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The Flame of the White Horseman

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An orphan girl trapped. A man destined for darkness. Can love be trusted to rescue?

The world is not what it was. Light is but a tiny flickering flame in a blanket of darkness, struggling not to be snuffed out. Lucia, an orphan girl, is also a Core, a physical manifestation of Elohim’s pure love and part of an ancient prophecy that will prevent the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse from being controlled by the darkness to destroy everything good. But Lucia’s not so sure she believes that anymore. Her upbringing by the Amilign monks has given her more questions than answers.

When the extent of the Amilign’s evil plans for her future is revealed, Lucia flees their mountain ashram, only to run into the mysterious Nicanor, who offers to take her to the prophets who possess the answers she seeks. Instinctively drawn to Nicanor and his white horse, Adira, the same horse who’s been haunting her dreams for years, Lucia wars with her growing feelings for her guide. But her years at the ashram have taught her not to trust anyone, and Nicanor hoards secrets like dragons their treasure.

When the truth about the nature of Lucia’s bond with the horseman comes to light and Lucia is unexpectedly recaptured by the enemy, Nicanor faces a hard decision. Will he continue to let fear rule his future—and Lucia’s—or will he unlock the heavenly power Elohim gifted before it’s too late for everyone?

284 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 15, 2024

22 people are currently reading
289 people want to read

About the author

Jess K. Chavez

3 books19 followers
Jess K. Chavez is an author of the fantasy/romantasy genre. She has a B.A. in Journalism and a voracious love of reading.

You can usually find her curled up in front of the fireplace, reading or writing while consuming copious amounts of cold brew coffee. On the off chance she's doing something else, it's most likely yoga, walking her dogs, or at some baseball game, swim meet, orchestra concert, or dance performance for one of her kids. She's also a remodeling hobbyist, lover of sunsets and Fall, and a total foodie who could easily spend her days eating Mexican, Mediterranean, or Indian food.

She’s a wife to her best friend and high school sweetheart, a mom to three amazing and inspiring humans, a fur mom to two goldendoodles, and a lover and follower of Jesus. She lives with her crew in sunny Colorado, nestled in the landscape of the Rocky Mountains.

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5 stars
34 (47%)
4 stars
24 (33%)
3 stars
11 (15%)
2 stars
2 (2%)
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1 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
37 reviews2 followers
April 1, 2025
This book has a beautiful cover, and I really wish I could have liked it. The blurb sounded interesting, and I wanted to give the author a chance. I'm sorry to say I was quite disappointed.

The plot was confusing and the book seemed to have a weird dependence on the main couple falling in love. They met about 25% in, and proceeded to almost complete fall in love, in the next 20% in the time span of about 2 weeks. The fmc is also described as having trust issues multiple times. But then she starts trusting this guy in only a week, and seems to instantly trust the group he brings her to. It's all really confusing, and I couldn't figure out what the purpose of the prophecy was. Also, the attraction with the main couple was almost purely physical, which made them seem extremely 2 dimensional. I got over half way through this book and it ended up a dnf 😏
Profile Image for Ashley Slaughter.
Author 3 books32 followers
March 14, 2024
What a debut! Jess K. Chavez writes a beautiful and compelling story that explores trust, self-discovery, and a fresh perspective on the age-old battle of good vs evil. The romance between the two main characters is so strong and purely love that I ached every time they parted. Lucia’s path of learning her self-worth is a dark one lit by the light of good she chooses to welcome into her soul. I truly had a hard time putting this story down! I’m so excited for the rest of the series.

Perfect for fans of:
Dystopian/apocalyptic settings
Powerful romance (steamy clean)
Fated bond
Found family
Good vs evil/religious undertones
CS Lewis
Cassandra Clare
Profile Image for Sarah.
83 reviews
July 27, 2025
I was immediately drawn into this story from the very first page! The writing is so eloquent and flows seamlessly. The writing style made it really easy for me to visualize the story.

I liked the concept of the four cores encompassing specific traits that help them bond with their horsemen. I also enjoyed how each horseman’s identity is both a marker of their strength, and weakness, until confronted by them.

