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The Sacred Fire Saga #2
The Fourth Scroll
A promised legacy. Looming darkness. Torn between duty and protecting their future, can a faithful young couple keep evil at bay?
Forced to conceal her identity, Sarah is stung by rejection from her new family. But her dreams of acceptance shatter after discovering the secret she carries makes her a target for bloodthirsty enemies.
Jacob wants nothing more than to fulfill his vows as a priest and loving husband. But when an assassin strikes in the heart of the holy city, his mystical talents fail and his loyalties are questioned.
Faced with escalating peril, Sarah fears standing her ground could doom everything she cherishes. While Jacob despairs he’s forever lost his gift and can’t prevent history repeating with deadly consequences.
Will an ancient scroll hold the answers they need to escape with their lives?
The Fourth Scroll is the breathtaking second book in The Sacred Fire Saga YA fantasy series. If you like spirited heroines, finding strength in love, and facing down impossible odds, then you’ll adore Karen Grunst’s transformative tale.
Forced to conceal her identity, Sarah is stung by rejection from her new family. But her dreams of acceptance shatter after discovering the secret she carries makes her a target for bloodthirsty enemies.
Jacob wants nothing more than to fulfill his vows as a priest and loving husband. But when an assassin strikes in the heart of the holy city, his mystical talents fail and his loyalties are questioned.
Faced with escalating peril, Sarah fears standing her ground could doom everything she cherishes. While Jacob despairs he’s forever lost his gift and can’t prevent history repeating with deadly consequences.
Will an ancient scroll hold the answers they need to escape with their lives?
The Fourth Scroll is the breathtaking second book in The Sacred Fire Saga YA fantasy series. If you like spirited heroines, finding strength in love, and facing down impossible odds, then you’ll adore Karen Grunst’s transformative tale.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 16, 2024
4 people are currently reading
14 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 30, 2023
This is the second book in The Scared Fire Saga.
It started right off with a bang and kept going.
It was a captivating tale about the happenings and journey of Sarah and Jacob.
How their lives become part of the old prophecies and how it all plays out.
There is action, adventure, drama, family relationships, loyalty, evil darkness, and beautiful light. There are also tender moments of romance and endearing love.
This is a YA fantasy book and is well-written.
I read the first book in this saga and now this one and I am looking forward to reading the next. (Because I believe there will be a next one, to see what’s to come with the prophecies.)
Karen Grunst has been a new author to me this year and I’ve enjoyed reading what she’s written. Her writing was easy to read and full of wonderful images. The characters were well-developed and very relatable.
I highly recommend picking this book up to read if you like YA fiction and Christian fantasy.
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
It started right off with a bang and kept going.
It was a captivating tale about the happenings and journey of Sarah and Jacob.
How their lives become part of the old prophecies and how it all plays out.
There is action, adventure, drama, family relationships, loyalty, evil darkness, and beautiful light. There are also tender moments of romance and endearing love.
This is a YA fantasy book and is well-written.
I read the first book in this saga and now this one and I am looking forward to reading the next. (Because I believe there will be a next one, to see what’s to come with the prophecies.)
Karen Grunst has been a new author to me this year and I’ve enjoyed reading what she’s written. Her writing was easy to read and full of wonderful images. The characters were well-developed and very relatable.
I highly recommend picking this book up to read if you like YA fiction and Christian fantasy.
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 14, 2024
Not having read the first book in this series, there were probably some elements that I didn't understand quite as well as those who have read book 1, but I didn't feel at all lost or lacking essential knowledge of the world or characters.
I found the worldbuilding in this book intriguing, and the characters are likeable and act believably. Some of the religious systems read a bit Catholic (written veneration of a Mary figure, last rites, very formal services with a heavily involved priesthood, lots of Latin, etc.). I'm not sure if that's intentional though, since there are other factors that significantly differ from Catholicism (i.e. priests can and do marry and father children).
I'm a tad torn on the presentation of a Jesus figure whose life and birth mimic the virgin birth, but the character themselves is clearly depicted as being biologically linked to both mother and father. It feels a little problematic to me, but others may not feel the same.
I also feel this book isn't categorized as well as it ought to be. To me, it should be marked as adult or new adult, not YA. There are several moments where marital sex and physical intimacy is very heavily implied, if not stated. There are also moments where characters do or say things that are clearly sexual in nature, even if it's not stated outrightly. The main characters are also of a NA/adult age group, and this book does not come across as having been written for a 12-18yo audience, especially not the 12-15 group.
