Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Determined to follow the will of Elohim, Makilien faces daily threats and hardship. But an even bigger threat is growing. Bent on destroying his opposition once and for all, Zirtan amasses a devastating force to take control of Dolennar. When a dangerous secret comes to light, Makilien, along with her family and Aedan, are thrust into the middle of the struggle.

Faced with an army far outnumbering their own, Makilien and her friends risk everything—injury, captivity, even death—to gather their allies. But in the end, their hope and courage must rest in Elohim. Can the forces of good achieve victory, or will the might of evil prevail? Who will be left to see the end?

502 pages, Paperback

First published February 12, 2012

7 people are currently reading
186 people want to read

About the author

Molly Evangeline

11 books127 followers
Molly Evangeline has been using her active imagination to create stories since she was eight years old, encouraged by her mom's own love for writing. For years she wrote as a pastime until age fifteen when she began writing her first historical Christian novel, The Pirate Daughter's Promise, book one of her Pirates & Faith series. Three years later, it became the first of her books to be published.

Molly credits her success to God and her mom's teaching, guidance, and decision to homeschool her from kindergarten through high school. Since graduating she has actively pursued her independent writing career while living with her family in Wisconsin.

Now writes and publishes as Jaye L. Knight

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
80 (59%)
4 stars
39 (29%)
3 stars
12 (8%)
2 stars
3 (2%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Shantelle.
Author 2 books373 followers
December 2, 2015
Aw ... once again, I sit stunned and quite satisfied as I finish another of Molly Evangeline's books. Courage, book two in the Makilien Trilogy, did not disappoint. Although it took me longer to read than most books, I believe that was mostly due to the fact I was reading it on kindle on my computer (which happens to be a trial for me!). However, when I read the last page of Courage, I was just thrilled and hopeful, and aching to start reading Trust all at once!

Courage follows pretty closely where Truth leaves off, and leads Makilien on more amazing journeys and through another harrowing war- this one much more agonizing than the first! I was so happy to get back to reading about all the dear characters from Truth, and also meet some new ones. Some lovely romances blossomed in Courage, and I am excited to see them come to their full bloom in Trust! Also, Courage's epilogue leaves me with a hope that... but I can't tell you. You'll have to read Courage for yourself (Truth first!), and become part of this incredible fantasy world of Christian allegories! :)

So excited to read more by Molly Evangeline/Jaye L. Knight!!!
Profile Image for Sarah Ryder.
1,054 reviews244 followers
July 9, 2024
Much better then the first book! The author grew in her craft and wrote a tighter story with really awesome and gut wrenching battle scenes—I was seriously sooo invested in the last third of the book it’s not even funny.

Despite this though the plot is exactly the same outline as Truth with just a few different events and places in the middle which was an odd route to take and made for some “repetitiveness”, though at least the descriptions of places were cut down and didn’t make me glaze over in utter boredom and the repetitive introductions between characters were cut out entirely unless utterly necessary, thank goodness. I’m still not connected to any of the characters in any way as they’re all just…there with really no arcs at all which may not bother some people, but it made it hard for me to care about any of them beyond a general, “ouch, that’s a terrible thing that just happened to you” kind of way.

Though that cliffhanger at the end is just mean. Make sure you have book three, Trust, on hand because you’ll want it!

Teen me would have loved this book and it’s good, just missing some personal depth overall.


‼️Content‼️

Violence: a character is whipped (not shown); injuries and blood (not detailed); fighting with weapons (not detailed); a character’s family is threatened to be burned at the stake; characters are pushed/fall into a river and nearly drown; a character’s arm is branded (not detailed); giant birds attack characters and try to carry off one; a dragon fights giant birds (not detailed); a character is choked; a knife is held to a character’s throat; men are stabbed in the chest (not detailed); dragons light people on fire (not detailed)

Sexual: mentions of past babies being lost during or after birth; a kiss (not detailed)

Other: a character is tied up and hauled away; elves, dragons, and other fantasy creatures/races; characters are kidnapped; death and grief
Profile Image for Sarah.
Author 46 books459 followers
May 8, 2015
Age Appropriate For: 13 and up some violence and blood
Best for Ages: 13 - 25

Why in the world did it take me so long to get back to this series? No matter, I assure you I will not let over a year go by before I read the final book in the trilogy.

This book picks up where Truth left off: Makilien telling her hometown the good news. However, she is suffering for her beliefs and they cost her. Soon she and her family our on the run along with other friends.

