Lion Warrior

Lightraider Academy #3

by James R. Hannibal

The dragon war has breached the barrier.

The forces of the Liberated Land are near to breaking. Without a heavy and rapid shift in the Assembly’s strategy, a dragon invasion will be unstoppable.

Connor and Kara have kept the full knowledge of the Red Dagger’s location secret for almost a year. A chance to destroy Heleyor and end the war is within the Lightraider Order’s grasp. They must now reveal what they know and call for action.

With time running out, Connor, Teegan, and Aaron attempt to recover the dagger, and Kara helps the Airguard train a new corps of soldiers—windfighters—in their own bid to change the war’s tide. Meanwhile, Lee and Zel search for Heleyor’s army of tortured Aladoth. This force, thousands strong, has vanished. They're heading for a hidden portal, and may emerge at the heart of Keledev at any moment.

Every path that lies before the cadets seems a great risk. The slightest misstep may cost them their lives, their loved ones, and their homeland. But to do nothing means certain failure. To succeed, they must charge ahead into dark uncertainty and trust the Rescuer.

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Young Adult, Adventure, Christian Fantasy, Christian

384 pages, Hardcover

Published April 23, 2024

About the author

James R. Hannibal an award-winning author of kids fiction, spy and military thrillers, and young adult fantasy. As a former stealth bomber pilot and drone pilot James is no stranger to action or secrets. He has been shot at, locked up by a surface to air missile system, and aided the capture of High Value Targets.

Reviews

[Kaytlin Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

What did I just read? And how did that somehow have a satisfactory ending when at 60 pages to the end I was questioning everything? XD

4.5 stars

(Note: I wrote this twice, tried to post the first review and everything but part of my character breakdowns vanished. *cries* Round two everything down to magic disappeared. *sobs* I'm copying it this time just in case something weird happens...man, I just want to go bed and read a book now.)

Characters:
Connor is such a dear, his struggle to believe that he was truly forgiven, good enough for the position given to him...wow! There were many times I thought he would have benefited from his patehpa. <3
Kara is a great character as well...she's cool but also realizes that she is stronger when she stands with others and not alone. I did wish we had seen Keir in this book though...I was sad he only got a few mentions after everything Kara went through to save him.
Teegan was fantastic! I love her! I wanted more of Tiran...so much more of Tiran because he's my favorite.
Dag has a really beautiful role in this story!
Aaron and Zel were both very cool additions to the story! I liked seeing Sireth more and Master Jairun! Thera was also cool as well as Koteg!
Lee had a very interesting role in the story and I felt like his and Connor's archs were similar...and I enjoyed watching those play out.
I loved Samar! But I felt like the resolution to his issues was missing...like it wasn't quite complete we were on the way there but we never arrived. *shrugs* Might just be me.

Romance:
There are a few couples that admire each other, but the romance is mild...just some mentions of affection and worrying about each other.

Langauge:
N/A

Magic:
All things that seem magical are described as gifts from the Rescuer. There are two evil sorcerers in this one, but all they do is twist that which is good to use it for their own ends.

Violence/Gore:
There are plenty of battles (all the boys now interested), and there are wounds and many deaths in this one. Everything is handled super well and never once did I feel queasy. Some of the injuries included, stab wounds, burns, cuts, falls, missing limbs, etc...things got rough for our heroes but the violence on page never became grotesque.

Overall:
This is a fantastic fantasy series that deals with themes of spiritual warfare. I'll definitely be keeping my eyes open for more books in the Lightraider Academy universe! I'd love a companion series! Or side stories about Tiran? No...maybe a companion series about Samar then? I so want to know more about this guy!

Recommend for ages 14+

[Lou Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Story Enjoyment Rating: 8.5/10 Christian Faith Rating 3/3

“Lion Warrior” by James R. Hannibal is the last book in “The Light Raider Academy” Christian fantasy trilogy, following the adventures of a group of students training to be Light Raiders. The story is set in a world divided: one side ruled by dragons and another where people live, free from their tyranny. The Light Raiders are tasked with protecting the free world from the dragons and their allies, which include various creatures, like goblins, orcs, and trolls. The story is told from multiple points of view, particularly in this third book, and is fast-paced with short chapters. James R. Hannibal also writes thriller novels, and this influence is apparent in the book’s action-packed style.

