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Chronicles of Elira #2
This Life of Mine
Marcus is tired of losing those he loves. The last shred of his childhood has been uprooted and he feels alone… again. When the ruler's new policies take effect, the anger of the Rusalkan mountain king is unleashed upon the borderlands.
With refugees streaming into Elira by the hundreds, the stories from the wall are horrific. Marcus joins a convoy to lend his medical skills to those in need at the Eliran border. What he finds there is about to change his life forever.
Dilara’s life as a slave in Rusalka was anything but idealistic. Consumed by a system that was designed to use, abuse, and discard the likes of her, she has been taken through the very depths. Carrying a traumatic secret and wounded in her frenzied escape, she finds herself with an unlikely protector and an even more confusing relationship. Can she traverse the waters of this new life and make it her own?
And can Marcus overcome his own deformities to find the one missing piece? Or will his life forever be marked by suffering and sacrifice?
With refugees streaming into Elira by the hundreds, the stories from the wall are horrific. Marcus joins a convoy to lend his medical skills to those in need at the Eliran border. What he finds there is about to change his life forever.
Dilara’s life as a slave in Rusalka was anything but idealistic. Consumed by a system that was designed to use, abuse, and discard the likes of her, she has been taken through the very depths. Carrying a traumatic secret and wounded in her frenzied escape, she finds herself with an unlikely protector and an even more confusing relationship. Can she traverse the waters of this new life and make it her own?
And can Marcus overcome his own deformities to find the one missing piece? Or will his life forever be marked by suffering and sacrifice?
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 22, 2023
55 people are currently reading
1244 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Lynn
9 books1,062 followersVictoria Lynn has an insatiable desire for truth, light, and beauty and has always sought to find them in story. Joining the Indie scene at the age of 18 with her debut novel, she has been writing and publishing ever since. She seeks to bring the life-giving words of the Savior to a dark and broken world that desperately needs to know of His sacrifice. A writing and publishing coach, best-selling author, seamstress and creator, she loves spending her spare time traveling deep into the mountains and forests, surfing the ocean waves, spending time with her family, turning her 2 acre plot into a homestead, or sewing gowns fit for a princess. She thinks perhaps she was once a woodland fairy and her current greatest desire is to own a mini-cow.
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June 23, 2023
5 stars. I was pretty certain this would be strong and gritty and beautiful, but it still wasn’t what I expected. It was so very different in feel and aesthetic than “Once I Knew.” It’s foggy mountains and snow-laden pines and dark cloudy winter days, silent wolves and dark red clothes and weathered leather. If there’s one single aesthetic this book has, it’s a red rose frozen in dark ice…
I did find that the writing style was a little pretentious at times… a little showy… and in a few bits it was grammatically confusing; but mostly it was deep and beautiful and fit the book so extremely well. And the characters! Marcus was a good man, and I related deeply to his emotional struggles. Dilara I loved even more though. She was so strong and sweet and her pain was so well expressed and handled. Fendrel was a humorous, wise old doctor; Everard was simply AMAZING (that twist at the ending though!! OH MY STARS); the innkeeper and his wife and all the kids and their families—they were all so sweet and funny and so alive… and I loved seeing Elgon again! And the wolf was such a fun touch. ;) Also, the world building in this book is excellent. The whole part about the war and refugees was great and built things up perfectly to follow OIK and prepare for the next novel.
This book definitely has moments of crisis and suspense, but I loved how slower-paced it was and focussed on the emotional growth of the characters. Things were very well paced and revealed little by little. I loved seeing Dilara slowly gain trust and confidence. Her whole backstory of slavery, assault, and forced abortion was horrible, but the pro-life theme was splendid and unapologetic, covering the value of life in every aspect, from slavery and abortion to war and disability. The author did an excellent job in writing this. It was real, heavy, unvarnished; the stark tragedy was vivid, and it moved you to act; yet it was handled with enough grace and delicacy to be fit reading for teens and not too graphic to overwhelm. And the way she showed how much real beauty can come from the bleakest, most fire-ravaged ashes was tearfully beautiful. The horror of this world and the wonder of God met in this novel.
Content: description of wounds, etc, that is not over-graphic but still somewhat graphic in my (perhaps very) sensitive opinion. The theme of the book is slavery, handling both physical and sexual abuse. The sexual part is veiled, but it’s still clear. As I said, though, it's very well handled and definitely has no extra unneeded details. The abortion and birth scene are a little more detailed (specifically the birth scene at the end).
A Favourite Quote: “I know it’s hard to understand now[.] But your story knows no bounds with how God will use it. Your life was not a useless emptiness or waste of pain. Your life is full, meaningful, purposeful. Every breath you continue to take has a reason, and who are we to assume that to end it would be in the best interest of the world around us? To have never been or to change any part of your past would be to rob the world of who God created you to be and what you have become as a result of the sorrow and pain that has shaped you. What you will become. While it seems underwhelming to say ‘how can we know His plans and purposes,’ the reality is, they are far deeper, long reaching, and more impactful than we could ever imagine[.]Just think about Jesus. His brokenness and sacrifice is still spoken of today, over a thousand years after he lived and breathed.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “Are you all right?” one little boy asked[.]
“Right as rain in the summer,” Marcus quipped.
“My mother says it’s not good to lie.”
Marcus refrained from rolling his eyes at the young child’s response. “And your mother would be right.”
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
I did find that the writing style was a little pretentious at times… a little showy… and in a few bits it was grammatically confusing; but mostly it was deep and beautiful and fit the book so extremely well. And the characters! Marcus was a good man, and I related deeply to his emotional struggles. Dilara I loved even more though. She was so strong and sweet and her pain was so well expressed and handled. Fendrel was a humorous, wise old doctor; Everard was simply AMAZING (that twist at the ending though!! OH MY STARS); the innkeeper and his wife and all the kids and their families—they were all so sweet and funny and so alive… and I loved seeing Elgon again! And the wolf was such a fun touch. ;) Also, the world building in this book is excellent. The whole part about the war and refugees was great and built things up perfectly to follow OIK and prepare for the next novel.
This book definitely has moments of crisis and suspense, but I loved how slower-paced it was and focussed on the emotional growth of the characters. Things were very well paced and revealed little by little. I loved seeing Dilara slowly gain trust and confidence. Her whole backstory of slavery, assault, and forced abortion was horrible, but the pro-life theme was splendid and unapologetic, covering the value of life in every aspect, from slavery and abortion to war and disability. The author did an excellent job in writing this. It was real, heavy, unvarnished; the stark tragedy was vivid, and it moved you to act; yet it was handled with enough grace and delicacy to be fit reading for teens and not too graphic to overwhelm. And the way she showed how much real beauty can come from the bleakest, most fire-ravaged ashes was tearfully beautiful. The horror of this world and the wonder of God met in this novel.
Content: description of wounds, etc, that is not over-graphic but still somewhat graphic in my (perhaps very) sensitive opinion. The theme of the book is slavery, handling both physical and sexual abuse. The sexual part is veiled, but it’s still clear. As I said, though, it's very well handled and definitely has no extra unneeded details. The abortion and birth scene are a little more detailed (specifically the birth scene at the end).
A Favourite Quote: “I know it’s hard to understand now[.] But your story knows no bounds with how God will use it. Your life was not a useless emptiness or waste of pain. Your life is full, meaningful, purposeful. Every breath you continue to take has a reason, and who are we to assume that to end it would be in the best interest of the world around us? To have never been or to change any part of your past would be to rob the world of who God created you to be and what you have become as a result of the sorrow and pain that has shaped you. What you will become. While it seems underwhelming to say ‘how can we know His plans and purposes,’ the reality is, they are far deeper, long reaching, and more impactful than we could ever imagine[.]Just think about Jesus. His brokenness and sacrifice is still spoken of today, over a thousand years after he lived and breathed.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “Are you all right?” one little boy asked[.]
“Right as rain in the summer,” Marcus quipped.
“My mother says it’s not good to lie.”
Marcus refrained from rolling his eyes at the young child’s response. “And your mother would be right.”
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
September 20, 2024
4 stars, personally. 😭
Trigger warnings: mentions of miscarriage, implied/forced abortion, abuse and implied sexual assault/prostitution.
About this book:
“Marcus is tired of losing those he loves. The last shred of his childhood has been uprooted and he feels alone… again. When the ruler's new policies take effect, the anger of the Rusalkan mountain king is unleashed upon the borderlands.
With refugees streaming into Elira by the hundreds, the stories from the wall are horrific. Marcus joins a convoy to lend his medical skills to those in need at the Eliran border. What he finds there is about to change his life forever.
Dilara’s life as a slave in Rusalka was anything but idealistic. Consumed by a system that was designed to use, abuse, and discard the likes of her, she has been taken through the very depths. Carrying a traumatic secret and wounded in her frenzied escape, she finds herself with an unlikely protector and an even more confusing relationship. Can she traverse the waters of this new life and make it her own?
And can Marcus overcome his own deformities to find the one missing piece? Or will his life forever be marked by suffering and sacrifice?”
Series: Book #2 in “The Chronicles of Elira” series. Review of Book #1 Here!