Makilien is a strong female character that I just love. She is good with weapons, she can battle many foes, yet still somehow maintains some femininity. Her bravery and her courage are something I greatly admire.
A
ll the other characters are well crafted in this story. Makilien’s own family was very dear how they interacted. Srion was my favorite after Makilien. He was strong in his faith and character … as well as kind.

The fantasy world of Dolennar was well built. It felt very real. I felt as if I could easily see what the author had envisioned. Each place the characters go brings the story more to life. I can see this being made into a movie.

The message of redemption and strength coming from God were a large part of the story without ever feeling forced. I especially like some of the unlikely people that are redeemed through the story. It was a reminder that no one is too far from the Grace of God.

I highly recommend this book for those who love fantasy, stories of faith, a strong female characters.
Profile Image for Kendra Ardnek.
Author 68 books277 followers
February 10, 2017
After reading and reviewing Truth, I offered to read and review the next book in the series, Courage. As soon as I had it, I sent it to my Kindle and settled down to read.

Courage takes place roughly a year after the events of Truth. In some ways, I thought this better than the first book, in others … it fell somewhat flat in comparison. For instance, there were plot twists that took me gasping ... but the basic plot seemed to only be a reworked version of the first book.

All in all, I liked this book, and am looking forward to the next book, Trust, which is coming out this fall/winter.

For Full Review: http://oscarlettreviews.blogspot.com/...
Profile Image for Deborah.
79 reviews26 followers
January 7, 2016
Wow! I loved it! Just as good as the first book.

Beautiful plot, unique characters and extra special memories.

BUT THAT ENDING!!!!!!! Please tell me that really didn't happen. I feel so sorry for Makilien. I can hardly wait to read the next one.
Profile Image for H.S.J. Williams.
Author 6 books326 followers
August 12, 2014
Have you ever used those Amazon "Look Inside" previews for books? Well, musing around, I decided to look at the one for Molly Evangeline's Trust, third and final book in the Makilien Trilogy. I had read the first book before and also enjoyed her novel, Resistance, written under a different author name. But alas--the preview left me off at a cliff-hanger (as is their way)! I couldn't just leave the poor hero off there! I had to find out the rest! So of course, I read the entire trilogy.

First off I will admit that while I enjoyed Truth, it was a little slow for me. But hey, it was one of the author's first books, and she certainly improves!

Courage brings the intensity to a new level with higher and more painful stakes and consequences. Characters are developed and deadly plots are revealed. And after a huge battle that spans over several chapters, we are left off on one of the best cliff-hangers I've encountered in a book. Rather then causing you to growl and throw the book against the wall, it makes you gasp in alarm/delight and dive for the next book.

Fortunately, I had the next book and could finally answer my questions from the Amazon preview. Trust is definitely the best of the three, bringing in an intense, mysterious style that was not present in the previous books, but serves this story splendidly. Along with the black and white/good and evil characters that were prevalent, we are introduced to new or revealed grey characters with deep, difficult conflict. I must say that after three books with these characters I was rather experiencing all their pain with them. And...Sirion...if you, like me, have a thing for noble, tortured heroes you'll love him. And if you, like me, enjoy the brooding, struggling anti-hero, you'll love Rylean. And Aeden is just cool.

Violence-- Battles are detailed as to combat, and while there no shortage of casualties, nothing is really gory or descriptive. Characters are often tortured throughout the books--beaten, burned, whipped--most notably in the last book, but description is handled with taste. Don't think I'm morbid, but it was super nice to see the author let the villain be as bad as they wanted. So often they'll fall short of their true nature because the author is merciful to their characters. Oh yes, there was discretion for the reader's stomach, but this author really let the villains have a go at the heroes! I only wish a little more attention had been paid to the reality of the victim's wounds. I understand that adrenaline can do amazing things, but sometimes the heroes could talk or move way too well for their injuries.

Sexual--Um...next to none? There is romance, but the characters are all extremely chaste, only gifting each other with an occasional embrace of encouragement and a kiss on the forehead. Which was very nice.

Langauge--None

Other--While this is a fantasy with an array of fantasy creatures, there is no magic.

This fantasy trilogy is an exciting, involving story of triumph over evil, faith in impossible situations, and all around good guys. The simplistic writing style serves the story well. I think the peak of my enjoyment might have been from tweens to early teens, but I enjoyed this nevertheless! If you're looking for a new adventure, definitely consider this one!
Profile Image for Sierra.
41 reviews16 followers
November 7, 2014
I love books that leave me breathless and excited for more.
The descriptions and dialogue were well balanced, and the characters were well made. The battles were described well, without being extremely gory and graphic.
I was swept up in the story and I was sad, happy, and angry with and at the characters. Not something that happens often... :)
Overall, Courage was wonderful, and there is only one minor thing keeping my rating from a five. The first few chapters didn't really grab my interest. It wasn't really until the group reached Eldor that I got to the point of "I can't put this book down!"
4(.5) stars
Profile Image for Tricia Mingerink.
Author 12 books452 followers
September 21, 2015
Some of this book follows the same pattern as book one. It starts in the same town. Moves through the same places, and ends with a big battle in the same place as before.