I loved the sense of adventure, and can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
1 review
June 7, 2024
I absolutely love this book and would read it multiple times. Which is weird for me to say because I have a hard time getting into books, but this book was just so freaking good! I definitely recommend to anybody and everybody
Profile Image for Amory Cannon.
Author 11 books24 followers
March 2, 2024
4.5 stars
The premise is so fresh and exciting. The themes were beautiful and woven together nicely. And I loved the partnership between Nic and Lucia. So beautiful. I can’t wait to read the next one!
26 reviews
April 21, 2024
This book is amazing, Jess! It was engulfing and beautifully written. It was so inspiring. I’m so excited for the next one. You are incredible.
Profile Image for Stephanie Loux.
620 reviews1 follower
April 2, 2024
Just finished rereading Jess K. Chavez’s debut novel and I’m so proud and excited for her! It’s kind of dystopian meets YA romance meets C.S. Lewis and is the first in a series. It’s very well done and new fantasy series for all of us!
Profile Image for Tammy's Nook.
40 reviews
August 28, 2025
So, wow, this was an interesting style of fantasy and sci-fi storyline. I'm used to the post-apocalyptic plotline, but honestly I was hooked by the prologue, so let's start with the review before I give away any spoilers. 

At first I was expecting world-building like Maze Runner, much more post-apocalyptic or much deadlier because of the deadly creatures or something like that, but I noticed that the scary stuff showcased the nature of the villains of the story, not the world-building or dangerous surroundings. 
That aspect makes much stronger the narrative told by the main plot throughout the book; by this I mean that even though the world-building isn’t a chaotic one, that doesn't mean that what looks or is perceived as "beautiful" by everyone is actually safe. I got honestly scared because the villains in the story are not made up; it could be anyone that decides to crave power and use it or abuse it for hurting people. 

Now about the MCs, man, talk about traumatized characters, but what's interesting is that the traumas aren’t the personalities of the MCs; that's what makes a much more complex character—the small details on the interaction with the plot that tell their core personality. 

For example, at first it seems typical that the story fixes Lucia's narrative only on the romantic approach and her need of knowing the truth at all times (very Violet of Iron Wing), but by 3/4 of the book you notice details on the change of Lucia's personality, that she seems much more resilient not because of knowing the truth but also by knowing she's loved in more than a romantic way. 

Since I'm used to the same line of FMC, I enjoyed her character development, like her showing trust even though everything in her life had taught her to do the opposite. 

About the dynamic of both MCs, I liked the respect they showed for each other at some point in the story. It's not only attractions but understanding their individual personalities and respecting what each of them wants that makes their interaction much more intriguing. 

I loved Laz's character. I liked that he's much more wise and mature for his age, how his advice isn’t complex—it's just humble and admiring in nature—and it seems like a nice way to keep the childlike faith of the character but still showcase his wisdom.

I think I'll leave my review at that since I'll be reading the next book in the series, so I'll know much more of the story. I'll see you (technically read you) at the next review for the book The Strike of the Red Horseman. Thank you to the amazing author for letting me be a (very late) ARC reader. 
Profile Image for funkelbunt.liest.
381 reviews5 followers
December 31, 2025
3,5 stars rounded to 4
This book started sooo good! I was immediately sucked into the story, into the mystery and danger and was invested in the characters' fates.

While this book is well written and I really appreciate the author’s efforts to write a romantasy that points to our lord, I have to admit that my enjoyment soon and quickly faded because of the romance.

It’s not only an absolute extreme of insta love, it’s also solely based on physical appearance - and of course their fates being bonded or something. There is no emotional connection, no reason to fall in love other than they find each other extremely hot and that they just can’t help it, since they are destined to be with each other. It was also way too physical for my liking and I found the lusting after each other (not to mention the monk scene near the end that seemed to have no purpose other than to show how sexually attractive the main character was, it was MUCH too detailed) to be rather off putting and I personally think the steam level was too high for a Christian book and especially for a Christian YA story.

My personal rating would be a 3 at most, but I want to be generous because of the intriguing beginning and overall concept.

* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
195 reviews2 followers
December 16, 2024
It took me a hot minute to get into this book- I kept seeing it at the top of my list but with the holidays my reading time was significantly diminished. Then I thought I would start it at 8:30PM and read the first chapter. I ended up closing the last page around 3AM unintentionally but it sweeps you in. While the action or magic isn't epic the love story between the MC's is beautifully written- there is tension and intrigue. The FMC is wounded both physically and emotionally and I love how the MMC handles that.