Spiritual Content- Many Scriptures are quoted, remembered, mentioned, & discussed; Many prayers, talking to God, praising God, & thanking God; Lots of witnessing to others; Many, many talks and discussions about God, Jesus, beliefs, listening to God’s voice which is true, having worth, God always being with us, some believing that God isn’t doing anything for some people, & giving our burdens to God; 'H's are capital when referring to God; God talks and whispers to both Marcus & Dilara (usually Scriptures changed to be as if God was saying it to them); Marcus has a deep faith, but at the beginning feels like God is distant after hearing some distressing news, he rebels against the desire to talk to his Maker (he feels guilt about this shortly later); A man says that status matters to everyone, “even the Lord” and Marcus has a discussion with him about God and witnessed to him; Both Dilara and a side character say a prayer along the lines of “if there is a God out there”; Marcus prays “in the Spirit” and keeps a small Bible with him always; Marcus cries out to God about feeling like his life is a waste and full of “nothingness” for Him (also thinking for the majority of the book that anyone else could do what he does; He surrenders these feelings to God, but they come back again); Dilara feels so voided of feelings, she wonders if she is in Heaven (which would be a “mad trick of fate”) or in hell (but “where was the fire?”); Dilara thinks that Marcus’ God was not the One she knew as the one she knows of is “distant” and turns “a blind eye to the pain of mere mortals” & that perhaps she was too dirty for Marcus’ Lord to care about her; *Spoilers* ; Dilara looks at Marcus’ eyes as if “those eyes were the only link to Heaven she knew. Like a portal to world she only wished she could live in”; Many, many mentions of God, Jesus Christ, & believing in Him; Many mentions of prayers, praying, answered prayers, & praising God; Mentions of those & events in the Bible; Mentions of Heaven; Mentions of miracles; Mentions of godsends; A handful of mentions of Violet (Book #1) and her family having the gift of premonitions or second sight (also said that one seemed to have “the ability to see into the spirit world”); A few mentions of blessings (which some see as curses); A few mentions of sins & sinners; A mention of Christian duty; A mention of hymns;
*Note: The word ‘hell’ is used in describing places and events (such as Marcus’ healing years being his own version of “a living hell”, slavery being “a hell of man’s making”, Dilara currently living in a “living hell” and later referring to it as that again, & a storm sounding like the “very gates of hell were threatening to burst” with the howls of wind); “Good heavens” and “mercy me and saints above” are both said once; A wolf is around Dilara and the eyes are described as “something…otherworldly” and “almost…heavenly” (at first Marcus is concerned about it, but then feels peace about the wolf and knows that God has a purpose in it, thinking about the verse about entertaining angels unaware and later about the she-wolf being an “angel of comfort”); Mentions of evil men & the evil look in their eyes; A few mentions of Marcus’ tea being like a “witch’s brew” according to a side character (very herbal); A couple mentions of a song about pagan beliefs; A mention of Dilara having a feeling inside of her that is like a caged demon; A mention of a storm being like a “demon unleashed”; A mention of a man being “no better than a demon”; A mention of a siren call; A mention of a story about a mermaid.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘what in blazes’, two ‘blasted’s, two forms of ‘stupid’, and three forms of ‘idiot’; Eye rolling; Feeling near death & fighting it (up to semi-detailed); Major pain, Injuries, Blood/Bleeding, Fevers, Frostbite, & Passing out (semi-detailed); Being attacked, almost abducted, hit, & slapped (plus recalling some of this, up to semi-detailed); Doctoring others (up to semi-detailed); Seeing deaths & grieving (including of an infant and grieving a pet disappearing, up to semi-detailed); Hearing a fight between a man and a wolf & the animal being injured (up to semi-detailed); Dilara was sold as a child (eight years old) to a man (which was her father’s doing and her mother told her to do whatever the man says as it “will go easy with” her that way); Marcus was attacked and beaten as a boy which resulted in his hip being disjoined and many broken bones & since then has been in a lot of pain often and struggles with feeling like a burden; Many, many mentions of pain, injuries, blood/bleeding, passing out, frostbite, broken bones, surgeries, & Marcus doctoring others (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of wars, refugees, fighting, attacks, assaults, violence, beatings (including Marcus’ own as a child, up to semi-detailed); Mentions of deaths (including the deaths of infants, up to semi-detailed); Mentions of slavery, slaves, slave owners, being chained, & people being sent to the mines and never heard from again; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of hatred; Mentions of gossip; Mentions of nightmares; A few mentions of drowning men (used as a simile); A couple mentions of murderers (Dilara views herself as one); A couple mentions of executions; A couple mentions of a man choking Dilara; A couple mentions of people being whipped; A couple mentions of raids; A couple mentions of alcohol & drunks;
*Note: Marcus feels like he is a burden to those around him and useless (others tell him that is not the case, but he struggles to believe it; This is a major part of the book and though Marcus knows the truth, he doesn’t live by it every moment); Marcus overhears someone say that it would have been “easier” if Marcus had died and “not experience such a harsh life”; Marcus wonders if he was the cause of someone’s death (who interfered with the authority figures during his beating) & thinks that he should have died that day; Marcus tries not to linger in his self-pity but does think less of himself & call himself a cripple; *Spoiler* ; Dilara (in a flashback after being sold) wonders if she should burn herself and if that would make her seem less desirable to the men at the bordello; *Spoilers, but note about a miscarriage* ; Others tell Dilara that she is worthy of love (which she doesn’t believe); Dilara has an episode similar to a panic attack (up to semi-detailed); A young boy has prejudice towards those from a certain country & voices it (stemming from his town being raided by the people & Marcus talks to him about it); A mention of some people having broken minds.
Sexual Content- A cheek kiss, a not-detailed kiss, and two barely-above-not-detailed kisses; A bit of touches, embraces, smelling, & noticing (barely-above-not-detailed); In the author’s forward at the beginning of the book, she shares that this book has a Trigger Warning for mentions of a miscarriage, implied/forced abortion, abuse and implied sexual assault/prostitution and did her best to write “these stories as tactfully, gently, and realistically as possible, all while maintaining a level of decorum that will allow this book to be enjoyed by many ages.”; Dilara was sold to a man at a young age (eight years old) by her father & there are flashbacks to it (including comments about men treating her like brutes, men using her, making obscenities and crass comments, the men’s eager hands trying to grab her, & the man who bought her “saving” her for something); Later, it’s said that the men treated Dilara and other girls like they weren’t human and wallowed in something that “should never have been theirs to begin with”; Towards the end, Dilara is described as “the girl who had been trained from so young an age that she was worth nothing but what her body could give”; Dilara is concerned that two men touched her when she was unconscious and then has a look of “resignation” (they did not touch her); *Spoiler* ; Dilara is suddenly concerned that a man will betray her (taking a step back and being frightened by him); Marcus believes he is too broken for anyone to love, also thinking that he couldn’t keep up with a child of his own or a wife; Dilara doesn’t believe anyone can love her because she is unworthy of it and dirty (adding later that God could not make her beautiful and Marcus tells her that none of it was her fault; *Spoiler* ); Mentions of a bordello, prostitution, & young girls being sold; Some love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Miscarriage content listed in the Negative Content Note section above; Labor (*Spoiler* ); A mention of a woman’s monthly bleed.
-Dilara
-Marcus, age 20
P.O.V. switches between them
332 pages
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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
{Trigger Warning for a miscarriage, forced abortion, abuse, & sexual assault/prostitution}
Ever since reading “Once I Knew”, I’ve been excited to read Marcus’ story. While I really enjoyed all the herb parts as that’s something I’m highly interested in, I was most excited to see this sweetheart learn and accept his worth in Christ. He’s so quick to have Scriptures come to mind and believes in them for others, but it’s hard for him to apply every single one to his own life and I think that’s incredibly relatable.
I knew that with the topics discussed in this book, I would probably end up crying. Maybe it was because I had prepared myself enough, but I didn’t cry as much as I expected. I have to note that I really appreciate the heads up on the content at the beginning of the book and wish more authors would do this! Serious and possibly triggering topics like the following are discussed: mentions of miscarriage, implied/forced abortion, abuse and implied sexual assault/prostitution.
My heart broke for the injustices and horror that Dilara has lived through. We’re told bits and pieces in a delicate way, but it never felt like we were wading in the sin or that the author was glamorizing it all, which I truly appreciate.
This definitely isn’t your typical romance book. Both of our main leads are so hurt. Marcus is quick to comfort others, but hard on himself and struggles with why God has left him on this earth when he feels like a burden to everyone around him. He notes at one point that “it was one thing to believe the things he knew to be true and another to truly life that belief” and I have to appreciate how realistic that was because I think many of us are guilty of doing the same thing.
It could have very easily gone into the “savior” trope of our male lead rescuing and saving the main girl from whatever circumstances she’s in. I don’t care for seeing that trope because often times the male lead ends up replacing the girl’s need for Jesus. This book wasn’t that way at all—Marcus recognizes Dilara’s hurt as he is also someone who has been hurt. They both need Jesus and that’s the majority of the book. It was really nice to see the “romance” (which was very soft and light) take the back-burner to what was truly life-or-death—their salvation and hope in Christ.
Despite being a book featuring harder topics, this was an easy book to read in the way of the pages flying by as I read. I will note that there’s a few flashbacks that are intertwined in that took me a bit to realize they were flashbacks because they didn’t make sense for the current time and so I was a bit confused about what was happening. Time moves quickly in this story, similar to the first book in the series.
Some might be uncomfortable with the mentions of a wolf being seen as otherworldly, but it’s clear that the wolf is sent from God or even an Angel in disguise rather than a the “spirit guard/spirit guard” concept that isn’t Christian. I wasn’t sure what to think about it at the beginning, but I appreciate that the author clearly states a few times that the wolf is from God.
Older teens & adults, if you’re ever struggled with the thought of not being useful to others or not understanding why God has you here, this might be a book to seriously consider reading. Marcus has these thoughts ever since he was attacked and beaten as a young boy and it’s a common thread throughout his parts and him taking to God about it. Scripture after Scripture comes to his mind to assure him that God has a plan for him and it was touching to see. Overall and despite the hard topics, I really enjoyed this book.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
Trigger warnings: mentions of miscarriage, implied/forced abortion, abuse and implied sexual assault/prostitution.
About this book:
“Marcus is tired of losing those he loves. The last shred of his childhood has been uprooted and he feels alone… again. When the ruler's new policies take effect, the anger of the Rusalkan mountain king is unleashed upon the borderlands.
With refugees streaming into Elira by the hundreds, the stories from the wall are horrific. Marcus joins a convoy to lend his medical skills to those in need at the Eliran border. What he finds there is about to change his life forever.
Dilara’s life as a slave in Rusalka was anything but idealistic. Consumed by a system that was designed to use, abuse, and discard the likes of her, she has been taken through the very depths. Carrying a traumatic secret and wounded in her frenzied escape, she finds herself with an unlikely protector and an even more confusing relationship. Can she traverse the waters of this new life and make it her own?
And can Marcus overcome his own deformities to find the one missing piece? Or will his life forever be marked by suffering and sacrifice?”
Series: Book #2 in “The Chronicles of Elira” series. Review of Book #1 Here!
Spiritual Content- Many Scriptures are quoted, remembered, mentioned, & discussed; Many prayers, talking to God, praising God, & thanking God; Lots of witnessing to others; Many, many talks and discussions about God, Jesus, beliefs, listening to God’s voice which is true, having worth, God always being with us, some believing that God isn’t doing anything for some people, & giving our burdens to God; 'H's are capital when referring to God; God talks and whispers to both Marcus & Dilara (usually Scriptures changed to be as if God was saying it to them); Marcus has a deep faith, but at the beginning feels like God is distant after hearing some distressing news, he rebels against the desire to talk to his Maker (he feels guilt about this shortly later); A man says that status matters to everyone, “even the Lord” and Marcus has a discussion with him about God and witnessed to him; Both Dilara and a side character say a prayer along the lines of “if there is a God out there”; Marcus prays “in the Spirit” and keeps a small Bible with him always; Marcus cries out to God about feeling like his life is a waste and full of “nothingness” for Him (also thinking for the majority of the book that anyone else could do what he does; He surrenders these feelings to God, but they come back again); Dilara feels so voided of feelings, she wonders if she is in Heaven (which would be a “mad trick of fate”) or in hell (but “where was the fire?”); Dilara thinks that Marcus’ God was not the One she knew as the one she knows of is “distant” and turns “a blind eye to the pain of mere mortals” & that perhaps she was too dirty for Marcus’ Lord to care about her; *Spoilers* ; Dilara looks at Marcus’ eyes as if “those eyes were the only link to Heaven she knew. Like a portal to world she only wished she could live in”; Many, many mentions of God, Jesus Christ, & believing in Him; Many mentions of prayers, praying, answered prayers, & praising God; Mentions of those & events in the Bible; Mentions of Heaven; Mentions of miracles; Mentions of godsends; A handful of mentions of Violet (Book #1) and her family having the gift of premonitions or second sight (also said that one seemed to have “the ability to see into the spirit world”); A few mentions of blessings (which some see as curses); A few mentions of sins & sinners; A mention of Christian duty; A mention of hymns;
*Note: The word ‘hell’ is used in describing places and events (such as Marcus’ healing years being his own version of “a living hell”, slavery being “a hell of man’s making”, Dilara currently living in a “living hell” and later referring to it as that again, & a storm sounding like the “very gates of hell were threatening to burst” with the howls of wind); “Good heavens” and “mercy me and saints above” are both said once; A wolf is around Dilara and the eyes are described as “something…otherworldly” and “almost…heavenly” (at first Marcus is concerned about it, but then feels peace about the wolf and knows that God has a purpose in it, thinking about the verse about entertaining angels unaware and later about the she-wolf being an “angel of comfort”); Mentions of evil men & the evil look in their eyes; A few mentions of Marcus’ tea being like a “witch’s brew” according to a side character (very herbal); A couple mentions of a song about pagan beliefs; A mention of Dilara having a feeling inside of her that is like a caged demon; A mention of a storm being like a “demon unleashed”; A mention of a man being “no better than a demon”; A mention of a siren call; A mention of a story about a mermaid.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘what in blazes’, two ‘blasted’s, two forms of ‘stupid’, and three forms of ‘idiot’; Eye rolling; Feeling near death & fighting it (up to semi-detailed); Major pain, Injuries, Blood/Bleeding, Fevers, Frostbite, & Passing out (semi-detailed); Being attacked, almost abducted, hit, & slapped (plus recalling some of this, up to semi-detailed); Doctoring others (up to semi-detailed); Seeing deaths & grieving (including of an infant and grieving a pet disappearing, up to semi-detailed); Hearing a fight between a man and a wolf & the animal being injured (up to semi-detailed); Dilara was sold as a child (eight years old) to a man (which was her father’s doing and her mother told her to do whatever the man says as it “will go easy with” her that way); Marcus was attacked and beaten as a boy which resulted in his hip being disjoined and many broken bones & since then has been in a lot of pain often and struggles with feeling like a burden; Many, many mentions of pain, injuries, blood/bleeding, passing out, frostbite, broken bones, surgeries, & Marcus doctoring others (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of wars, refugees, fighting, attacks, assaults, violence, beatings (including Marcus’ own as a child, up to semi-detailed); Mentions of deaths (including the deaths of infants, up to semi-detailed); Mentions of slavery, slaves, slave owners, being chained, & people being sent to the mines and never heard from again; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of hatred; Mentions of gossip; Mentions of nightmares; A few mentions of drowning men (used as a simile); A couple mentions of murderers (Dilara views herself as one); A couple mentions of executions; A couple mentions of a man choking Dilara; A couple mentions of people being whipped; A couple mentions of raids; A couple mentions of alcohol & drunks;
*Note: Marcus feels like he is a burden to those around him and useless (others tell him that is not the case, but he struggles to believe it; This is a major part of the book and though Marcus knows the truth, he doesn’t live by it every moment); Marcus overhears someone say that it would have been “easier” if Marcus had died and “not experience such a harsh life”; Marcus wonders if he was the cause of someone’s death (who interfered with the authority figures during his beating) & thinks that he should have died that day; Marcus tries not to linger in his self-pity but does think less of himself & call himself a cripple; *Spoiler* ; Dilara (in a flashback after being sold) wonders if she should burn herself and if that would make her seem less desirable to the men at the bordello; *Spoilers, but note about a miscarriage* ; Others tell Dilara that she is worthy of love (which she doesn’t believe); Dilara has an episode similar to a panic attack (up to semi-detailed); A young boy has prejudice towards those from a certain country & voices it (stemming from his town being raided by the people & Marcus talks to him about it); A mention of some people having broken minds.