Still, I enjoyed how this book took the same battles of book one and went one step deeper. In Truth, Makilien faced the final battle with the innocence of one who has never fought before. This time, she fights with the knowledge of just how scary and horrible war is. It makes for an interesting parallel that I couldn’t put down.

And the ending? Let’s just say, you’d better just buy books 2 and 3 together because you will be starting book 3 mere seconds after finishing book 2.
Profile Image for H.M.R..
112 reviews12 followers
June 22, 2015
This book made me laugh, almost cry, and punch things;) it's a really awesome book, I really liked it alot! the battle scene did get a tad long but it was mixed with dramatic scenes so that you didn't want to skip ahead. the book ends in a dramatic cliffhanger that made me very thankful I had the next book Trust (even though I was suspicious that it wasn't true, but I must admit I peeked in the next book to make sure of some things) (and sorry I'm trying not to add spoilers so I probably don't make much sense) but yes it was a Wonderful book and highly recommended! :):)


⚠ WARNING ⚠
book may cause extreme madness, sadness, giddiness, laughter , and Awwwww moments;)
Profile Image for Olivia.
73 reviews4 followers
February 22, 2023
4.5 stars, again!
Wow. The author puts her characters through so much! By the last chapter I was going crazy and making all these weird noises, hah!

How can I even wait for the next book?!
It was that GOOD!
Profile Image for Erika Mathews.
Author 29 books177 followers
February 20, 2013
Courage, by Molly Evangeline, is a continuation of the story presented in Truth, featuring Makilien, an eighteen-year-old who faces danger with a courageous spirit. Finding trouble in her hometown and danger to herself and family as certain news of her previous adventures spreads, she, her family, and friend Aedan embark on another incredible adventure in the struggle of good versus evil. Many twists, turns, and dangers await them. From strengthening the forces to using their powers of persuasion to coping with the horrors of war, pain, and loss, Makilien once again grows.

Compared to Truth, this book had a different feel. The description is much better; the characters are deeper; the plot is much more dramatic and exciting. Unexpected plot twists abound – the kind that keep you on the edge of your seat. There is more danger; there are more battles. If you do not enjoy reading battle scenes, you probably will not enjoy this book. The main battle scene, in particular, seemed quite long and drawn out – but it was appropriate to the setting. While there is a slightly stronger element of romance in the book than in its prequel, it is at least not overdone, does not overshadow the main plot, and (at least as far as the main character is concerned) fits well with the storyline and theme of courage. The book does an excellent job of building on the characters developed in Truth. Revisiting some of the places feels like visiting old friends. The interactions and dialogue before the climax begins building are well done, friendly, and realistic.

The strong focus on Elohim begun in Book 1 continues. However, the focus is not so central. Truth is focused on one character finding truth; Courage involves a wider spectrum of people involved in a much larger struggle. The spiritual elements are not as defined and specific, but they are still strongly present. The way that the people allow Elohim to plan their battles and guide their steps no matter what is crucial. The continued trust in only Elohim – for He is the only hope – is beautiful to see. The loyalty between all the characters is inspiring as well – with a healthy dose of treacherous characters involved at various points, making the good/evil contrast strikingingly clear.

In this book, we get to see much more of Aedan and Sirion’s points of view. While Aedan behaves with uncharacteristic suddenness and dreaminess at a few points, for the most part the additional viewpoints are quite enjoyable. Along with the other elements of the story, it makes Courage be more involved and require more intellectual engagement than Truth. Truth is an excellent first book; Courage is an excellent second book – for its more involved storyline keeps the reader on the edge of his/her seat. I for one could not put it down. The surprises thrown in here and there, along with the realistic characters, were gripping. What happens next?

Overall, I would say that Courage ranks about as highly as Truth. While Truth has a more powerful and touching spiritual element and analogies, Courage possesses a higher literary element. Truth feeds the spirit more; Courage feeds the literary mind. All in all, however, Courage presents a fascinating story that illustrates and encourages us to “Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in the Lord.” (Psalm 31:24).
Profile Image for Sarah.
1,614 reviews36 followers
August 30, 2017
I liked Courage even better than the first book in the series. Surprising plot twists all around. It took me a few chapters to remember all the people, as it's been some time since I read book one.

