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Scroll of Ink and Skin
She holds the last sacred words on her skin.
He’s the masked shadow sworn to keep her alive.
***
After her village is destroyed by soldiers, Nina does the unthinkable. She seeks out the Tattooist’s hidden cave to have her holy book inked onto her body in its original language. Now she isn’t just a believer; she’s an illegal document. Hunted, she attempts her sacred task; to save the one remaining Scroll.
Disguised and working inside the Chancellor’s castle, Nina must find the reclusive linguist who can translate the dead language etched across her skin, all while avoiding being discovered by the Chancellor or his silver soldiers.
Alone in the hands of the enemy, Nina must place trust in unlikely figures to keep herself and the Scroll safe from the hatred that runs deep in Ciar.
Things are never quite so simple, though, as someone will always hunt the sacred things.
He’s the masked shadow sworn to keep her alive.
***
After her village is destroyed by soldiers, Nina does the unthinkable. She seeks out the Tattooist’s hidden cave to have her holy book inked onto her body in its original language. Now she isn’t just a believer; she’s an illegal document. Hunted, she attempts her sacred task; to save the one remaining Scroll.
Disguised and working inside the Chancellor’s castle, Nina must find the reclusive linguist who can translate the dead language etched across her skin, all while avoiding being discovered by the Chancellor or his silver soldiers.
Alone in the hands of the enemy, Nina must place trust in unlikely figures to keep herself and the Scroll safe from the hatred that runs deep in Ciar.
Things are never quite so simple, though, as someone will always hunt the sacred things.
297 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 2, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Scroll of Ink and Blood was such a refreshing and unique fantasy read. Mandi Phillips created an entirely immersive world that feels distinct and carefully crafted, with lore and details that truly set it apart from other books in the genre. You can tell so much thought went into the structure of the world and its deeper meaning.
One of my favorite elements was the subtle biblical undertones woven throughout the story. They added depth without ever feeling heavy handed. I also really loved the diaristic elements they made the story feel intimate and personal, almost like you were uncovering something sacred alongside the characters.
The characters themselves develop beautifully. Each one feels unique, layered, and purposeful. Their growth throughout the book felt natural and earned. And Esmeralda… she completely threw me for a loop. I did not see that coming, and I’m still thinking about it!
I also really appreciated that this is a clean read. It’s intense and full of stakes, but without unnecessary content which made it even more enjoyable.
I’m already counting down until book two. I cannot wait to see where this story goes next!
One of my favorite elements was the subtle biblical undertones woven throughout the story. They added depth without ever feeling heavy handed. I also really loved the diaristic elements they made the story feel intimate and personal, almost like you were uncovering something sacred alongside the characters.
The characters themselves develop beautifully. Each one feels unique, layered, and purposeful. Their growth throughout the book felt natural and earned. And Esmeralda… she completely threw me for a loop. I did not see that coming, and I’m still thinking about it!
I also really appreciated that this is a clean read. It’s intense and full of stakes, but without unnecessary content which made it even more enjoyable.
I’m already counting down until book two. I cannot wait to see where this story goes next!
April 20, 2026
This book hooked me right away. The short chapters make it so easy to keep saying “just one more,” and before you know it—you’re completely pulled in.
One of my favorite elements was the concept of the holy book being destroyed, yet preserved in a completely unexpected way—smuggled and kept alive through a tattoo. It added such a creative, symbolic layer about truth, sacrifice, and what people will risk to protect something sacred.
There were also a few plot twists I genuinely didn’t see coming, which made the story even more gripping.
The Rahab-inspired redemption thread is more subtle, but still meaningful, and I loved how Rock of Ages was woven throughout—it gave the whole story a deeper tone.
For parents and younger readers—there is brief mention of brothel work, but it’s handled very lightly, without detail or glamorization, and is presented within a redemptive context.
A huge thank you @mandi.phillips__ for sending me this book—I’m already so excited to continue the story in book two! 🤍📖
One of my favorite elements was the concept of the holy book being destroyed, yet preserved in a completely unexpected way—smuggled and kept alive through a tattoo. It added such a creative, symbolic layer about truth, sacrifice, and what people will risk to protect something sacred.
There were also a few plot twists I genuinely didn’t see coming, which made the story even more gripping.
The Rahab-inspired redemption thread is more subtle, but still meaningful, and I loved how Rock of Ages was woven throughout—it gave the whole story a deeper tone.
For parents and younger readers—there is brief mention of brothel work, but it’s handled very lightly, without detail or glamorization, and is presented within a redemptive context.
A huge thank you @mandi.phillips__ for sending me this book—I’m already so excited to continue the story in book two! 🤍📖
March 8, 2026
I wrote this book so I love it a lot 😂
For real, these characters have my whole heart. Nina was originally the star. But then Esmeralda came along and stole the show. With her hands on her hips, sharp stilettos, and a grey wolf fur cloak, she demanded to be the main character. And I love her for it. There… now everyone knows which character is my favorite.
