Awakened
Genre: Christian Fantasy Published: June 5, 2025
Series: Awakened Book 1 Pages: 350
Format: E-book Source: Purchased on Kindle
I absolutely loved this book. Arden and Seidon were both characters that I was instantly invested in. I don't even know where to begin because I adored everything about the book. The storyline instantly captivated me, as most Roseanna M. White's books do, but to a much greater degree. I think because fantasy and fairy tale retellings have been my cup of tea lately because they allow me to dive in somewhere completely different. I was a little worried going into this one, as I would be with any other book containing magic, but I trust this author, so I gave it a shot, and I am so glad I did. The magic is elemental and involves maneuvering water and air, at least in this book in the series, different elements come into play in later books. It also requires a reliance on God, whom they call the Triada, which really adds to it. Since it relied on being in touch with the Creator and only being able to wield His creation with Him, the magic didn't bother me.
I suspected the evil mastermind and was correct, which is always fun for me on the rare occasions it happens. I loved how faith was intertwined in their loves in such a natural way, yet they referred to the Creator in different ways depending on where they were which I think is so true even in our world. I definitely breezed through the book. I can't wait to reread it again and see what I missed the first time around.
An amazing read and definitely five stars.
To find out more about the book head here: White Crown Publishing: Awakened
Quote Time:
"This magic is a connection to the earth, given by its creator, the Triada. We do not dominate it, we receive it. Welcome its touch inside us and learn first to respond to it, and then to influence it in return. But always from within us. It calls, we answer. As our internal ears, so to speak, grow more attuned, we can hear its call from farther away and can answer with more strength. Every show of power is really us asking the water to do something, and it agreeing."
This quote perfectly sums up the elemental nature of their magic and that its really responding to creation to protect the world, and work with the element and God.
"There was nothing happy about why she was out here--but even so, there was joy to be found in the horrible situation. And with joy came hope."
Oftentimes God uses the hard situations to sanctify us, and while we don't see the bigger picture, we can always have joy and peace which surpasses all understanding when we surrender it all and trust in Him.
Aflame
Genre: Christian Fantasy Published: February 14, 2026
Series: Awakened, Book 2 Pages: 464
Format: E-book Source: ARC
This second book was just as good as the first if not a smidgen better. Again, I immediately fell in love with both of the main characters who are Princess Valkyrja and Nikanor. The Nordic feel of this book was so much fun, especially as we have the contrasting elements of ice and lava. In this book I felt there was a little more subtlety and quietness to the main characters. Their strength and support of each other was always there, but in a different way from the first book, because obviously these characters are different. I'm not sure if that is exactly how to describe it, but it's the best I got. I related a bit more to Valkyrja in that she had been told things and believed the lies and could only find her true self and strength when she had a relationship with God. Then we have Nikanor who sees who she is and supports her. Just a wonderful story.
As we meet our cast of characters, two of the side characters had me in stitches. Their banter was top notch and I absolutely adored it. Of course, I mean Daemon and Perla. Her confidence and his annoyance complement each other so well, and although I believe they continue to be side characters in the next story I can't wait to see what happens. I think Perla is the perfect witty blend of her parents. I literally laughed out loud so much at these two.
Another five-star read. I'm excitedly awaiting the next installment.
To find out more about the book head here: White Crown Publishing: Aflame
Quote Time:
"The human mind will never fully grasp Elyon. It is the trying that matters. The seeking heart."
This was a great reminder that my ways are not His ways and I can only see a small part of the tapestry and can only grasp a tiny understanding of who God is because my human brain is limited.
I want to thank the author and publisher for a copy of this book to read without any expectation of a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Meet the Author
I want to thank you for taking the time to read my words and I hope you enjoy reading, and hearing about books as much as I do.
I pray you have a blessed day!
Sincerely,
Melanie
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