A Vine to Prune

by Daniel Dydek

Mere weeks after leaving the convent, Rae-Anna and Thomas face their next challenge in the village of Aurden—on the surface, a pleasant community of people looking forward to their mayor’s upcoming wedding.

On the first night in town, however, Rae-Anna is threatened by five men, faces ghostly-white, bearing a strange symbol of a swirling star. Soon separated from both Mahmoud and Thomas, she finds temporary refuge and employment with the seamstress Tabitha. But when she sees the strange symbol in Tabitha’s shop as well, it seems she will have to face this new evil entirely alone.

Even the Sacred Fire is strangely silent as Rae-Anna works frantically to unravel the mystery, reunite with Thomas, and learn who in this strange village can be trusted.

Don’t miss the thrilling continuation of Rae-Anna’s supernatural journey in A Vine to Prune!

193 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 3, 2023

About the author

Daniel Dydek is a multi-genre author with his sweeping epic fantasy series The Triumvirs, and his supernatural suspense series, Spirit Wind, has already garnered two Finalist awards from Realm Makers. Besides writing, he also enjoys a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, mountain biking, reading, coffee shops, book stores, and Durango Colorado. He lives in Canton Ohio with his wife and son and two cats.

Reviews

[Jennifer Hamner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It jumped right into the action and had elements of unknown and clues that kept me guessing (incorrectly) right up till the end. A very enjoyable read, and just the right amount of spookiness for me.

I received an Advance Reader copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this medieval fantasy of spiritual warfare, Daniel and Rae-Anna enter a village that is giddily preparing a wedding for their young mayor, and Rae-Anna perceives an evil there that lurks beneath the surface. Recognizing a divine appointment, they remain to confront it.

As in the first book, complex relationships, unexpected enemies and insightful comments engage the reader well. The characters and the reader are pressed to recognize where the gift of freewill has taken them, and to know that the Father is ready to give aid, if we will but humble ourselves to walk in truth.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars. Daniel Dydek presents another excellent Christian allegorical story with a light horror twist in A Vine to Prune. At the time I started this book, it had been a while since I read the first one in the Spirit Wind series (Loved Book 1!!) so it took me a little time to get reacquainted with the characters and their backgrounds. I don't want to give spoilers, so I'll just say I really enjoyed the ending.