There are strong Christian themes woven throughout the story. Characters use scripture and prayer as part of their abilities, and the story explores spiritual warfare and evangelism allegorically. However, I also found the story and world building to be very complex. At times, I found its many creatures, magical elements, and locations to be confusing. I believe a more detailed description would have improved my understanding of the world. Despite this, I enjoyed the book’s action, plot, and characters. I believe I would enjoy it even more on a second reading with a better understanding of the world. The series is based on a role-playing game, which may explain the intricate world-building.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good ending to the trilogy.

[Kelly Bridgewater · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lion Warrior by James R. Hannibal is a unique and unpredictable young adult fantasy novel. As a word of caution, if readers are not familiar with the two previous novels in this series, I highly suggest readers those novels before reading this one. Also, if it has been a while since you have read the first two, then it would probably be a good idea to read them again to familiarize yourself with the plot. This edition featured much more dark magic and the effects that it can have on any of the characters. I liked seeing the redemption of some of the people they met as they were on the journey to finish the quest. The parallel between the overarching movement of the Bible vs. the overarching plot of this story is pretty obvious to readers who are familiar with the Bible as a whole. Stories with familiar characters are a huge plus because readers will come to know the characters and what to expect from them every time they start a new book. Plenty of action, heading toward the climactic moment at the end of the story. Overall, Lion Warrior and the other two previous novels by James R. Hannibal were a delightful story for young adults. I believe young men would love the adventure of the story and the quest for spiritual understanding as well as knowledge and magic.

I received a complimentary copy of Lion Warrior by James R. Hannibal from Enclave Escape Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.

[MJSH · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing conclusion to the Lightraider Academy trilogy! Kudos to James R. Hannibal for creating this rich, complex world from a board game. I have never played the game but the books make me want to investigate it so relive the adventure again.

The trilogy needs to be read in order because it is one continuous fast-paced, faith-driven battle against the dark force. Faith lessons that the Lightraider cadets learn from the masters ring true and are very applicable. The cadets, once again, go out on missions two by two and I enjoyed getting to know Aaron and Samar who are newer characters to the plot. The romance between Connor and Kara is sweet, protective, but fraught with doubt because they are constantly pulled apart by various missions. Connor, Teegan, Kara, Lee, and Zel's third person voices mingle with Valshadox the dragon's voice to create a panoramic view of this epic final battle of good triumphing over evil.

It's a bit of Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter set in a world of dragons and supernatural powers. It's a powerful allegory with unforgettable characters - a must-read if you're a fan of YA fantasy. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Enclave Escape via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

[Mimi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this was my favorite book out of the whole series. I love how teens and young adults (and even adults) can get the message that WE can't save anyone. People have to choose for themselves who they will serve. Even when Truth is put before them, they can still choose the direction for their lives. We also can't force faith on others. There will be those we love who go into eternity not choosing life.

This all played out with the characters in this story. It was so well written that I could picture so much of it in my mind's eye. It's also a good reminder that we all have different gifts to be used in ways that will benefit others and the Lord.

Once again, I appreciated how Scripture was interspersed throughout the whole story. They used it in a way that made sense for ya fantasy, but clearly Scripture. So well done!

[Jane Maree · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a story! This felt more like an adventure than a book (I know that doesn't make sense but it's the best way I can think to describe it), and I thoroughly enjoyed the epic quest to win the war and fight for truth. Overall a trilogy I highly recommend!

[Terrance Niedziela Jr. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is final chapter in The Lightraider Academy trilogy. Connor and his friends face the hardest trials of their young lives with the fate of all of Keledev at stake. Connor and Kara are being hunted by the armies of the dragons because of their bloodlines while the rest of the Lightraider cadets work to stop the dragons from penetrating deeper into Keledev.

With masterful storytelling and skilled intertwining of Scripture, James R. Hannibal did an amazing job of wrapping up the series. This trilogy has become an instant favorite and I enjoyed every moment of it. I recommend these books whenever I can.

The audiobooks for the series are narrated by Adam Verner and I could not think of a better narrator. He did a stupendous job. These books are a must read or listen.