A premise about a girl forced to save the Bible, in an unconventional manner, unfolded in my heart when my son was a tiny baby. It was in the wee hours of those nights, deep in the bliss and sleeplessness of newborn trenches, this story flooded my mind. Slowly, word by word, it turned into the first draft of Scroll of Ink and Skin!
I HOPE EVERYONE LOVES THIS STORY 🤍🤍🤍🤍
For real, these characters have my whole heart. Nina was originally the star. But then Esmeralda came along and stole the show. With her hands on her hips, sharp stilettos, and a grey wolf fur cloak, she demanded to be the main character. And I love her for it. There… now everyone knows which character is my favorite.
A premise about a girl forced to save the Bible, in an unconventional manner, unfolded in my heart when my son was a tiny baby. It was in the wee hours of those nights, deep in the bliss and sleeplessness of newborn trenches, this story flooded my mind. Slowly, word by word, it turned into the first draft of Scroll of Ink and Skin!
I HOPE EVERYONE LOVES THIS STORY 🤍🤍🤍🤍
April 1, 2026
"Rock of ages, cleft for me, let me hide myself in Thee."
This book was something else. It was about sacrifices for the greater good, and the will to put everything on the line for one's beliefs a quality we don't see that often in the real world.
Imagine one day everything against the ruler's belief is confiscated, made illegal. Reading a simple religious scroll makes you a criminal. But that's not all. A group of people firmly believe that it shouldn't end this way. In fact, it won't ever be the fate they meet. So they take things into their own hands and start making a change. Each one uses a skill they have mastered throughout the years: a tattooist, a shepherdess, a carpenter, an ancient Inkuru war drum, or a simple rifle. We see how their lives shaped them, how their parents taught them and gave them enough skills and faith to fully believe and be willing to let it all go.
Honestly, it was truly a one-of-a-kind story. All its elements were unique and special, from the ink on skin to each character arc. We see Nina, Ruby, Zeke, Esmeralda, and many more persevere through whatever cards they were given. We see them brave. We see them break. Yet we never see them stop.
I have to say, though, that the pacing kind of ruined it for me. I wish we hadn't gotten all of their backstories at the same time, and instead had them unfold more gradually. Because it affected the escalation and the nerve-wracking moments. We know from the start that they will end up together and everything is going to be okay no matter what happens. In a way, it's like fulfilling a prophecy; as long as you believe, you'll always know the end.
Furthermore, I thought the encounter with the chancellor and the aftermath from the gloves to the memory swipe felt a bit "too easy." She spent years building and planning, only to be caught so simply in a meeting? It was like building a house of cards and blowing it intentionally before you were done.
But as I said earlier, this was a truly unique book that I believe will go far. I just wished it had been the perfect book for me and it wasn't, and that's okay. It remains one hell of a unique and special book from start to end. It just wasn't a book I would recommend for a reader like me to stay on the edge of their seat. But it would definitely be for someone who appreciates the safety it presents, the elements, the characters' silent agreements, and the way the whole plot reveals itself.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Happy reading ◉‿◉
This book was something else. It was about sacrifices for the greater good, and the will to put everything on the line for one's beliefs a quality we don't see that often in the real world.
Imagine one day everything against the ruler's belief is confiscated, made illegal. Reading a simple religious scroll makes you a criminal. But that's not all. A group of people firmly believe that it shouldn't end this way. In fact, it won't ever be the fate they meet. So they take things into their own hands and start making a change. Each one uses a skill they have mastered throughout the years: a tattooist, a shepherdess, a carpenter, an ancient Inkuru war drum, or a simple rifle. We see how their lives shaped them, how their parents taught them and gave them enough skills and faith to fully believe and be willing to let it all go.
Honestly, it was truly a one-of-a-kind story. All its elements were unique and special, from the ink on skin to each character arc. We see Nina, Ruby, Zeke, Esmeralda, and many more persevere through whatever cards they were given. We see them brave. We see them break. Yet we never see them stop.
I have to say, though, that the pacing kind of ruined it for me. I wish we hadn't gotten all of their backstories at the same time, and instead had them unfold more gradually. Because it affected the escalation and the nerve-wracking moments. We know from the start that they will end up together and everything is going to be okay no matter what happens. In a way, it's like fulfilling a prophecy; as long as you believe, you'll always know the end.
Furthermore, I thought the encounter with the chancellor and the aftermath from the gloves to the memory swipe felt a bit "too easy." She spent years building and planning, only to be caught so simply in a meeting? It was like building a house of cards and blowing it intentionally before you were done.