Overall, I thought it was an interesting book, and I'd be willing to read another installment of this world.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author for review purposes. All thoughts expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I found the worldbuilding in this book intriguing, and the characters are likeable and act believably. Some of the religious systems read a bit Catholic (written veneration of a Mary figure, last rites, very formal services with a heavily involved priesthood, lots of Latin, etc.). I'm not sure if that's intentional though, since there are other factors that significantly differ from Catholicism (i.e. priests can and do marry and father children).
I'm a tad torn on the presentation of a Jesus figure whose life and birth mimic the virgin birth, but the character themselves is clearly depicted as being biologically linked to both mother and father. It feels a little problematic to me, but others may not feel the same.
I also feel this book isn't categorized as well as it ought to be. To me, it should be marked as adult or new adult, not YA. There are several moments where marital sex and physical intimacy is very heavily implied, if not stated. There are also moments where characters do or say things that are clearly sexual in nature, even if it's not stated outrightly. The main characters are also of a NA/adult age group, and this book does not come across as having been written for a 12-18yo audience, especially not the 12-15 group.
Overall, I thought it was an interesting book, and I'd be willing to read another installment of this world.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author for review purposes. All thoughts expressed in this review are entirely my own.
August 26, 2024
The Fourth Scroll is an immensely engrossing read. Although not traditionally a fan of the fantasy genre, I found myself totally caught up in Karen Grunst's second installment in the series. Grunst has included a wide cast of characters in The Fourth Scroll and her main character, Sarah, remains wonderfully likeable and easy to pull for. The plot twists keep the story moving at a fast pace and also keep the reader totally caught up in Sarah's journey. I enjoyed this book and anxiously look forward to the next installment to find out what happens next to Sarah. There is something in this book for everyone and I highly recommend that everyone read it.
January 23, 2024
The Fourth Scroll perfectly continues the story flowingly. The characters are so well written you feel you are part of their world. It's exciting, riveting and the spirituality will
leave you with goosebumps. It's a must read for young and old.
leave you with goosebumps. It's a must read for young and old.
October 5, 2024
Will their love survive? Will they…?
Pretty much everything I said in my review for the previous book pertains to this one:
*I really enjoy religious-themed conspiracy theories and this one did not disappoint.
*The book was long enough in order for the author to flesh-out the backstories as well as her characters.
*There is mention of many names and events from the Tanakh, yet the author has employed in such a way that is her own rather than just another one of those misinterpretations of someone else’s religion. I really appreciate how she did that – it certainly made reading the book much more enjoyable and I would continue reading this series.
*Though this is a work of fiction, there are some truths that the world’s holy cities do have real-world problems in them. Unfortunately, they do not live up to their title.
Something I noticed this time around was the ease in which the characters communed with their god. As in saying thank you for things that may seem inconsequential, mentioning him / his plan at any given moment, etc. There was such a … not a quite casualness, but rather a familiarity … similar to how we spoke about our grandparents back in the day (even after reaching adulthood). A kind of respectful distance…
Unfortunately, not everybody has the same respect for the priesthood (in general) or (specifically) Jacob’s & Sarah’s families. Evil plans are afoot and evil people lurk in dark corners to set them in motion.
Wise words from the widowed:
‘The love of a good woman can bring out our best.’
‘The years may dull the pain of loss, but they don’t erase it.’
Love is not only the blossoming of romance; love is the sharing of goals and decades of common memories.
May the world regain balance with faith & respect for others as well as know the joy of long-term love.
Pretty much everything I said in my review for the previous book pertains to this one:
*I really enjoy religious-themed conspiracy theories and this one did not disappoint.
*The book was long enough in order for the author to flesh-out the backstories as well as her characters.
*There is mention of many names and events from the Tanakh, yet the author has employed in such a way that is her own rather than just another one of those misinterpretations of someone else’s religion. I really appreciate how she did that – it certainly made reading the book much more enjoyable and I would continue reading this series.
*Though this is a work of fiction, there are some truths that the world’s holy cities do have real-world problems in them. Unfortunately, they do not live up to their title.