Makilien and Aeden are back in Reylaun to tell the people about Elohim. Despite pressure, punishment, and torture, they do not give up. One day, however, they are forced to flee, when the brother of Zirtan's captain (the man Makilien killed) shows up to capture Makilien. Aeden, with the help of Halandor, Torick, & Sirion rescue Makilien and they begin the journey to Eldor.

Zirtan is amassing an army even bigger than before; determined to conquer Dolennar. Makilien and her friends have several encounters with Zirtan's forces and several close escapes. They find help in surprising places and also discover enemies they never would have imagined.

I was sort of bummed at first, because I thought Aeden and Makilien should be together, but I'm really liking their friendship. It's fitting, I think, that Makilien killed Zirtan's captain and "won" the first battle .

I'm reading this series while also reading the Ilyon Chronicles and I'm seeing some trends, however unintentional they may be: That's all I recall right now.

The ending is a bit of a cliff-hanger . On to the next book!
Profile Image for Katie Grace.
174 reviews5 followers
May 30, 2015
Courage. That’s exactly what Makilien needs throughout this whole book. Back in her hometown, Reylaun, she is not very welcome, and is shunned by most of the people. Makilien has to live on the edge of Reylaun with her friend Aedan in a small riverside camp. At the beginning of the book, Makilien and her family find themselves in grave danger. With the help of an unexpected friend, they escape the hands of the powerful lord Zirtan, and start a long and perilous adventure.

This book has many wonderful characteristics that I love. I have mentioned before that I really appreciate that fact that Molly puts Christian views into her books. Makilien and her sister have a very strong bond with God, but her parents are not fully convinced that they should too believe. Through the book, Makilien talks to them about her faith, and encourages them to believe.

I also felt a closeness with the characters in this book. I love how Makilien took her family on the adventure, and how Molly incorporates the family bond. My family is something very dear to me, and I love that Makilien feels the same way.

I am so glad I read the book when Trust was already out! There is a big cliffhanger at the end. I would have been frustrated not knowing how it turned up.

Overall a wonderful book! I can’t wait to read the next one! Another great book Molly! Keep it up!
Profile Image for Morgan.
Author 15 books100 followers
July 26, 2013
In my opinion, Courage is even better than Truth. Courage is a truly amazing story. There is more about Makilien's family, Sirion (I really like Sirion), and about Aedan . . . actually, a lot is revealed about Aedan that even he didn't know. There is plenty of adventure, and the title comes into play a lot. The characters constantly have to have courage in order to do what Elohim wants them to do.

The scale of Courage is a lot more epic than Truth and gives the reader a lot more time to get to know the characters. There is a pretty amazing nine chapter long battle, and the start of a romance. The book ends on a pretty big cliffhanger, but honestly, it didn't bother me that much. Why? I started reading Trust literally immediately after finishing Courage. I really am glad I was able to do that, because if I hadn't it would have driven me crazy. I can't say enough about how much I like the Makilien Trilogy. I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Reese Songbird.
174 reviews94 followers
November 7, 2022
This book was so wonderful and sent me on a wild ride!
I found I loved the characters even more in this book. It was definitely a heart wrenching read at times. So I’m just going to say, I’ve cried in only a handful of books, it takes something to make me cry. And by cry it’s usually tearing up and a couple tears, except for one book where I cried for a couple minutes. BUT THIS BOOK. It made me emotional, I laughed, I worried about the characters, I sighed in contentment. BUT THEN. Near the beginning of the end, I couldn’t stop crying. I sobbed. Uncontrollably. All through the rest of the book and after.
This book was faith filled, compelling, and so beautifully written. I thoroughly loved this book. Cannot wait to start book three. I highly recommend but would say for teens and up. It did had violence, it did not bother me, but I’ve read books like that before.
Definitely a five star read.
Profile Image for AnnaScott.
453 reviews72 followers
March 7, 2014
Really good!! So many moments of happiness when some unexpected people come to know Elohim! Plus, a couple of unexpected romances bloom as well.... I found it very interesting how it was Aedan and Vonawyn, and not Makilien. Normally I would have expected it to be Makilien because of their former relationship. Also, I would have liked it a bit better if Halandor and the others had played a bigger part in the story. They went from some of the main characters to being replaced by Sirion (who I like, but still would've liked to see more of the others). The only other semi-negative to this book is that the ending leaves you dangling by a thread over a gigantic cliff, but this is just a sign of really good writing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lavay Byrd.
Author 14 books18 followers
August 7, 2016
WOW! What an amazing read! Every minute of the book was exciting! The battle scenes were epic, but towards the end became so solemn and sad after deaths of familiar characters.

