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Rise of the Falcon
A jungle chief. A village doctor. A threat to the tribes they both love.
Finding a connection built on past friendship, Gaacó and Mar work together to protect their people. Gaacó's new faith demands he trust the God of Living Water above his own strength. But trusting God in the midst of heartache and danger proves more difficult than he ever imagined. Meanwhile, Mar finds herself being drawn back to the jungle and tribal life - but her return threatens to uncover secrets she's not ready to face.
The second book of the Refuge Series weaves a story of new identity, freedom and power that comes through Jesus against the backdrop of the Paraguayan rainforest.
Finding a connection built on past friendship, Gaacó and Mar work together to protect their people. Gaacó's new faith demands he trust the God of Living Water above his own strength. But trusting God in the midst of heartache and danger proves more difficult than he ever imagined. Meanwhile, Mar finds herself being drawn back to the jungle and tribal life - but her return threatens to uncover secrets she's not ready to face.
The second book of the Refuge Series weaves a story of new identity, freedom and power that comes through Jesus against the backdrop of the Paraguayan rainforest.
Paperback
Published August 29, 2026
About the author
Alexis M. Melvin
2 books12 followersSince a crisis of faith in her teenage years, Alexis has leaned into tough questions Christians face. During her time seeking answers through Scripture and Christian writings, she developed a passion for helping others find the same answers she had found. She joined the staff of her church in 2013 and graduated from Liberty University in 2018 with a B.S. in Religion: Biblical and Theological Studies.
Alexis worked on staff at her church until 2022. She left to be a full-time mom to her then eighteen-month-old daughter. As she stepped out of vocational ministry, God planted a dream in her to write a book. She had always loved writing and excelled at it through her college career, so she welcomed the challenge. Through writing, she was able to explore the same themes that had drawn her to ministry in the first place, with the hope that God would one day use her words to help others.
Her stories make your heart race - full of Jesus, romance and redemption. They don't shy away from difficult questions, but explore them while trusting God to reveal himself through her words.
When she's not writing, she's chasing her three young children. She's a stay-at-home mom who loves to decorate cookies and worship Jesus loudly while cleaning her house. Her family lives in the house her husband built on her family’s old farmland in North Carolina.
Alexis worked on staff at her church until 2022. She left to be a full-time mom to her then eighteen-month-old daughter. As she stepped out of vocational ministry, God planted a dream in her to write a book. She had always loved writing and excelled at it through her college career, so she welcomed the challenge. Through writing, she was able to explore the same themes that had drawn her to ministry in the first place, with the hope that God would one day use her words to help others.
Her stories make your heart race - full of Jesus, romance and redemption. They don't shy away from difficult questions, but explore them while trusting God to reveal himself through her words.
When she's not writing, she's chasing her three young children. She's a stay-at-home mom who loves to decorate cookies and worship Jesus loudly while cleaning her house. Her family lives in the house her husband built on her family’s old farmland in North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
August 26, 2026
This story is an incredible reminder of God’s grace and patience with us.
Gaacó was constantly struggling with the guilt he had about his past, struggling to forgive himself, and his difficulties in forgiving others. Not only is he dealing with this internal conflict, he is also a new Chief, confronted by a threat to his people while also trying to be one of the Lord’s shepherds by introducing his people to Jesus.
Mar feels strongly that she has figured out what God wants her to do with her life and she’s worked hard to walk the path of this calling. But her resurfacing affection for Gaacó has thrown a wrench in her confidence in God’s plan.
I know this was supposed to be Gaacó story but I felt like I could relate to Mar’s perspective more. I mean, who hasn’t thought we knew what God’s plan was, only to have to rug ripped out from under us.
I loved Gaacó and Mar’s relationship. The banter was perfect and the mutual respect and understanding for each other’s vastly different lives was inspiring.
Alexis has an amazing talent for writing inspirational and faith filled stories. Taking struggles we all have and reminding us of how loving and patient God is with us.
I’m so glad I was able to read this story as well as the first book in the series, The Call of Living Water. I can’t wait to see what Alexis has planned for the future.
Gaacó was constantly struggling with the guilt he had about his past, struggling to forgive himself, and his difficulties in forgiving others. Not only is he dealing with this internal conflict, he is also a new Chief, confronted by a threat to his people while also trying to be one of the Lord’s shepherds by introducing his people to Jesus.
Mar feels strongly that she has figured out what God wants her to do with her life and she’s worked hard to walk the path of this calling. But her resurfacing affection for Gaacó has thrown a wrench in her confidence in God’s plan.
I know this was supposed to be Gaacó story but I felt like I could relate to Mar’s perspective more. I mean, who hasn’t thought we knew what God’s plan was, only to have to rug ripped out from under us.
