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What Remains Amid the Flames
Fight or flee?
Will they live in hiding or die, boldly proclaiming their faith?
It’s been nearly three years since Vala Lee’s world was turned upside down by the Guard, a government agency eradicating Christians—known as the Remnant. But the battle against those forces started long before Vala imagined.
In the riveting conclusion to the What Remains series, Vala and her brother, Caleb, are forced to confront the unknown as they investigate a mysterious journal and scattered clues left by their parents—once again facing their fears and the Guard—while grasping for purpose amidst continuing adversity.
As the forces of oppression close in around them, both must ask themselves what they are willing to sacrifice and whether they can withstand the fire that will surely come.
Will they live in hiding or die, boldly proclaiming their faith?
It’s been nearly three years since Vala Lee’s world was turned upside down by the Guard, a government agency eradicating Christians—known as the Remnant. But the battle against those forces started long before Vala imagined.
In the riveting conclusion to the What Remains series, Vala and her brother, Caleb, are forced to confront the unknown as they investigate a mysterious journal and scattered clues left by their parents—once again facing their fears and the Guard—while grasping for purpose amidst continuing adversity.
As the forces of oppression close in around them, both must ask themselves what they are willing to sacrifice and whether they can withstand the fire that will surely come.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 22, 2025
3 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
B.R. Goodwin
10 books239 followersB.R. Goodwin is a Georgia native, married to her college sweetheart, and the mother of three wild animal children she adores. When she isn’t writing Christian Fiction, she’s reading, hiking, bee-keeping, soccer mom-ing, homeschooling, or planning her family’s next big adventure while drinking copious amounts of tea and coffee.
Above all else, the heartbeat of everything she does in life, friendship, and writing is with an eye to sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ with everyone she meets.
She recently dove head & heart first into the contemporary rom-com genre and is having the time of her life cackling at her own jokes and dreaming up swoon-worthy storylines for her characters.
Above all else, the heartbeat of everything she does in life, friendship, and writing is with an eye to sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ with everyone she meets.
She recently dove head & heart first into the contemporary rom-com genre and is having the time of her life cackling at her own jokes and dreaming up swoon-worthy storylines for her characters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
December 18, 2024
Oh my stars! I don't even have the words for how awesome the conclusion of the What Remains series is. This entire series, but especially this book, was pure perfection. Faith tested in fire and displayed in such a way that bolsters my own, encourages me to do the will of God, and want to improve my faith life. And don't even get me started on the romance, as all Remnant fans know #LucaForever. Each book builds on each other so when you read this one, it's everything you've wanted in a ya dystopian romance. The resounding hope and faith that God will never forsake you is so poignant. I teared up many times and swooned just as much.
BR Goodwin, hat's off to you.
*I received an ARC copy from the publisher. I was not required nor influenced to leave a review. I will buy my own paperbacks to put on my keeper shelf for future rereads.
BR Goodwin, hat's off to you.
*I received an ARC copy from the publisher. I was not required nor influenced to leave a review. I will buy my own paperbacks to put on my keeper shelf for future rereads.
January 27, 2025
I can’t tell you how much I love this series. It’s just…everything. BR Goodwin made us super fans wait for this final chapter to the most captivating saga. But it was worth the wait!
What Remains is a captivating, poignant, heart wrenching, hope-filled YA dystopian series that you don’t want to miss. It’s filled with so many moments where you want to scream and cheer and weep.
Get your tissues and emotional support chocolate and buckle up for the ride!
What Remains is a captivating, poignant, heart wrenching, hope-filled YA dystopian series that you don’t want to miss. It’s filled with so many moments where you want to scream and cheer and weep.
Get your tissues and emotional support chocolate and buckle up for the ride!
January 2, 2025
Absolutely perfect. This may be the hardest review I write because this series is so dear to my heart and it’s so well done I just don’t have adequate words.
Every character is brilliantly written, every scene is placed to perfection. Every heartbreak will be worn like a badge of honor because I understand the why. Amid the Flames is the perfect ending to the What Remains series. You will laugh, cry, want to scream, laugh again and then swoon. I released a sigh of contentment when I finished. Thank you Brianna for writing it. I pray I live out the message and that this series reaches far and wide to touch the hearts of many thousands.