Sexual Content- A cheek kiss, a not-detailed kiss, and two barely-above-not-detailed kisses; A bit of touches, embraces, smelling, & noticing (barely-above-not-detailed); In the author’s forward at the beginning of the book, she shares that this book has a Trigger Warning for mentions of a miscarriage, implied/forced abortion, abuse and implied sexual assault/prostitution and did her best to write “these stories as tactfully, gently, and realistically as possible, all while maintaining a level of decorum that will allow this book to be enjoyed by many ages.”; Dilara was sold to a man at a young age (eight years old) by her father & there are flashbacks to it (including comments about men treating her like brutes, men using her, making obscenities and crass comments, the men’s eager hands trying to grab her, & the man who bought her “saving” her for something); Later, it’s said that the men treated Dilara and other girls like they weren’t human and wallowed in something that “should never have been theirs to begin with”; Towards the end, Dilara is described as “the girl who had been trained from so young an age that she was worth nothing but what her body could give”; Dilara is concerned that two men touched her when she was unconscious and then has a look of “resignation” (they did not touch her); *Spoiler* ; Dilara is suddenly concerned that a man will betray her (taking a step back and being frightened by him); Marcus believes he is too broken for anyone to love, also thinking that he couldn’t keep up with a child of his own or a wife; Dilara doesn’t believe anyone can love her because she is unworthy of it and dirty (adding later that God could not make her beautiful and Marcus tells her that none of it was her fault; *Spoiler* ); Mentions of a bordello, prostitution, & young girls being sold; Some love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Miscarriage content listed in the Negative Content Note section above; Labor (*Spoiler* ); A mention of a woman’s monthly bleed.
-Dilara
-Marcus, age 20
P.O.V. switches between them
332 pages
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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
{Trigger Warning for a miscarriage, forced abortion, abuse, & sexual assault/prostitution}
Ever since reading “Once I Knew”, I’ve been excited to read Marcus’ story. While I really enjoyed all the herb parts as that’s something I’m highly interested in, I was most excited to see this sweetheart learn and accept his worth in Christ. He’s so quick to have Scriptures come to mind and believes in them for others, but it’s hard for him to apply every single one to his own life and I think that’s incredibly relatable.
I knew that with the topics discussed in this book, I would probably end up crying. Maybe it was because I had prepared myself enough, but I didn’t cry as much as I expected. I have to note that I really appreciate the heads up on the content at the beginning of the book and wish more authors would do this! Serious and possibly triggering topics like the following are discussed: mentions of miscarriage, implied/forced abortion, abuse and implied sexual assault/prostitution.
My heart broke for the injustices and horror that Dilara has lived through. We’re told bits and pieces in a delicate way, but it never felt like we were wading in the sin or that the author was glamorizing it all, which I truly appreciate.
This definitely isn’t your typical romance book. Both of our main leads are so hurt. Marcus is quick to comfort others, but hard on himself and struggles with why God has left him on this earth when he feels like a burden to everyone around him. He notes at one point that “it was one thing to believe the things he knew to be true and another to truly life that belief” and I have to appreciate how realistic that was because I think many of us are guilty of doing the same thing.
It could have very easily gone into the “savior” trope of our male lead rescuing and saving the main girl from whatever circumstances she’s in. I don’t care for seeing that trope because often times the male lead ends up replacing the girl’s need for Jesus. This book wasn’t that way at all—Marcus recognizes Dilara’s hurt as he is also someone who has been hurt. They both need Jesus and that’s the majority of the book. It was really nice to see the “romance” (which was very soft and light) take the back-burner to what was truly life-or-death—their salvation and hope in Christ.
Despite being a book featuring harder topics, this was an easy book to read in the way of the pages flying by as I read. I will note that there’s a few flashbacks that are intertwined in that took me a bit to realize they were flashbacks because they didn’t make sense for the current time and so I was a bit confused about what was happening. Time moves quickly in this story, similar to the first book in the series.
Some might be uncomfortable with the mentions of a wolf being seen as otherworldly, but it’s clear that the wolf is sent from God or even an Angel in disguise rather than a the “spirit guard/spirit guard” concept that isn’t Christian. I wasn’t sure what to think about it at the beginning, but I appreciate that the author clearly states a few times that the wolf is from God.
Older teens & adults, if you’re ever struggled with the thought of not being useful to others or not understanding why God has you here, this might be a book to seriously consider reading. Marcus has these thoughts ever since he was attacked and beaten as a young boy and it’s a common thread throughout his parts and him taking to God about it. Scripture after Scripture comes to his mind to assure him that God has a plan for him and it was touching to see. Overall and despite the hard topics, I really enjoyed this book.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
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February 12, 2023Some books stir the imagination, but This Life of Mine stirs the soul. A journey of hope from brokenness, strength in weakness, and power in unity. It’s impossible to miss Victoria Lynn’s passion in this heart-written story and if you open your own heart as you read, you’ll leave behind the world of Elira as changed as its characters.
June 1, 2024
REREAD 2024:
I just finished reading this for the second time! It is just as good as i remember and did me do much good to reread it! I love even more if that was even possible!
ORGINAL REVIEW 2023:
Oh, my heart! My heart, you guys!!! Ack! This book....*breathes* Okay, I finished this yesterday, but just now had time/got my thoughts together enough to review it.
Characters:
Marcus! Oh, he is my baby! I honestly really need a Marcus. Does anyone know where I can get a real one? Just to be friends with, I'd be happy with that...lol...he's so sweet! Yet his doubts feel so real! They really hit me hard because I often struggle with thinking that I'm not enough, I'm doing things wrong, I should be doing something else, etc... you know how the cycle goes. My self-worth can be pretty low at times, and I related so much with Marcus in that area, and it was so beautifully touching!
Dilara was a sweet, broken little thing, and I wanted to hug her the whole time! The poor darling! ack! My heart broke for her!
Fendrel is such a wise and sweet guy! I love him too!
Everard is so sweet! I love his character!
Kahru was cute! As were all the little ones running around the tavern!
And yes, there are so many good characters! I loved them all! *hugs for everyone*
Themes:
Finally, a book I can do this on again... my favorite part of Christian Fiction is actually having a theme area that is worth mentioning! Worth was a huge theme in the book, that our worth is not in men but in our Holy Father above!
Every life, no matter how small or broken it seems, is important! You are here for a reason. Even if you can't see it yourself, God has placed each of us here for a reason!
I loved the beautifully touching themes of forgiveness, worth, and pro-life that were woven into the story so seamlessly! It was so beautiful!
Romance:
A kiss or two... it was so beautiful, though! The slow progression and just ack! My heart ached for these characters!
Language:
N/A
Content:
There is a brief mention of a forced abortion and holding the stillborn baby....Dilara's backstory is a bit dark as she was a slave and pretty, and you can imagine where that's going. But there is nothing too harsh. The delivery is beautiful and done with love. But I know it might be triggering some, so I thought I'd mention it.
Overall:
This story is raw and emotional, and beautiful! Lynn has done a fantabulous job bringing the world of Elira alive, and I loved it!
I don't really have any critiques, except I personally got tripped up on all the E names that popped up in the beginning...lol...but that could have just been me, took me a bit to get them straightened out in my head as to who was who...
This is a beautiful book that I would recommend to anyone over the age or 16, just because of Dilara's hard past, and I loved it! I really can't say enough how much I loved!
I just finished reading this for the second time! It is just as good as i remember and did me do much good to reread it! I love even more if that was even possible!
ORGINAL REVIEW 2023:
Oh, my heart! My heart, you guys!!! Ack! This book....*breathes* Okay, I finished this yesterday, but just now had time/got my thoughts together enough to review it.
Characters:
Marcus! Oh, he is my baby! I honestly really need a Marcus. Does anyone know where I can get a real one? Just to be friends with, I'd be happy with that...lol...he's so sweet! Yet his doubts feel so real! They really hit me hard because I often struggle with thinking that I'm not enough, I'm doing things wrong, I should be doing something else, etc... you know how the cycle goes. My self-worth can be pretty low at times, and I related so much with Marcus in that area, and it was so beautifully touching!
Dilara was a sweet, broken little thing, and I wanted to hug her the whole time! The poor darling! ack! My heart broke for her!
Fendrel is such a wise and sweet guy! I love him too!
Everard is so sweet! I love his character!
Kahru was cute! As were all the little ones running around the tavern!
And yes, there are so many good characters! I loved them all! *hugs for everyone*
Themes:
Finally, a book I can do this on again... my favorite part of Christian Fiction is actually having a theme area that is worth mentioning! Worth was a huge theme in the book, that our worth is not in men but in our Holy Father above!
Every life, no matter how small or broken it seems, is important! You are here for a reason. Even if you can't see it yourself, God has placed each of us here for a reason!
I loved the beautifully touching themes of forgiveness, worth, and pro-life that were woven into the story so seamlessly! It was so beautiful!
Romance:
A kiss or two... it was so beautiful, though! The slow progression and just ack! My heart ached for these characters!