But as I said earlier, this was a truly unique book that I believe will go far. I just wished it had been the perfect book for me and it wasn't, and that's okay. It remains one hell of a unique and special book from start to end. It just wasn't a book I would recommend for a reader like me to stay on the edge of their seat. But it would definitely be for someone who appreciates the safety it presents, the elements, the characters' silent agreements, and the way the whole plot reveals itself.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Happy reading ◉‿◉
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.25
📜 ARC Review 📜
"New vocabulary is being inoculated by the Chancellor and slowly moving in to replace the old. What once seemed a stretch to the imagination, and even laughable, is now seeping in like poison. I’ve read history books at school, and I know what soon follows when the authorities begin stealing from their people."
In this debut YA Dystopian Fantasy, Scroll followers, a religious sect, live in Nuvah, while the Chancellor, from Ciar, is trying to destroy all copies of the Scroll. With only one known copy left, Nina agrees to be tattooed top to bottom (minus visible areas like her hands, feet, and head) with the entirely of the Scroll so that it can't be lost forever.
The problem is that it's written in a dead language. She must seek out the man of peace who can translate the Scroll. Where does she need to go to find him? To Ciar - hiding right under the nose of the Chancellor!
With a little romance, friendship, and secret identity mixed in, this is a cute YA friendly story that any youth group attendee can read without parental fear of spice or harsh language.
Before I started reading the book, I didn't have a clue that there would be a Biblical correlation. When I started reading this, we find out that Nina is a shepherdess and Zeke is a carpenter. They meet below fig trees, the Chancellor's iconography is a wolf (sheep - wolf in sheep's clothing, etc). The Chancellor requires the mark of the Wolf for all followers and the ID chip (for, say, payment systems), is inserted subdermally. Sound familiar if you're a Christian?
So, I could see some people picking it up and putting it down quickly. But, the story isn't a call to repent. It just pulls Biblical pieces together that may not be noticeable for some readers, but was evident to me.
I wouldn't say this book kept me on the edge of my seat or that I was particularly rooting for any specific character. The story was nicely developed and had a nice progression. I liked it enough to say I liked it, but I didn't love it.
I think adults would enjoy it as it doesn't read as a particularly young YA book. The characters aren't super young - it's just a clean book for a YA.
If you're looking for no-spice YA fantasy or Christian adventure fiction, you may like this book.
Triggers: Drug Use, Violence, Murder, Death
📜 ARC Review 📜
"New vocabulary is being inoculated by the Chancellor and slowly moving in to replace the old. What once seemed a stretch to the imagination, and even laughable, is now seeping in like poison. I’ve read history books at school, and I know what soon follows when the authorities begin stealing from their people."
In this debut YA Dystopian Fantasy, Scroll followers, a religious sect, live in Nuvah, while the Chancellor, from Ciar, is trying to destroy all copies of the Scroll. With only one known copy left, Nina agrees to be tattooed top to bottom (minus visible areas like her hands, feet, and head) with the entirely of the Scroll so that it can't be lost forever.
The problem is that it's written in a dead language. She must seek out the man of peace who can translate the Scroll. Where does she need to go to find him? To Ciar - hiding right under the nose of the Chancellor!
With a little romance, friendship, and secret identity mixed in, this is a cute YA friendly story that any youth group attendee can read without parental fear of spice or harsh language.
Before I started reading the book, I didn't have a clue that there would be a Biblical correlation. When I started reading this, we find out that Nina is a shepherdess and Zeke is a carpenter. They meet below fig trees, the Chancellor's iconography is a wolf (sheep - wolf in sheep's clothing, etc). The Chancellor requires the mark of the Wolf for all followers and the ID chip (for, say, payment systems), is inserted subdermally. Sound familiar if you're a Christian?
So, I could see some people picking it up and putting it down quickly. But, the story isn't a call to repent. It just pulls Biblical pieces together that may not be noticeable for some readers, but was evident to me.
I wouldn't say this book kept me on the edge of my seat or that I was particularly rooting for any specific character. The story was nicely developed and had a nice progression. I liked it enough to say I liked it, but I didn't love it.
I think adults would enjoy it as it doesn't read as a particularly young YA book. The characters aren't super young - it's just a clean book for a YA.
If you're looking for no-spice YA fantasy or Christian adventure fiction, you may like this book.
Triggers: Drug Use, Violence, Murder, Death
March 9, 2026
Scroll of Ink and Skin offers a truly unique premise that immediately sets it apart within the YA fantasy space.
The story follows Nina, a young woman whose village is destroyed, forcing her into an extraordinary act of survival and faith. In order to preserve a sacred text, she has the holy book tattooed onto her skin in its original language, turning herself into the last living record of something powerful and forbidden. Now hunted and forced to hide within the enemy’s castle, Nina must navigate danger, secrets, and unlikely alliances while searching for someone who can translate the ancient words etched across her body.
One of the things I appreciated most about this book is how original the central idea is. The concept of a character literally carrying a sacred text on her skin is fascinating and creates high stakes right from the beginning.
The story also carries strong themes of faith, identity, resilience, and trust in the face of persecution. Nina’s journey highlights what someone might risk to preserve history, belief, and truth when powerful forces are determined to erase them.
Overall, this is a creative and ambitious debut. I always love seeing authors pursue their dreams and bring their stories to life, and this is a great first novel from Mandi Phillips. I’m proud of what she’s accomplished here and look forward to seeing where the series goes next.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The story follows Nina, a young woman whose village is destroyed, forcing her into an extraordinary act of survival and faith. In order to preserve a sacred text, she has the holy book tattooed onto her skin in its original language, turning herself into the last living record of something powerful and forbidden. Now hunted and forced to hide within the enemy’s castle, Nina must navigate danger, secrets, and unlikely alliances while searching for someone who can translate the ancient words etched across her body.
One of the things I appreciated most about this book is how original the central idea is. The concept of a character literally carrying a sacred text on her skin is fascinating and creates high stakes right from the beginning.
The story also carries strong themes of faith, identity, resilience, and trust in the face of persecution. Nina’s journey highlights what someone might risk to preserve history, belief, and truth when powerful forces are determined to erase them.
Overall, this is a creative and ambitious debut. I always love seeing authors pursue their dreams and bring their stories to life, and this is a great first novel from Mandi Phillips. I’m proud of what she’s accomplished here and look forward to seeing where the series goes next.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 14, 2026
This book gave me all the Book of Eli vibes.
There were definitely a few things that kept me from giving this the full five stars.
If I had just read this like casually, I probably wouldn’t mention anything but as an ARC reader I feel that it’s worth noting.
So before you keep reading this review just know that despite its flaws, I still very much loved it!
Okay… one big thing for me was the timeline (I’m a stickler for them). And, unfortunately, there were several instances where I had to go back and reread. I even added mentions of times and events to my arc notes trying to figure it out before finally just giving up and saying it was off.
There were some minor plot holes… not enough to take away from the story, but enough that it made me pause and think about it.
And honestly I feel like these could have been fixed with just a little more explanation.
This has multiple POVs —which I loved! —the thing that I didn’t love was that it was hard to differentiate between which POV it was since there wasn’t a lot of differences in how the characters spoke and thought.
I’m not gonna lie, I just told myself it was a cultural thing and kept on reading 😂.
And then there were a few times where there was no clear written indication of a scene break but suddenly it would change, making it feel choppy in some parts.
Now, I know this sounds like a lot. But this honestly was such an interesting read! The story was so unique and I definitely found myself immersed.
I loved that last line!
And I am excited for what Book 2 brings.
There were definitely a few things that kept me from giving this the full five stars.
If I had just read this like casually, I probably wouldn’t mention anything but as an ARC reader I feel that it’s worth noting.
So before you keep reading this review just know that despite its flaws, I still very much loved it!
Okay… one big thing for me was the timeline (I’m a stickler for them). And, unfortunately, there were several instances where I had to go back and reread. I even added mentions of times and events to my arc notes trying to figure it out before finally just giving up and saying it was off.
There were some minor plot holes… not enough to take away from the story, but enough that it made me pause and think about it.
And honestly I feel like these could have been fixed with just a little more explanation.
This has multiple POVs —which I loved! —the thing that I didn’t love was that it was hard to differentiate between which POV it was since there wasn’t a lot of differences in how the characters spoke and thought.
I’m not gonna lie, I just told myself it was a cultural thing and kept on reading 😂.
And then there were a few times where there was no clear written indication of a scene break but suddenly it would change, making it feel choppy in some parts.
Now, I know this sounds like a lot. But this honestly was such an interesting read! The story was so unique and I definitely found myself immersed.
I loved that last line!
And I am excited for what Book 2 brings.
April 28, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Scroll of Ink and Skin is a captivating dystopian novel that deserves more hype. It is so well written and was an easy read. And the plot—the plot is really good! As someone who loves dystopian novels, I like to think I’ve read every dystopian novel that exists, but this just changed that. It’s definitely one of my most memorable reads. I don't want to spoil a lot of the plot, but the settings and the whole storyline are amazing. Perhaps it’s just because I have a soft spot for dystopian novels, but I can assure you, you won't regret reading it. Moreover, it starts with a strong hook with high stakes immediately, and the character development is a standout.
However, although this was a memorable read, it does contain heavy themes such as violence, death, substance abuse, torture, and human branding; so, if any of those themes are a "hard no" for you, perhaps you won't enjoy the book. But for the rest of you, please give it a chance! I'm tweaking out on how much I like this (I didn't expect to like it when I first picked it up).