Every character is brilliantly written, every scene is placed to perfection. Every heartbreak will be worn like a badge of honor because I understand the why. Amid the Flames is the perfect ending to the What Remains series. You will laugh, cry, want to scream, laugh again and then swoon. I released a sigh of contentment when I finished. Thank you Brianna for writing it. I pray I live out the message and that this series reaches far and wide to touch the hearts of many thousands.
January 7, 2025
What Remains Amid the Flames by @authorbrgoodwin
[This is book 3 in this Dystopian series and will be releasing on January 22nd.]
It takes a while to write a review after a book like this. I definitely needed time to process. This was the most beautiful conclusion to this series. I cannot say much because of spoilers but this book - ALL 3 books were so amazing.
I highly recommend starting book 1 in this series and reading them all. I am so thankful that I have. This book rocked me, made me self-reflect, made me cry and smile. I’m not usually caught by surprise by books but this one has things I never seen coming. I cannot say enough good things about this one. 10/10 🔥
Brianna can truly grab you and bring you into the story and not let you go until the very end. I wanted to savor every page. I know I won’t do this book justice but thank you for allowing me to read this special book early and thank you for sharing your gift with us 🤍
[This is book 3 in this Dystopian series and will be releasing on January 22nd.]
It takes a while to write a review after a book like this. I definitely needed time to process. This was the most beautiful conclusion to this series. I cannot say much because of spoilers but this book - ALL 3 books were so amazing.
I highly recommend starting book 1 in this series and reading them all. I am so thankful that I have. This book rocked me, made me self-reflect, made me cry and smile. I’m not usually caught by surprise by books but this one has things I never seen coming. I cannot say enough good things about this one. 10/10 🔥
Brianna can truly grab you and bring you into the story and not let you go until the very end. I wanted to savor every page. I know I won’t do this book justice but thank you for allowing me to read this special book early and thank you for sharing your gift with us 🤍
January 28, 2025
As amazing as so many Christian fiction books are, it’s not every day that a book or series impacts me on a spiritual level that sticks with me for days or years afterward. This series by B. R. Goodwin is one of those! Each book of this trilogy has convicted and challenged me and made me think, and this final installment was no different.
I can’t imagine a more perfect ending for this series! There is heartbreak and pain, high-stakes action and tough decisions to be made. But amid the fires of adversity the characters walk through, there is hope and beauty to be found! 🥹😭🙌🏻💛
Gahhh!! I can’t believe this series is over! Vala and Luca and the whole gang will always hold a special place in my heart!
If you’re at all interested in Dystopian books or think you might want to try the genre, give these books a read! You won’t regret it.
**I received a copy of this book from the author for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
I can’t imagine a more perfect ending for this series! There is heartbreak and pain, high-stakes action and tough decisions to be made. But amid the fires of adversity the characters walk through, there is hope and beauty to be found! 🥹😭🙌🏻💛
Gahhh!! I can’t believe this series is over! Vala and Luca and the whole gang will always hold a special place in my heart!
If you’re at all interested in Dystopian books or think you might want to try the genre, give these books a read! You won’t regret it.
**I received a copy of this book from the author for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
January 22, 2025
Another amazing book by B.R. Goodwin.
“…He will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not… …we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up”(Daniel 3:17-18) The enduring faith of the these characters was beautiful. The struggles they went through were so real, that I felt as if I were right there with them. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a faith-filled, inspiring and suspenseful read.
“Something lovely can be born from something painful.”
“…He will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not… …we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up”(Daniel 3:17-18) The enduring faith of the these characters was beautiful. The struggles they went through were so real, that I felt as if I were right there with them. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a faith-filled, inspiring and suspenseful read.
“Something lovely can be born from something painful.”
