The Scarlet Star

by Jennifer Kropf

He’s a beast trapped in a palace, and she’s a beauty tangled in his web…

Nineteen-year-old Ryn Electus is captured and brought to the palace for a twelve-week trial period along with three of the fairest maidens in the kingdom to try and ‘steal the heart’ of a young, tormented King with a deadly secret. Unfortunately, the King appears to have no interest in the maidens and keeps getting himself into trouble.

But the King isn’t the only one with a dangerous secret. Ryn has been living in hiding all these years, until she’s dragged from her home and put on a public stage where she finds herself in the crosshairs of the Intelligentsia; a council of sages who serve the seven Celestial Divinities and conspire to destroy people like her. If the sages discover who Ryn really is, she’ll be dead by morning.

Things get even more complicated when Ryn learns what Xerxes is fighting against, the internal wars he’s waging on his own, and why he keeps getting himself into trouble.

However, shortly after Ryn arrives at the palace, an old priestess opens Ryn’s eyes to see the workings of false gods at war who are influencing the kingdom of Per-Siana at every turn, dragging the people into destruction and causing chaos. Ryn is forced to question everything she thought she knew about the gods, until she unexpectedly gains the favour of an ancient god who’s been “silent” for decades; the God Original, the first God, enemy of the Celestial Divinities, who beckons Ryn to shake up the very foundations of the domain.

Thus begins a battle fought in the shadows alongside a war of gowns and politics waged in the spotlight.

Ryn must do everything she can to hide that she’s a descendant of King Xerxes’s enemies, and she and Xerxes were born as rivals, destined to hate and destroy each other.

She has only weeks to decide which side she’s on.


Inspired by the fairytale Beauty and the Beast and the Biblical story of Queen Esther, this mashup of high stakes, forbidden romance, and dangerous secrets isn’t the fairytale you know.

This book is ideal for fans of The Selection Series by Kiara Cass and A Curse so Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer and includes gorgeous character illustrations by Kyannah Durocher.

Genres: Fantasy, Christian, Christian Fiction, Christian Fantasy, Romance, Retellings, Romantasy

365 pages, Paperback

Published June 15, 2025

About the author

Jennifer Kropf spent her college years bored to death (nearly) in marketing and advertising classes, and graduated only to discover once and for all that her true passion is telling stories. She lives amidst lush Ontario farmland with her husband and three kids, reads obsessively, and writes even more obsessively. She thinks tea is gross and coffee is great and secretly wishes Peter Pan will show up on some cool summer evening and ask if she wants to visit Neverland.

Reviews

[✨ tazannah ✨]

EEEEKK I just ordered this from Barnes and Noble, can’t wait for it to arrive 😁🤪

I read a few pages from an online copy, and mannn, Kropf’s writing is so distinct and immersive. Her style is so storytelling-esque. Can’t wait!

[Lillian's Lovely Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was not prepared for a CLIFFHANGER . What do you mean I have to wait for the next book ?! 😭

[ezra [semi ia] · Rating 5 out of 5]

OH MY FREAKIN GOSH. BEST CHRISTIAN BOOK I HAVE READ IN A WHILEEEE!!!!! JENNIFER KROPF YOU DID NOT DISAPPOINT

okay, so i thought this was a stand-alone and i was at, like, 98% of the book and i started thinking to myself.. hmm, I don’t think this is a standalone. like, my brain, HeLLo?! anywho, that resulted in me almost crying cause i just CAN NOT wait for the next book.

okay but also, the christian elements in this masterpiece.. 10/10 🤌✨

if you have not read this book yet, first, what are you waiting for?!??!?!?!?!!!!?? run to kindle unlimited, amazon or wherever this book is and READ ITTTT

anywho, i may come out with a little less of a messy review later when i recover..🙂 cause i literally just read this whole book in like a few hours.. and not to mention finished it like.. a few minutes ago😭🖐🏼

alrighty bestie boos, better review to come🤠

[Nick · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️
This book was so so good!! And leaving me on a cliffhanger like that was so evil of Jennifer but I can definitely say I am VERY excited for book 2 coming out soon!
This book is a retelling of the biblical account of Esther, and I ADORED that. Esther is one of my favourite bible accounts, because it shows how a regular woman like Esther could do so much for the Lord. It's such an inspiring story and I highly recommend reading or rereading the book of Esther. I really loved seeing all the parallels between this and that book of the bible, but also some things that were inspired by other parts of the bible!
I think this is genuinely one of THE BEST Christian fiction stories I have ever read, in terms of being a good balance of a good story but also biblical parallels that inspire readers to live for Christ. And I loved how it showed things all Christians struggle with, such as temptation and doubts. But it also wasn't preachy in a way that took away from the story, if that makes sense? My point is that Jennifer did an amazing job on this book :)
The romance was also AMAZING in this book 🤭 I was in love with Ryn and Xerxes being together from the beginning 😌
I highly highly highly recommend this book 🩷