[Becky B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Things are getting extremely serious as the war with Heleyor expands, and the Liberated Land struggles to defeat them. Connor finally manages to convince the Assembly to let him go look for the legendary Red Dagger, which they believe may be the only weapon that can defeat Heleyor. But it also carries the great shame of Connor's ancestors, something he doesn't want Teegan or Aaron to learn as they go with him. Connor wishes Kara was with him, but she has an important job training a new group of soldiers with the air guard, taking a risky new approach. And Lee and Zel are off trying to figure out where Heleyor's army is headed next, but Zel is worried Lee's more focused on finding his brother than finding the army. As each of the Lightraider Academy cadets go on their missions they must remember their training and follow the Rescuer's guidance instead of just leaning on their own skills and understanding or their quests are doomed to failure.

It has been a while since the last book and the cast of characters have expanded quite a bit, so I found myself a little slow in remembering who was who and what all was going on as I dove into this book. I eventually remembered and figured things out, but I probably should have re-read book 2 before going into this. There's a lot going on in this book, so I feel like I can't say too much without spoilers. I will say, I felt like this was a great fantasy/adventure series with Christian elements woven in seamlessly. Hannibal does a great job with a vast array of characters and writing them with unique voices and cultures. And I know the world building is partly due to the game this is based off, but Hannibal has brought a complex world to life quite well. Every book I read by this author I get more and more impressed by his writing skills! (I like his middle grade and adult books too, even though they are all quite different.) Now to get this into the hands of a student who has been eagerly waiting its arrival.

Notes on content:
Language: None
Sexual content: Some mutual liking going on between a guy and girl, but they don't really physically express that.
Violence: There are many, many battles with some wounds and fatalities. It is sobering but not overly gory.
Ethnic diversity: The cultures are made up, but some seem to be based loosely on different European cultures (one for sure seems Irish or Scottish).
LGBTQ+ content: None specified
Other: The bad guy has dark powers and takes control of some people. The Rescuer is stronger and can free people from the dark powers.

[Stephanie’s Ninth Suitcase · Rating 5 out of 5]

Note: Lion Warrior is the third and final book in the Lightraider Academy series. Because of the number of characters and the amount of action in the series, I recommend not only making sure to read the books in order, but also reading the books in immediate succession. Now that the entire series is out, readers do not have to wait for future installments.

Scripture Connection

Through You we push back our enemies; through Your Name we trample our foes. I put no trust in my bow, my sword does not bring me victory; but You give us victory over our enemies, You put our adversaries to shame.
Psalm 44:5-7

Spiritual Themes

There’s a lot of excellent content, here! In the next section, I’ll be including a discussion on some of my favorite elements of the allegory. Here, I’ll briefly notate just a few of the themes I really appreciated.

In battling darkness, we are to look to God for Him to master it on our behalf, rather than exploring the darkness to better understand how to master it. This is explicitly stated at the start of the book, and is also touched on, later in the story.
Another element I bookmarked has to do with prayers for direction. Connor wonders, at one point, if he is praying for the Rescuer’s will, or “seeking [his] own understanding.”
The above theme falls under the larger category of reliance. The novel, and the characters, explore the question of who they are relying on: themselves or the Rescuer. This theme has been present in each book in the series, as Hannibal consistently makes it clear that it is the Rescuer who is doing the rescuing, and the characters do not have innate magic or power. The theme plays an even larger role in Lion Warrior, in terms of overall plot development.
What I Liked

It’s refreshing to read a book so sweetly steeped in Scripture. I guess “sweetly” may be the wrong word for a book that also has a lot of battles. For me, the sweetness is in the feeling I get from reading such a book. It’s such a good feeling to encounter so much Scripture on page— especially in these dark times.

I like the allegory element: the invisible foes of Scripture take on physical form. In reciting the words of the Rescuer (Scripture paraphrased), the characters are not calling on their own strength, wisdom, or memorization ability. Instead, they are calling out to their living Rescuer. I so appreciate the clear distinction Hannibal makes: the power is from the Rescuer, not from those who are calling on Him. The words they speak are both a prayer and a comfort.

As someone who struggles with knowing the words to pray, I so appreciate when characters in books share their prayers on-page, and I especially appreciate this in the context of praying through the familiar words of Scripture.