February 12, 2025
I really loved this book, and the series as a whole! When I first started this series I was worried it would be cheesy or poor quality, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that it is neither of those things! I especially loved watching Vala’s growth and was inspired by her trust in God in difficult situations even when other Christians wanted her to do the safe thing. Also, I really loved that I couldn’t predict what was going to happen in the end! I usually figure out how things are going to end up, but it was refreshing to be surprised a bit! Thanks to the author for letting me be an ARC reader!
June 10, 2025
These characters, especially Luca, to me for some reason, feel like real people that I want to hug. I will honestly miss these characters now that I finished the series. I give this series a million stars out of five. Honestly, I will be hard-pressed to find another book this moving and close to my heart.
This book honestly and truly (not being dramatic) changed my life. Since finishing it, I have thought back to it several times and changed my mindset to be thankful. This book, if nothing else, will teach you to be thankful for everything but especially the basics in your life. We should all be thanking God every time we get to go to church and not be afraid, every time we walk down the street and get to talk to our friend about God openly, every time we read His Word at a coffee shop in public, every time we pray in someone's home at a small group without fear of being heard. We have the luxury in America, without harsh persecution, to shout about Jesus from the roof tops......so why don't we?
"I hadn't cared if I died at that moment, but only remember praying silently that God would not allow me to falter. That I'd look in the face of death itself and, rather than fear, I'd boldly ask, "Death, where is your sting?"
Songs that I feel these characters would sing to God and lyrics that show what I think they would say to Him♡
Vala- Flowers by Samantha Ebert, You Saved Me by UPPERROOM
Luca- Land Of this Living by Chruch of the City, Die A Begger by Josiah Queen
Papa- Love You to Death by Josiah Queen
Caleb- Even (I'll still praise) by Mass Anthem
Mae- We Will Feast in the House of Zion by The Worship Initiative, Goodness of God by Bethel Music
Songs by Chapters-
Chapter 17, pages 143-145 (If You're Not With Me by Thrive Worship)
Chapter 23, page 196-198 (Fear is Not My Future by Bradon Lake)
Chapter 37, page 272 and Chapter 39, page 286 (Goodness of God by Bethel Music) These chapters made me sob.
Theme song for the whole 3rd book- Hymn Of Heaven by Phil Wickham
James 1:2-3❤️
"Count it all joy, my brothers,[a] when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness."
This book honestly and truly (not being dramatic) changed my life. Since finishing it, I have thought back to it several times and changed my mindset to be thankful. This book, if nothing else, will teach you to be thankful for everything but especially the basics in your life. We should all be thanking God every time we get to go to church and not be afraid, every time we walk down the street and get to talk to our friend about God openly, every time we read His Word at a coffee shop in public, every time we pray in someone's home at a small group without fear of being heard. We have the luxury in America, without harsh persecution, to shout about Jesus from the roof tops......so why don't we?
"I hadn't cared if I died at that moment, but only remember praying silently that God would not allow me to falter. That I'd look in the face of death itself and, rather than fear, I'd boldly ask, "Death, where is your sting?"
Songs that I feel these characters would sing to God and lyrics that show what I think they would say to Him♡
Vala- Flowers by Samantha Ebert, You Saved Me by UPPERROOM
Luca- Land Of this Living by Chruch of the City, Die A Begger by Josiah Queen
Papa- Love You to Death by Josiah Queen
Caleb- Even (I'll still praise) by Mass Anthem
Mae- We Will Feast in the House of Zion by The Worship Initiative, Goodness of God by Bethel Music
Songs by Chapters-
Chapter 17, pages 143-145 (If You're Not With Me by Thrive Worship)
Chapter 23, page 196-198 (Fear is Not My Future by Bradon Lake)
Chapter 37, page 272 and Chapter 39, page 286 (Goodness of God by Bethel Music) These chapters made me sob.
Theme song for the whole 3rd book- Hymn Of Heaven by Phil Wickham
James 1:2-3❤️
"Count it all joy, my brothers,[a] when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness."
January 2, 2025
What Remains Amid the Flames by B.R. Goodwin was an absolutely amazing book full of faith, love, and sacrifice.