Language:
N/A
Content:
There is a brief mention of a forced abortion and holding the stillborn baby....Dilara's backstory is a bit dark as she was a slave and pretty, and you can imagine where that's going. But there is nothing too harsh. The delivery is beautiful and done with love. But I know it might be triggering some, so I thought I'd mention it.
Overall:
This story is raw and emotional, and beautiful! Lynn has done a fantabulous job bringing the world of Elira alive, and I loved it!
I don't really have any critiques, except I personally got tripped up on all the E names that popped up in the beginning...lol...but that could have just been me, took me a bit to get them straightened out in my head as to who was who...
This is a beautiful book that I would recommend to anyone over the age or 16, just because of Dilara's hard past, and I loved it! I really can't say enough how much I loved!
March 19, 2023
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
An excellent sequel to Once I Knew!
After being introduced to Marcus in Once I Knew I enjoyed seeing him again in This Life of Mine. He was one of those lovable, selfless characters who had been through a lot. His struggle with chronic pain seemed quite realistic. And poor Dilara ... She'd also been through a lot. Seeing her heal and grow was so good. I must admit that my favorite character was Nuri. You'll just have to read This Life of Mine to understand :)
This was definitely a more character-driven novel, but that worked out well for all the growth and healing that needed to happen to these poor characters. I did think some of the hard topics included in this book felt a little skimmed over, but I appreciated Victoria Lynn's desire to keep things appropriate for a wide variety of ages.
Victoria Lynn's writing style, with its old-fashioned bent, was great for this book. I loved the pro-life theme included in these pages, and I greatly appreciated that Victoria Lynn kept the language and hint of romance clean.
Overall, I found This Life of Mine to be a thought-provoking read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction and non-magical fantasy.
An excellent sequel to Once I Knew!
After being introduced to Marcus in Once I Knew I enjoyed seeing him again in This Life of Mine. He was one of those lovable, selfless characters who had been through a lot. His struggle with chronic pain seemed quite realistic. And poor Dilara ... She'd also been through a lot. Seeing her heal and grow was so good. I must admit that my favorite character was Nuri. You'll just have to read This Life of Mine to understand :)
This was definitely a more character-driven novel, but that worked out well for all the growth and healing that needed to happen to these poor characters. I did think some of the hard topics included in this book felt a little skimmed over, but I appreciated Victoria Lynn's desire to keep things appropriate for a wide variety of ages.
Victoria Lynn's writing style, with its old-fashioned bent, was great for this book. I loved the pro-life theme included in these pages, and I greatly appreciated that Victoria Lynn kept the language and hint of romance clean.
Overall, I found This Life of Mine to be a thought-provoking read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction and non-magical fantasy.
January 18, 2023
My endorsement: "Make sure you’re stocked up on tissues because Victoria Lynn has crafted yet another masterpiece. This Life of Mine is a poignant, contemplative tale of profound loss, struggle, healing, and faith. Its powerful message, compelling characters, and sweet romance will tug at your heartstrings and push you toward Jesus."
Content Warnings: This book is HEAVY, but Victoria handled all topics with utmost care. Miscarriage (shown on the page), child loss, murder, references to human trafficking and the sexual assault and r*pe related to that, grief. Like I said, this is a very heavy book!
Content Warnings: This book is HEAVY, but Victoria handled all topics with utmost care. Miscarriage (shown on the page), child loss, murder, references to human trafficking and the sexual assault and r*pe related to that, grief. Like I said, this is a very heavy book!
January 13, 2023
I was blessed to beta read for this book - so good!
Full review coming.
Full review coming.
December 8, 2022
Beta-read. RTC upon publication. But this book… so beautiful! 😭💛
July 23, 2025
This Life of Mine by Victoria Lynn is the second novel in the Chronicles of Elira series. We get to follow a much beloved and familiar face from the first novel - Marcus! It is a delight when favorite side characters get their own story and the happy ever after they deserve. This novel tackles heavy topics such as prostitution, sex trafficking, and abortion. The author handles these topics with the utmost grace without shying away from the fact that these evils are present in our world.
This novel was a beautiful example of how God redeems everyone regardless of their past. He pursues us with a Holy love that can only come from the One who knows us all and still chose to send His Son to die for our sins. Sin is real and is evil but there is nothing the light of Christ cannot overcome. Marcus and Dilara’s journey to healing, redemption, and eventually love was sweet and heartwarming to read. The overall themes of self-sacrifice, loving thy neighbor, and being the hands and feet of Jesus were well-highlighted and artfully written.
The area where this novel fell short for me was in the pacing. It was a very slow read for me and I found myself having to force myself to read through some parts of the middle. It felt like the story stalled without anything happening to propel it forward or keep me interested. I love strong faith elements in a Christian novel but the repetitive nature of the same internal dialogues with our main characters - them not thinking they are good enough and Christ telling them they are - was a bit draining after a while. After all of the build-up of this very slow-burn romance, it also felt like the moment of the first kiss was hidden from the reader. While not directly stated, it was written as if the first kiss we see on paper was not their first which left me feeling a bit disappointed and anti-climactic.
This book was still an emotional, lyrical read with strong faith elements I love to see in fiction reads!
This novel was a beautiful example of how God redeems everyone regardless of their past. He pursues us with a Holy love that can only come from the One who knows us all and still chose to send His Son to die for our sins. Sin is real and is evil but there is nothing the light of Christ cannot overcome. Marcus and Dilara’s journey to healing, redemption, and eventually love was sweet and heartwarming to read. The overall themes of self-sacrifice, loving thy neighbor, and being the hands and feet of Jesus were well-highlighted and artfully written.
The area where this novel fell short for me was in the pacing. It was a very slow read for me and I found myself having to force myself to read through some parts of the middle. It felt like the story stalled without anything happening to propel it forward or keep me interested. I love strong faith elements in a Christian novel but the repetitive nature of the same internal dialogues with our main characters - them not thinking they are good enough and Christ telling them they are - was a bit draining after a while. After all of the build-up of this very slow-burn romance, it also felt like the moment of the first kiss was hidden from the reader. While not directly stated, it was written as if the first kiss we see on paper was not their first which left me feeling a bit disappointed and anti-climactic.
This book was still an emotional, lyrical read with strong faith elements I love to see in fiction reads!
March 22, 2023
This book is truly something else, one to stir the heart and soul, sparking the flame to fight for God's Kingdom values—for life, light, and truth—that the world and the enemy cannot silence no matter how hard they try. It is a battle cry and a healing balm at the same time—touching, moving, and filled with the Holy Spirit who reaches out to all who read it and says, "you, My dear child, are irreplaceable, fearfully and wonderfully made in My image."
The devil is constantly filling the world with deception and distortion on topics like human trafficking, abortion, and the value of an individual life, which is why books like This Life of Mine are so crucial.
TLOM offers a very much-needed biblical view and redemptive portrayal of those topics and more. It is a heavy story with weight, no doubt, because it opens our eyes to a glimpse of how truly evil our world is, BUT, it is written through Heaven-pursuing lenses that see hope and miracles at work, even through the darkest of nights—and that's what makes it such a powerful read, (and what enables sensitive souls like me to be alright reading it).
This book is covered in prayers, and you can tell the author really leaned into the Lord to deliver such a carefully crafted story of beauty from the ashes and spring thawing the winter—a lot like our walk with Christ: Jesus shows us there is trouble on this earth, but He also shows us how His light always consumes the darkness.
In short, TLOM brought me closer to Jesus and reminded me that yes there is darkness, but oh how much greater is the Lord's eternal glory and victory.
If you are looking for an inspiring tale that offers one of the most beautiful, wholesome perspectives on individual worth, faith in the unseen, salvation, healing and redemption, and the God who works in and through it all, This Life of Mine is your best option!
*This book was given to me free of charge in exchange for my honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own and in no way influenced by the author or publisher.
The devil is constantly filling the world with deception and distortion on topics like human trafficking, abortion, and the value of an individual life, which is why books like This Life of Mine are so crucial.
TLOM offers a very much-needed biblical view and redemptive portrayal of those topics and more. It is a heavy story with weight, no doubt, because it opens our eyes to a glimpse of how truly evil our world is, BUT, it is written through Heaven-pursuing lenses that see hope and miracles at work, even through the darkest of nights—and that's what makes it such a powerful read, (and what enables sensitive souls like me to be alright reading it).
This book is covered in prayers, and you can tell the author really leaned into the Lord to deliver such a carefully crafted story of beauty from the ashes and spring thawing the winter—a lot like our walk with Christ: Jesus shows us there is trouble on this earth, but He also shows us how His light always consumes the darkness.
In short, TLOM brought me closer to Jesus and reminded me that yes there is darkness, but oh how much greater is the Lord's eternal glory and victory.
If you are looking for an inspiring tale that offers one of the most beautiful, wholesome perspectives on individual worth, faith in the unseen, salvation, healing and redemption, and the God who works in and through it all, This Life of Mine is your best option!
*This book was given to me free of charge in exchange for my honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own and in no way influenced by the author or publisher.
February 22, 2024
Where do I even begin?
This books gripped me from the first page. While slow paced, it feeds you the story of these precious souls bit by bit, sucking you in and taking you on a journey you didn't even know you needed to go on. The message of hope for the broken and abused, the tender love and compassion for the lives snuffed out too soon and the forgiveness of God permeate this book from cover to cover.
This book stirred my heart. I laughed, I cried, I got angry and felt overwhelmed at the awesome God I have the privileged to call my Father!
Marcus, Dilara, Nuri amd *redacted* will not soon be forgotten...
Looking forward to the Lost Rose because that ending has my heart in my throat!
This books gripped me from the first page. While slow paced, it feeds you the story of these precious souls bit by bit, sucking you in and taking you on a journey you didn't even know you needed to go on. The message of hope for the broken and abused, the tender love and compassion for the lives snuffed out too soon and the forgiveness of God permeate this book from cover to cover.
This book stirred my heart. I laughed, I cried, I got angry and felt overwhelmed at the awesome God I have the privileged to call my Father!
Marcus, Dilara, Nuri amd *redacted* will not soon be forgotten...
Looking forward to the Lost Rose because that ending has my heart in my throat!
April 19, 2023
This book wrecked me. I’m sitting here stunned after having periodical weeping sessions from the absolute beauty of this book. The hope it infuses on every page will convict you in your walk. The pain it showcases will break you heart, but by the end it will stoke your heart to fight. Fight for freedom, fight for life.
April 28, 2023
Wow! TLOM was such a beautiful read. The perfect example of how God can use physical/mental pain of two people for his glory. I’m so grateful I got the opportunity to beta read this wonderful book!
This book opened my eyes! Not only was Dilara’s struggle with her traumatic past depicted in such a unique way that any reader could understand her turmoil, but also reading about Marcus’s struggles made me feel like I was reading somewhat of a retelling of my own life. I’ve fought with the same mental struggle that Marcus does about my own disability. I love how towards the end, Dilara helps Marcus realize that he had more purpose in life, even with his brokenness. I, myself, have asked the same doubting questions. How can I be used with a body that doesn’t work right?
My favorite part of the book was toward the end, when Marcus wanted to succumb to the darkness and self pity. He couldn’t see just how much God had used him, but Dilara could. It reminded me of something important. Even when your own eyes can’t see how God has blessed you, those around you can see it, and like Marcus, we may need others to help us get out of ourselves to see it.
As I said in the beginning, this book is a beautiful testimony of how God will turn the brokenness of humanity and make beauty from ashes.
This book opened my eyes! Not only was Dilara’s struggle with her traumatic past depicted in such a unique way that any reader could understand her turmoil, but also reading about Marcus’s struggles made me feel like I was reading somewhat of a retelling of my own life. I’ve fought with the same mental struggle that Marcus does about my own disability. I love how towards the end, Dilara helps Marcus realize that he had more purpose in life, even with his brokenness. I, myself, have asked the same doubting questions. How can I be used with a body that doesn’t work right?