Scroll of Ink and Skin is a captivating dystopian novel that deserves more hype. It is so well written and was an easy read. And the plot—the plot is really good! As someone who loves dystopian novels, I like to think I’ve read every dystopian novel that exists, but this just changed that. It’s definitely one of my most memorable reads. I don't want to spoil a lot of the plot, but the settings and the whole storyline are amazing. Perhaps it’s just because I have a soft spot for dystopian novels, but I can assure you, you won't regret reading it. Moreover, it starts with a strong hook with high stakes immediately, and the character development is a standout.
However, although this was a memorable read, it does contain heavy themes such as violence, death, substance abuse, torture, and human branding; so, if any of those themes are a "hard no" for you, perhaps you won't enjoy the book. But for the rest of you, please give it a chance! I'm tweaking out on how much I like this (I didn't expect to like it when I first picked it up).
June 12, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story follows several perspectives: Ruby, a mute tattooist; Nina, a shepherdess who becomes the Scroll; Zeke, Nina's beloved; Ransom, Zeke's lost brother who has turned away from the teachings of the Scroll; and Esmerelda, a girl raised in poverty who is elevated by the Chancellor to be his assassin.
The narrative was well-crafted and well-paced, keeping the reader engaged even with the varied perspectives. There were little details that proved important easter eggs later on, which was rewarding as a reader if you were paying attention, and the dystopian world-building was well done. I also loved how Ruby was written, as she didn't turn into a trope or a two-dimensional character, even though it easily could have gone that way given her lack of ability to speak.
I didn't really agree that this was a fantasy story. The androids in the houses reads much more dystopian sci-fi, as does the tyrannical rule of the Chancellor who seeks to eradicate the religion of the Scroll-followers. It is said it's a Christian fantasy, but to be honest, except for Rock of Ages being mentioned, it could have been any religion.
There were some grammatical/spelling errors, but nothing that took away from comprehension of the text. I look forward to reading the second and finding the conclusion to the tale.
This story follows several perspectives: Ruby, a mute tattooist; Nina, a shepherdess who becomes the Scroll; Zeke, Nina's beloved; Ransom, Zeke's lost brother who has turned away from the teachings of the Scroll; and Esmerelda, a girl raised in poverty who is elevated by the Chancellor to be his assassin.
The narrative was well-crafted and well-paced, keeping the reader engaged even with the varied perspectives. There were little details that proved important easter eggs later on, which was rewarding as a reader if you were paying attention, and the dystopian world-building was well done. I also loved how Ruby was written, as she didn't turn into a trope or a two-dimensional character, even though it easily could have gone that way given her lack of ability to speak.
I didn't really agree that this was a fantasy story. The androids in the houses reads much more dystopian sci-fi, as does the tyrannical rule of the Chancellor who seeks to eradicate the religion of the Scroll-followers. It is said it's a Christian fantasy, but to be honest, except for Rock of Ages being mentioned, it could have been any religion.
There were some grammatical/spelling errors, but nothing that took away from comprehension of the text. I look forward to reading the second and finding the conclusion to the tale.
March 25, 2026
Scroll of Ink and Skin has such a compelling premise. The idea of a girl having her religious Scroll tattooed onto her body to preserve it from being wiped out is bold, creative, and really sets the story apart.
I especially appreciated how clearly the book honors Scripture and keeps it at the center. The imagery is vivid and memorable, and it made the story feel unique and meaningful.
I genuinely enjoyed reading this and had a hard time putting it down. It’s engaging, imaginative, and full of conviction. I can especially see it resonating with teenagers or younger readers, but I still really enjoyed it as an adult.
It’s also a clean read, which I really appreciated. There is some light, tasteful romance with a bit of kissing, and while the story touches on heavier themes, everything is handled in a respectful and non-graphic way.
I’m already looking forward to the next book.
I especially appreciated how clearly the book honors Scripture and keeps it at the center. The imagery is vivid and memorable, and it made the story feel unique and meaningful.
I genuinely enjoyed reading this and had a hard time putting it down. It’s engaging, imaginative, and full of conviction. I can especially see it resonating with teenagers or younger readers, but I still really enjoyed it as an adult.
It’s also a clean read, which I really appreciated. There is some light, tasteful romance with a bit of kissing, and while the story touches on heavier themes, everything is handled in a respectful and non-graphic way.
I’m already looking forward to the next book.
March 4, 2026
Scroll of Ink and Skin is a fresh new addition to the YA dystopian-esque world. From the start, the reader gets clues as to what the Scroll is which gave a more realistic and connected feeling to the book. I really enjoyed the seamless blending of known comfort in a unique, unknown world. The characters develop and grow in a way that made me change who my favorite is and made me feel like I could see myself in them. This is also a book I would gladly give my child to read and not worry about any sort of innuendo or explicit content which in todays YA genre is hard to find. I'm eager to read the next book!
