Book Review: Dream of Kings by Sharon Hinck

***First read November 2022.

About this book

The Future Never Sleeps

In the glacial nation of Norgard, Jolan the Dream Teller serves every seeker, whether peasant or high lord. Though she loves using her gift, she struggles to navigate the corrupt and dangerous court and the jealousies of the Guildagard.

When an old man’s nightmare imparts a dire warning, Jolan realizes her entire nation is in danger. But before she can sound the alarm, she is betrayed by the guilds and sold into slavery in a rival kingdom far to the south. As a slave in a foreign land, at first Jolan can’t see beyond her singular focus: return home to warn Norgard of the coming calamity. After facing new dangers, making new friends, and forgiving old wrongs, she must fulfill the purposes the Provider has set before her.

Only then can she face a decision that could cost her the man she loves, her calling, and her freedom—all to save a people who abandoned her.

*Standalone Novel

*Genre: Christian Fantasy (recommended for ages 18+.)

My thoughts

Have you ever re-read a book you found some years ago and fallen far more in love with it?

This is one of those books. I've read and enjoyed a few books by Sharon Hinck, but this one is my absolute favorite.

First off, in a world where YA (Young Adult) books seem to dominate the industry, it feels rare to find wholesome, inspiring fantasy for adults — or even books where epic battles are not the main plot of the novel.

This book, inspired by Biblical Old Testament stories, was a gem of a find!

I found myself instantly relating to Jolan, our protagonist. My heart ached at every suffering she faced, from loss and betrayal to enslavement. Her struggle with her faith in the Provider colliding with her strong desire to return home was so raw and real, leaving her questioning the purpose of her predicament.

And yet, as her journey continued, Jolan and I experienced unexpected blessings through newfound friendships, promotions, and even love. But more importantly, she learned more deeply about the Provider Himself — how His plans were always more profound than she could imagine, plans that could not only save nations but also her soul.

There are so many beautiful themes like the ones I mentioned above woven throughout the story. The worldbuilding was fantastic, the cast of characters shone vividly through Jolan's eyes, and the romance subplot was beautiful. (Without risking spoilers, the author portrays marriage in her books beautifully!)

Re-reading this book was a feast for the soul I didn't know I needed, and I'll gladly add it to my shelf to re-read again and again!

About the Author

Award-winning author Sharon Hinck writes “stories for the hero in all of us,” about ordinary women on extraordinary faith journeys. Known for their authenticity, emotional range, and spiritual depth, her novels include humorous contemporary fiction, women’s fiction, and groundbreaking fantasy, such as the "Sword of Lyric" series and "The Dancing Realms" series. She has been honored with a Christy finalist medal and three Carol awards for her novels.

Sharon’s undergrad degree is in education, and she earned an M.A. in Communication from Regent University. She spent ten years as the artistic director of a Christian performing arts group, CrossCurrent. That ministry included three short-term mission trips to Hong Kong. She has been a church youth worker, a choreographer and ballet teacher, a homeschool mom, a church organist, and a bookstore clerk. One day, she’ll figure out what to be when she grows up, but in the meantime, she’s pouring her imagination into writing.

Website: https://sharonhinck.com/

Instagram: @sharonhinck

Facebook: Sharon Hinck Author Page