Revealing Shadows by Paige Reed is a spectacular follow-up to her memorable novel, Reviving Embers. Being immersed in Areli’s world, the book was more difficult to set aside than its predecessor. The prose is both elegant and thought-provoking, making the narrative almost poetic. I truly enjoyed the depth of layered characters as they embraced their unfolding destinies and mustered the grit to accomplish the impossible. (I especially loved the cameo, yet integral, appearances of old characters from the first book.)

Anne, the forgotten, nearly invisible heroine in the story, reminded me of Cinderella with her wicked stepsisters and stepmother. Her pure faith and intimate relationship with the High King tugged on my heart with conviction. And don’t get me started on Prince Benaiah. He was a delightfully complex man learning to navigate his own heart in a cold, loveless world void of faith. Both were so brave in their own way, their passion and destiny so closely intertwined yet hopelessly forbidden.

The pushback from the villains added to the pervasive tension stretching the plot. This story coaxed all the feelings: frustration, elation, fury, and relief. I found so many favorite quotes in this book, had so many moments of wanting to sit back and soak in deeper truth, and also felt the pulse throbbing desire to keep reading one more chapter (or shake my fist at those pesky antagonists!). This is one of those reads that offers a beautiful escape while also making you think about the possible thematic parallels to the state of our own world. Anyone looking for depth, passion, and insight will truly enjoy this fantasy novel with a spiritual core that pulses with biblical truth.

Click on the book cover for the synopsis and purchase link.

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