Not only did it wrap up the What Remains trilogy beautifully, but it convicted me, broke me, and put me back together again in so many ways.The journey that Vala and all those that she loves have had to take as their story has unfolded in this dystopian series is one that is thought provoking and hard hitting in a way that stays with you.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author. This is my review and the opinions within are my own.
Not only did it wrap up the What Remains trilogy beautifully, but it convicted me, broke me, and put me back together again in so many ways.The journey that Vala and all those that she loves have had to take as their story has unfolded in this dystopian series is one that is thought provoking and hard hitting in a way that stays with you.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author. This is my review and the opinions within are my own.
January 20, 2025
Words can’t describe how beautifully written this book is. The unwavering faith amid utter despair is a testament of faith and trust in God. Written from various points of view, this book will take you on an emotional rollercoaster. You’ll laugh, cry, sing praises, and everything in between. I cannot recommend not only this book, but the entire series to everyone I know!
January 4, 2025
Soul Shattering Perfection!
February 1, 2025
Satisfying End
No spoilers but be prepared to be unraveled. This trilogy has a special place in my heart for the way B.R. Goodwin allows her characters to experience such heartbreak and sorrow while also growing in their faith and knowing true joy. I loved to see how all the characters developed throughout the series and while there were PLENTY of twists and turns, there were also amazing moments that had me crying happy tears. This was an incredible read. (I had to re-read the Epilogue like 5 times).
No spoilers but be prepared to be unraveled. This trilogy has a special place in my heart for the way B.R. Goodwin allows her characters to experience such heartbreak and sorrow while also growing in their faith and knowing true joy. I loved to see how all the characters developed throughout the series and while there were PLENTY of twists and turns, there were also amazing moments that had me crying happy tears. This was an incredible read. (I had to re-read the Epilogue like 5 times).
January 22, 2025
A absolutely brilliant series. I don’t even have words to describe how amazing this series is. This book has honestly healed me in a way that I didn’t know I needed. The emotional journey these characters will take you through will have you staying crying and laughing. This book will shatter your heart but put it back together. B.R. Goodwin is such a talented author and I can’t not recommend this series enough
January 23, 2025
If you have a young adult in your life they need to read this series. It’s rare there is a book you can get behind and feel comfortable sharing. This is the 3rd book in this dystopian series. With adventure, romance and faith themes this is the perfect book for every YA reader… and let’s face it adult readers too. If you want to feel good about what young people are reading today. This is a great book!
January 23, 2025
What an emotional roller coaster! It’s a story full of hope despite difficult circumstances. When under pressure from every side, how would we react? Vala, the main character, is put to the test time and time again in this story of heroism, bravery, and resilience. Make sure to check out the first two books of the series as well to be able to appreciate this one to its fullest!
January 22, 2025
I am a little bit anxious about writing this review, because I already know I will never do this amazing series justice!
But oh how I love these books! I have read all of Brianna’s books and highly recommend all of them, but honestly, this series is really something special!
If you haven’t read the first two books - go and read them now and then you won’t need to read further reviews because you will be absolutely hooked and will definitely not need any further motivation to continue.
From the first chapter of the first book until the last chapter of book three Brianna manages to keep you on the edge of your seat, to let you feel everything.
I loved the added POVs and think that they improved the reading experience. The characters are complex and diverse and you just feel like you left your friends behind when you close the last book.
The Gospel message is so strong in these books. There are so many beautiful moments where characters hold onto Him in their deepest despair, when memorized Scriptures bring hope and joy and when the only answer is - He is faithful.
I marked a lot of passages, all of them highlighting that our God is a God of Love who will never leave us.
I especially loved how people were changed through the Gospel, it felt so real and powerful.
My only complaint is that the book still focuses more on Vala and Luca than I would have preferred with the added POVs. Because - don’t hate me - even though I love them, they are neither my favorite characters nor my favorite couple of the books.
— Spoiler! —
— End Spoiler —
So while I would love for this series to continue because above mentioned reasons (and hope that it will!), it is still an amazing finale to an amazing trilogy that will break your heart, but also give you hope and hopefully strengthen your love and gratitude for our God who is always with us.