My favorite part of the book was toward the end, when Marcus wanted to succumb to the darkness and self pity. He couldn’t see just how much God had used him, but Dilara could. It reminded me of something important. Even when your own eyes can’t see how God has blessed you, those around you can see it, and like Marcus, we may need others to help us get out of ourselves to see it.
As I said in the beginning, this book is a beautiful testimony of how God will turn the brokenness of humanity and make beauty from ashes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2023
This book left me stunned in all the best ways.
Victoria Lynn’s beautiful prose and messages are even more eloquent in “This Life of Mine” than they were in “Once I Knew.” Healing, love, and redemption reign true from the beginning of this book to the very end.
Dilara’s story is a perfect picture of what healing can be found in Christ’s love and redemption, even when it comes to the horrors she has experienced. Marcus, on the other hand, is relatable in the truth that even those of us who have walked with Christ for a long time may not have it all right, but the healing that He offers is always ours for the taking. I related to them both on a very personal level in their own way.
Beyond the characters, I was truly connected to the rises and falls in the plot. One moment, you’re following the masterful development of Marcus and Dilara’s characters and relationships, and the next, you’re biting your nails in anticipation for the answer to burning questions (“what happens next?!”). Marcus and Dilara’s relationship is very *real.* There’s something particularly special about the way Lynn’s characters express their love for each other in such a beautiful, Biblical way (“please, unnamed future man, encourage and propose to me the way Elgon and Marcus do their wives”).
All in all, I adored this book. The love story, the messages spoken, the characters, and the plot. Can’t wait for the next book in the series!!!
Victoria Lynn’s beautiful prose and messages are even more eloquent in “This Life of Mine” than they were in “Once I Knew.” Healing, love, and redemption reign true from the beginning of this book to the very end.
Dilara’s story is a perfect picture of what healing can be found in Christ’s love and redemption, even when it comes to the horrors she has experienced. Marcus, on the other hand, is relatable in the truth that even those of us who have walked with Christ for a long time may not have it all right, but the healing that He offers is always ours for the taking. I related to them both on a very personal level in their own way.
Beyond the characters, I was truly connected to the rises and falls in the plot. One moment, you’re following the masterful development of Marcus and Dilara’s characters and relationships, and the next, you’re biting your nails in anticipation for the answer to burning questions (“what happens next?!”). Marcus and Dilara’s relationship is very *real.* There’s something particularly special about the way Lynn’s characters express their love for each other in such a beautiful, Biblical way (“please, unnamed future man, encourage and propose to me the way Elgon and Marcus do their wives”).
All in all, I adored this book. The love story, the messages spoken, the characters, and the plot. Can’t wait for the next book in the series!!!
February 21, 2024
I have followed Victoria since before her first book came out and have read every book she's published up to this point, so of course, I had to read this one, too. Victoria is a "kindred spirit" to me in many ways, so she is one of the few authors whom I trust fully no matter what subject she decides to tackle in her books. That includes the sensitive subject of human trafficking, which is addressed in this story.
Marcus was one of my personal favorite characters in "Once I Knew" and I loved getting to see him be the hero of his own story here. Despite physical struggles, he has such a big heart. It was hard seeing him learn difficult things that shook his foundations and made him question his worth, but how lovely to also see him reaffirmed by his friends that his life is valuable and that every person drawing breath on the face of the earth is loved by God and has a purpose in this life.
Dilara was a compelling new character. Though her story was very difficult emotionally to read at times, I still appreciate all of the compassion and sensitivity with which it was handled. Just like Marcus' struggles, Dilara's problems were never glossed over. They were awful and hard and it makes me sick to know that there are still people in this world suffering from the evils of human trafficking just like she did. But how beautiful to see her redeemed from that situation and to know that there is hope for a better tomorrow for her and people like her.
And Nuri! No spoilers about who she is, but I loved her and I'm so glad she was okay by the end.
Overall, while this story can be emotionally gritty and difficult and times, the darker themes are balanced with the brilliant hope that there is rescue and healing available no matter what you've been through in life. I'm giving it 5 stars and I'm looking forward to more stories in this world and more from this author in general.
Content Advisory:
Recommended for ages 16+ due to difficult real-life topics of sex slavery and abortion.
Language:
None.
Sexual/Romance:
As stated by the author herself at the beginning of the book, this story deals with topics of human trafficking, specifically sex trafficking, but nothing is ever graphic. The reader is made aware that one of the main characters, Dilara, was sold by her own family to somebody who kept her in a brothel and sexually abused her for years. Again, there are no details about these acts, we just know the basic facts of her past and see the trauma that it caused her.
On the side of consensual romance, a slow-burn, innocent attraction grows between two characters and they eventually kiss. (Not described.) A married couple kisses several times, but again, it's not described.
Violence:
Marcus and friends help treat citizens and soldiers who were injured in a battle. Wounds are never described graphically, however, there are a lot of people who need help and there are somewhat frequent mentions of blood and bleeding.
Dilara's side of the story is the part that could be more difficult for sensitive readers, particularly in the first half of the book when she's still going through the worst of her ordeal. We learn that during her enslavement, she became pregnant and her captors slipped her poison to make her lose her baby after she refused to submit to an abortion. (This is all reported after the fact, not depicted in any detail.) She runs away to try to save herself and her child, but the baby still dies. There's mention that she tried to carry the baby's body with her but later lost it in deep snow after falling. There are multiple scenes in the first half of the book from her perspective that show her struggling through snow and ice to find refuge after her escape. The physical details of the abortion of her baby aren't described, but there is mention of blood on her legs and clothing. Once she finds refuge, she passes in and out of consciousness for a long time due to blood loss. The rest of the book deals with her trauma and the process of learning how to heal from it. This is handled with much sensitivity and hope, though it is very much still a struggle for Dilara.
An attempted kidnapping occurs, however, a wolf protects the victim, injuring and chasing off the villain. The fight between the wolf and the villain is briefly described. We know that injuries occur, but there's no graphic description of the wounds or the acts that cause them. The gets badly injured and ends up needing stitches, however, it
Drug/Alcohol
As mentioned above, Dilara's captors are said to have slipped her poison in a drink to make her lose her baby.
Marcus works with medical herbs throughout the book in order to help sick and injured people.
Spiritual/Magical:
No magic whatsoever. This book is set in a fantasy world, but it is specifically non-magical.
This book is Christian fiction. Christian characters pray frequently and often quote or paraphrase Scripture. The Holy Spirit speaks directly to and through some characters. When one character is close to giving her life over to Christ, she seems to undergo a spiritual attack. (Sudden difficulty breathing and mention of shadowy figures/wolves.) Another character commands the spirits to leave in Jesus' name, and they do. It is questioned whether a certain wolf protector might be an angel, or at least an animal sent by God to help someone. There are multiple mentions of heaven and the celebration that will happen when family members are reunited there.
Other:
There is a birth scene near the end, but no detailed description of it. It is simply mentioned that the woman is groaning with effort and her husband catches the baby when it's born.
Marcus was one of my personal favorite characters in "Once I Knew" and I loved getting to see him be the hero of his own story here. Despite physical struggles, he has such a big heart. It was hard seeing him learn difficult things that shook his foundations and made him question his worth, but how lovely to also see him reaffirmed by his friends that his life is valuable and that every person drawing breath on the face of the earth is loved by God and has a purpose in this life.
Dilara was a compelling new character. Though her story was very difficult emotionally to read at times, I still appreciate all of the compassion and sensitivity with which it was handled. Just like Marcus' struggles, Dilara's problems were never glossed over. They were awful and hard and it makes me sick to know that there are still people in this world suffering from the evils of human trafficking just like she did. But how beautiful to see her redeemed from that situation and to know that there is hope for a better tomorrow for her and people like her.
And Nuri! No spoilers about who she is, but I loved her and I'm so glad she was okay by the end.
Overall, while this story can be emotionally gritty and difficult and times, the darker themes are balanced with the brilliant hope that there is rescue and healing available no matter what you've been through in life. I'm giving it 5 stars and I'm looking forward to more stories in this world and more from this author in general.
Content Advisory:
Recommended for ages 16+ due to difficult real-life topics of sex slavery and abortion.
Language:
None.
Sexual/Romance:
As stated by the author herself at the beginning of the book, this story deals with topics of human trafficking, specifically sex trafficking, but nothing is ever graphic. The reader is made aware that one of the main characters, Dilara, was sold by her own family to somebody who kept her in a brothel and sexually abused her for years. Again, there are no details about these acts, we just know the basic facts of her past and see the trauma that it caused her.
On the side of consensual romance, a slow-burn, innocent attraction grows between two characters and they eventually kiss. (Not described.) A married couple kisses several times, but again, it's not described.
Violence:
Marcus and friends help treat citizens and soldiers who were injured in a battle. Wounds are never described graphically, however, there are a lot of people who need help and there are somewhat frequent mentions of blood and bleeding.
Dilara's side of the story is the part that could be more difficult for sensitive readers, particularly in the first half of the book when she's still going through the worst of her ordeal. We learn that during her enslavement, she became pregnant and her captors slipped her poison to make her lose her baby after she refused to submit to an abortion. (This is all reported after the fact, not depicted in any detail.) She runs away to try to save herself and her child, but the baby still dies. There's mention that she tried to carry the baby's body with her but later lost it in deep snow after falling. There are multiple scenes in the first half of the book from her perspective that show her struggling through snow and ice to find refuge after her escape. The physical details of the abortion of her baby aren't described, but there is mention of blood on her legs and clothing. Once she finds refuge, she passes in and out of consciousness for a long time due to blood loss. The rest of the book deals with her trauma and the process of learning how to heal from it. This is handled with much sensitivity and hope, though it is very much still a struggle for Dilara.
An attempted kidnapping occurs, however, a wolf protects the victim, injuring and chasing off the villain. The fight between the wolf and the villain is briefly described. We know that injuries occur, but there's no graphic description of the wounds or the acts that cause them. The gets badly injured and ends up needing stitches, however, it
Drug/Alcohol
As mentioned above, Dilara's captors are said to have slipped her poison in a drink to make her lose her baby.
Marcus works with medical herbs throughout the book in order to help sick and injured people.
Spiritual/Magical:
No magic whatsoever. This book is set in a fantasy world, but it is specifically non-magical.
This book is Christian fiction. Christian characters pray frequently and often quote or paraphrase Scripture. The Holy Spirit speaks directly to and through some characters. When one character is close to giving her life over to Christ, she seems to undergo a spiritual attack. (Sudden difficulty breathing and mention of shadowy figures/wolves.) Another character commands the spirits to leave in Jesus' name, and they do. It is questioned whether a certain wolf protector might be an angel, or at least an animal sent by God to help someone. There are multiple mentions of heaven and the celebration that will happen when family members are reunited there.
Other:
There is a birth scene near the end, but no detailed description of it. It is simply mentioned that the woman is groaning with effort and her husband catches the baby when it's born.
August 6, 2024
Originally marked this as 5 stars; upon further reflection, I think it's more like 4.5. But still really loved this one. The ending scene made me tear up, for sure.
Content warning for human trafficking and miscarriage.
Content warning for human trafficking and miscarriage.
Read
January 7, 2026“Your life has value. No matter how hard and worthless it may seem. Your worth stretches far beyond anything you could possibly see and into eternity. Do not forget it.”
—Victoria Lynn, This Life of Mine
BEFORE READING
This is a really heavy book. The subject matter is not pretty and can be in parts heart wrenching and horrifying.