Also on the line of allegorical elements, I appreciated the specificity of the foes. Characters are not battling darkness in a general sense. Rather, different creatures embody different temptations and vices. Greed, for example, is represented by stone trolls. Additionally, in having to engage with these creatures, the characters often encounter the siren song of evil. Oftentimes, these songs are specific to the hearer, playing on that character’s specific desires.

We also see, in these skirmishes with evil, the tendency of pride to pervert good desires. Lee, at one point, in his desire to win the battle, discards discernment for desperation. In that moment, his desire for power provokes an unwise response– even though he wants power so that he can win the battle. (While much more obviously sinister, I think of Nikabrik’s desire to reawaken the White Witch in Lewis’s Prince Caspian).

Connor, likewise, makes foolish decisions in his attempt to save the Keledan. What he wants is a good thing, and it reflects a good element of his character: his shepherd’s heart. (In the world of Lightraiders, Enarians are shepherds). But, Connor is seeking to do a job that is for the Rescuer, alone. (And here, I find myself contrasting Frodo’s individual quest for the ring with the Lightraiders’ quests, empowered by the Rescuer. Tolkien made it clear that his writing was not allegorical).

Hannibal writes books for boys, so it’s unsurprising that the romance element, while present, is very light. With that said, I was struck by how well Hannibal handled the romance. There’s a conversation two of the characters have about romantic interests, and it was so beautiful! Love is described very specifically as something the Rescuer arranges—exactly what I’m looking for in romance. Again, very small element of the story, but so well done!

Respectful Discussion / Content

There’s one scene involving a creature that was a little confusing for me. While I was able to interpret the creature as a metaphor for deceit, I was mildly uncertain as to its physical presence fitting in with the story. (It appeared because of deceit?) All in all, that fits with how a lot of the battles in the story go. I was just a little thrown off in this particular context. It’s worth noting, though, the creature did reduce the emphasis on a slightly more “grown-up” bit of content– brief references to an extramarital affair.

There’s a few brief discussions about the goal of rescuing and not killing the (human) Aladoth, because killing them would send them to “eternal separation from the High One.” A few sentences later, these same Aladoth are referred to as “the High One’s children.” I’m very wary of hell as a motivator for relationship with God (having heard a lot of that on my dad’s side of the family, growing up). What I do like is that Hannibal is emphasizing relationship, here.

Additionally, there’s a place where the characters are explaining relationship with the High One. It reads a lot like “the Romans Road,” which often feels shoehorned into Christian fiction. But, the paraphrase worked for me in the story’s context. On the note of relationship with the High One (also called the Rescuer), I think my one critique/desire would have been to see a more personal High One. But, I do so appreciate the huge emphasis on Scripture, which demonstrates how he is working in the characters’ everyday lives.

Lion Warrior features a few humans who are practicing sorcery and being used by the dragons. This is, of course, portrayed very negatively.

Recommendation Status

Hannibal is such a skilled storyteller and I delight in the opportunity to read and review his writing. While Lightraiders books are appropriate for boys and girls alike, I know I read somewhere that Hannibal writes to fill the gap in Christian literature for boys, and that delights me. God is the ultimate storyteller, and I’m so grateful for children’s books that He uses in the lives of children.

I recommend the Lightraiders series for young adults and adults, especially those with a strong penchant for fantasy and adventure.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.

[TC692 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lion warrior by James Hannibal is an excellent warrior adventure, absolutely amazing. Hannibal has a unique ability to draw readers into the world of the book, creating vivid and immersive scenes that stay with you long after you've finished reading. While the book doesn't directly reference God, the concept of the Rescuer is present throughout and can be correlated with God. Additionally, prayer and faith are clearly referenced, even if they are not explicitly stated.

I had not read the first two books in the series, so I needed to read the summaries to better understand the story. Although it wasn't too difficult to pick up on the storyline after reading the summaries, it would have been helpful to have a small recap of the other books at the beginning of the book, perhaps as a preface. Overall, Lion Warrior is a high-stakes adventure packed with excitement.

The main male character, Connor, is a member of the Lightraiders Order, and is trying to save his homeland and his people. He was once a shepherd, and his transformation into a warrior is reminiscent of King David, who was also a shepherd before he was called to lead God's people. Connor is following the Rescuer and trusting in Him to lead him to a successful mission, despite the many harrowing events he must endure.