Brianna, you created something beautiful! I can’t tell you enough how much I love these books!
* 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.
But oh how I love these books! I have read all of Brianna’s books and highly recommend all of them, but honestly, this series is really something special!
If you haven’t read the first two books - go and read them now and then you won’t need to read further reviews because you will be absolutely hooked and will definitely not need any further motivation to continue.
From the first chapter of the first book until the last chapter of book three Brianna manages to keep you on the edge of your seat, to let you feel everything.
I loved the added POVs and think that they improved the reading experience. The characters are complex and diverse and you just feel like you left your friends behind when you close the last book.
The Gospel message is so strong in these books. There are so many beautiful moments where characters hold onto Him in their deepest despair, when memorized Scriptures bring hope and joy and when the only answer is - He is faithful.
I marked a lot of passages, all of them highlighting that our God is a God of Love who will never leave us.
I especially loved how people were changed through the Gospel, it felt so real and powerful.
“What is worse than death?
Torture. Starvation. Loss… A life without purpose or love. A life without Christ.”
“Why would Jay ever accept God’s grace if he doesn’t see us, Christ followers, extending it towards him? How will he ever hear and accept the truth of the Gospel if we don’t tell him? If we don’t show him?”
“All of us were outside of forgiveness… until Christ.”
“It was 43:2. A reminder for me from Isaiah. ‘When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned and the flame shall not consume you.’ I needed the reminder that I could walk through hell and back again, but He would never leave me. He’d walk right at my side.”
My only complaint is that the book still focuses more on Vala and Luca than I would have preferred with the added POVs. Because - don’t hate me - even though I love them, they are neither my favorite characters nor my favorite couple of the books.
— Spoiler! —
— End Spoiler —
So while I would love for this series to continue because above mentioned reasons (and hope that it will!), it is still an amazing finale to an amazing trilogy that will break your heart, but also give you hope and hopefully strengthen your love and gratitude for our God who is always with us.
Brianna, you created something beautiful! I can’t tell you enough how much I love these books!
* 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.
January 15, 2025
*I received this book as an ARC from the author.
Having read the first two books in the What Remains series, I was anxious to read the third. The characters immediately drew me in and as a believer who grew up in the 2000s, the end times dystopian setting was intriguing to me. (Growing up Christian in the 2000s seems to do that to you.)
In this third book we find The Remnant down a member - Luca. Vala and her friends are recovering from his death (and the death of other beloved friends by the Guard) nearly two years later. This book answers the questions, “why does the group remain located so close to a Guard camp?”, “who is friend or foe?”, “are people beyond Christ’s love and redemption?”, and much more.
There are surprise characters and surprise endings. And if you finished book 2, you know Luca didn’t really die. Will Luca go back to the Guard or will he attempt to escape again? You’ll have to read to find out!
This book gives a clear Gospel presentation, the characters are diverse and unique and you’ll feel like you’ve known them your whole life, and the story keeps you guessing a bit even though you get a sense of what’s to come.
Perfect for young adult readers. In fact, I’d encourage anyone 14 and older to read this book series as there are great life lessons and questions that Christians have to ask themselves.
“Am I willing to die for my faith?”
“Am I willing to live for my faith?”
“Is Jesus enough for me?”
My hope is that the author writes a fourth installment from the perspective of the surprise character in the second half of the book - a perspective from a non-Remnant member who struggled.
Critique: (possible spoilers)
-At times it felt a little too rom-commy for me. The author is a romantic-comedy writer by trade so it makes sense. Not my thing even though I love romantic writing.
-I would have enjoyed seeing Sam and Linc’s discussion/struggles over whether or not to remain. Having a child brings tension to the discussion and is a real question you must ask yourself. Are other peoples souls worth risking the lives of your children? Adding that element would have elevated the writing in my opinion.
- I would also have enjoyed seeing Linda Ann grieve more. Maybe her conversations with her husband Bear apart from the group. She was a strong character and she just kind of… ended.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and would recommend!
