Return of the Cave Lion: A Christian Children’s Action Adventure for Ages 8-11

by Phyllis Wheeler, Vitoria Gurgel (illustrator)

🚀 A thrilling time-travel adventure with faith at its core! 🌟

Jake and Ava, 11-year-old time travelers, are on a mission to rescue those lost in time. But when a mysterious oversized kitten appears in their driveway, their latest adventure takes an unexpected turn.

Following their furry companion through a time portal, they expect a straightforward mission. Instead, they find themselves stranded in an ancient, misty forest—completely lost. Worse, their first encounter isn't with a rescuer, but a young man held captive by ruthless raiders. Now, it's not just about getting home—it's about standing up for what's right.

As danger closes in, Jake and Ava must rely on their faith, teamwork, and courage. But the biggest lesson of all? True leadership isn't about power—it's about serving others.

✨ Perfect for young readers who
✔ Fast-paced action and exciting time-travel adventures
✔ Christian values woven into an engaging story
✔ Strong moral lessons on faith, courage, and servant-leadership
✔ Beautiful black-and-white illustrations in every chapter

📖 Ideal for homeschoolers, Christian families, and young adventure seekers.

Written by Selah Award Finalist Phyllis Wheeler, this captivating Christian adventure is perfect for kids who love action-packed stories with a faith-filled heart.

98 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 1, 2025

About the author

Phyllis Wheeler set a goal at age 13 to write a children’s book. That led to a journey with lots of detours. She’s written for daily newspapers, worked on airplanes as a mechanical engineer, and raised four children--doing some homeschooling along the way. Get to know her and get a free short story at PhyllisWheeler.com.

Reviews

[Camilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful middle grade christian fantasy fiction story! I loved the little bits of education incorporated in the adventure featuring children of various ages as they explored different locations in history. I especially appreciated the realistic portrayals of animals (with a little magic thrown in too).

[D.E. Carlson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was charmed by this middle grade book! We follow three children on a time-traveling adventure in which they save a man who later becomes a significant historical figure; I loved the surprise reveal of his identity at the end of the book! The themes of Christianity were very enjoyable. I am excited to share this delightful little book with my daughters in a year or so when they reach middle grade reads!

I was provided with an ARC copy of this book, but was not required to review positively. All views and opinions are my own. Thank you to the author!

[Ellen Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast-growing cat.
When twins Jake and Ava find a large kitten in their driveway, they are told to find the owner. They soon learn returning the kitten, who appears to grow by the hour, will require time-travel.
This series finale takes the reader to present-day Iceland and 5th century Ireland. Encountering a runaway slave, the twins and time-travel mentor are against stiff competition to aid the slave and return the young lion to the animal’s proper time and place.

[Birgit Lehmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book and it was a joy to meet old friends again. Very well written as the others in this series and as always the christian elements are perfectly in beetween the adventure!!! Well done and very enjoyable.

[Janet Ashmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Young readers will be engrossed in the exciting time-travel adventure of "Return of the Cave Lion" from beginning to end. The author seamlessly integrates history, fantasy, and Christian faith. This book is essential for any "time travel" collection.