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 19, 2026
“I’ll rip this world apart with my bare hands to get her back”
“I know you’d set fire to the world and never let a flame touch me”
This book…is so freaking good. If you’re looking for a good Christian fantasy, it’s this one. The yearning, the epic quest, the friendships, it’s all so good.
There is a few uses of the “what the h*ll” and “d*mn”. There is no spice, only kisses.
Thank you to the author for sending me this book 🫶. I can’t wait for book two!
“I know you’d set fire to the world and never let a flame touch me”
This book…is so freaking good. If you’re looking for a good Christian fantasy, it’s this one. The yearning, the epic quest, the friendships, it’s all so good.
There is a few uses of the “what the h*ll” and “d*mn”. There is no spice, only kisses.
Thank you to the author for sending me this book 🫶. I can’t wait for book two!
March 15, 2026
A hauntingly beautiful story
I loved this book so much! The details are beautiful and the plot moves quickly. I just wish the next were already available!
I loved this book so much! The details are beautiful and the plot moves quickly. I just wish the next were already available!
March 4, 2026
I loved this book! It started as a bit of a slow burn for me, but it didn’t take long for me to be completely hooked. I am excited for book 2 and to find out what happens next with Nina and the scroll! This was a great fantasy read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 13, 2026
Oh my goodness!
This book is amazing. It grips you from page one! Each chapter is short which I loved because it makes it easier to fly through, but that’s also because the characters are SO interesting and the story itself is fascinating.
I loved all the biblical Easter eggs throughout the story. What a unique idea to have someone have to tattoo the whole holy book onto their body as a means of keeping it alive? That idea itself is brilliant!
The characters in this book are so fun to read. You can’t help but love them all (well except the villan. I truly can’t wait to see what comes of him in book two)
Esmeralda was a gem. I was not expecting to love her as much as I did but wow she is amazing and I can’t wait to watch her arc continue to grow through book 2.
Nina 😭😭my dear sweet Nina. And my dear sweet Zeke. I just….i need to go read book 2 now.
This book is amazing. It grips you from page one! Each chapter is short which I loved because it makes it easier to fly through, but that’s also because the characters are SO interesting and the story itself is fascinating.
I loved all the biblical Easter eggs throughout the story. What a unique idea to have someone have to tattoo the whole holy book onto their body as a means of keeping it alive? That idea itself is brilliant!
The characters in this book are so fun to read. You can’t help but love them all (well except the villan. I truly can’t wait to see what comes of him in book two)
Esmeralda was a gem. I was not expecting to love her as much as I did but wow she is amazing and I can’t wait to watch her arc continue to grow through book 2.
Nina 😭😭my dear sweet Nina. And my dear sweet Zeke. I just….i need to go read book 2 now.
February 15, 2026
Wow! This book had me hooked from the start. I love how each chapter dives into each character and their point of views through the story. Truly couldn’t put it down towards the end. I am excited to see where this story goes with Nina and the protectors of the Scroll. Ready for book 2!!!
May 24, 2026
Excellent!! I couldn’t put this book down. I especially liked the multiple point of views.
May 23, 2026
ARC from BookSirens
Clean Romance, Christianity inspired YA Dystopian.
The characters are so cute and unproblematic which is refreshing from the morally grey outbreak in fantasy these days. The romance was also refreshingly not toxic and they genuinely took care of eachothers needs first. The plot was a lot more relaxed for a Dystopian than I anticipated, at least to me. Basically government is trying to destroy all religious text. Last surviving one is preserved and copied in a very different way that the cover hints to.
Tiny pet peeve was the mentioned every time characters went to bed, usually at the end of a chapter. There's a reason we don't write everytime they do mundane things like eat, sleep, and bathroom break all the time. 😆
Clean Romance, Christianity inspired YA Dystopian.
The characters are so cute and unproblematic which is refreshing from the morally grey outbreak in fantasy these days. The romance was also refreshingly not toxic and they genuinely took care of eachothers needs first. The plot was a lot more relaxed for a Dystopian than I anticipated, at least to me. Basically government is trying to destroy all religious text. Last surviving one is preserved and copied in a very different way that the cover hints to.
Tiny pet peeve was the mentioned every time characters went to bed, usually at the end of a chapter. There's a reason we don't write everytime they do mundane things like eat, sleep, and bathroom break all the time. 😆
Review of advance copy received from Author
A great debut novel! The premise centers around a society divided by ideology and power, where we see the FMC make a dangerous decision to preserve something her government wants erased. From there, the story unfolds through secret identities, political tension, layered loyalties, and a thread of gentle romance that keeps it firmly YA without feeling immature.
The themes: There are definitely Christian undertones woven throughout the story. Readers familiar with biblical themes will recognize echoes in the symbolism and overarching narrative. That said, I never once felt like the book was trying to convert me or push a specific belief system. Instead, the themes feel integrated into the moral framework of the world—subtle, intentional, and open to interpretation. It’s more about conviction, sacrifice, and preservation of what you believe in and the ability to maintain that right. The allegorical elements are there if you’re looking for them, but the story stands independently without requiring the reader to share any particular faith.
The characters: In addition to liking the FMC (Nina), Esmeralda and Ruby, in particular, stood out to me. They both have an emotional complexity that hints at much more beneath the surface, and I’m genuinely curious to see where their arcs lead in the next installment. Their depth added dimension to the narrative and made the world feel fuller.
Overall, this is an impressive debut. For readers who enjoy fantasy with meaningful undertones and intriguing, complex characters, it’s a strong and intriguing start to a series. I am looking forward to even deeper character development in the next installment, as well as seeing more immersive world building.
***** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The themes: There are definitely Christian undertones woven throughout the story. Readers familiar with biblical themes will recognize echoes in the symbolism and overarching narrative. That said, I never once felt like the book was trying to convert me or push a specific belief system. Instead, the themes feel integrated into the moral framework of the world—subtle, intentional, and open to interpretation. It’s more about conviction, sacrifice, and preservation of what you believe in and the ability to maintain that right. The allegorical elements are there if you’re looking for them, but the story stands independently without requiring the reader to share any particular faith.
The characters: In addition to liking the FMC (Nina), Esmeralda and Ruby, in particular, stood out to me. They both have an emotional complexity that hints at much more beneath the surface, and I’m genuinely curious to see where their arcs lead in the next installment. Their depth added dimension to the narrative and made the world feel fuller.
Overall, this is an impressive debut. For readers who enjoy fantasy with meaningful undertones and intriguing, complex characters, it’s a strong and intriguing start to a series. I am looking forward to even deeper character development in the next installment, as well as seeing more immersive world building.
***** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 3, 2026
A story through the eyes of those who see Hope, or are in fear of it.
What an incredible weaving of truth, trials, and tribulations.
A world with its own unique history. Characters whose stories you are submerged into.
I wish there were more pages and chapters to read, but am excited to see what comes next.
•••
The POV shifts were welcomed as I wanted to know the depths of their thoughts and troubles.
•••
Age appropriate language. Very minimal spice. Mostly yearning and kissing. Anything else was left innocently suggested. Nothing that left me cringing.
•••
The theme of fighting for what you believe in was a classic. Each character had their own beliefs, even though most were fighting together or in their own ways towards the protecting of the Scroll. While brief in description, I can wait to see how the story and prophecies of the Scroll unfurl next.
•••
These are the stores I want my children to read and enjoy without having to worry about agendas or unwanted spice. A nice escape in my day, and I can’t wait to add this to our bookshelf!
What an incredible weaving of truth, trials, and tribulations.
A world with its own unique history. Characters whose stories you are submerged into.
I wish there were more pages and chapters to read, but am excited to see what comes next.
•••
The POV shifts were welcomed as I wanted to know the depths of their thoughts and troubles.
•••
Age appropriate language. Very minimal spice. Mostly yearning and kissing. Anything else was left innocently suggested. Nothing that left me cringing.
•••
The theme of fighting for what you believe in was a classic. Each character had their own beliefs, even though most were fighting together or in their own ways towards the protecting of the Scroll. While brief in description, I can wait to see how the story and prophecies of the Scroll unfurl next.
•••
These are the stores I want my children to read and enjoy without having to worry about agendas or unwanted spice. A nice escape in my day, and I can’t wait to add this to our bookshelf!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2026
Scroll of Ink and Skin is a YA Dystopian novel that carries Biblical themes and features heroic characters and complex villains. Nina puts her life on the line by volunteering to tattoo the sacred text of her religion onto her skin as an attempt to hide the scriptures from the Chancellor who seeks to destroy every last document.
What stood out to me about this heartfelt story was the love for the culture and world-building within the story. Part of that world building was the clash between Scroll followers and city dwellers. Scroll followers seem to live in an older time--Nina writes with ink on paper, the description of an oak table, she smuggles figs in her pockets, and she's a shepherdess. Meanwhile, the house android projects images of the Chancellor, and "silver soldiers" in hovercrafts raid villages. There's the warmth of Nina, the shepherdess, and the cold of Esmerelda, the assassin who starts off the rotating POVs.
Every sentence feels carefully crafted and weighed down with intention and emotion. A thrilling read for young and older readers.
What stood out to me about this heartfelt story was the love for the culture and world-building within the story. Part of that world building was the clash between Scroll followers and city dwellers. Scroll followers seem to live in an older time--Nina writes with ink on paper, the description of an oak table, she smuggles figs in her pockets, and she's a shepherdess. Meanwhile, the house android projects images of the Chancellor, and "silver soldiers" in hovercrafts raid villages. There's the warmth of Nina, the shepherdess, and the cold of Esmerelda, the assassin who starts off the rotating POVs.
