Book Review: Rosefire

Aug 23, 2024
2 min read

Have you ever stumbled upon a book, read it... and found yourself not only speechless, but your heart and soul so moved beyond words?

For me, this was one of those books:

About the Book

Asael is a kingdom in crisis.

Perhaps it is a coincidence that Anya arrived on Karan’s doorstep—without a past and with great skill in magic—the same night that Crown Prince Loran died, but Karan is not certain she believes in coincidence anymore.

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

My Rating: 5 Stars +

My Thoughts

Somehow, I don't think there are enough words to describe this beautiful, soul-stirring story. A story of a kingdom in jeopardy with the sudden loss of its prince, the king dying, and the nobles moving to seize power. And in the midst of of a crisis of greed, darkness, and oppression, one act of kindness will lead to an incredible journey that will not only change lives but set a course that will bring a new age for a kingdom forever.

I love all these characters! (Except for the horrible ones). Yet, Karan has a special place in my heart. I can't help but love her compassion and gentleness. But to watch to grow both from doubtful to faithful, from fearful to gentle-bravery... she inspires me! I LOVE her bond with her brother, Richard! Their sibling love and relationship made me grin. But the ROMANCE! (No spoilers, but it made my heart oh so happy for her!)

And then there's Karan's growing friendships with Anya and the many more men and women she encounters.

This story is so unique and beautiful--- full of mystery, family bonds, faith, joy, laughter, heartache, political dangers, characters with flaws, strengths, and even hope... I could go on and on. All threads woven into a tapestry leading to the Hope of He Who Knows Men's Thinking.

Brimming inside is a single message: only Love can truly save the world.

About the Author

Carolyn Clare Givens is a displaced Northerner exploring the foreign ways of the South. She works in communications at New City Church in North Carolina, handling much of the stuff that goes on screens or paper (or signs, or t-shirts, or pens, or mugs….). Carrie lives in Charlotte with her literary cat, Lord Peter Wimsey. She has previously bumped around the world, both as a missionary kid and adult. Carrie was part of the publishing process on more than 30 books before launching Bandersnatch. She’s the author of Rosefire, published by Bandersnatch Books in 2021, and The King’s Messenger, released as a new edition by Bandersnatch in 2022.