Kara Orso is the main female voice in the book and has been on the adventure with Connor for most of the series. She was rescued by Connor when she was in trouble, and in the second book, he tried to protect her. In the third book, Kara is a bit of a warrior herself, but Connor is still trying to keep her safe. Although they are falling in love, they doubt that their relationship will ever work because they are constantly pulled in different directions and sent on missions with different objectives. Despite their differences, they are both working towards the same goal.

Overall, Lion Warrior is an excellent book that is clearly the result of Hannibal's hard work and dedication. It is a book that conveys faith and hope without being overly preachy, and points readers towards Christ in a subtle and engaging way. If you enjoy adventure stories set in vast lands, then Lion Warrior is a must-read.

I received a complimentary copy from the author through Celebrate Lit, for my honest opinion.

[Charmy Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! It was a wonderful final book in this trilogy. It is necessary to read the first two books in the series to fully appreciate and understand the story line of this one. The characters were just as wonderful in this book and they really grew throughout their struggles in this one. One thing I really love about this series is the faith element. It is so strong and this book continues with that theme. The characters’ faith and reliance on the Rescuer is at the forefront of the story. I loved how the characters prayed when they were lost or facing trials. It was especially nice to see the character using Scripture to encourage one another and remind themselves of the Rescuer’s love and provision.
This book also introduced some new characters that had such interesting personalities. I loved how they helped the main characters we got to know so well from the other books. It was amazing to see the Rescuer’s grace and mercy portrayed to others through Connor, Lee, and Teegan’s actions. It is a great reminder that the Lord loves us and the trials we face are not without reason. The peace the characters have in the Rescuer is also inspiring. I can’t say enough about this book! I hope we will get more from the world of the Lightraiders!
WARNING: As in the previous books, there is the use of magic from the evil creatures and some violence. The magic is portrayed as evil and is not glorified. It is clear that it goes against the Rescuer and His commands. The violence is also not glorified and is not described in graphic detail. I honestly think this book and series would be a wonderful read for the family. I understand some may be concerned about the magic element but it is shown as evil and a distortion of the Rescuer’s gifts. I hope it does not deter any readers because this book is wonderful and inspiring!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Debs Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like with the first 2 books in this series I’m left saying: Wow!!
This series has an unusually large cast of protagonists. This is the final book & everything would be beyond hope if it wasn’t for the fact that they serve the higher power that is hope.

There are several storylines that intertwine, but the author lists the main protagonist and location at the beginning of each chapter so it’s easy to follow. There is also a glossary in the back, if need be.
Each book is named after the havarra (talking, warring animal) that partners with the main protagonist of the story. For this one, it’s Connor, the shepherd that became the leader of his class when they reopened the lightraider academy. His havarra is a lion who not only fights beside him but helps him find healing from some generational failings.

We get to see that first class finally graduate after bringing an end to the war. In this book, the enemy has breached the barrier and entered their land. The push his invaders back and they do this by defeating greater foes, finding an ancient weapon, learning new skills (gliding from the airships), making a new ally, saving the lost and all while refusing to kill the aladoth [unsaved] that are being manipulated to fight against them.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS ENTIRE SERIES!!
I love the fact that there is an RPG game that goes with it and was designed to disciple teens. Wait for it: players get extra wisdom points for quoting scripture from memory! The game also goes deeper into what the dark creatures, orc , goblins, represent.

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is evident that James Hannibal put a lot of work into the writing of the Lightraider Academy series. There are many characters, several different locations, and much world building that has taken place.
Unfortunately, I had a difficult time following all of the characters and action. I’m not sure I’ve read the second book in the series and it has been a long time since I read the first book. One thing that would have been very helpful in understanding the story would have been a synopsis of the previous books at the beginning of the story - a “previously in…” section if you will. There is a list of characters, places, terms and more at the end of the book but it wasn’t enough to refresh my memory.
In Lion Warrior the characters continue their fight against evil, all the time looking for new approaches in their fight. The series has the elements of epic fantasy - mythical characters, a quest, a world created by the author, and good vs. evil.
One of the things I really appreciated were the similarities between the Rescuer and God, between their Holy words and the Bible. Readers will be learning Biblical principles as they read the book.
Lion Warrior and the other books in the Lightraider Academy would be a great addition to a K-12 Christian school library. While it is a young adult fantasy, it is probably appropriate even for mature elementary children.
I received a complimentary copy of Lion Warrior. This is my honest review.