Having read the first two books in the What Remains series, I was anxious to read the third. The characters immediately drew me in and as a believer who grew up in the 2000s, the end times dystopian setting was intriguing to me. (Growing up Christian in the 2000s seems to do that to you.)
In this third book we find The Remnant down a member - Luca. Vala and her friends are recovering from his death (and the death of other beloved friends by the Guard) nearly two years later. This book answers the questions, “why does the group remain located so close to a Guard camp?”, “who is friend or foe?”, “are people beyond Christ’s love and redemption?”, and much more.
There are surprise characters and surprise endings. And if you finished book 2, you know Luca didn’t really die. Will Luca go back to the Guard or will he attempt to escape again? You’ll have to read to find out!
This book gives a clear Gospel presentation, the characters are diverse and unique and you’ll feel like you’ve known them your whole life, and the story keeps you guessing a bit even though you get a sense of what’s to come.
Perfect for young adult readers. In fact, I’d encourage anyone 14 and older to read this book series as there are great life lessons and questions that Christians have to ask themselves.
“Am I willing to die for my faith?”
“Am I willing to live for my faith?”
“Is Jesus enough for me?”
My hope is that the author writes a fourth installment from the perspective of the surprise character in the second half of the book - a perspective from a non-Remnant member who struggled.
Critique: (possible spoilers)
-At times it felt a little too rom-commy for me. The author is a romantic-comedy writer by trade so it makes sense. Not my thing even though I love romantic writing.
-I would have enjoyed seeing Sam and Linc’s discussion/struggles over whether or not to remain. Having a child brings tension to the discussion and is a real question you must ask yourself. Are other peoples souls worth risking the lives of your children? Adding that element would have elevated the writing in my opinion.
- I would also have enjoyed seeing Linda Ann grieve more. Maybe her conversations with her husband Bear apart from the group. She was a strong character and she just kind of… ended.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and would recommend!
January 21, 2025
What Remains Amid the Flames is the final book in BR Goodwin’s What Remains trilogy. This book was everything I hoped it would be and it had my emotions swinging so high and so low.
If you’ve read the other two books in this dystopian YA series, you know that Vala and her friends have been on the run from a government that is persecuting Christians. They’ve experienced loss but also gain and so much growth in their faith.
This book takes place about three years after the first, so the main characters are no longer high school teenagers, but young adults and they’ve been making very adult decisions the entire time.
It was convicting to see these young people pour into the lives of others and stand up for their faith even when their lives were on the line. I also loved how the characters quoted scripture when they had hard decisions to make or they were physically or emotionally stretched to their breaking point. These are good reminders for our own lives. God’s word can strengthen us when we feel we have nothing left.
It’s filled with heart stopping romance with kissing only. It does have some violence due to the nature of the story—most off page. I’m very squeamish and was able to get through it without a problem.
It takes a lot to make me cry over a book and there were a couple of times that I did, and many times I was close in this series. It was that heart wrenching. You’ll want to start with book 1 and read all the way through. This trilogy is very emotional and you should know that going in, but it is worth it—for all ages YA and older.
If you’ve read the other two books in this dystopian YA series, you know that Vala and her friends have been on the run from a government that is persecuting Christians. They’ve experienced loss but also gain and so much growth in their faith.
This book takes place about three years after the first, so the main characters are no longer high school teenagers, but young adults and they’ve been making very adult decisions the entire time.
It was convicting to see these young people pour into the lives of others and stand up for their faith even when their lives were on the line. I also loved how the characters quoted scripture when they had hard decisions to make or they were physically or emotionally stretched to their breaking point. These are good reminders for our own lives. God’s word can strengthen us when we feel we have nothing left.
It’s filled with heart stopping romance with kissing only. It does have some violence due to the nature of the story—most off page. I’m very squeamish and was able to get through it without a problem.
It takes a lot to make me cry over a book and there were a couple of times that I did, and many times I was close in this series. It was that heart wrenching. You’ll want to start with book 1 and read all the way through. This trilogy is very emotional and you should know that going in, but it is worth it—for all ages YA and older.
