9.  If you discovered you had superpowers, what would you do?  

Wow, that's really tricky. I think it would depend on what sort of superpower it is--one meant to heal, one meant to destroy, or one that could go either way. Whichever it is, I'd likely try to keep it hidden from most people, cause I wouldn't want to suddenly disappear and then find myself in some government compound......

10.  Moving on from that question, if you found out there were others like you, what would you do then?

Are they trapped in a government compound with me? Then I try to form a team so we can break out and become awesome heroes of the entire world!!!

11.  If you were given the opportunity to travel into space for one week, would you do it?  You're allowed to take two people with you. (All-expense-paid trip, of course!)

Nope! No...I'm not a daredevil like that, and I'm terrified of heights. 

12.  Picture this:  You're lost in a magical wood, when you are suddenly attacked by a band of shadowy creatures.  You flee, but you cannot run fast enough and they soon overtake you.  Just as you think you are finished, two figures come to your rescue out of nowhere.  One is an elf ranger with white-blond hair and forest-colored garb.  The other is tall and imposing, wearing long black robes.  His hair is wild and dark, his face is horribly scarred, and his eyes glow red.    After dispensing with the shadow-creatures, the elf urges you to come with him, saying that you are in great danger and they've been waiting for you for a long time.  The red-eyed man warns you that the elf is a liar who is trying to kill you.  Red Eyes tell you that you should go with him instead, because he's your only way out of the forest alive.  Elf Ranger places himself protectively between you and Red Eyes.  They're ready to fight each other- probably to the death.  It's clear that you'll have to be the one to make the choice.  

Who do you trust?

Okay, to be honest, I would go with the elf. I mean...an elf...or a red eyed, dark-robed figure? I understand from several books that you can't judge by appearances, but so far the elf's actions are also weighing in his favor. And the majority of magical woods encourage elves over red-eyed folks. 

13.  Wow, that last one was a long question.  Sorry about that!  Here's an easy one.  What is your favorite day of the week?

Friday. Easy Answer.

14.  If you could be in one of the new Star Wars movies, who would you want to be?

Um...well, since I'm a girl, the options are fairly limited. I was going to say Padme, but I don't know. But anybody? Jango Fett! Anything to get wear Mandolorion armor!

15.  If you could go inside any book/movie and save one character, who would you want to save?  (This doesn't necessarily mean their life.  It could mean their loyalty, their innocence, freedom, or even soul!)

I must choose two. Actually, I'm sure I could choose dozens. One that pops to mind is Finnick Odair. I'd happily spare him from his rather sad fate.

But a much older and deeper and more personal wrong to be righted is the fate of Maedhros from The Silmarillion. I would save his soul. This might require going all the way back to the beginning and stopping him from swearing the Oath of Feanor. Wow. What would have gone differently if THAT had happened? He probably would have been eventually killed by one of his brothers or something, but if I could be certain that he was released from the halls of Mandos, than I would be happy. So happy.