[𐬺☼.☆彡sᥲrᥲ ☆彡.☼𐬻 · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨✰𝒯𝒽ℯ 𝓈𝒸𝒶𝓇𝓁ℯ𝓉 𝓈𝓉𝒶𝓇 ✰✨


.⇩ ✰𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ✰ ⇩．


𝐎𝐤𝐚𝐲 𝐬𝐨 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐖𝐓𝐇!?
𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐖𝐀𝐒 𝐒𝐎(𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐜 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐢 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫)
𝐆𝐎𝐎𝐃 ✨
𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐜𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬 𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐋𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞!
𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬 𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧
𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐨𝐨𝐨𝐨𝐨 𝐬𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐡 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐬𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫
𝐒𝐨 𝐬𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐡 ✨

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
𝐑𝐲𝐧 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐚 𝓰𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓽 𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞
𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐨𝐨𝐨𝐨 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝!!
𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝑿𝑬𝑹𝑿𝑬𝑺!!!????
𝐇𝐞𝐜𝐤, 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠!!!!???
𝐇𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐬𝐨 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐪𝐮𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐚 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐪𝐮𝐞 𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫
𝐈𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐈𝐯𝐞 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐨𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐨𝐥!
𝐉𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐨 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐦𝐢𝐱𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐨𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐚n
𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲
𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐤 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐲 𝐜𝐮𝐩𝐜𝐚𝐤𝐞!
𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐢 𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐢𝐭 𝐔𝐏𝐏𝐏𝐏𝐏!!



．⇩✰𝒫𝓁ℴ𝓉✰⇩ ．

𝐒𝐨𝐨 𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐚 𝐦𝐢𝐱 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐬𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐧𝐝𝐝𝐝
𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐭!
𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐨𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐢𝐭 𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐨𝐨𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐥𝐲!
𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞!?
𝐈𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐰𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐚 𝐝𝐚𝐲..𝐬𝐨𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐨𝐛𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐥𝐲 𝐬𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐨𝐥


．⇩✰ℰ𝓍𝓉𝓇𝒶 𝓈𝓉𝓊𝒻𝒻✰ ⇩ ．

𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐨 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐠𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐭!
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐨 𝐟𝐮𝐧𝐧𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞!
𝐉𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐚𝐦𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲!
𝐇𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐲𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐚𝐲,
𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝒂𝒎𝒂𝒛𝒊𝒏𝒈
𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤!!!
✰𝐛𝐲𝐞𝐞𝐞✰

(There was no bad content)

[Sharon Loves to Read]

KU

I am not sure what I thought about this one.🤔 For one thing, it wasn’t what I was expecting after reading the Winter Souls series, which was filled with depth while also being fun and whimsical. This had depth, but not much of the whimsy I expected.

For another thing, it was, in some ways, very similar to the book of Esther (names of people and places), and yet very different. It was a juxtaposition I couldn’t reconcile—the similarities in names made me expect something more inline with the actual book of Esther, but I was also grateful it was different as I am pretty picky about biblical retellings.

Another juxtaposition: I really liked the Beauty and the Beast elements, but could have done without the magical napkins and dusters.🤷‍♀️

I loved the “prayer is war” theme, but wish prayer had been a little more like prayer in Winter Souls—mysterious, goosebump-raising, and powerful.

There were also certain moments I wish had been fleshed out more.

I didn’t love the romance, but I see where it is headed, and I can wait for book 2 to be satisfied on that count.😍

Anyway, I am not going to rate it since I did like it, but I think I need a reread before making a call on the rating. Perhaps I just need to get over my expectations.🤭

[BookishVibesClub · Rating 5 out of 5]

The way this book filled my Romantasy cup while also filling my spiritual cup was incredible. I absolutely love the beauty and the beast retelling aspect of this with the broken to healing and emotional romance bond. You get a sweet romance filled with the absolute best tension ❤️‍🔥 slow burn and our characters just can’t tell how the other one really feels, but that obvious tension is there! The depth of the spiritual world and political intrigue was incredible. And then the connections to the story of Esther and Ephesians 6 was perfection. I love how the author melds the spiritual aspect into the story in a way that fits so well. Nothing feels obvious, but it just feels right.
I am fully vested in this story and cannot wait for book two.