I loved how the theme of courage is illustrated in this beautiful sequel to Truth. It especially reminds us to focus and have faith on God, no matter how overwhelming the enemy may seem. No matter what happens, even when things don't make sense, God is still in control, and He alone knows the beginning from the end. The enemy may seem like he is winning, but in the end it is God who always prevails.

A powerful read for ages alike (except children below teens due to violence.) I enjoyed it as much as the "Lord of the Rings" films!
Profile Image for Sharla.
214 reviews6 followers
September 7, 2018
I read the first book and wasn't that impressed. I couldn't relate to any of the characters which was frustrating. Still I wanted to give it a decent shot so I read the second book as well. I still couldn't get a definite idea of who the characters were. The characters weren't well rounded. I had such a hard time getting through the book. All in all it was frustrating for me to read since I never felt like I got to know the characters.

If you enjoy reviews that are short n' sweet like this one then check out my blog: honestavocado.wordpress.com.
Profile Image for A'Laura Abramovitz.
19 reviews1 follower
November 30, 2013
Okay, this book>>> I'd have to say it's my favorite one of the whole trilogy.

I love the beginning, how Makilien has been punished many times for telling the Truth. I love her strength to keep going no matter the consequences. I love how Aedan is ALWAYS there for her while she's going through her punishments.

The part where Sirion confesses his love for Makilien is SOOOOOO sweet! I was in school when I read it and I was smiling like an idiot. When I got home I re-read that part and went "Awweeee!!!" I absolutely LOVE Sirion. He is my favorite character. Besides Makilien of course.

Profile Image for serena482*.
135 reviews
April 11, 2016
Courage......Why on earth did I wait so long to read this book?? I just don't know. Molly did a fantastic job on this book and I loved every bit of it. There was hardly any boring scene, if none and it kept me captivated to the end. Trouble, heart break, war, and many other things will meet you as you pick this book up. will they defeat there foe or be defeated? you will only know when you read this book, so I would advise you to find it and read it, then buy it :];] God bless you Molly Evangeline, and keep on writing
Profile Image for Micailah.
20 reviews5 followers
January 18, 2015
After reading Trust, I just couldn't wait to get my hands on this book. Courage let me plunge back into a whole other world, where both Elohim (God), elves, and dragons roam. How can it get any better than that? The author's clear and precise writing really stood out to me and helped my to better understand what was happening in the story. Makilien and her friends face many more challenges as Zirtan attacks again, threatening those they love and the freedom of the world. Prepare yourself for battle between the forces of good and evil.
Author 11 books55 followers
January 19, 2016
Book two in the trilogy, this one was still good, though not as great as the first. A Christian fantasy that I think best suited for teens and young adults. Characters need to be fleshed out a bit, but they are likable, or hate-able, depending on what side they are on. Basic story of good versus evil, forgiveness, and loyalty included. No swearing or sexual content, there is fighting and violence though nothing explicit. I liked it and am moving on to the final book. I give "Courage" three stars. A good read, nothing life changing.
Profile Image for David Bergsland.
Author 126 books49 followers
March 8, 2014
This is Christian fantasy at its best. The thinness of the first book is fleshed out in this one. The characters develop true character. The times are desperate and holding on to their trust in the Lord is the only reasonable course of action.
Love appears and it is wonderful and horribly painful. The relationships between friends matures. Old enemies find forgiveness and hope. You'll love the reality laced with love and hope that permeates this book.
97 reviews2 followers
January 28, 2021
Such wonderful storytelling

This 2nd book was so full of action, emotion, faith. Lose and friendship. I was completely drawn into the lives of Makilien and her family, friends and enemies. I love the developed characters of the griffins and dragons also. The authors writing brought me to laughter as the characters laughed. I rejoiced with each celebration. Then caught myself almost crying at their tears. Book 2 has several twists, surprises and left a cliffhanger .... but I won't spoil the story. The best for me was how much the heros prayed to and leaned on Elohim for help. I appreciate well written God-mirrowed fantasy.
Profile Image for Ashlynn Tittle.
5 reviews
January 2, 2026
I enjoyed Truth, but this book was even better 😍😍 all the characters are incredible!Aedan is absolutely my favorite, and I love getting his POV!! But it was still heart wrenching and had me crying by the end🥺
5 reviews
January 16, 2020
This is the best book I've ever read once you start reading it you can't stop and you feel like you can read it over and over!
Profile Image for Glenn.
1,747 reviews8 followers
February 26, 2022
Humour, drama and a surprising ending…. Not bad for a second book in the series…
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.