Something I noticed this time around was the ease in which the characters communed with their god. As in saying thank you for things that may seem inconsequential, mentioning him / his plan at any given moment, etc. There was such a … not a quite casualness, but rather a familiarity … similar to how we spoke about our grandparents back in the day (even after reaching adulthood). A kind of respectful distance…
Unfortunately, not everybody has the same respect for the priesthood (in general) or (specifically) Jacob’s & Sarah’s families. Evil plans are afoot and evil people lurk in dark corners to set them in motion.
Wise words from the widowed:
‘The love of a good woman can bring out our best.’
‘The years may dull the pain of loss, but they don’t erase it.’
Love is not only the blossoming of romance; love is the sharing of goals and decades of common memories.
May the world regain balance with faith & respect for others as well as know the joy of long-term love.
January 1, 2024
I enjoyed the gentle pace of the story and how the gradual unfolding of prophecy comes about through the ordinary lives of the young couple and their family.
January 16, 2024
A MUST-READ FOR ALL READERS!
While I don’t normally read fantasy novels that much, Karen Grunst’s Fourth Scroll was worth reading. It’s a fast-paced thriller that kept me turning the pages. Nothing bores me more than predictability, and this book was anything but.
I liked the well-developed characters. They were nuanced, wrestling with difficult challenges while dealing with internal conflict. Since I read Sacred Fire, I appreciated continuing the saga with these characters, while diving deeper into others not featured as deeply in Book 1. It was rewarding to watch certain troublesome characters like Jonah and Peter grow in Book 2.
For the romance reader, the love between Jacob and Sarah is pure and evolving. They’re wrestling with evil, family turmoil, and anticipating something beautiful, yet transforming. Of course, that alters their world and stirs up the kingdom as well. I was rooting for them, hoping they could get some respite from the evil they fight.
Karen develops the kingdom of Aclesia well. I felt like I dove into a futuristic Biblical kingdom with all those elements: supernatural powers, ancient prophesies, feuding clans, and sacred texts. If you enjoy reading the Old Testament stories, this is the book for you. And there’s even a beautifully created map as a resource.
If you like to solve puzzles, this book is for you. The book uncovers supernatural elements with precise suspense, revealing and giving mysteries throughout. It was rewarding to discover answers unfolding, but suspenseful when more questions arose. While Fourth Scroll ends on a cliffhanger, I was satisfied with the answers this story provided while anticipating the next book.
Because Fourth Scroll hits notes from almost all genres, I highly recommend this book to all readers.
While I don’t normally read fantasy novels that much, Karen Grunst’s Fourth Scroll was worth reading. It’s a fast-paced thriller that kept me turning the pages. Nothing bores me more than predictability, and this book was anything but.
I liked the well-developed characters. They were nuanced, wrestling with difficult challenges while dealing with internal conflict. Since I read Sacred Fire, I appreciated continuing the saga with these characters, while diving deeper into others not featured as deeply in Book 1. It was rewarding to watch certain troublesome characters like Jonah and Peter grow in Book 2.
For the romance reader, the love between Jacob and Sarah is pure and evolving. They’re wrestling with evil, family turmoil, and anticipating something beautiful, yet transforming. Of course, that alters their world and stirs up the kingdom as well. I was rooting for them, hoping they could get some respite from the evil they fight.
Karen develops the kingdom of Aclesia well. I felt like I dove into a futuristic Biblical kingdom with all those elements: supernatural powers, ancient prophesies, feuding clans, and sacred texts. If you enjoy reading the Old Testament stories, this is the book for you. And there’s even a beautifully created map as a resource.
If you like to solve puzzles, this book is for you. The book uncovers supernatural elements with precise suspense, revealing and giving mysteries throughout. It was rewarding to discover answers unfolding, but suspenseful when more questions arose. While Fourth Scroll ends on a cliffhanger, I was satisfied with the answers this story provided while anticipating the next book.
Because Fourth Scroll hits notes from almost all genres, I highly recommend this book to all readers.
May 10, 2024
This is a quick-paced read of a land riven by mountains and a city divided by mayhem. I enjoyed the interplay of varied relationships against a backdrop of intrigue, found family, and faith.
The priestly line of Eleazar has long prophesied the Heir of the Sacred Fire is is soon to come.
When Sarah marries Jacob, the high priest is terribly angry, for her very presence threatens the prophecy, the purity of his line, and the people. The secret of her birth, if revealed, would bring down on them a mighty enemy. For danger lurks in the seen and unseen realm. Among good people and evil schemers, will their love stand the test of the unexpected?