The world does have various religious-isms from several different major religions and ancient history. I found it refreshing to pull from so many places.

Finally the book is actually fairly clean but there is a lot of sexual tension and references that I personally had no issues with. Frankly it was refreshing to read a clean book that felt like it was written for an adult vs a child/ pre teen like many clean fantasies. With that said they are references to SA so I would not recommend for very young readers.

Overall 5 stars and I can't wait to read the rest of the series! It is has me on the edge of my seat and I can't wait for more!
Profile Image for Toni Cabell.
Author 22 books142 followers
July 22, 2024
A riveting fantasy romance involving heavenly beings (horsemen of the apocalypse and their mates) versus demonic types. The setting is dystopian, with most cities desolate and most people hopeless. The future of mankind hangs in the balance—and it's a battle of extreme good versus extreme evil. The romantic connection between the main characters may help or hinder the heaven-sent men and women attempting to wrest control from the depraved monks who appear to be in charge.

This a closed-door romance with sizzling chemistry between the MMC and FMC, intimacy level 3, with mild swearing, and no excessive gore. Triggers include attempted rape, physical and mental abuse, and imprisonment (keep in mind the bad guys are demonic). Recommended for mature readers, new adult and above, given the intense, high stakes nature of the world building and story. An excellent debut novel by Jess K. Chavez!
Profile Image for BookishVibesClub.
260 reviews69 followers
February 7, 2025
Holy swoon, Batman ❤️‍🔥 Move over fae males, the Horsemen have entered the chat. This book was filled with tension and swoon and really gave me a lot of From Blood and Ash feels 🔥 but in a low spice, fast-paced plot package. You get a captive who escapes and is rescued by her hero and that’s where all the swoony tension begins.

Romantasy filled with ancient prophesies and the power of Elohim ruling through love and guidance and trust. This is a monotheistic God system, based on the Bible, and has elementals finding strength and peace through trust and prayer.

❤️‍🔥 Chosen One
❤️‍🔥 Prophesies
❤️‍🔥 Found Family
❤️‍🔥 Captive x Rescuer
❤️‍🔥 Mysterious Identities
❤️‍🔥 One Horse
❤️‍🔥 One Bedroll
❤️‍🔥 Fated Mates
❤️‍🔥 Burn the World for Her
❤️‍🔥 Touch her and ☠️

The Flame of the White Horseman is a 5⭐️ 🫑🫑🫑(steamy feeling, fade to black)
Profile Image for Sara.
639 reviews50 followers
March 25, 2025
The Flame of the White Horseman by Jess Chavez
🔥 A heroine who wants to believe
🔥 Evil monks
🔥 Bonded main characters
🔥 Heavenly power
🔥 Fade to black romance
Genre: Christian fantasy
Our heroine, Lucia, is a part of an ancient prophecy that will prevent the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse from being controlled by darkness. I was expecting this one to have more of a fantasy feel but because of the post apocalyptic setting it felt mainly dystopian to me. There is lots of Biblical symbolism which I thought was woven in well. This one does have a bit too much romance for me (too much sharing of bedrolls for my taste), but I may continue the series as I am interested in finding out the stories of the other brothers. I would also consider this one New Adult rather than YA becuase of the monk scenes. An exciting read just not quite my style.
Tales of the Four Horsemen book 1
⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Sharon Hughson.
Author 32 books63 followers
May 14, 2025
Dystopian Allegory

Although this story starts slow, persevere, reader friend. It picks up the pace around one-third in and doesn’t slow until the final page.

Lucia has been a prisoner, and I was a bit surprised at this twist because of the prologue. All is eventually explained, and in the light of personal experience, it even makes sense.

There are multiple dark moments in this story and I wouldn’t recommend the book for anyone under 15. Evil plays an essential role in the world - and this story - but some things don’t need to be experienced by the innocent.

Nic is incredible. I didn’t fully understand his emotional battle but the reconciliation felt authentic.