I do appreciate how the author tackled the heavy topics in a respectful way. There is a trigger warning in the beginning of the book that I recommend reading. Though the writing was vague and mostly “off the page” it was still a big part of the story.
I would recommend reading through the trigger warnings before reading as it is a heavy read and probably not suitable for teens or more sensitive readers.
(TW at the end of the review)
Age: adult
THE REVIEW
Even though this is a heavy book (and I’m hesitant to recommend it because of the content even though I think it was handled in a respectful manner) I loved reading This Life of Mine.
This Life of Mine is a truly tragic story of broken people becoming more broken only to find healing and redemption in Jesus Christ.
Dilara is my favorite character. She is so broken and has gone through the most awful horrific life. Yet, she still has this beauty in how she sees life (mixed with distrust). She has the best character arc and growth of all the characters in the story.
I just want to give her a hug. She has lost so much and it really is heartbreaking reading her story.
This might be controversial, and I understand where the story was going, but I kinda wish this wasn’t a romance. With all that Dilara went through it felt rushed. I know it says weeks and months went by but it didn’t feel like there was much to show that time is passing. I wish the two characters didn’t keep focusing on each others looks. Normally it’s not weird but with Dilara’s history it felt…wrong. I know I’m being nit picky but I wish the romance was more drawn out and less rushed.
That being said, I really did enjoy this story. I was at the edge of my seat needing to know what would happen to this sweet girl.
The female wolf mother was my favorite! She was so sweet and I love that she is a protector.
I love how much mothers were highlighted in this story. This was a story that honors mothers and activates for the life of all children. This is such an important message!
Marcus: I love the disability representation. His internal conflict felt a little too repetitive. He had a problem but was instantly surrounded by people telling him the truth and that the lie he believes is wrong. Even with this he kept falling into the lie again and again. It was frustrating but honestly that’s more real to life. We can know the truth but still forget and fall short. Though I wanted to whack him upside the head, he is sweet and I do love that we got to read his story after Once I Knew.
So far, this is my favorite book in the series. There is no comparison. This book reigns supreme!
CLEAN GUIDE + TRIGGER WARNING
slavery, human trafficking, sex trafficking, rape and assault (implied but not on page), prostitution (implied), a woman has a miscarriage and you read how the child comes too early in detail, a forced abortion, starvation, children are hurt, selling humans, drinking. There is a demonic spirit that is cast out in the name of Jesus which was interesting to read. Honestly, it reminded me of The Healer's Apprentice.
The story also follows a medic so there is a lot of blood, broken bones, people sick, etc.
I will say the author never shows these things in a good light. They are shown as evil and wrong. The author is wanting to fight for the end of abortion and human trafficking. In the end there are resources on how to help. <3
CLOSING THOUGHTS
This story was absolutely tragic and heartbreaking but I loved how it brought in the light. This is one of those books that stay with you and impacts your life. It is one of my favorite books of 2025.
I love the message that there is light even in the midst of darkness.
July 10, 2024
I was so incredibly excited when I discovered that Marcus was getting his own book. I absolutely loved him in Once I Knew, and I could relate to his struggles. With that said, when I first picked up This Life of Mine, I almost decided to come back to it later, as it opens with Marcus in a darker place mentally with his chronic pain. As someone with chronic pain who has struggled with those thoughts at one time or another, I didn't want to get pulled back into that mindset, but I decided to keep reading, and I am so, so glad that I did. This book is so beautiful and filled with such powerful themes of Christ's love for us and the strength He gives us when we are weak. Along with that the entire story is built around the value of life with a pro-life thread that weaves the story together.
As I mentioned before, I absolutely love Marcus, and I loved seeing him grow in this story. It was great to see other characters from the first book (Everard, Fendrel, and Elgon!), as well as to meet new characters. Dilara was so sweet, and her story was heart-wrenching. I loved seeing her heal over the course of the story. Nuri was absolutely wonderful. I also loved the innkeeper and his wife.
This Life of Mine is definitely more character driven than plot driven, but I loved the time spent with the characters. The slower pace was nice between scenes where things were more intense. This book does tackle heavier topics, such as human trafficking/slavery, abortion, sexual abuse, and miscarriage, but Victoria Lynn handles all of these with grace and tact, shining into the darkness the Light that can conquer the shadows of this broken world. Definitely give this beautiful book a try.
Content: descriptions of wounds and battle/attacks (semi-detailed), sexual abuse (implied but mostly not shown), abortion, miscarriage, birth scenes (semi-detailed)
As I mentioned before, I absolutely love Marcus, and I loved seeing him grow in this story. It was great to see other characters from the first book (Everard, Fendrel, and Elgon!), as well as to meet new characters. Dilara was so sweet, and her story was heart-wrenching. I loved seeing her heal over the course of the story. Nuri was absolutely wonderful. I also loved the innkeeper and his wife.
This Life of Mine is definitely more character driven than plot driven, but I loved the time spent with the characters. The slower pace was nice between scenes where things were more intense. This book does tackle heavier topics, such as human trafficking/slavery, abortion, sexual abuse, and miscarriage, but Victoria Lynn handles all of these with grace and tact, shining into the darkness the Light that can conquer the shadows of this broken world. Definitely give this beautiful book a try.
Content: descriptions of wounds and battle/attacks (semi-detailed), sexual abuse (implied but mostly not shown), abortion, miscarriage, birth scenes (semi-detailed)
March 22, 2023
Prepare yourself for a modern day classic about a girl running through frost and fear, a broken boy finding healing, and both remembering that hope exists and proves their lives are worth living.
Victoria Lynn’s “This Life of Mine” (TLOM) is a powerful and incredibly raw novel. It tackles subject matters of grave importance, ones of life and death. Present day issues like abortion, infant loss, s*xual abuse, human trafficking, slavery, refugee crises, war—all spoken about with such tact, benevolence, and utmost, a heavenly perspective. Because on top of the harrowing circumstances that the characters to experience, there’s grace and mercy and joy revealed in them. Through them. All to show readers that there is a purpose for every heartbeat, every life, and every moment, and that God doesn’t make mistakes.
Marcus and Dilara and Co are a rich and fleshed out cast. I love seeing side characters get their time to shine and dare I say this—TLOM is my personal favorite over OIK, the first installment within the series.
If you enjoy faith-based, non-magical fantasy, medieval settings, wintery atmospheres, medical worker appreciation, art therapy, animal sidekicks, and adorable children, this will for sure be your cup of tea. <3
Victoria Lynn’s “This Life of Mine” (TLOM) is a powerful and incredibly raw novel. It tackles subject matters of grave importance, ones of life and death. Present day issues like abortion, infant loss, s*xual abuse, human trafficking, slavery, refugee crises, war—all spoken about with such tact, benevolence, and utmost, a heavenly perspective. Because on top of the harrowing circumstances that the characters to experience, there’s grace and mercy and joy revealed in them. Through them. All to show readers that there is a purpose for every heartbeat, every life, and every moment, and that God doesn’t make mistakes.
Marcus and Dilara and Co are a rich and fleshed out cast. I love seeing side characters get their time to shine and dare I say this—TLOM is my personal favorite over OIK, the first installment within the series.
If you enjoy faith-based, non-magical fantasy, medieval settings, wintery atmospheres, medical worker appreciation, art therapy, animal sidekicks, and adorable children, this will for sure be your cup of tea. <3
February 9, 2024
This book was amazing!!
I loved book one but this one is definitely my favorite.
Follows my favorite character from the previous book, Marcus and his story.
Even though this book was a very chill fantasy, it had me on the edge of my seat, never wanting to put the book down or for the world to end!
I almost cried several times and even though this sounds strange, this book has helped heal the parts of me that were broken and needing healing.
I’m so grateful to have read this book and have it on my shelves.
Wonderful continuation of the series and can’t wait to continue
TRIGGER WARNINGS:
CAUTION SPOILERS BELOW
slavery and prostitution and abortion
Not in grotesque detail, but enough that you are quite aware of what it is.
I loved book one but this one is definitely my favorite.
Follows my favorite character from the previous book, Marcus and his story.
Even though this book was a very chill fantasy, it had me on the edge of my seat, never wanting to put the book down or for the world to end!
I almost cried several times and even though this sounds strange, this book has helped heal the parts of me that were broken and needing healing.
I’m so grateful to have read this book and have it on my shelves.
Wonderful continuation of the series and can’t wait to continue
TRIGGER WARNINGS:
CAUTION SPOILERS BELOW
slavery and prostitution and abortion
Not in grotesque detail, but enough that you are quite aware of what it is.
August 27, 2023
I enjoyed this second in the series, even more than the first.
I related a LOT with both main characters!!
Loved the scriptures, and doctrines, etc.
I cried several times.
I think the blacksmith needs a book now...
I do mean....NOW!!!
I related a LOT with both main characters!!
Loved the scriptures, and doctrines, etc.
I cried several times.
I think the blacksmith needs a book now...
I do mean....NOW!!!
March 1, 2024
*2.5 stars*
Love the concepts, not the execution 😅
Love the concepts, not the execution 😅
October 4, 2024
this life of mine
3.75 ✨
To my six baby siblings in heaven. May your little lives speak worth and value from the gates of heaven as you worship our King together. I can't wait to meet you one day.
And to the millions of tiny lives who never saw a day outside of the womb on this side of heaven. You are remembered.
You are treasured. And your life matters.
And to their mamas-those who know what they are missing and those who do not. May you find healing and comfort in the arms of Jesus, assured that you will see your babies again one day soon.
overview: such a powerful story, with great characters and a hopeful, love-filled message.
characters: Marcus is such a sweetie, I love his kind heart and his love for the Lord!
Dilara… she has such a heartbreaking backstory but she is so so strong and hopeful.
romance: sweet, pure, and tender.
”I can't wait to call you mine."
writing: pretty and heartfelt. You can tell the author really cares about her characters and their stories.
”You wonder if you are useless, yet look at what your first instinct is, my boy. Your heart is one to help. And yet you ask me if you are the burden."
His heart ached with the sadness and beauty of it, the two emotions mingling into a masterpiece that surpassed the physical and settled on his spirit with the subtlety of an ox and the gentleness of a butterfly.
"My life for Your glory. Even the pain and the struggle. Even every frustration." His throat choked up, and his stomach ached with repressed emotion. "Though you slay me, yet will I trust in you."
"Daughter, you are Mine. Chosen. Holy. Loved. Made new. Clean. Worthy.
Whole. You are who I say You are."
Grief wasn't something easily forgotten about or lived without. It was something that flavored life so the joy experienced became so much sweeter for having tasted the depths of sadness.
atmosphere: frigid cold, blood stains on pure snow, the call of a wolf, the cry of an child.
The first feathery hand of morning was cracking the sky open, a fiery glow exploding across the crystal snow that tried to cloak the beginning of day in frosted fog.
season: end of fall, through winter.
———
content: language (n/a). sexual (mentions of a men forcing themselves on the FMC, no details. The FMC is pregnant out of wedlock; no spice romance, pure and sweet; innocent touches and kisses). other (there is a trigger warning page at the beginning of the book for those who need it xx).
———
💌PS (I LOVE YOU)
— Kirsten <3
3.75 ✨
To my six baby siblings in heaven. May your little lives speak worth and value from the gates of heaven as you worship our King together. I can't wait to meet you one day.
And to the millions of tiny lives who never saw a day outside of the womb on this side of heaven. You are remembered.
You are treasured. And your life matters.
And to their mamas-those who know what they are missing and those who do not. May you find healing and comfort in the arms of Jesus, assured that you will see your babies again one day soon.
overview: such a powerful story, with great characters and a hopeful, love-filled message.
characters: Marcus is such a sweetie, I love his kind heart and his love for the Lord!