🥀 Beauty and the Beast Retelling
🥀 Queen Esther Retelling
🥀 Tension
🥀 Banter
🥀 Slow Burn Romance
🥀 Enemies to Lovers
🥀 Spiritual Battles
🥀 Broken to Healing
🥀 Betrayal
🥀 Prayer
🥀 Meddling gods
🥀 Touch her and ☠️
🥀 Mine
🥀 Rebellion

Side note: the way faith is written into this story was absolute perfection. As someone who loves Ephesians 6, incorporating little hints at those elements of faith and trust and prayer and spiritual battles were such a lovely touch and I left feeling inspired and connected. It was wonderful, and I have already told every person I’ve talked to about this book 😁

This was a darkish feeling fantasy world, with a sweet slow burn romance. 🫑 (swoony no spice romance)

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Scarlet Star” by Jennifer Kropf is a Queen Esther and “Beauty and the Beast” mashup. It also gave me “The Selection” vibes. This is my first book by this author, and I loved it so much! Ms. Kropf writes an impressive world and great descriptions! This story has a strong spiritual theme and allegory woven throughout. Ryn, our heroine, wants eyes to see and ears to hear and deals with a lot of spiritual warfare (she can see shadows and the darkness, possibly what would be considered demons). This is a heads up for those who are sensitive to those things in stories. I was alright for the most part, but one part got a little intense for me. I was so encouraged spiritually by this book and could really tell the author was led by God to write this special story. I came away from the book encouraged to “take my kingdom back” and to remember “the battle is not against flesh and blood.” Ryn is learning to follow the God Original and hear His voice, learning to love and to let go of fear. I was not sure at first how I felt about the romance, but I was quickly won over. I loved the banter and how he rescues her. I cannot believe what a cliffhanger it ended with! I highly recommend this book to lovers of fantasy with strong spiritual themes!

Content: I give this a high PG rating. Some examples of the content: someone hears voices; theme of spiritual warfare and demons throughout.
TW: insanity, hearing voices; an unwanted/forced kiss.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating ✨ Jennifer Kropf managed to write a book rich in spiritual disciplines, yet bubbling with fairytale adventures. I can’t wait to read this with my kids when they are older. So good.
Just finished the book for the second time. Wow.
1. I can’t wait for book 2
2. Never have I read a fantasy book that made me want to get on my knees in silence and solitude to pray- but I have now

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars ✨

Fantasy Retelling

✨ Esther inspired
✨ Beauty and the Beast inspired
✨ spiritual warfare
✨ selection vibes
✨ he falls first
✨ light vs dark
✨ Hidden Identity
✨ no spice

This was a great allegory of what goes on in the spiritual realm. I don’t really like calling this a retelling because it is- but, it’s not at the same time. Let’s just call it inspired. I thought the author did a good job taking a few different inspirations from older stories, and making one of her own. They wove together seamlessly. The faith elements were my favorite part (even over the characters 🤭) it painted such a vivid picture using the voices in one’s head and how we can choose to FEED or STARVE those emotions. There were some plot holes, and I found some parts to be a bit slow, but overall looking forward to the next one- especially with that VERY abrupt ending!! Would recommend.

[Jamie Gordy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ryn’s sorry father sold her to the king to save his own hide. Xerxes is being tormented and seemingly turns in to a beast. Supposedly he killed his first wife. Ryn is talked in to staying in the palace to either kill the king or marry the him to help her people. In the mean time she and the king form a bond. Then she meets the One True God. This story is a mash up of Beauty and the Beast and Queen Esther, but with author’s twists thrown in.

I need book 2 yesterday! I know book 1 just released, but Jennifer left us with a cliffhanger! I really enjoyed this book. Jennifer took elements of the fairy tale, mixed it with Queen Esther’s story and then added in some spiritual warfare. She also took elements from the New Testament and threw it for good measure. I think it was well done. The relationship between Ryn and Xerxes felt natural until it was ruined by Xerxes advisor. My one minor issue was that the ending felt a little abrupt. I need more! The faith content was very strong in this book. It’s definitely allegorical and meant to point to the one true God. I like that a lot.

If you like Biblical allegory or fairytales retellings with a faith element, you will love this book. If blatant faith content bothers you, you might skip this one.

[Mildly Mad Hatter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my top books of this year. It was amazing! The Esther aspects were clear and well done. The beauty and beast part was surprising but fit perfectly. I don’t remember any language. But this is based off Esther so there were insinuations of people going to the kings room at night.
My favorite thing about this was the spiritual warfare. It was honestly terrifying, Xerxes would be hearing voices that controlled him and the evil gods of the people were like dark shadows. I love how the main girl would fight using scripture and following the voice of God. All in all, this book was so impactful and honestly made me think deeper about spiritual warfare. I highly recommend this book! I can’t wait for the sequel!

[Ashley Salmon · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars maybe?!
I’ve heard such great things about this one so I really thought I was going to love it! But it was really slow for me for a while and not much of a plot until the end. The spiritual warfare was interesting and really cool to see done, but it’s just not what I was expecting and it felt a little too dark for me personally. There were things I enjoyed, but I didn’t love the characters or feel their chemistry too much so that was disappointing

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first Jennifer Kropf book, and it won’t be my last! I definitely need to give her other books a try soon!

Characters are well-rounded and believable, the world building is realistic and yet fantastical, the story inspirations are both obvious and subtle.

Basically, I felt this was a well-crafted story and I look forward to finding out how it continues in book 2.

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5/5 stars)

Would recommend to older teens and adults who enjoy YA fantasy.

I received a complimentary ebook for being a JustRead Tours bookstagram host. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[✨Ruthie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh, this blew all my expectations out of the water.

Usually when a cross over like this happens it has to be good… otherwise it’s junk.

But bravo, Jennifer Kropf never lost the main plot line, character development is superb, and the romance is…. Ekkkkkk, soooo swoon worthy!!! I loved every minute, and CANNOT WAIT for the 2nd book!!💕💔❤️‍🔥🌸🥀

Edit// And did I forget to say the FAITH!?!? It is SO powerful in this book, and I couldn't have been more personally moved by the wonderful way Jennifer incorporated God into this. Yes, this is a fictional book, but God is real, and the personal relationships and His guidance are not fiction. This is the best faith-filled book I've read in ages📚

[emmareads11 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Truly enjoyed this book! I've never read a book that has a twist of the biblical story of Esther and the beauty and the beast, but I was pleasantly surprised! I will say, it definitely gave me more Esther vibes that beauty & the beast, but I'm pretty sure that's intentional! It did take me longer than usual to read, I felt it was a little slow in story building but once I got past a certain point it was really good! I'm looking forward to the next one 💕

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I literally binged this book because it was so good. I loved the biblical themes all through out the book! The banter made me laugh and there were a few moments I teared up. One thing I was not expecting was that ending! I cannot wait for the next book to come out!

[Gloria Gerhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was lovely!! :) it had everything I love about books: fairytale vibes, humor, thrill and mystery, and a strong message. Unfortunately that meant I finished it too soon. :(
You should definitely read it!! And if you have the dollars to buy the hardcover, it is worth it!! So pretty! ;)

[Morgan Acosta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easily another six-star read for me this year! Absolutely in love with the Beauty and the Beast/Queen Esther (favorite book of the Bible) mash-up. The storyline is unique, and the storytelling is breathtaking. Love Estheryn and Xerxes! INSANELY excited and eagerly awaiting the next book in the series to come out!

[Lucy Winslow · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really loved this book. It had me crying in my bed being reminded of just how good our God is. It shows the strength and power God has given us through prayer. It is a call to take up our role as prayer warriors. I highly encourage you to read this book and join in praying. (Also the torturous waiting for the second book)

[Lillian McCulloch · Rating 3 out of 5]

The highlight of this book was one of the best representations of spiritual warfare I've seen in a fantasy setting.

There was much I liked in this book, and also much I thought could be improved upon.

We'll start with the positives: Esther and Xerxes meets Beauty and the Beast? Yes, please! The concept was intriguing from the start. The spiritual worldbuilding was really, really well done. Ryn's slow realization of the dark forces all around her and their corrupt and oppressive power, her fears and struggles, her growing relationship with the "God Original," and literal battles with demons were unlike anything I've read in fantasy before, Christian or secular. As far as fantasy goes, I thought it to be a truthful representation of the kind of warfare that exists in our real world.

The climax was powerful, and both of the main characters were complex and believable.