Every sentence feels carefully crafted and weighed down with intention and emotion. A thrilling read for young and older readers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was captivated by the story from the beginning, and drawn in by the unique way the author wove together themes of faith with a thrilling story that kept me on the edge of my seat and wanting more. I love the premise of fighting to preserve the Scroll. Seeing the story from the different points of view added depth to the characters and was a fun element. I experienced the full range of emotions along with them: fear, disgust, sorrow, longing, helplessness, joy, excitement, hope, courage. I look forward to reading the next book to see how the rest of the story unfolds!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 12, 2026
I am in total awe of this book. Written in such a unique way. Every characters have their true purpose in this story. The theme of protection to save their faith and scroll document is wonderfully explained and felt as the reader. It’s a tale of courage, sacrifices & perseverance. The short chapters make reading so quick and flips from different characters POV that I love. A story that stays with you long after you finish. I very much am eager to read the next one! WOW!
fabulously written
very memorable read
multi char. POVs
strong friendships
courage & sacrifices
one of a kind, so unique!
conviction & faith
characters growth
world/character building
protectors of the Scroll!
young pure clean romance
dark academia
masked vigilante
ends with suspense
fabulously written
very memorable read
multi char. POVs
strong friendships
courage & sacrifices
one of a kind, so unique!
conviction & faith
characters growth
world/character building
protectors of the Scroll!
young pure clean romance
dark academia
masked vigilante
ends with suspense
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this. I was drawn into the fantasy world created with vivid images and word choice. As the mystery unfolds, you find yourself on edge with those who are protecting the scroll and holding your breath as they encounter the evil of Cicar. The story stands on its own although parallels to the Bible and sacred work enhances the meaning. A bit of mystery to solve, a thriller without blood and gore and a fantasy world of good and evil that is easy to enter. I can’t wait for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This thrilling mystery to save the ancient scroll pulls you in through vivid images and the character development. The word choice further creates the fantasy world and sends you into its space. You find yourself identifying with the characters, holding your breath and sighing in relief with them. Good vs Evil 🤯
So excited to jump into book 2!
So excited to jump into book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The concept of this book was so unique. I stared it on a trip and couldn’t wait to get home to pick it up again. I wanted to get back to the characters and their stories. Like all good fantasy, this book is relevant to our time even though I feel echoes of history. Can’t wait for the sequel.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved how the characters were written and how they expressed their emotions and thoughts throughout the book. Very well written! Very descriptive.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
**Advanced Reader Copy**
Scroll of Ink and Skin offers an intriguing take on the battle between good and evil, weaving in subtle Christian themes without creating a traditional "religious fiction" book. Phillips has constructed a strong story plot with well-developed characters and a unique setting that feels like a blend of Star Wars mixed with a primitive dystopian society that references modern-day objects. While the initial character introductions take a moment to gain momentum, the story becomes immersive by the one-third mark. I enjoyed how the shifting locations layered the characters' paths into unexpected relationships. This debut novel powerfully explores themes like conviction to a cause, overcoming hardship, and the idea that past mistakes do not define your future.
Scroll of Ink and Skin offers an intriguing take on the battle between good and evil, weaving in subtle Christian themes without creating a traditional "religious fiction" book. Phillips has constructed a strong story plot with well-developed characters and a unique setting that feels like a blend of Star Wars mixed with a primitive dystopian society that references modern-day objects. While the initial character introductions take a moment to gain momentum, the story becomes immersive by the one-third mark. I enjoyed how the shifting locations layered the characters' paths into unexpected relationships. This debut novel powerfully explores themes like conviction to a cause, overcoming hardship, and the idea that past mistakes do not define your future.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Scroll of Ink and Skin is everything I could want in a YA fantasy novel. I fell in love with the characters, the love stories, the rich setting, the thrills, and the beautifully poetic language Mandi uses to bring every scene to life.
I especially loved watching Esmeralda find refuge in the most unlikely place. Her journey stayed with me long after I finished the book, and I’m already eager to see what happens next as her path begins to shift.
If you love immersive worlds, compelling characters, and a touch of magic and danger, this story is for you. Grab a slice of pie or a mug of hot chocolate before you start—this enchanting journey to Ciar is one you’ll want to savor.
I especially loved watching Esmeralda find refuge in the most unlikely place. Her journey stayed with me long after I finished the book, and I’m already eager to see what happens next as her path begins to shift.
If you love immersive worlds, compelling characters, and a touch of magic and danger, this story is for you. Grab a slice of pie or a mug of hot chocolate before you start—this enchanting journey to Ciar is one you’ll want to savor.
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