Evander's Escape: A King and Castle Tale

by Allegra Wordweaver

Freedom. He was so close.

Sixteen-year-old Evander never expected to be ensnared in the labyrinthine depths of a Drake's shadecavern. A follower of the almighty King, he’s always lived in the quiet town of Peacebrook. His own family hardly realizes the struggles he endures in secret, as he wrestles with the darkness of his own failures.

But for Evander, the battle is very real. Held captive in his weaknesses, and taunted by a wily dragon foe, he desperately seeks a way of escape. But his greatest efforts only result in deeper defeats. Even the King’s Book doesn’t seem to be helping him. What is he doing wrong?

Evander knows he has to find answers soon. If he can't solve the mystery and reach the King's Castle of refuge in time, he might be trapped in the Drake's lair forever…

An allegory for fans of Pilgrim’s Progress, with deep themes of struggle, hope, victory, and righteousness by faith.

ebook

Published January 1, 2026

Reviews

[Grace Soto · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been a while since I read an allegory like this! Very reminiscent of Pilgrim's Progress, but not as abstract as the direction I took with my own fantasy allegory. This short story is such a powerful and beautiful story of grace and faith and the freedom of surrender. Evander's struggle was very relatable to me as a former "striver" myself.
I look forward to reading more of Allegra's work!

[Becky Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the "Pilgrim's Progress" type allegory in this book. I have a few theological differences but the story was over-all enjoyable and the characters were fun. I love deeply allegorical works and this was that.

[C.A. Doehrmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best modern Christian allegory fantasies I've read!!!

Evander's Escape tells the story of one young man's battle to escape sin, self, and the devil. This story brings in Jesus, Biblical truths, and even quotes verses. At the same time, it doesn't shy away from the deep struggles a Christian can experience in life. The confusion. The discouragement. The tests of faith. Wrestling with doubts, questions, and negative emotions and how much that can impact our walk with God and others. All beautifully wrought in a fantastical world.

My favorite part was how Evander was so relatable. Some Christian fiction can feel preachy or trite because it fails to capture the humanity of the characters. But Evander's humanity is what makes this story really shine. It was such an encouragement to read.

If you liked Chronicles of Narnia, Hind's Feet in High Places, or the Pilgrim's Progress, then Allegra Wordweaver is the author for you. Highly recommend!

[Jewel Plank · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you know me, you know I love allegorical stories. Pilgrim's Progress and The Prince Warriors were my all time favorites growing up. This story had a very good allegory. I loved all the references and the unique names given to different things. It was nice to read a story that didn't have all the stereotypical creatures, etc. The story was very impactful and you could really feel the message the author wanted to tell, and the themes the author wanted to convey. It really makes me excited for other works from her to see what she does and what worlds she'll create. Her ability for world-building is fantastic because it wasn't difficult to understand while still having depth. Personally, that's what I look for, because while I love deep world-building, it's hard for me to understand it a lot of the time. I highly recommend!