In contrast to the piercing and vibrant spiritual worldbuilding, I found Kropf's material world to be lacking. In the back, when she lists her inspirations, she states that her setting was minimally inspired by the ancient Persian empire, and mostly made up. Now, I don't think there's anything wrong with not wanting to do a historical deep dive on ancient empires in order to write a fantasy fairy tale. Even though I love history, not everyone else does, and that's okay. However, one of the benefits of grounding a fantasy story in a historic empire is that you can let the history do the heavy lifting to create a plausible setting in which people might actually live (because they did). From governance to architecture to imports, exports, clothing--history shows how all those different pieces fit together to create a larger picture. If an author chooses not to pull heavily from history to create a fantasy setting--which, I emphasize, is a fine option--suddenly there's a lot more work to be done to construct, from the ground up, a world in which people live. This is a long way to say that I found the worldbuilding unconvincing and needing work, and I think this could have been solved by basing it more heavily on Ancient Persia. Kropf's world included, simultaneously, leather sandals, crossbows, and tulle. Nitpicky, I admit, but I'd be a liar if I said that didn't bother me.

I was also hoping for more character development for the side characters. I have a feeling some of this might come in following books. The writing style wasn't standout, but it wasn't bad, either. I think the dialogue and action sequences excelled. Some slower and descriptive bits felt more clunky, and there were some awkward metaphors.

All in all, a creative premise, good main characters, and excellent spiritual warfare make this book a positive step for Christian fantasy books. I look forward to seeing where it goes in Book 2!

[Tammy's Nook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this was intense (amazing but intense); let me just say first, thanks to Jennifer Kropf for the advanced reader's copy and the opportunity to read The Scarlet Star, ever since this book was announced, I was dying to read it, now that I finished it, I'm speechless with the ending (and also wanting to read the next book).

Ever since I've read the Winter Soul Series, it has stayed as my favorite book ever, but I believe The Songs of the Adriels is going for the title.

So even though I said I was speechless, let me just say, this was a wild roller coaster of emotions, and Ryn is a very honest character; sometimes belief and faith on the unseen are hard, and what seems miraculous, it's in reality a battle, so I loved that Ryn represents a very human character, and it's development; she is someone with anger, fear, and the need for safety and growth (as shown in her character development); it's not a linear path.

Now it's very easy to encounter strong FMC that are fearless, strong, and very self-sufficient, which is not bad, but it's because of what makes her different or even hunted that Ryn is the definition of brave; bravery is being obedient and loving even though you're afraid. 

I loved the combination of different books and inspirations through the story, the little details like the harp and the sword (it reminded me of one of my favorite video games), and also the side characters (like Marcan, Matthias, and Heva), very present but never overpowering.  

I liked the flow of the story; it allowed me to connect each moment or chapter to the next without wanting to stop reading or needing a break. It also gave space for the main plot to grow with the POVs of both Ryn and Xerxes. 

Though I'm a tad (very) nervous about Xerxes and his character development, (his last chapter was rough on his romantic development with Ryn); I loved the chemistry shown through the chapters and their connection through honesty and need; it wasn't necessarily a physical appeal from either of them, but the changes on each other while they were together that made them like each other.

You've done it again, Jennifer Kropf. Congratulations and a virtual round of applause.
I can't wait for what's next, so if you'll excuse me, I'm going to start my theory board for the next book. 

[Lexi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book took my heart to the clouds and then watched as it plummeted to the ground again and stomped on it a few times. Why did no one tell me it was the first book in a series? *cries* (yes I realise that clearly I’m blind because it says that)

But really, this book was brilliant. When I tell you I fell in love with Xerxes and Ryn from their first interaction- oh my goodness! They’re just amazing and so well written.
In many ways this book taught me about myself and made me consider a lot. Prayer was the cornerstone of this story and Jennifer Kropf did it beautifully, I found myself healing just a bit while reading. Every character was thought out and deepened and I am amazed at clear effort put in the masterpiece of this story. While I do wish it was the end and not a series, I’ve been hooked and I can’t wait for book 2!

I am full-blown convinced that I will never not read one of Jennifer Kropf’s books, she has proved over and over that she deserves the title of my favourite author. If you love fantasy stories, biblical narratives or even are just a fan of a good fairytale, I can honestly say this book is worth the read. Even if it doesn’t change your life, maybe you’ll learn something.

Disclosure: This is a review written in exchange for an ARC read. I have used full honesty and my own discretion when reading it.
Thank you for the opportunity Jennifer!

Happy reading everyone!

[Mirabella Orosz · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 ne már hogy így van vége. ez nagyon idegesítő.