February 10, 2025
A Gripping and Faith-Strengthening Christian Dystopian Masterpiece
What Remains Amid the Flames by B.R. Goodwin is a breathtaking journey through faith, resilience, and the ultimate battle between darkness and light. As the first book in a powerful Christian dystopian series, it is nothing short of extraordinary—gripping from the very first page and deeply moving until the very last.
Vala, the main character, is an inspiration in every sense. Her unwavering faith and inner strength shine brightly, even in the bleakest of circumstances. She is the kind of protagonist who stays with you long after you turn the final page—her struggles, victories, and steadfast trust in God making her a beacon of hope in a world filled with uncertainty.
This book will take you on an emotional roller coaster, pulling at your heartstrings and challenging your perspective in the best possible way. There are moments of sorrow, triumph, and everything in between, but every tear shed is worth it. The themes of perseverance, trust, and divine purpose are woven beautifully throughout the narrative, making this not just a story but an experience—one that strengthens faith and encourages deeper reflection on God's plan.
If you're looking for a series that will rock your world and ignite your faith, the What Remains series is an absolute must-read. B.R. Goodwin has crafted something truly special—one that will challenge, inspire, and leave you longing for more.
What Remains Amid the Flames by B.R. Goodwin is a breathtaking journey through faith, resilience, and the ultimate battle between darkness and light. As the first book in a powerful Christian dystopian series, it is nothing short of extraordinary—gripping from the very first page and deeply moving until the very last.
Vala, the main character, is an inspiration in every sense. Her unwavering faith and inner strength shine brightly, even in the bleakest of circumstances. She is the kind of protagonist who stays with you long after you turn the final page—her struggles, victories, and steadfast trust in God making her a beacon of hope in a world filled with uncertainty.
This book will take you on an emotional roller coaster, pulling at your heartstrings and challenging your perspective in the best possible way. There are moments of sorrow, triumph, and everything in between, but every tear shed is worth it. The themes of perseverance, trust, and divine purpose are woven beautifully throughout the narrative, making this not just a story but an experience—one that strengthens faith and encourages deeper reflection on God's plan.
If you're looking for a series that will rock your world and ignite your faith, the What Remains series is an absolute must-read. B.R. Goodwin has crafted something truly special—one that will challenge, inspire, and leave you longing for more.
February 25, 2025
The beautiful, final installment of the What Remains trilogy! This powerful conclusion to the journey of Vala and the Remnant leads them through their toughest battles but brings them closer to Christ and each other. Another amazing example of the gospel and an inspiration to live your faith out loud, regardless of what you face. The character development in this book was even richer than before, building on characters we already knew and uncovering the layers of their past. I loved the power, and believability, of the testimonies; Goodwin made them compelling and inspiring, without going over the top unbelievable. I can read myself into the situations and put myself in their shoes, really struggling with if I would do the same. Plus, the happily ever after is indeed happy, though a little bittersweet, leaving room for it to truly be happy forever, or face more hardship but at least together. I can not recommend this series enough. I'll read everything B.R. Goodwin writes.
April 17, 2025
I devoured this in one day!
Book 3 introduces us to a few more perspectives: Vala, and Thomas continue, and we add prisoner R-67 (Mae), Blake Alexis (Luka's father), and Caleb. We are also introduced to a group of rebels, who, while not all Christians, are fighting back against the oppression of the Guard.
This book is probably the darkest out of all three. It depicts torture, murder, and violence.
It also strongly weaves through faith and hope in the darkness: But even if... Even if God doesn't save me, yet I will believe.
There is still a strong element of self-sacrifice—greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his live for his friends.
Vala still proudly proclaims her faith—I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God.
It was lovely to see gospel seeds that had been planted bearing fruit. The ending had me on the edge of my seat, and the epilogue was a super-satisfying treat.
This book is well worth a read!
Book 3 introduces us to a few more perspectives: Vala, and Thomas continue, and we add prisoner R-67 (Mae), Blake Alexis (Luka's father), and Caleb. We are also introduced to a group of rebels, who, while not all Christians, are fighting back against the oppression of the Guard.
This book is probably the darkest out of all three. It depicts torture, murder, and violence.
