Jaye L. Knight’s newest novel, Bitter Winter, and companion novella Lacy have been released! Bitter Winter is the fifth book in the Christian fantasy series, Ilyon Chronicles. Tricia Mingerink's newest novel Decree is also releasing! Decree is the fifth book in the Christian fantasy/kingdom adventure series The Blades of Acktar. Read about these books below and be sure to check out the other blog stops on the tour by visiting the official tour page. Don’t forget to enter the giveaway!
The Ilyon Chronicles
Already struggling with a harsh winter and the threat of food shortage, a catastrophic event leaves those in the Landale camps reeling. Just when things couldn’t get much worse, camp members fall ill with the same devastating sickness that’s sweeping across the country. Determined to gain the cure, Jace sets off to Valcré. However, there are only two sources—the queen, or a powerful gang of smugglers who have made the dangerous city their home. When Jace gains audience with the gang leader, he finds the price of the cure is steeper than any of them imagined, forcing him to make an impossible choice—betray his conscience or let those he loves die.
Available now on Amazon!
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{The Basics}
Number 5 in the Ilyon Chronicles!!! As the fifth sequel in this fantastic series by Jaye L. Knight, it's mandatory you read the other novels before feasting your eyes on this one. Bitter Winter continues the journey of the Resistance against an evil empire now ruled by the crown princess Davira. Under her harsh reign, the economy of the countries have fallen, crime runs rampant in the streets, and people are beginning to starve under the added weight of a severe winter season. Game is scarce in the Resistance camps, and food is carefully rationed. Though times are extremely difficult, and soon become even more so with the threat of a fatal illness, the people rally together under the hope of their King Elôm.
It was so great to be reunited with the characters I've missed! Jace, Kyrin, Kaden, Marcus, Liam, Holden, Daniel, Elanor, etc. *allthehearteyes* In this story, we follow the POV of many different characters, but chiefly that of Jace. It was so sweet to recall how the relationship between him and Kyrin has grown from book 1 to now. And it was encouraging to see how their faith in Elôm has grown, and though they might waiver amidst the overwhelming attacks of an enemy they cannot physically fight, they learn to stand strong---no matter the outcome.
{Spiritual Content}
As a Christian series, we revisit the faith of the Resistance in that Elôm is the Creator & King of all things, and His son, Elon, came as a sacrifice for the people of Ilyon. Characters pray to Him for strength, wisdom, and protection.
Those opposed to the love of Elôm worship the gods of the evil empire. People are killed for believing in Elôm, and those who resist the worship of the gods meet in secret to instead worship and learn more of Elôm. Believers are outlawed in the capitol city and many are murdered in the streets day by day.
{Violence}
Under the reign of Davira, life in the Resistance camps and especially for those still living in the cities is dangerous. As mentioned above, people are killed daily---their killers claiming they were Elôm worshipers (whether they were or not).
A camp is ambushed, and a deadly battle ensues. Sword fights, bow and arrow wounds, etc. Blood, bruises, gashes, and more fatal wounds. Thirty men are lost in the fight, including two women and one boy of fifteen years. Many more are taken due to the illness in the combined camps and cities. A nasty red rash appears on the victim's neck and they endure a nasty high fever.
{Language // Alcohol & Drugs}
None! These books are clean of any foul language.
Characters take meetings in a tavern a time or two. Ale is present. Herbs and herbal teas are administered to the sick to help treat the sickness. Jace and Holden travel to the capitol city in search of the cure---[SPOILER!] contained in vials and given in a tea to the sick.
{Romantic Content}
Jace and Kyrin's relationship has come so far from their first meeting way back in book 1. It is so very apparent they love each other dearly and they both show it in their actions to one another. Jace works toward their future together in beginning to prepare a home for them. They hug a few times, kiss at least once.
One young man approaches the brother of a girl he admires to request permission to court her. Both he and Jace often wish they could kiss the objects of their affection, but refrain for propriety's sake, waiting for the "most opportune moment." ;D
{Conclusion}
This sequel is not as large in length as its predecessors, but that doesn't make it any less good. I loved returning to my favorite characters and their familiar personalities, struggles, and strengths. Ms Knight has a wonderful writing voice, the emotions in this novel was so very touching, I could've cried if I'd allowed myself. A beautiful story! And certainly open to another following!
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About Lacy
The last thing Aaron ever envisioned was falling for a prostitute. Everything about it spells trouble. However, he can’t help noticing the way her smile lights up when she sees him and how much brokenness she hides behind it. Neither can he ignore how desperately she needs rescue and protection.
When Lacy shares a life or death secret with him, Aaron is willing to risk everything to help her and to show her Elôm’s love. Yet, such a choice could destroy his reputation and maybe even cost him his freedom.
An Ilyon Chronicles Novella
Available now on Amazon!
Haven’t discovered the world of Ilyon yet? Find out more at the official Ilyon Chronicles website!
About the AuthorJaye L. Knight is an award-winning author, homeschool graduate, and shameless tea addict with a passion for Christian fantasy. 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, Twitter, and Etsy.
The Blades of Acktar
About Decree
The Adventure Continues. Discover more of The Blades of Acktar in this collection of novellas and short stories. The Blades as They Should’ve Been A test and the Gathering of Nobles will decide Leith and Martyn’s futures. Can they fight to become more than the Blades they were? Will Keevan accept the man who attempted to kill him as family? The First Mission When Martyn visits Surgis, his past seems determined to haunt him. Can he figure out how to forgive, especially when confronted with an enemy in need of his help? To the Far Great Mountains A death sends Leith and Martyn far beyond the borders of Acktar. Will they be able to arrest their quarry before they are caught themselves? From the story of how Leith and Martyn met to Ranson’s search for a life outside of the Blades, these stories will answer plaguing questions and expand the world of Acktar.
Available now on Amazon!
About the Author
Tricia Mingerink is a twenty-something, book-loving, horse-riding country girl. She lives in Michigan with her family and their pack of pets. When she isn't writing, she can be found pursuing backwoods adventures across the country. You can connect with Tricia on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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To each is given a bag of tools,
A shapeless mass, and a book of rules,
And each must make, ere life is flown,
A stumbling block or a stepping stone.
-Anonymous-