[Deana Dick · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book was a bit intimidating for me as it felt very long and at times I didn’t understand what was being said. However in the midst of the story emerges strength, trust and a road to faith. The characters are well defined and promise readers plenty of action. I did like how the author presents a story that not only gives us a look at a fantasy world but opens the doors to see beneath the surface.

At first glance I wasn’t too sure about the book but determination and commitment kept me going. After all the author gave everything to the story and it shows with details that help readers imagine being right there as the battle of good vs evil commences. I loved this quote in the book that says, “the Rescuer is sovereign. He helps us deal with the consequences of our action.” We have free choice. When we make a choice that may lead us astray, God allows us to deal with the consequences. It is not to punish us but to help us grow.

If you follow Connor closely in this adventure you will witness him continuing to pray. Those prayers are very familiar as scriptures from the Bible are recognizable. Fans of this genre will enjoy this book as the author does a great job of keeping characters interesting and the story line adventurous.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

copy!



Two truths about this book right at the start. I haven’t finish reading it ( 53%) and I really didn’t like it. This is the third book in the series and I liked the first one the best of all of all three. This series is about fighting different creatures and ending a war.This book allows us to start up where the second book ended. I strongly recommend reading the other two books first and in order. There are sections in this book that is written in language that I couldn’t understand but right after it is explains and it usually is a form of a Scriptural passage. I cannot give a star valve yet since I haven’t finished the book but of the 243 pages it has all been about this war with dragons and orcs and such. If you are a fan of fantasy then I say this is definitely say this should be your next read. Other readers have enjoyed this book. I listen to this on an audiobook.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

Update: I am reading on and am liking this book a little better. This book does explain Christian beliefs like having a Savior and asking Him for forgiveness and changing our habits to do right. Yes, I believe even unbelievers would like this book because it isn’t preachy even though it has Christian principles.

[James T · Rating 4 out of 5]

The conclusion to the lightraider academy trilogy is a good time and perhaps the strongest in the series. There’s a great sense of momentum to the prose and the brisk chapters make reading it quick and enjoyable.

As always, the sequences set in Telenathar are very captivating. The city of Emen Yan had some very cool set pieces and adventure to it. I really enjoyed Kara’s arc, essentially creating fantasy paratroopers. I’m not huge on the whole academy setting, and never liked Harry Potter and the like, but as the series evolved it had a more military academy feel to it and I enjoyed that more than the initial books setup as a kind of Christian Harry Potter.

I will say the brisk prose does have its downside as there are sequences that really need a bit more description. The final of the four sub books felt very rushed and left the ending feeling a bit unsatisfying. It came together well enough, but almost felt like an outline and not a fully realized conclusion.

It’s really impressive what the author has done with this series, taking something as corny and offbeat as DragonRaid and bringing it into such a fully realized world. I would definitely come back and read more adventures in this setting.

[Carol Keen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so happy to read the next book in this series. I would not advise reading this series out of order or without the other books. Not that it's not good, but you could be lost. This book has a lot more of the fight against the dark magic, and our hero, once a shepherd, who's now serving The Rescuer. (That's God, used in this parallel-like context.) There's a lot of action, and fights, and war. I like how Bible stories are worked into this series in creative ways. Connor prays scripture and I really liked that. Kara isn't left out of this story either. I liked it, and I'm glad I have read this series. It's got a lot of unique things and a strong faith, hope, and love message.

Thanks to Celebrate Lit for my digital copy of this book. This review is my own and a positive review is never required.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading James R Hannibal’s first two books from the Lightraider Academy series, Wolf Soldier and Bear Knight. I was excited to continue the series with the newest installment, Lion Warrior. It was great to take this adventure once again with the characters in the Dragon Lands. I was intrigued and fascinated with this story and liked it.

Lion Warrior will be getting four and a half stars from me. I believe teen readers who are fans and lovers of fantasy and science fiction genre will want to give this one a try. It is definitely worth a read. I am looking forward to seeing what else James R Hannibal has in store for his readers in his upcoming releases.

I received a digital copy of James R Hannibal's Lion Warrior from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Bekah Mims · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great way to end this series! I have been obsessed with this series since book 1, and it is a bittersweet moment to now finish the final book as the trilogy comes to a close. I was drawn into the story immediately, and the action was never-ending. I couldn’t put it down! I would have loved to see Connor and Kara working together a bit more during this final book, but I also think that their separation helped them to be exactly where as well as who they needed to be for the final battle. 10/10…highly recommend this series!!!

[J.P.C. Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

My son loved this series. This is his review: “I like the characters in Lion Warrior because they aren’t annoying or mushy, although there’s a romantic subplot. I also like how it wraps up The Lightraider Trilogy but leaves the possibility of more books. Action scenes are the author’s strong suit, gripping you throughout the whole scene. All of the characters, whether they are good guys or bad guys, act logically and not stupidly. I don’t like slap-you over-the-head-with-religion books, but the fantasy setting makes the faith element work.”

[Toni Stevens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Terrific Ending

Lion Warrior is the very exciting ending to a great series Lightraiders Academy. Full of adventure, excitement, suspense, daring, challenges, friendship, trust, faith and much more. Join in meeting Connor and other Knights of the Lightraiders order in Wolf Soldier. Continue with them as they battle the evil of the dragon lands in Bear Knight and ending with the final battle here in Lion Warrior. A very refreshing fantasy series.

[Christine Barth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think I would have given this 5 stars, except I had a hard time keeping track of characters. This is partly because I didn't have time to refresh myself on the events of the first two books. Overall, the story arc is fantastic and I loved this series.
There were a few sentences that just made me stop and think in the middle of the action, I was so moved.
I am excited for the Lightraider game possibilities, but I do wish Hannibal would return to writing adult thrillers, he's so talented.

[LadySnowAngel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid ending to the series. I liked most of the story, but there are a lot of characters to keep track of in this book. Would like have to have seen a little more of the original characters from Wolf Soldier.

[Marlene · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this last book in the Lightraider Trilogy, but it seemed a little rushed and spread too thin. The ending to me was anti-climatic. I had to go back and read several chapters again to understand it. I liked that it stayed squeaky clean. Three stars.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want more! I freaking love this series! James Hannibal is an amazing writer. If I ever have kids I want them to read this series. I might re read these books sometime.

[Donnesa McPherson · Rating 5 out of 5]

James Hannibal did an amazing job finishing this amazing trilogy! It definitely has me and my family ready to play the Lightraiders game!

[Jessica (^_^) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! Enjoyed the adventure!

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This entire trilogy is so good and adventurous for younger teens and up and especially for boys (but I really enjoyed them too!). Enjoy the danger, friendship, moral clarity, heart, and board game vibes. These books leave you better than they found you.

[Heather Greer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I know Lion Warrior is the third and final book in the Lightraider Academy series, but I don't want the story to end. I have only just realized I somehow missed the second installment, Bear Knight, but I will be rectifying that as soon as I finish my review. As much as I enjoyed the first and last books in the series, I know I don't want to miss the book that ties them together, even if I have read the ending first. 

And what a great ending it is! The attention to detail the author gives to the lightraider world brings richness to the story. And it's not just the physical setting of the story either. The characters are completely developed leaving them feeling like friends from another time instead of characters on a page. Though the cast of characters is full, the fleshing out of each one prevents them from being lost in the crowd.

One of my favorite things about the story is the way the author weaves in scripture so seemlessly. I know that's kind of the point of the series, but it's accomplished in a way that if someone didn't know scripture at all, they wouldn't be put off by its use in the story. It flows naturally through the action. The author has done a great job bringing the spiritual battle of life into the physical in a way that is entertaining. For believing readers, the story goes beyond entertainment. It's an encouragement and challenge to employ the truth of scripture in the everyday happenings of life. And though the story uses more scripture than any other story I've read, it never feels forced or preachy.

Lion Warrior is a fantastical joy to read. If you have fantasy loving teens in your life, they need to read this series. And, of course, you should read it too. I give it a full five stars. I received an ARC copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. The opinions and reviews are my own and freely given.