The evolution of the four horsemen of the apocalypse to fit this dystopian setting is interesting and a unique twist on the concept when you marry it with the prophecy of Cores.
Profile Image for Ashley Lavering.
Author 10 books125 followers
July 6, 2025
Beautiful cover

This story was interesting in the theme. The character acted very immature, rash, and at times very cheesy. Hardships were quickly overcome and talk of bad things happening to them didn't have the emotion punch needed for connection to the characters because of how unrealistic they acted at times. I think the plot line has potential and the brothers are interesting. So I will keep reading, even if I skim pages at times.
Profile Image for Moriah Waddell.
3 reviews
December 10, 2024
To say that I adore this book, in a huge understatement! I was captivated right out the gate!

I quickly fell in love with the characters, the story, the writing, and the biblical themes and quotes throughout the book! Jess has completely encapsulated the Love of God in this and it shows in every word written!

I cannot wait to continue this story in the books to come!!
18 reviews
November 24, 2024
One of the best fantasy books I've read in a long time!!!!!!

I absolutely loved this book! I was pulled into it from the moment I started reading it. I can't wait for the rest of the series.
Profile Image for Ashley.
156 reviews1 follower
March 18, 2025
Read several chapters but DNFed because this seems to be a bit darker of a story than I was expecting or wanting to read. I still gave what I read a 3 stars because it is well written and has a compelling plot.
Profile Image for Stephanie .
29 reviews1 follower
September 13, 2025
This was a good multiple feelings read!
If you are sensitive to abuse of all kinds this might not be your kind of read. Its not graphic or gross, but it is there. It felt empowering to read and the FMCs growth towards the end. Slow burn and respectful MMC.

Easy/Fast fantasy read =)
Profile Image for Kat Crowder.
192 reviews3 followers
September 22, 2025
Amazing!

This book is amazing! I loved every minute of it! I couldn’t put it down! The storyline is engaging and draws you in. The world building is easy to understand and follow. I love the characters and the story progression. Definitely recommend this book!
8 reviews
July 1, 2024
Such a great read, love the descriptive writing! It grabs you from the start, and is exciting and kept me interested throughout and excited for book 2! Highly recommend
Profile Image for Maggie.
47 reviews
February 18, 2025
I loved the intricacy of this book yet the simplicity of it as well. No spice and a unique perspective on Christ. I can’t wait to read the next book.
Profile Image for A.
87 reviews
December 15, 2024
Glad I gave this book/series a chance!

I am glad I gave this book a chance, and I will read the next one when it comes out.

There were very few errors and I would say the composition overall was pretty good for a new author. There was more religiosity than I anticipated based on the blurb. I don’t bring it up to say that was a bad/good, just to say it was more prevalent in the story than I expected. I think I expected it to be more on the world building end rather than an increasingly important component of the everyday life for the characters. **I want to add, clearly, that I think it worked and that I wasn’t put off by it**

It isn’t often I want to pop the MMC one and say “get it together!”, so that was a nice change of pace! I enjoyed Lu and Nic together, and I enjoyed Lu’s interactions with the other Horsemen. I hope we get more moments of those two wrapped up in each other so sweetly in public going forward.

Looking forward to the next book, especially because of the strong personalities of Ansel and Cai!
Profile Image for Alyssa Estep.
89 reviews4 followers
August 12, 2025
The core is the savor of the 4 horsemen destined to bring darkness into the world. The core is the opposite of the horseman, i.e., war and peace. If the core isn't found in time to turn the horseman toward the light, they will unleash vengeance upon the world, causing mass destruction.

Lu has been locked away with monks in a fortress strategically placed on a mountain. For 9 years, she has been trained and punished to get ready for the role she will have the day she turns 19. After meeting a warrior and exposing Lu to the truth, she realizes there is more darkness than she imagined and must find a way out before it's too late.

Nic is a mysterious man who is on the good side of the line, he travels the world when he is restless and goes on missions when he is asked to. He is sent on a mission to rescue a girl who will escape this mountain fortress. He isn't told when this will happen, but it's supposed to happen soon. In the meantime, he chops wood and has built a cabin for himself to pass the time.

Conquest and his ego are something else, poor Lu doesn't stand a chance for most of the story. There were times when I wanted to yell at the MMC for being stupid and letting pride win out over destiny. I loved the story and how it depicts the horseman. Normally, stories tell of the destruction and death they bring to the world. This brings them into a new light and gives them a way out of their supposed roles. I loved reading this fantasy romance and can't wait to read about the other 3 horsemen and their cores.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews

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