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Karabos
Not yet published
Expected 13 Oct 26368 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication October 13, 2026
About the author
Lyndsey Lewellen
5 books168 followersLyndsey Lewellen grew up on a healthy dose of comic books, punk music, and sci-fi. She infuses all three loves into novels written for young adults. Inside her “what if” worlds, her characters take risks, grow, and fight for what matters. When she’s not writing or whittling down her endless TBR, she designs novel covers and paints on shoes. She lives on a small Texas farm with her best friend/husband, five children, and what some might call a zoo of animals (especially after meeting the peacocks).
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Help, I need the sequel pronto—or, the perils of reading an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. (All opinions are my own, read on at your discretion.)
I came for the time-travel, stayed for the characters, and left encouraged by a particular thematic question.
(Also the scarabs. The scarabs are cool.)
Why I had so much fun reading this:
• First off, can I get three cheers for positive sibling relationships? Because we had positive sibling relationships and I’m sad we didn’t get to see them the whole book (it’s unrealistic to hope they’ll be a bigger part of Vol. 2, the ensemble cast is already large, but I can dream—)
• I really like the juxtaposition of worldviews between characters when it came to belief systems. This is probably the highlight of the book for me, actually. The thematic questions tying to what it means to believe in something or someone, or how far you’re willing to go for your beliefs, and what does it mean when you falter in your beliefs… It may not go into detail, but it certainly raises those types of conversations and I hope people read this with a book club because for this reason alone I think it would make a wonderful pick. (:
• The characterssss. Winslet and Rafe were great, I didn’t ever question whose POV I was reading. I loved how distinct each of the main cast was and I hope we get to see more of the rest of the cast *cough* please bring back Arvin *cough* in the sequel!
I feel like the opening of Dicken’s A Tale of Two Cities sums up my feelings on the time-travel and related time-travel magic.
• It was the best of times—because the time-traveling itself serves the present day storyline so well that even my usually time-loop hating brother loved the concept when I was trying to explain how it works (and now he wants October to come sooner), the scarabs, and this version of time-travel heavily reminds me of A Swiftly Tilting Planet by Madeline L’Engle. (Which. Yes. This is one my favorites of The Time Quintet, so points for that.)And I just like time-travel, a lot, always have. Regardless, I feel like this is one of the really cool stories where the time-travel truly serves the story and deepens the story, it would be worse off without time-travel.
• …and it was the worst of times—not really, but I have a couple concerns because of the related side effects of time-travel magic and their implications. In all fairness, I’m not a huge fan of characters we’re supposed to be cheering for using mind control, as it can read like abuse or possession, depending on the circumstance. This story seems to have moments of both. While some of these scenes are treated well (and with consequences—which I was excited to see!), other moments seem to not have repercussions for the negative actions, which I have some issues with. However, it’s entirely possible I misunderstood, and if that’s the case, I’ll update my review when I reread it. (:
For those of you concerned about cliffhangers—this one isn’t too steep. I think this is the perfect amount of cliffhanger-ness, where you really, really want the next book, you want to see what happens next, but also you get enough of an idea of what could happen in the second book that waiting patiently is still humanly possible. (So...go read it!)
I came for the time-travel, stayed for the characters, and left encouraged by a particular thematic question.
(Also the scarabs. The scarabs are cool.)
Why I had so much fun reading this:
• First off, can I get three cheers for positive sibling relationships? Because we had positive sibling relationships and I’m sad we didn’t get to see them the whole book (it’s unrealistic to hope they’ll be a bigger part of Vol. 2, the ensemble cast is already large, but I can dream—)
• I really like the juxtaposition of worldviews between characters when it came to belief systems. This is probably the highlight of the book for me, actually. The thematic questions tying to what it means to believe in something or someone, or how far you’re willing to go for your beliefs, and what does it mean when you falter in your beliefs… It may not go into detail, but it certainly raises those types of conversations and I hope people read this with a book club because for this reason alone I think it would make a wonderful pick. (:
• The characterssss. Winslet and Rafe were great, I didn’t ever question whose POV I was reading. I loved how distinct each of the main cast was and I hope we get to see more of the rest of the cast *cough* please bring back Arvin *cough* in the sequel!
I feel like the opening of Dicken’s A Tale of Two Cities sums up my feelings on the time-travel and related time-travel magic.
• It was the best of times—because the time-traveling itself serves the present day storyline so well that even my usually time-loop hating brother loved the concept when I was trying to explain how it works (and now he wants October to come sooner), the scarabs, and this version of time-travel heavily reminds me of A Swiftly Tilting Planet by Madeline L’Engle. (Which. Yes. This is one my favorites of The Time Quintet, so points for that.)
• …and it was the worst of times—not really, but I have a couple concerns because of the related side effects of time-travel magic and their implications. In all fairness, I’m not a huge fan of characters we’re supposed to be cheering for using mind control, as it can read like abuse or possession, depending on the circumstance. This story seems to have moments of both. While some of these scenes are treated well (and with consequences—which I was excited to see!), other moments seem to not have repercussions for the negative actions, which I have some issues with. However, it’s entirely possible I misunderstood, and if that’s the case, I’ll update my review when I reread it. (:
For those of you concerned about cliffhangers—this one isn’t too steep. I think this is the perfect amount of cliffhanger-ness, where you really, really want the next book, you want to see what happens next, but also you get enough of an idea of what could happen in the second book that waiting patiently is still humanly possible. (So...go read it!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2026
Fantastic! Lewellen’s latest YA adventure gripped me from the first chapter. Fans of Indiana Jones and The Mummy will love this story. Can’t wait for the next installment in the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Karabos is the first half of a Christian, young adult, Egyptian-inspired fantasy duology. It’s a fast-paced adventure with high stakes and surprising depths. In this story we have two perspectives: Winslet, a homeschooled follower of the One Source who wants nothing more than to become a Scarabist and rescue her faithful family from poverty; and Rafe, Wayfinder and heir to a mega-corporation who needs to impress his grandfather in order maintain that inheritance. The solution for both of them is the same—The Tournament of Scarabs. This tournament is the driving force behind the plot.
This is a world of magic, magic extracted from karabos. There are six types of these special scarab beetles, each offering some kind of control over one of the following: earth, air, fire, water, night, and—most importantly for this story—time. When Winslet accidentally touches one of the time scarabs, a chrono karabos—she finds herself stained, and unable to control her time-jumping back to the mythic, ancient past. She is witnessing the inception of the Multisource religion’s control that still so drives her current world. It’s a religion that has been the bane of her life, as her parents have been blacklisted for refusing to worship any god but the One. That religious persecution ramps up over the course of this book.
I loved how Lewellen was able to weave subtle fantastical references to the Exodus story into the time-jumping scenes. Through the meeting of past and present, Lewellen demonstrates the importance of truthfully documenting history, instead of only recording what you as a victorious society wish to be remembered. Otherwise, we repeat the failings of the past. Otherwise, we give away our worship instead of offering it up to the only One who deserves it.
Karabos is a romp of a quest, a propulsive adventure from start to finish. If you have older kids or teens in your life who love adventure stories like Indiana Jones or The Mummy, this would be right up their alley. I look forward to seeing how the strong ends in the final installment.
This is a world of magic, magic extracted from karabos. There are six types of these special scarab beetles, each offering some kind of control over one of the following: earth, air, fire, water, night, and—most importantly for this story—time. When Winslet accidentally touches one of the time scarabs, a chrono karabos—she finds herself stained, and unable to control her time-jumping back to the mythic, ancient past. She is witnessing the inception of the Multisource religion’s control that still so drives her current world. It’s a religion that has been the bane of her life, as her parents have been blacklisted for refusing to worship any god but the One. That religious persecution ramps up over the course of this book.
I loved how Lewellen was able to weave subtle fantastical references to the Exodus story into the time-jumping scenes. Through the meeting of past and present, Lewellen demonstrates the importance of truthfully documenting history, instead of only recording what you as a victorious society wish to be remembered. Otherwise, we repeat the failings of the past. Otherwise, we give away our worship instead of offering it up to the only One who deserves it.
Karabos is a romp of a quest, a propulsive adventure from start to finish. If you have older kids or teens in your life who love adventure stories like Indiana Jones or The Mummy, this would be right up their alley. I look forward to seeing how the strong ends in the final installment.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you so much to Enclave Publishing for the ARC, especially the physical copy! All thoughts are my own!
3.5 stars rounded down
My favorite thing about Lyndsey Lewellen's books is how absolutely unique they are. I've really never read any book with a world quite like this before, and it was genuinely fascinating. Normally I hate all things bugs and time-traveling, so for me to enjoy those pieces says a lot about this book! Additionally, this definitely had some elements of a Moses retelling, which was SO fun. I've never seen that before in a book, but I love that Lyndsey does some unique biblical retellings (her first published book, The Chaos Grid, is a Jonah retelling).
Overall, I thought the setting and worldbuilding were very well done, and the plot/pacing was well done. I really enjoyed the jumps back in time and the non-chronological timeline in the past. It was so fun seeing how everything fit together. Plus, the ancient culture Lyndsey built was so cool. I wish more books had worldbuilding like this!
On the flip side, I don't love Lyndsey's writing style; I'm much more of a lyrical prose type person. Sometimes it could get a little choppy. Additionally, I didn't really connect to the characters, which may or may not be a me problem. Regarding some of the magic and actions, sometimes I struggled to understand it or what the characters were doing with it. I also wasn't a huge fan of how the romance felt a little...I can't find the right word. There really wasn't anything except thinking the other person looked attractive.
Overall, I just didn't really think of this story much after the fact, so it's not at the four-star level for me. And, OH! The kind-of-but-not-really plot twist at the end just came out of the blue, and I really dislike that in books. There need to be some small clues for the reader to realize how the pieces came together.
Violence:
Romance: MMC thinking the FMC is attractive, one undetailed kiss
Language: There were one or two made-up swear words in the world, which I do all the time with my own writing.
LGBTQ: None!
3.5 stars rounded down
My favorite thing about Lyndsey Lewellen's books is how absolutely unique they are. I've really never read any book with a world quite like this before, and it was genuinely fascinating. Normally I hate all things bugs and time-traveling, so for me to enjoy those pieces says a lot about this book! Additionally, this definitely had some elements of a Moses retelling, which was SO fun. I've never seen that before in a book, but I love that Lyndsey does some unique biblical retellings (her first published book, The Chaos Grid, is a Jonah retelling).
Overall, I thought the setting and worldbuilding were very well done, and the plot/pacing was well done. I really enjoyed the jumps back in time and the non-chronological timeline in the past. It was so fun seeing how everything fit together. Plus, the ancient culture Lyndsey built was so cool. I wish more books had worldbuilding like this!
On the flip side, I don't love Lyndsey's writing style; I'm much more of a lyrical prose type person. Sometimes it could get a little choppy. Additionally, I didn't really connect to the characters, which may or may not be a me problem. Regarding some of the magic and actions, sometimes I struggled to understand it or what the characters were doing with it. I also wasn't a huge fan of how the romance felt a little...I can't find the right word. There really wasn't anything except thinking the other person looked attractive.
Overall, I just didn't really think of this story much after the fact, so it's not at the four-star level for me. And, OH! The kind-of-but-not-really plot twist at the end just came out of the blue, and I really dislike that in books. There need to be some small clues for the reader to realize how the pieces came together.
Violence:
Romance: MMC thinking the FMC is attractive, one undetailed kiss
Language: There were one or two made-up swear words in the world, which I do all the time with my own writing.
LGBTQ: None!
July 25, 2026
So good, and I need to know what happens next!!
~~ I received an early copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a positive review.~~
~~ I received an early copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a positive review.~~
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Lyndsey Lewellen and Enclave publishing for sending me and eARC of this book to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Winslet is a homeschooler who wants to help her blacklisted family save their home by entering the karabos catching tournament. Rafe is the heir to a major company and a student at the academy that holds the tournament. Winslet accidentally gets a stain on her hand from a karabos that causes her to time jump and then she accidentally shares that stain with Rafe. They both travel back into ancient times and also forward several times. These stains could disqualify them from the tournament or they can work together.
What a cool concept for a book! I truly loved it. I had a bit of trouble deciding on a final rating because I did struggle a little bit with following parts of it, especially at the beginning. However, once I picked up the heartbeat of the story, and realized what Lyndsey was doing, I was in awe. The time travel in this book is a bit unique. It does not work the same every time. It does not seem to work the same going forward or going backward, and it does not seem to work the same for both people. She was able to tell a new story, but weave in some Biblical inspiration. It if full of allegorical faith. Well done! I think the final rating would be 4.5 stars, and I can't wait for book two.
If you like time travel books, and fantasy you might love this book. If bugs are off putting then this one might bother you a bit. (I must say, I wasn't bothered and I hate bugs.)
Winslet is a homeschooler who wants to help her blacklisted family save their home by entering the karabos catching tournament. Rafe is the heir to a major company and a student at the academy that holds the tournament. Winslet accidentally gets a stain on her hand from a karabos that causes her to time jump and then she accidentally shares that stain with Rafe. They both travel back into ancient times and also forward several times. These stains could disqualify them from the tournament or they can work together.
What a cool concept for a book! I truly loved it. I had a bit of trouble deciding on a final rating because I did struggle a little bit with following parts of it, especially at the beginning. However, once I picked up the heartbeat of the story, and realized what Lyndsey was doing, I was in awe. The time travel in this book is a bit unique. It does not work the same every time. It does not seem to work the same going forward or going backward, and it does not seem to work the same for both people. She was able to tell a new story, but weave in some Biblical inspiration. It if full of allegorical faith. Well done! I think the final rating would be 4.5 stars, and I can't wait for book two.
If you like time travel books, and fantasy you might love this book. If bugs are off putting then this one might bother you a bit. (I must say, I wasn't bothered and I hate bugs.)
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
AAAHHHHHH! I have a love hate relationship with books that are not standalones, and this book perfectly exemplifies why. It is amazing and wonderful and I adore the characters and am so glad I get to spend more time with them…but that ending!
First off, a homeschooled main character in a fantasy book? I was already on-board the Winslet-is-amazing train with that piece of information, but her care for her family and younger brothers - tempered by realistic exasperation at times 😂 - and determination to hold onto the One Source made her a favorite character this homeschooled older sister related to and cheered on.
And Rafe. Both heartbreaking and inspiring in his desire to cling to the gods his grandfather told him were real and determination to protect not only his sister, but also the employees of his family’s company. Lewellen does an excellent job of crafting a realistic character who believes what he was taught by family, school, and culture, challenging all readers to examine their own tenaciously held beliefs.
With Arvin, Saph, and Philip - Arvin and Saph are the absolute cutest and I kinda wish they had their own companion book - and a host of villainous competitors, rulers, and contest referees, the plot keeps you on your toes with twists, turns, and fascinating facts. I cannot wait for book two - that’s the only sad part about reading an advanced copy!
I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
First off, a homeschooled main character in a fantasy book? I was already on-board the Winslet-is-amazing train with that piece of information, but her care for her family and younger brothers - tempered by realistic exasperation at times 😂 - and determination to hold onto the One Source made her a favorite character this homeschooled older sister related to and cheered on.
And Rafe. Both heartbreaking and inspiring in his desire to cling to the gods his grandfather told him were real and determination to protect not only his sister, but also the employees of his family’s company. Lewellen does an excellent job of crafting a realistic character who believes what he was taught by family, school, and culture, challenging all readers to examine their own tenaciously held beliefs.
With Arvin, Saph, and Philip - Arvin and Saph are the absolute cutest and I kinda wish they had their own companion book - and a host of villainous competitors, rulers, and contest referees, the plot keeps you on your toes with twists, turns, and fascinating facts. I cannot wait for book two - that’s the only sad part about reading an advanced copy!
I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Karabos was such a unique, compelling, and unputdownable read. I loved it so much! It was fast-paced and has one of the best opening lines I’ve read in a while. I was hooked immediately.
The worldbuilding was fantastic. It felt familiar yet was unique too. It was never overwhelming, which I appreciated. I was able to slip right in and feel at home. I loved the Indiana Jones and Mummy vibes.
I really liked Winslet and Rafe. They had a bit of a grumpy-sunshine thing going on, which was a lot of fun. I loved seeing them get to know each other and understand each other better. I thought it was really cool that Winslet was homeschooled. I loved seeing her supportive family. I also really liked Rafe and Winslet’s teammates. They were a great group.
I really appreciated seeing how strong Winslet’s faith was in the face of so much adversity. It was really inspiring! It had me thinking about what I would do in her situation.
This book took some turns that I didn’t see coming, and with that ending, I’m so looking forward to the next installment! It can’t come out soon enough. I’ve read some really great books this year and this one is near the top. I can’t say enough good things about it. I highly, highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
The worldbuilding was fantastic. It felt familiar yet was unique too. It was never overwhelming, which I appreciated. I was able to slip right in and feel at home. I loved the Indiana Jones and Mummy vibes.
I really liked Winslet and Rafe. They had a bit of a grumpy-sunshine thing going on, which was a lot of fun. I loved seeing them get to know each other and understand each other better. I thought it was really cool that Winslet was homeschooled. I loved seeing her supportive family. I also really liked Rafe and Winslet’s teammates. They were a great group.
I really appreciated seeing how strong Winslet’s faith was in the face of so much adversity. It was really inspiring! It had me thinking about what I would do in her situation.
This book took some turns that I didn’t see coming, and with that ending, I’m so looking forward to the next installment! It can’t come out soon enough. I’ve read some really great books this year and this one is near the top. I can’t say enough good things about it. I highly, highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A masterful bug catcher with strange beliefs is paired with a Wayfinder determined to save his family.
One ancient people, oppressed by the other.
Their time jumps in the competition are the key to uncover the truth.
Karabos is a clean YA fantasy, set in a unique magical world of political and religious intrigue. Though Rafe is initially baffled by Winslet, he is soon launching off towers on a vine to save her against his better judgement, and it is the sweetest thing!
Although the adventure is enjoyable, this new-to-me author includes lots of deeper topics to think about, including faith, truth, and the importance of a team. Readers who love the richness of the Old Testament stories and the inspiring fight against spine-chilling evil, will be sucked into this Indiana Jones-like tale!
Karabos releases in October. Thanks so much to Enclave Publishing for the gifted early copy! No review was required, but I had to share how much I enjoyed!
Favorite Quotes:
“Sometimes the way forward is disguised as a step back."
"The task is never the task. The people around you, they’re the task."
"Sure, she was a beautiful girl who could betray me like so many other women in my life...Yet, at that moment, all I wanted to do was to be there, holding her hand."
One ancient people, oppressed by the other.
Their time jumps in the competition are the key to uncover the truth.
Karabos is a clean YA fantasy, set in a unique magical world of political and religious intrigue. Though Rafe is initially baffled by Winslet, he is soon launching off towers on a vine to save her against his better judgement, and it is the sweetest thing!
Although the adventure is enjoyable, this new-to-me author includes lots of deeper topics to think about, including faith, truth, and the importance of a team. Readers who love the richness of the Old Testament stories and the inspiring fight against spine-chilling evil, will be sucked into this Indiana Jones-like tale!
Karabos releases in October. Thanks so much to Enclave Publishing for the gifted early copy! No review was required, but I had to share how much I enjoyed!
Favorite Quotes:
“Sometimes the way forward is disguised as a step back."
"The task is never the task. The people around you, they’re the task."
"Sure, she was a beautiful girl who could betray me like so many other women in my life...Yet, at that moment, all I wanted to do was to be there, holding her hand."
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review: What a fun adventure!! I really enjoyed this exciting YA read that gives you The Mummy & Indiana Jones vibes. Winslet & Rafe are the main characters that come from very different social standings. They end up joining the same team for the scarab tournament, and end up getting pulled into "time-slips" together, which sends them to the past and gives them a look into what really happened in history. There are enemies, and trials, an lots of magical scarabs. As a Christian, you are going to appreciate the parallels. Winslet's family believes in One Source, while most other people believe in the Multisource gods. You'll read about how Winslet remains firm in her faith, refuses to partake in their worship, and watch how Rafe & their team begin to question their own beliefs. Rafe & Winslet form a bond that eludes to something possibly becoming more romantic in the second book. This a great story for anyone ages 12 and up. As an adult reader, I would have liked more romance. *not a paid review.
August 10, 2026
I was blessed to receive an Advanced Readers Copy of this book from the author (I feel so special🥰) THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!
I am not surprised this author released ANOTHER BANGER of a book!
When I got the email that I received an ARC of this book it made my whole year. Let me tell you I was NOT expecting that! I started it immediately and again it was another amazing, no spice🌶️, no language, CHRISTIAN book.
I also loved how much I related to the main character, like girl with both in that homeschool boat🫢😅!
and what do you mean it was also enemies to lovers without all the 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️👀
Not to mention how well all the lore was written, like I actually understood…everything….😄
Guys if you have not read this I suggest doing so, like, now. And definitely check out other books by this author! I love her writing style soooooooooo muuuuch! She never fails to release absolute 😍PAGE TURNERS😍
10/10 RECOMMEND ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🔥🔥🔥🔥🌯
I am not surprised this author released ANOTHER BANGER of a book!
When I got the email that I received an ARC of this book it made my whole year. Let me tell you I was NOT expecting that! I started it immediately and again it was another amazing, no spice🌶️, no language, CHRISTIAN book.
I also loved how much I related to the main character, like girl with both in that homeschool boat🫢😅!
and what do you mean it was also enemies to lovers without all the 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️👀
Not to mention how well all the lore was written, like I actually understood…everything….😄
Guys if you have not read this I suggest doing so, like, now. And definitely check out other books by this author! I love her writing style soooooooooo muuuuch! She never fails to release absolute 😍PAGE TURNERS😍
10/10 RECOMMEND ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🔥🔥🔥🔥🌯
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received an ARC from the publisher
Honestly, the words "magic beetles" on the cover sold me. And I was not disappointed.
Some things I loved about this book:
- Colorful magic beetles, and colorful non-magic beetles
- Delightful time paradoxes
- Vivid 1920s vibes in a fantasy world
- A complete story with a satisfying conclusion (in spite of the immediate launch into the sequel)
Thank you, Lindsey Lewellen, for writing this book I didn't know I needed until I saw it for the first time last week. And thank you to Enclave Publishing for handing these out at Realm Makers. I'm so glad I stepped in line to receive one.
I need the hardcover and its sequel yesterday.
Honestly, the words "magic beetles" on the cover sold me. And I was not disappointed.
Some things I loved about this book:
- Colorful magic beetles, and colorful non-magic beetles
- Delightful time paradoxes
- Vivid 1920s vibes in a fantasy world
- A complete story with a satisfying conclusion (in spite of the immediate launch into the sequel)
Thank you, Lindsey Lewellen, for writing this book I didn't know I needed until I saw it for the first time last week. And thank you to Enclave Publishing for handing these out at Realm Makers. I'm so glad I stepped in line to receive one.
I need the hardcover and its sequel yesterday.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Karabos was a fantastic, fascinating read! The characters are all so endearing as well as unique. I enjoyed every minute of Rafe and Winslet's timebound journey! Karabos is an enthralling tale of Mr. Grump and Ms. Sunshine fighting on the same team with different intents. It's a perfect picture of how time and the plans laid out for us are often outside our own control. I can't wait for this book's release and for the next book in the duology!!
I got an early copy of this book from the author.
I got an early copy of this book from the author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
★★★★★ 5 Stars
This is a definite favorite. Fair warning: it's not for anyone who faints at the sight of blood.
The teen main characters keep time-traveling back into their world's history to an era of blood sacrifice, where slaves are ritually killed — it has a feel of Egypt's plagues. In this alternate timeline, the main characters face life-or-death stakes, coming dangerously close to death themselves and to committing murder, all while confronting an ugly reality about their ancestors.
What makes it hit even harder is comparing that timeline to their own present day. The original acts of human sacrifice are hidden from history, yet they're still rooted deep in the society — which is exactly what makes it possible for adults in the present to think it's okay to ask for a blood sacrifice to the Multi-Source gods. In each timeline, someone is trying to gain power through human sacrifice to these gods, and the characters watch those consequences echo across generations.
At the center of it all is the female main character, a homeschooled girl raised to believe in the One Source God. We get to watch her walk a genuine faith journey through uniquely difficult situations. She's initially scorned by the male main character for being "just a homeschool kid," but they end up with some sweet, innocent, attraction. They are part of a wonderful team of misfits competing to be Karabologists. Both MC's are competing to try to save their families way of life.
They survive oppression and people trying to kill them, the girls teammates begin to consider the legitimacy of the One Source God who helped carry them through it all. By the end, she's earned everyone's love and respect because they see how much she was wiling to sacrifice for them and her God.
I received a free copy from the offer in exchange for an honest review
This is a definite favorite. Fair warning: it's not for anyone who faints at the sight of blood.
The teen main characters keep time-traveling back into their world's history to an era of blood sacrifice, where slaves are ritually killed — it has a feel of Egypt's plagues. In this alternate timeline, the main characters face life-or-death stakes, coming dangerously close to death themselves and to committing murder, all while confronting an ugly reality about their ancestors.
What makes it hit even harder is comparing that timeline to their own present day. The original acts of human sacrifice are hidden from history, yet they're still rooted deep in the society — which is exactly what makes it possible for adults in the present to think it's okay to ask for a blood sacrifice to the Multi-Source gods. In each timeline, someone is trying to gain power through human sacrifice to these gods, and the characters watch those consequences echo across generations.
At the center of it all is the female main character, a homeschooled girl raised to believe in the One Source God. We get to watch her walk a genuine faith journey through uniquely difficult situations. She's initially scorned by the male main character for being "just a homeschool kid," but they end up with some sweet, innocent, attraction. They are part of a wonderful team of misfits competing to be Karabologists. Both MC's are competing to try to save their families way of life.
They survive oppression and people trying to kill them, the girls teammates begin to consider the legitimacy of the One Source God who helped carry them through it all. By the end, she's earned everyone's love and respect because they see how much she was wiling to sacrifice for them and her God.
I received a free copy from the offer in exchange for an honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this YA fantasy book by Lyndsey Lewellen that is being released by Enclave Publishing later this year! First of all, our main character is homeschooled, and weird in all the best ways, that is so rare to find, definitely loved that.
The book involves a tournament where teams of five need to collect a variety of different special bugs but of course we have other people and teams that are trying to sabotage them as well as a few characters that keep randomly slipping back in time. The book is very unique, I had a fun time with it!
The book involves a tournament where teams of five need to collect a variety of different special bugs but of course we have other people and teams that are trying to sabotage them as well as a few characters that keep randomly slipping back in time. The book is very unique, I had a fun time with it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a thrilling adventure! When I saw this book was inspired by The Mummy movie, I was so pumped to read it! Karabos did not disappoint! The time travel and historical fantasy feel was a great combination, and I look forward to seeing what happens in the second book! This is a great YA adventure! As for content, there is mild violence and suspense, hints of romance, and no language! I would recommend for 14+, an it’s perfect for YA and adults alike.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is easily one of my new favorite books. Oh my goodness, Lyndsey Lewellen knows how to write! Fast paced, full of passion, and twists that I didn't see coming, Karabos is an incredible story. I adored the way Lewellen infused Biblical truths into a time-slip, ancient history story, and Rafe, Winslet, Saph, Phillip, and Arvin have my heart!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Great first book with some really interesting worldbuilding. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Top notch! I can't hardly wait to read Volume 2 and find out what happens next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Karabos delves into the concept of understanding history through the context of different worldviews
After reading the Chaos Grid Duology and the first book of the Harlow Morgan series, Karabos came through with all of the Lyndsey Lewellen flair I've come to know and love. She never fails to create lovable characters, creative storylines, and interesting plot twists that keep me reading longer than I probably should be.
Fantasy isn't typically my go-to genre (Sci-Fi is my favorite), but I really enjoyed the world Lewellen created and the adventurous spirit of the tale. It was also super fun to find another book that upholds and explores Christian ethics and values without coming off as preachy or judgmental.
Overall, I would easily give this book five stars and am anxiously awaiting the sequel!
After reading the Chaos Grid Duology and the first book of the Harlow Morgan series, Karabos came through with all of the Lyndsey Lewellen flair I've come to know and love. She never fails to create lovable characters, creative storylines, and interesting plot twists that keep me reading longer than I probably should be.
Fantasy isn't typically my go-to genre (Sci-Fi is my favorite), but I really enjoyed the world Lewellen created and the adventurous spirit of the tale. It was also super fun to find another book that upholds and explores Christian ethics and values without coming off as preachy or judgmental.
Overall, I would easily give this book five stars and am anxiously awaiting the sequel!
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 19, 2026Wow… what an incredible adventure this was. I honestly don’t even know where to begin.
Karabos is one of those stories that completely pulls you in and leaves you wanting more. It gave me major Uncharted, The Prince of Egypt, and Indiana Jones vibes, full of nonstop adventure and discovery. The story weaves through the past, present, and future in such a unique way, and I loved how everything connected.
The academia feel added another layer that made this book even more immersive. And something I really appreciated is that the author’s Christian faith is beautifully woven into the story in a natural, meaningful way.
The plot follows a group of teens competing to become scarabist on a magical island. While this isn’t a romance-heavy story, there are subtle hints of something beginning to form between the two main characters.
Winslet (FMC) is intelligent, grounded, and such a bright light—truly a ray of sunshine. The MMC, on the other hand, is more grumpy and guarded, which makes their dynamic even more enjoyable to watch unfold.
If you love adventure, mystery, and a touch of faith woven into the story, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Karabos is one of those stories that completely pulls you in and leaves you wanting more. It gave me major Uncharted, The Prince of Egypt, and Indiana Jones vibes, full of nonstop adventure and discovery. The story weaves through the past, present, and future in such a unique way, and I loved how everything connected.
The academia feel added another layer that made this book even more immersive. And something I really appreciated is that the author’s Christian faith is beautifully woven into the story in a natural, meaningful way.
The plot follows a group of teens competing to become scarabist on a magical island. While this isn’t a romance-heavy story, there are subtle hints of something beginning to form between the two main characters.
Winslet (FMC) is intelligent, grounded, and such a bright light—truly a ray of sunshine. The MMC, on the other hand, is more grumpy and guarded, which makes their dynamic even more enjoyable to watch unfold.
If you love adventure, mystery, and a touch of faith woven into the story, this one is definitely worth picking up.
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