A Thorn Between Roses

by B.E. Rel

When one of two of Estoria's princesses mysteriously disappears, hope rises with her unexpected return—until those closest to her realize something is wrong. Her behavior is strange, her presence unsettling, and dark magic is suspected. A powerful witch lurks in the shadows, and a dangerous secret emerges: someone has taken the princess’s place. As the truth unravels, the search for the real princess becomes a race against time to save the kingdom from a sinister fate.

Unknown Binding

About the author

B.E. Rel was born and raised in Colorado. At thirteen, he was sent to New York to attend a traditional Jewish school known as a yeshiva. That was an experience, for sure. Definitely unique. In fact, the experience inspired seven very non-politically correct books about it, which are, in his opinion, hilarious. Because what better way to cope with certain situations than by finding the humor in them?
At eighteen, still in the yeshiva system, he wrote his first book. Well, he filled a notebook with abstract thoughts that made absolutely no sense. Since you asked, here’s the story of how that came to be:
He wasn’t particularly fond of one of his teachers. So, instead of paying attention in class, he decided to hold his own lecture in the middle of class, competing with the teacher for the other students’ attention. Now, as you can imagine, the teacher didn’t particularly like this. So, he called B.E. into his office one day and gave him in an ultimatum: he either started writing notes in class or got kicked out of the yeshiva.
Not wanting to be kicked out of school, for whatever reason, he chose to take notes. Now, B.E. was a man of honor, almost like, if not more honorable than, a samurai of Japan, and he’d rather commit seppuku than go back on his silent promise to himself and listen to the teacher lecture. So, instead, he began writing whatever came to mind, making it look like he was taking notes. By the end of the year, he had a whole notebook full of garbage. But he worked on that garbage for years and, through hard work and dedication, turned it into a diamond.
He’s never stopped writing and rewriting and rewriting and rewriting and … you get the point.
The stories he shares come from the heart. He hopes the characters will resonate with readers in some way, letting them know that they are seen and never alone.
Aside from reading and writing, B.E. enjoys snowboarding on a bluebird day - or any day really - especially when there’s fresh powder. He also enjoys spending time in nature and with family and friends.

Reviews

[B.E. Rel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is genuinely impressive. It centers on two sisters who are separated, and the story follows one of them as she searches for the other. The writing has a poetic quality that makes it feel elevated, and the dialogue reflects the tone and style of the medieval period. It’s both emotionally deep and fast-paced, making it a gripping read from start to finish.

[Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Ne’er did I know the true worth of having a sister such as thee’ – Sisterhood celebrated

Colorado author B.E. Rel, an Air Force veteran, writes sensitive books for children, young adults, and adults. His books to date – STRIPES, SUMMONING DEMONS, THE WORLD OVER, NIGHTMARE MASKED IN BLOOD, THE BEAT OF A HEART, SOLITUDE, THE SPARK WITHIN, and now A THORN BETWEEN ROSES – a fantasy fiction for teens and young adults. On his website he warmly states, ‘My writing style reflects how I feel. What I know. It can range from humor to horror, from children to adults, and everything in between.’ The art of his books’ covers is outstanding also!

The author renders this fantasy of romance and strife in a language in keeping with the time period of royals. For example, we meet Princess Eva, ‘Beside her sat Prince Raedric of Hayamara – handsome, regal, and the envy of many. He had proud features, high cheekbones, and thick chestnut hair. His dazzling blue eyes had a mesmerizing effect, and his tall, broad-shouldered form exuded strength. A muscular physique only heightened his commanding presence. “Thou are the light of their hearts, Eva. As thou art mine.”

Transporting us into an immersive period so successfully, the author distills the plot: ‘Princess Eva of Estoria has always believed that nothing could come between her and her sister Naomi, until the arrival of Raedric of Hayamara, Eva’s charming fiancé, awakens a jealousy Naomi cannot hide. What no one sees is the danger lurking in the shadows: an unseen enemy with a long-nursed hatred for the royal family, watching Naomi and waiting for the perfect moment to strike. When Naomi vanishes without a trace, Eva’s world shatters. Refusing to accept loss, she embarks on a perilous journey filled with betrayal, impossible choices, and trials that push her to the edge. Every step forces Eva to confront a single truth: love is not proven by words, but by what one is willing to risk.’

Elegant writing transforms this thoughtful story into a theme of the challenges of love and underscores the beautifully scribed paean to the strengths of sisterhood. More proof that B.E. Rel is an author of note