It also strongly weaves through faith and hope in the darkness: But even if... Even if God doesn't save me, yet I will believe.
There is still a strong element of self-sacrifice—greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his live for his friends.
Vala still proudly proclaims her faith—I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God.
It was lovely to see gospel seeds that had been planted bearing fruit. The ending had me on the edge of my seat, and the epilogue was a super-satisfying treat.
This book is well worth a read!
May 5, 2025
First of all, if you’ve not read the first two books in this series, it’s imperative that you do that, and read these in order. Second, once you start this series, set some time aside, because you will not want to stop.
This finale of the trilogy will keep you turning pages and challenge your faith. What living in a dystopian world where speaking the name of Jesus will cost these characters their livelihoods and sometimes their lives reminds readers how precious it is to be a Christian in a free world. There was at least one point in the book where I had to back up and read it again. The author threw in a twist so fantastic, I was sure I’d missed something. (You’ll know it when you get there. Trust me.) Even though there are hard struggles throughout this book, there’s also hope and determination and the knowledge of being in God’s Will even in the hardest of times.
A wonderful clean trilogy for young people (but adults will enjoy these books too).
This finale of the trilogy will keep you turning pages and challenge your faith. What living in a dystopian world where speaking the name of Jesus will cost these characters their livelihoods and sometimes their lives reminds readers how precious it is to be a Christian in a free world. There was at least one point in the book where I had to back up and read it again. The author threw in a twist so fantastic, I was sure I’d missed something. (You’ll know it when you get there. Trust me.) Even though there are hard struggles throughout this book, there’s also hope and determination and the knowledge of being in God’s Will even in the hardest of times.
A wonderful clean trilogy for young people (but adults will enjoy these books too).
December 18, 2024
A heart-stopping, gut-wrenching, tear-inducing, and swoony conclusion to the What Remains series.
This series is simply amazing and honestly, one that everyone should read. It may be classified as a YA, but the themes of perseverance of the faith and trial through fires are encouraging and applicable to everyone. This series must be read in order. You'll laugh, cry (buckets, most likely), and swoon, but the ending will leave your faith stronger and your heart full of hope.
**I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
This series is simply amazing and honestly, one that everyone should read. It may be classified as a YA, but the themes of perseverance of the faith and trial through fires are encouraging and applicable to everyone. This series must be read in order. You'll laugh, cry (buckets, most likely), and swoon, but the ending will leave your faith stronger and your heart full of hope.
**I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
January 3, 2025
A beautiful ending to an all too realistic possibility. If ever we (Christians) are persecuted to this extent, I pray we show the same fortitude as Goodwin's characters. There was pain and loss...along with redemption, mercy, love, and hope. Words don't do it justice. A must read series! (I was blessed to beta read this final installment and witness first-hand the care with which Goodwin wrote this story.)
December 14, 2025
Every book in this too short series has captures the beauty of who God is. God is more than gracious and He knows everything that goes on. I really connected to each book with several characters. Trusting God takes bold, awe-filled faith and love. I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys a thrilling, mysterious journey that leaves you in breath taking wonder🫶🏽
August 12, 2025
Heart wrenching series
Be sure to have your tissues close.
This story has edge of your seat situations with hate and cruelty but love,loyalty and redemption through their faith.
I highly recommend it .
Be sure to have your tissues close.
This story has edge of your seat situations with hate and cruelty but love,loyalty and redemption through their faith.
I highly recommend it .
April 21, 2025
Intriguing
I found this 3rd book in the series a little more difficult to read and follow, but the ending was worth it.
I found this 3rd book in the series a little more difficult to read and follow, but the ending was worth it.
April 28, 2025
A Must Read!! I’ve enjoyed this series so much!! You won’t find another series like it!
December 26, 2025
A fantastic conclusion to this gripping trilogy!
April 2, 2025
I cannot put into words how much I truly adore this entire series!! This story is certainly not lacking in faith and it had it's fair share of absolutely gut wrenching moments. LOVE.LOVE.LOVE!! That is all 🫶
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