Dilara… she has such a heartbreaking backstory but she is so so strong and hopeful.
romance: sweet, pure, and tender.
”I can't wait to call you mine."
writing: pretty and heartfelt. You can tell the author really cares about her characters and their stories.
”You wonder if you are useless, yet look at what your first instinct is, my boy. Your heart is one to help. And yet you ask me if you are the burden."
His heart ached with the sadness and beauty of it, the two emotions mingling into a masterpiece that surpassed the physical and settled on his spirit with the subtlety of an ox and the gentleness of a butterfly.
"My life for Your glory. Even the pain and the struggle. Even every frustration." His throat choked up, and his stomach ached with repressed emotion. "Though you slay me, yet will I trust in you."
"Daughter, you are Mine. Chosen. Holy. Loved. Made new. Clean. Worthy.
Whole. You are who I say You are."
Grief wasn't something easily forgotten about or lived without. It was something that flavored life so the joy experienced became so much sweeter for having tasted the depths of sadness.
atmosphere: frigid cold, blood stains on pure snow, the call of a wolf, the cry of an child.
The first feathery hand of morning was cracking the sky open, a fiery glow exploding across the crystal snow that tried to cloak the beginning of day in frosted fog.
season: end of fall, through winter.
———
content: language (n/a). sexual (mentions of a men forcing themselves on the FMC, no details. The FMC is pregnant out of wedlock; no spice romance, pure and sweet; innocent touches and kisses). other (there is a trigger warning page at the beginning of the book for those who need it xx).
———
💌PS (I LOVE YOU)
— Kirsten <3
May 1, 2023
This book was a comforting hug from Heaven, reminding me that even in suffering, God is near, He loves us, and we have purpose no matter who we are because we are His children.
The story is told between two points of view: Marcus and Dilara. I related to Marcus’ struggle with chronic pain and illness; the way he struggles with his identity and purpose, constantly fighting the lie of being a burden. I found myself tearing up and finding so much of my own story in his struggle but also his growth.
I also empathized with him on his true nemesis—stairs.
Dilara’s POV is not only haunting and tragic, but also full of God’s hope and healing. Her fiery, strong, and creative spirit in spite of her circumstances is not only inspiring but also shows there is no pain or trauma God cannot cover with His grace and tender care.
I love how both characters experience life’s lowest valleys, but through God’s strength and mercy, they find healing for their brokenness and trauma.
The novel does contain heavy themes and topics (the author includes a trigger warning in the book for: mention of miscarriage, implied abortion, abuse, and implied SA. I would add human trafficking). However, the author covers these topics with such grace and tact, and shows characters healing from these experiences.
This book is a beautifully-written, lyrical tale of suffering, loss, and grief, while also brimming with redemption, faith, and hope at the same time.
As Dilara puts so eloquently, “How did joy and sorrow mingle in such a way that the melancholy touch of them both intermixed like one of the herbal tinctures Marcus created? Grief wasn’t something easily forgotten about or lived without. It was something that flavored life so the joy experienced became so much sweeter for having tasted the depths of sadness” (pg 289).
The story is told between two points of view: Marcus and Dilara. I related to Marcus’ struggle with chronic pain and illness; the way he struggles with his identity and purpose, constantly fighting the lie of being a burden. I found myself tearing up and finding so much of my own story in his struggle but also his growth.
I also empathized with him on his true nemesis—stairs.
Dilara’s POV is not only haunting and tragic, but also full of God’s hope and healing. Her fiery, strong, and creative spirit in spite of her circumstances is not only inspiring but also shows there is no pain or trauma God cannot cover with His grace and tender care.
I love how both characters experience life’s lowest valleys, but through God’s strength and mercy, they find healing for their brokenness and trauma.
The novel does contain heavy themes and topics (the author includes a trigger warning in the book for: mention of miscarriage, implied abortion, abuse, and implied SA. I would add human trafficking). However, the author covers these topics with such grace and tact, and shows characters healing from these experiences.
This book is a beautifully-written, lyrical tale of suffering, loss, and grief, while also brimming with redemption, faith, and hope at the same time.
As Dilara puts so eloquently, “How did joy and sorrow mingle in such a way that the melancholy touch of them both intermixed like one of the herbal tinctures Marcus created? Grief wasn’t something easily forgotten about or lived without. It was something that flavored life so the joy experienced became so much sweeter for having tasted the depths of sadness” (pg 289).
February 28, 2025
“Faith is choosing to trust, never knowing for sure before you take the leap.”
I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!!
So I read the first book the day before I read the second, and I LOVED MARCUS. . .
THIS BOOK IS ABOUT HIM
Some warnings (slight spoilers)
• Implied Forced abortion
• Implied Forced s*x and S*x slavery(Nothing on screen or descriptive, I read this at 16 and it wasn’t too much for me)
• Violence and battle wounds (nothing super descriptive - I’ve read WAY WORSE)
• The miscarriage happens on page and described which was very hard to read and heartbreaking
• Hell mentioned as the actually placed or in the context of “this was a hell-like place” not used as a curse.
~
So yes- MARCUS IS THE BEST!!!
He comes out so much in this book and we also see the brokenness he feels in his life (a lot of description on this at the bottom)
My heart hurts for him so much and I loved him even more in this book
He still hasn’t fully gotten over losing Violet, but his relationship with Elgon is just so sweet, and he doesn’t hold anything against him
Dilara is introduced in this book, and her story is tragic, heartbreaking, and overall hard to read sometimes.
*a few spoilers below*
DILARAS STORY:
Dilara was sold by her father to a man named Conri when she was 8. He forced her to serve men in a diner, and it mentions that she hated it because the men would touch her and attempt worse, but Conri always stopped them before they got too far - THIS WAS NOT AN ACT IF KINDNESS - Conri was saving Dilara for himself when he was ready, since the girls at the diner were deemed spent after one time. A couple months after a man (I don’t think it mentioned if it was Conri or not) took advantage of her, she was pregnant. She was sent to the mines, and Conri fed her a poison (against her knowledge and will) to abort the baby.
She ran for her life into the woods, but at 3 months of pregnancy her baby came early due to the poison. As I mentioned this scene is on page and hard to read.
“Everything. They had taken everything. Even a life, all to serve their selfish desires. And the gaping wound within her womb mirrored that of her aching heart. Flayed raw beyond pain to the depths below it. Filled with the darkness that comes when a wound is too deep to even scab over. Too painful to bear. Too wretched to desire to go on living.”
Dilara comes to Padsley and Marcus and Fendrel take her in. The noticed her bleeding and suspect a miscarriage, and guessed the reason based on her age.
After she recovers, she tells Marcus about her past (very vague, but still a clear meaning)
~
So overall this was a heartbreaking, well written, tear jerking and amazing book!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars!!
*LOTS OF QUOTES BELOW* Most from Marcus 🥹🥰
Violet had never truly been his. She was a dear friend—a sister, someone he had once hoped to spend the rest of his life with, but now was someone he was learning to live without.
If only he always had the arm of someone like Everard to lean on.
Children had an innate ability to recover quickly from anything. If only adult hearts mended so soon.
Pain made him feel invisible. It felt like a heavy weight hanging around his neck and dragging him down, but he never wanted to make others feel bad. He hated pity, he hated the stares, and so he chose to hide it. But with hiding pain came shame and loneliness. He became the bearer of a burden that no one else can see.
“You are like a son to me, a son I could never have had if God had not given you to me. So don't you dare for one moment feel yourself a burden.” - Fendrel
"You wonder if you are useless, yet look at what your first instinct is, my boy. Your heart is one to help. And yet you ask me if you are the burden." - Fendrel
But first, the stairs. He sighed. They never got easier.
"Hush, Marcus. You overdid it. Don't think or speak. Just rest. We will make do without you. Do not worry, or I swear, I'll tie you to the bed."
“Trust could be broken, more readily when given, and often when it was least expected.
“It feels as though my life is full of nothingness for You. A waste. Like just one tiny insect in the face of the whole world. What do I have to offer? To bring to a King? I don't want to die and have done nothing for You. Nothing for Your Kingdom. Father, give me Your hands and Your purpose. I feel so empty in mine.”
“It was hard to fear something when you had lived through worse.”
“Some children rushed me, and I lost my balance." He grinned. "I wish I could say I had defeated some stalwart enemy, but no, I was taken down by three children who don't even make it to my waist in stature."
He was too broken for anyone, let alone a young woman as equally broken and hurt as Dilara. She needed a man who could protect her, keep her safe, hold her tight in his arms, and reassure her that everything would be all right. Not a cripple who couldn't even walk fast enough to keep up with an invalid, let alone a child of his own or a young wife who needed to experience new joy in her life.
“Please don’t let me lose the only man who has ever cared”
"You did nothing. You are nothing wrong. The wrong was in them, Dilara. You are a treasure. Priceless. Like the scarce mountain diamonds that we only hear tales of. You are chosen, not by a man no better than a demon; you were chosen by a King. A pure, holy, spotless, beautiful King who sees nothing but the beauty He created in your soul when He breathed His life into it. His love is unconditional. It's nothing you earn." - Everard
The arms that encircled her were not the strongest, nor the greatest in the world as she rested her aching head against the thin shoulder. But they were strong enough to hold her tight and to protect her from harm. And the tender whisper of love in her ear was as sweet as the One who whispered in her spirit, filling her with healing from the inside out.
Grief wasn't something easily forgotten about or lived without. It was something that flavored life so the joy experienced became so much sweeter for having tasted the depths of sadness.
"I can't wait to call you mine." Tears flooded her eyes that had already filled more times than she cared to count.A monster had once called her his. Spoken it over her until she had thought herself too far gone to be reclaimed. But then the Lord spoke it over ler Reminded her that He had ransomed her. Redeemed her. Bought her with a blood covenant no money could afford.
He stole a kiss, her lips salty with her tears and perspiration. "I love you so much."
"I love you more," she whispered back.
"Never." His breath set the tendrils of hair around her face to wafting.
~•~
Thanks so much for reading this reveiw!!
READ THIS BOOK!!!!
I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!!
So I read the first book the day before I read the second, and I LOVED MARCUS. . .
THIS BOOK IS ABOUT HIM
Some warnings (slight spoilers)
• Implied Forced abortion
• Implied Forced s*x and S*x slavery(Nothing on screen or descriptive, I read this at 16 and it wasn’t too much for me)
• Violence and battle wounds (nothing super descriptive - I’ve read WAY WORSE)
• The miscarriage happens on page and described which was very hard to read and heartbreaking
• Hell mentioned as the actually placed or in the context of “this was a hell-like place” not used as a curse.
~
So yes- MARCUS IS THE BEST!!!
He comes out so much in this book and we also see the brokenness he feels in his life (a lot of description on this at the bottom)
My heart hurts for him so much and I loved him even more in this book
He still hasn’t fully gotten over losing Violet, but his relationship with Elgon is just so sweet, and he doesn’t hold anything against him
Dilara is introduced in this book, and her story is tragic, heartbreaking, and overall hard to read sometimes.
*a few spoilers below*
DILARAS STORY:
Dilara was sold by her father to a man named Conri when she was 8. He forced her to serve men in a diner, and it mentions that she hated it because the men would touch her and attempt worse, but Conri always stopped them before they got too far - THIS WAS NOT AN ACT IF KINDNESS - Conri was saving Dilara for himself when he was ready, since the girls at the diner were deemed spent after one time. A couple months after a man (I don’t think it mentioned if it was Conri or not) took advantage of her, she was pregnant. She was sent to the mines, and Conri fed her a poison (against her knowledge and will) to abort the baby.