Family dynamics between brothers, sisters and fathers-in-law, and Sarah and her beloved, add complexity to a tale of truth, treachery, and trust. Will they fall alone, or stand together? The future of many and the fate of the Holy City rests on the choices of each.
The priestly line of Eleazar has long prophesied the Heir of the Sacred Fire is is soon to come.
When Sarah marries Jacob, the high priest is terribly angry, for her very presence threatens the prophecy, the purity of his line, and the people. The secret of her birth, if revealed, would bring down on them a mighty enemy. For danger lurks in the seen and unseen realm. Among good people and evil schemers, will their love stand the test of the unexpected?
Family dynamics between brothers, sisters and fathers-in-law, and Sarah and her beloved, add complexity to a tale of truth, treachery, and trust. Will they fall alone, or stand together? The future of many and the fate of the Holy City rests on the choices of each.
October 15, 2024
Karen is an amazing storyteller.
If you read Sacred Fire, this is a must read for you.
Sarah and Jacob are characters you root for and so is their union. These spirited heroines display the strength found in Biblical love. Even facing impossible odds, they stand firm in the call on their lives, knowing the power of their purposes - as individuals and as one.
A wonderful supportive cast keeps you turning the pages well into the evening.
Enjoy this special tale. I hope you harness the strength of The Sacred Fire, in your reading and in your life. There is much to learn and apply from
The Fourth Scroll.
Thank you, Karen, for an empowering, encouraging and fantastic read.
If you read Sacred Fire, this is a must read for you.
Sarah and Jacob are characters you root for and so is their union. These spirited heroines display the strength found in Biblical love. Even facing impossible odds, they stand firm in the call on their lives, knowing the power of their purposes - as individuals and as one.
A wonderful supportive cast keeps you turning the pages well into the evening.
Enjoy this special tale. I hope you harness the strength of The Sacred Fire, in your reading and in your life. There is much to learn and apply from
The Fourth Scroll.
Thank you, Karen, for an empowering, encouraging and fantastic read.
October 4, 2024
In this second book of The Sacred Fire Saga, Karen Grunst captures the essence of the intrinsic desire to be a part of something larger than ourselves. As the newlyweds try to live a normal life, the supernatural forces of good and evil sweep them into a life they don't recognize. Their bond and determination to fight against evil through the powers given by God is an inspiration for anyone in a spiritual battle. I enjoyed reading especially as the plot thickened adding much suspense to the mystery of the fourth scroll and its revealed contents.
November 12, 2024
A YA Fantasy Christian adventure that is worth investing time to read!!
I have not ever read a book by Karen Grunst and I jumped into this series backwards, meaning I started with this book. So I can't reference any of the first book experience I can only say that this is great!!
The action starts off from the first page and doesn't let up until the end.
I loved this book, and now I have a new Christian author that I will be enjoying for a long time to come.
I have not ever read a book by Karen Grunst and I jumped into this series backwards, meaning I started with this book. So I can't reference any of the first book experience I can only say that this is great!!
The action starts off from the first page and doesn't let up until the end.
I loved this book, and now I have a new Christian author that I will be enjoying for a long time to come.
January 17, 2024
I received a beta copy of The Fourth Scroll, an exciting sequel in The Sacred Fire Saga series. I binge read both books, enjoying the twists and turns of this medieval fantasy adventure. As a writer, I'm not easily surprised by the endings of books but this book definitely kept me guessing.
January 9, 2024
Releases 16 January
February 8, 2024
A second outstanding book. Sarah and Jacob just want to live a quiet life together as a newlywed couple. Sarah feels unwanted by her new family. Jacob’s magic doesn’t seem to work. How will they stay safe. Well written, the characters make you feel a part of the story. Can’t wait for more.
January 16, 2024
A captivating read with exciting adventure, wise narration, and pleasant surprises.
December 18, 2023
Sarah and Jacob's life continue to encounter obstacles and knowing what the prophecy is telling them is scary. They need to keep their marriage a secret from the people and also something else. Peter and Jacob's lives are turned upside down by a tragedy and it gets worse when Jacob is accused of something. Peter needs to keep his aliment hidden also. There are friends and foes, and it is hard to determine who can be trusted. A great second book and looking forward to the next one.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews