Book Review: Illuminary by Chawna Schroeder
- 3 hours ago
- 3 min read
About this book
Glimpse the past, illuminate the future.
Yosarai Patican dreams of becoming an illuminator in a country that values art above all else. A lofty goal that finally seems within reach when she earns a position at the prestigious Academy of the Seven Arts. Although Yosarai loathes to leave behind her quiet country life, she travels to the capital, determined to live up to her mother’s fame as one of Indel’s greatest artists.
Prince Xander never planned to become king. Indeed, he never wanted to become king. But when his father dies suddenly, he is thrust into the middle of coronation preparations—and assassination attempts. With everyone around him in increasing danger, Xander decides to hide in neighboring Indel until the time for him to be crowned king arrives.
Posing as an inventor struggling with aesthetics, Xander enlists Yosarai’s aid as part of his cover, but soon he suspects she knows more than she should. But when danger threatens and secrets are exposed, entering a competition reputed as cutthroat may be the only way for them to protect everything they hold dear.
*Book 1 of "The Scepter & Stylus"
*Genre: Young Adult Fantasy (recommended for ages 16+.)
My thoughts
I don't think I have the right words to describe this work of art! I loved Chawna Schoerder's Vault Between Spaces, but somehow... this book claimed my top favorite book by the author!
And somehow, her books always seem to be right ones at the right time.
Every single word in this book was enchanting. Even the world that made up the Seven Realms-- even though most of it is set in the beautiful realm of Indeli! Normally, I tend to avoid "steampunk" in fantasy as I find it distracting. But in this book, wonderful!
And oh, the characters! Darling Yosi! I love her heart, and her struggles to pursue her dream while navigating an near cut-throat society was oh so real. And while hiding her facinating gifting at the same time! I want to hug her! Then there's Xander, fleeing assasins while struggling with his position as crown prince and his birth. There are quite a few others I enjoyed... some I did NOT, and others I can't but grow suspicious...(like a certain counselor)...
The story itself was full of twists and turns like the Quest itself, but I LOVE how it takes it's time, seeing the world through the eyes of the characters. A world riddled with danger, sorrows, and yes, hatred and cruelty-- but also beauty, wonder, hope, faith, and freindships!! I just love the friendships between "Team Illuminary" (you'll see what I mean later)... and a certain budding sweet romance between two certain side-characters kept me giggling.
But what truly stood out... was so much truth of the Sustainer (God the Provider) woven throughout! I lost track of how many times my heart ached at the reminders of Who God Is and trusting Him in His plans... even when His Plans don't make any sense. How when we surrender... He always provides. And is always with us.
And just when you think the book is nearly reach it's end.... it's far from over!! (Next book, Perplexity, has just been released, and I aim to grab my own copy!
About the Author
Chawna Schroeder loves to dream of far-off places, daring swordfights, magic spells, and princes in disguise, just like her favorite Disney princess Belle. So perhaps it’s no surprise she delights in stretching her faith and pushing the imagination. When she isn’t daydreaming or committing those dreams to paper, you can find her studying the biblical languages, working with fiber, and teaching about the importance of discernment.
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