She ran for her life into the woods, but at 3 months of pregnancy her baby came early due to the poison. As I mentioned this scene is on page and hard to read.
“Everything. They had taken everything. Even a life, all to serve their selfish desires. And the gaping wound within her womb mirrored that of her aching heart. Flayed raw beyond pain to the depths below it. Filled with the darkness that comes when a wound is too deep to even scab over. Too painful to bear. Too wretched to desire to go on living.”
Dilara comes to Padsley and Marcus and Fendrel take her in. The noticed her bleeding and suspect a miscarriage, and guessed the reason based on her age.
After she recovers, she tells Marcus about her past (very vague, but still a clear meaning)
~
So overall this was a heartbreaking, well written, tear jerking and amazing book!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars!!
*LOTS OF QUOTES BELOW* Most from Marcus 🥹🥰
Violet had never truly been his. She was a dear friend—a sister, someone he had once hoped to spend the rest of his life with, but now was someone he was learning to live without.
If only he always had the arm of someone like Everard to lean on.
Children had an innate ability to recover quickly from anything. If only adult hearts mended so soon.
Pain made him feel invisible. It felt like a heavy weight hanging around his neck and dragging him down, but he never wanted to make others feel bad. He hated pity, he hated the stares, and so he chose to hide it. But with hiding pain came shame and loneliness. He became the bearer of a burden that no one else can see.
“You are like a son to me, a son I could never have had if God had not given you to me. So don't you dare for one moment feel yourself a burden.” - Fendrel
"You wonder if you are useless, yet look at what your first instinct is, my boy. Your heart is one to help. And yet you ask me if you are the burden." - Fendrel
But first, the stairs. He sighed. They never got easier.
"Hush, Marcus. You overdid it. Don't think or speak. Just rest. We will make do without you. Do not worry, or I swear, I'll tie you to the bed."
“Trust could be broken, more readily when given, and often when it was least expected.
“It feels as though my life is full of nothingness for You. A waste. Like just one tiny insect in the face of the whole world. What do I have to offer? To bring to a King? I don't want to die and have done nothing for You. Nothing for Your Kingdom. Father, give me Your hands and Your purpose. I feel so empty in mine.”
“It was hard to fear something when you had lived through worse.”
“Some children rushed me, and I lost my balance." He grinned. "I wish I could say I had defeated some stalwart enemy, but no, I was taken down by three children who don't even make it to my waist in stature."
He was too broken for anyone, let alone a young woman as equally broken and hurt as Dilara. She needed a man who could protect her, keep her safe, hold her tight in his arms, and reassure her that everything would be all right. Not a cripple who couldn't even walk fast enough to keep up with an invalid, let alone a child of his own or a young wife who needed to experience new joy in her life.
“Please don’t let me lose the only man who has ever cared”
"You did nothing. You are nothing wrong. The wrong was in them, Dilara. You are a treasure. Priceless. Like the scarce mountain diamonds that we only hear tales of. You are chosen, not by a man no better than a demon; you were chosen by a King. A pure, holy, spotless, beautiful King who sees nothing but the beauty He created in your soul when He breathed His life into it. His love is unconditional. It's nothing you earn." - Everard
The arms that encircled her were not the strongest, nor the greatest in the world as she rested her aching head against the thin shoulder. But they were strong enough to hold her tight and to protect her from harm. And the tender whisper of love in her ear was as sweet as the One who whispered in her spirit, filling her with healing from the inside out.
Grief wasn't something easily forgotten about or lived without. It was something that flavored life so the joy experienced became so much sweeter for having tasted the depths of sadness.
"I can't wait to call you mine." Tears flooded her eyes that had already filled more times than she cared to count.A monster had once called her his. Spoken it over her until she had thought herself too far gone to be reclaimed. But then the Lord spoke it over ler Reminded her that He had ransomed her. Redeemed her. Bought her with a blood covenant no money could afford.
He stole a kiss, her lips salty with her tears and perspiration. "I love you so much."
"I love you more," she whispered back.
"Never." His breath set the tendrils of hair around her face to wafting.
~•~
Thanks so much for reading this reveiw!!
READ THIS BOOK!!!!
November 22, 2024
Wow. What a powerful novel.
I considered rating this four stars because there is some REALLY heavy content, but then... the author took care to include trigger warnings and a nice little letter telling you to expect some heaviness, and I really appreciate that. It's something that isn't often incorporated, and that was extremely helpful for me.
This book... it's not an easy read by any means. And yet, I think it's the sort of book that we need to read. Not because it's comfortable and fun and enjoyable, but because it tackles some very real issues in our world that we might like to ignore. And it handles them with utmost care, with light, with life at the forefront... it isn't a nasty, graphic read. It's gentle, but filled with important truth.
Dilara has a beautiful name and a beautiful heart, and mine broke for her as she struggled with her own worth as a victim of human trafficking. Marcus is physically broken, and he struggles with his own sense of worth, but agh, the messages of this book, people... I love that Marcus is not a savior to Dilara, but that they truly are two people seeking after Jesus.
There was one comment that hit me the wrong way, when Dilara was told by another character to repent... which felt wrong as she hadn't really done anything wrong, but rather wrong had been done to her. But it wasn't a major point; really just a single comment, so there's that.
All in all, Lynn has crafted a beautiful tale of redemption, purpose, and beauty after struggle and pain, and it reminds me much of another favorite book, Yours is the Night by Amanda Dykes. I highly recommend this book, especially for ages 16+.
I considered rating this four stars because there is some REALLY heavy content, but then... the author took care to include trigger warnings and a nice little letter telling you to expect some heaviness, and I really appreciate that. It's something that isn't often incorporated, and that was extremely helpful for me.
This book... it's not an easy read by any means. And yet, I think it's the sort of book that we need to read. Not because it's comfortable and fun and enjoyable, but because it tackles some very real issues in our world that we might like to ignore. And it handles them with utmost care, with light, with life at the forefront... it isn't a nasty, graphic read. It's gentle, but filled with important truth.
Dilara has a beautiful name and a beautiful heart, and mine broke for her as she struggled with her own worth as a victim of human trafficking. Marcus is physically broken, and he struggles with his own sense of worth, but agh, the messages of this book, people... I love that Marcus is not a savior to Dilara, but that they truly are two people seeking after Jesus.
There was one comment that hit me the wrong way, when Dilara was told by another character to repent... which felt wrong as she hadn't really done anything wrong, but rather wrong had been done to her. But it wasn't a major point; really just a single comment, so there's that.
All in all, Lynn has crafted a beautiful tale of redemption, purpose, and beauty after struggle and pain, and it reminds me much of another favorite book, Yours is the Night by Amanda Dykes. I highly recommend this book, especially for ages 16+.
January 4, 2024
Wow! Once again another great book by Victoria Lynn. I am so thankful that I was finally able to read these two books, and now I’m so excited for the third.
*actual rating 4.75*
Now listen, the only reason for the actual rating is Marcus at the beginning of the book. He was not my favorite in the beginning, but he grew on me.
But everything else about this book was stunning. Marcus grew on me way more than I expected. I truly enjoy his character and would love to see more of him. And that’s what a good author does. They write a character you learn to love. Whether right from the beginning or they grow on you, you love them.
Nuri was adorable. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen an animal painted this way except for in This Life of Mine.
Now for my favorite character, Dilara. Dilara is so broken that her redemption made me tear up. It was so beautiful. The pain this world gives hurts so bad, but when the redeeming grace of God steps in, I am humble by it. And that is why Dilara inspires me. It’s hard to describe in writing, because it would be such a long review, but I love her.
Lastly, Victoria Lynn once again has knocked the ball out of the park with the faith content. At every turn our characters are striving towards a higher calling. It’s so refreshing to see this revolution of good content entering books!
*h word used literally, mentions of past, unwanted abortion, past abuse, lots of pain and painful memories, child loss*
*actual rating 4.75*
Now listen, the only reason for the actual rating is Marcus at the beginning of the book. He was not my favorite in the beginning, but he grew on me.
But everything else about this book was stunning. Marcus grew on me way more than I expected. I truly enjoy his character and would love to see more of him. And that’s what a good author does. They write a character you learn to love. Whether right from the beginning or they grow on you, you love them.
Nuri was adorable. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen an animal painted this way except for in This Life of Mine.
Now for my favorite character, Dilara. Dilara is so broken that her redemption made me tear up. It was so beautiful. The pain this world gives hurts so bad, but when the redeeming grace of God steps in, I am humble by it. And that is why Dilara inspires me. It’s hard to describe in writing, because it would be such a long review, but I love her.
Lastly, Victoria Lynn once again has knocked the ball out of the park with the faith content. At every turn our characters are striving towards a higher calling. It’s so refreshing to see this revolution of good content entering books!
*h word used literally, mentions of past, unwanted abortion, past abuse, lots of pain and painful memories, child loss*
January 17, 2024
This Life of Mine is Book 2 in the Elira Chronicles. It breaks the mold of following the same main characters from book 1, but it works very well. This Life of Mine follows Marcus as he goes to the border to help refugees fleeing a tyrannical kingdom.
Story: 5/5
Worldview: 4/5
The twists in the story were few but they worked well. The dual POV was engaging and each perspective had so much more to explore. Both characters, Marcus and Dilara, face trauma and difficult situations and ask God why. They wonder if they can ever be healed, be considered worthy or wanted, and I know that’s I question I’ve struggled with myself.
Worldview is on point for the same reason as above. Scripture and faith are interwoven with the characters’ struggles and triumphs. There was a snag with the wolf; it’s believable that a wolf would care for a human, but not so far as to say it’s a “guardian angel” or an “angel in disguise.”
In any case, I loved this series so far and with the sneak peek of the last book, I am sorry ready to read The Lost Rose!! (
Story: 5/5
Worldview: 4/5
The twists in the story were few but they worked well. The dual POV was engaging and each perspective had so much more to explore. Both characters, Marcus and Dilara, face trauma and difficult situations and ask God why. They wonder if they can ever be healed, be considered worthy or wanted, and I know that’s I question I’ve struggled with myself.
Worldview is on point for the same reason as above. Scripture and faith are interwoven with the characters’ struggles and triumphs. There was a snag with the wolf; it’s believable that a wolf would care for a human, but not so far as to say it’s a “guardian angel” or an “angel in disguise.”
In any case, I loved this series so far and with the sneak peek of the last book, I am sorry ready to read The Lost Rose!! (
February 3, 2024
4.5⭐️
I loved the first book in this series so much that I ordered the author's exclusive "book box" for her release of this one! Although I liked the first book more, this one was very captivating and well-done. This story covers the following thematic elements: chronic pain/illness, human trafficking, abortion, and abuse. The main characters wrestle with healing, hope, and their faith in God. I appreciated the author's willingness to cover heavy themes without being unnecessarily graphic. I am looking forward to the next book in this series!
I loved the first book in this series so much that I ordered the author's exclusive "book box" for her release of this one! Although I liked the first book more, this one was very captivating and well-done. This story covers the following thematic elements: chronic pain/illness, human trafficking, abortion, and abuse. The main characters wrestle with healing, hope, and their faith in God. I appreciated the author's willingness to cover heavy themes without being unnecessarily graphic. I am looking forward to the next book in this series!
July 25, 2023
Wow. What deep and beautiful themes. I finished this one in under two hours because I just needed to know what was going to happen to Marcus and Dilara. I feel like maybe I read it too fast and should have read slower to really take everything in, but it's definitely a book I would re-read. The topics handled are covered very gracefully, but do head the trigger warnings at the beginning of the book if you're sensitive.
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