[Samantha Bourke · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a fantasy that mixed biblical themes in so well. It was definitely an Esther retelling with a really interesting twist. It built an interesting and emersive world with spiritual warfare at the forefront. I loved the characters Ryn and Xerxes were really deep interesting and complicated characters. I am very much looking forward to the sequel and getting to see where the story goes from here.

[Addison A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh. This book was much better than I expected. I expected a simple retelling of the stories of Esther and Beauty and the Beast. What I got was so much more. It was a story about the power of prayer and the battle against powers of darkness. It was very thought provoking, and I loved it. Not to mention that the plot and the characters were incredible. This book reminds me of why Jennifer Kropf is my favorite author.

[Madison White · Rating 5 out of 5]

One word I will use to sum this up is ‘chills’ because oh. my. goodness. I got an unbelievable amount of chills throughout this book. Kropf depicts spiritual warfare in such a gripping way, highlighting the fantastical theme that Good will *always* overcome evil.

I love the banter & interactions between Ryn & Xerxes (FMC & MMC, respectively). This Beauty-&-the-Beast/Queen-Esther-inspired story was free from spice and vulgar language, but still has a swoon-worthy romance 🥰

[Daniella · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hm, how do I verbalize how I feel about this book?

I definitely really was looking forward to reading this book and I’m really grateful that I did. I found it to be a cutesy retelling of Beauty and the Beast and the biblical story of Esther — more so of the story of Queen Esther. It reads pretty young, potentially for tweens or teens, but despite reading young I wouldn’t recommend it for everyone.

I wouldn’t recommend to younger ages because something that made me a bit uncomfortable reading about was Xerxes dealing with “the voices”. It definitely had the comparison of being demonically influenced. Now, as a Christian, I am definitely a believer in spiritual warfare, and I believe it can definitely manifest as shown in this book. Those voices, however, played a huge role in the plot and thus came up again and again. I just personally didn’t enjoy that and think it might be heavier for younger readers who potentially have not been exposed to this before. I suppose it all depends on your sensitivity to this.

Overall, this story was in my cup of tea. But I’m sure others out there who are a fan of the “romantasy” genre will thoroughly enjoy this book and I definitely believe it is far better than most “romantasy” out there.

[Noë Jedana Nobel · Rating 5 out of 5]

i absolutily LOVE this book! the characters are amazing and the tension between ryn and xerxes is so well written.

i also loved that i can see God in this story how he works and loves. because when El broke those chains using from that blind man using Ryn that's how it works in real life too but with the holy ghost.

Jennifer also developt her writing skills. it's so easy to read and i can't wait for book number two. (if you need someone to pre read i will happily volonteer)



(ps: don't mind the grammer english is not my first language🙈)

[Lydia W. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was really good! I enjoyed the references to the Bible especially😌it was a very engaging storyline and kept me invested in the characters---also I appreciated how quickly Estheryn accepted God; I loved how clearly Ms. Kropf showed His love and power in this story---how well she tied in all His teachings and good works and every story from the Bible! :D I know it might be a turnoff for some people (idk why) but I don't mind the "direct references" to the Bible. Like how her name is Estheryn/Adassah and it's inspired by the book of Esther/Hadassah, or the God El Shaddai or any of the stories that the priests tell about the history of that world, or the false gods or whatever else---I know it's just a story, but that's how the Truth gets around sometimes. And I love how Jennifer Kropf doesn't TRY to disguise it so well---she puts it in plain sight so people can see it! You're reading a story based on Christian faith. Sharing the Word of God shouldn't be disguised so well that people can just breeze over it and ignore it. There are "hidden meanings" and I, for one, appreciate how she isn't trying to hide them, really. Like, if you get it, you get it. Or maybe it just gets you curious. Or maybe it does nothing at all, and you just read this because it has a good story. Either way, it's good! I loved this book, and I can't wait for the next one!:D
[SPOILER HERE]-The only reason I'm giving it 4 stars instead of 5 is because Xerxes threw Ryn in jail and refused to love her and I got very mad at that >:( he's a promise-breaker and that's so mean😭-[END OF SPOILER]
-but the Beauty and the Beast aspects of it were SO good. Some of the scenes I have to admit were a little... strange. But nothing bad! Overall I really liked this book! :) If you're a fan of mystery, fantasy, suspense, or fairytales (and romance!🥰) You should read this! Even if you're not a Christian, it was a great read😉