I loved Gaacó and Mar’s relationship. The banter was perfect and the mutual respect and understanding for each other’s vastly different lives was inspiring.
Alexis has an amazing talent for writing inspirational and faith filled stories. Taking struggles we all have and reminding us of how loving and patient God is with us.
I’m so glad I was able to read this story as well as the first book in the series, The Call of Living Water. I can’t wait to see what Alexis has planned for the future.
September 3, 2026
Another amazing book.
If you like intense meaningful Christian fiction this book and series is for you! The journey of these characters faith and the wrestle with worthiness and purpose is relatable.
This book starts where the last left off. We follow Gaaco the famous warrior chief. He was injured and is needing to rest and heal. He is a new believer and is alone in his tribe with his beliefs. He is also responsible for his tribe and is figuring out how to navigate their beliefs in the old gods and their customs while staying true to the Living God and his value for human life. His faith journey was beautiful and redemptive.
We also follow Mar who is a doctor. She is a former tribe member who is being pulled between the two worlds of her calling as a doctor and her place within a tribe. She wrestles with her worth and her singular focus of what she thinks God has called her to do. She was a character that frustrated me 😅 she made rash decisions without thinking about consequences. While I didn't relate to her journey it still was beautiful and loved the healing for her.
What a beautiful story. There was action, miracles, testing, faithfulness, mistakes and forgiveness wrapped up in this one. I love how all the stories wove together, how each of the characters needed the other, and the lessons that were learned through being faithful to following Jesus, and his healing power and love. It was fun to see previous characters make an appearance. Such a good sequel!
Thank you Alexis for this complimentary arc copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Remarks •
No spice - just kisses
No language
TW - de*th, injuries, archaic tribal customs
Favorite things:
Well
Suai's visit
Meeting the president
Miracle
Maria
Favorite quotes:
“And friend, your passion might as well be a bonfire the way you look at him.”
“And I really want to be the person you can rest with.”
“Well, thank you for taking care of me, my tirite.”
“I’d walk a lot further to see you,”
Gaacó felt his heart spiraling; it belonged to her. She had been claiming it as her own– piece by piece– ever since they were reunited, but now she owned it completely.
"But I do know that this world is imperfect. It's full of darkness and evil. It's full of selfish people making bad decisions. And God allows it because He loves people enough to let them choose Him. He values every person enough to woo them to Himself instead of forcing them like a heavy- handed master."
"But we know that He promises to use everything for good, eventually. Nothing will be wasted in your life if you continue to follow Him."
"Don't take vengeance or fight to prove yourself. Fight only when you have to. Fight because God has given you a responsibility to protect your people and you refuse to see them destroyed by lawlessness."
“My home is your home."
"If a man like that was following me around, I wouldn't make him ask twice."
"I don't love you because of what you can do– I love you because of who you are."
"love is not meant to be earned. Love is a gift. And the moment you have to work for it, it stops being a gift."
"That's not how Jesus loves. He doesn’t love you because of what you can do for Him. He doesn't need you to do anything.
The moment his soul acknowledged Jesus as the true God and had faith He was able to forgive, relief had flooded Gaacó. Relief that felt as physical as the first drop of rain splashing to the parched earth and spiritual enough to change his very soul.
"You hurt me, Igoi. And the scars of that will forever be upon my flesh." Fresh tears flooded Igoi's eyes as he nodded his head in acknowledgment. "But my sins have left scars on my God's flesh, and He still forgives me."
If you like intense meaningful Christian fiction this book and series is for you! The journey of these characters faith and the wrestle with worthiness and purpose is relatable.
This book starts where the last left off. We follow Gaaco the famous warrior chief. He was injured and is needing to rest and heal. He is a new believer and is alone in his tribe with his beliefs. He is also responsible for his tribe and is figuring out how to navigate their beliefs in the old gods and their customs while staying true to the Living God and his value for human life. His faith journey was beautiful and redemptive.
We also follow Mar who is a doctor. She is a former tribe member who is being pulled between the two worlds of her calling as a doctor and her place within a tribe. She wrestles with her worth and her singular focus of what she thinks God has called her to do. She was a character that frustrated me 😅 she made rash decisions without thinking about consequences. While I didn't relate to her journey it still was beautiful and loved the healing for her.
What a beautiful story. There was action, miracles, testing, faithfulness, mistakes and forgiveness wrapped up in this one. I love how all the stories wove together, how each of the characters needed the other, and the lessons that were learned through being faithful to following Jesus, and his healing power and love. It was fun to see previous characters make an appearance. Such a good sequel!
Thank you Alexis for this complimentary arc copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Remarks •
No spice - just kisses
No language
TW - de*th, injuries, archaic tribal customs
Favorite things:
Well
Suai's visit
Meeting the president
Miracle
Maria
Favorite quotes:
“And friend, your passion might as well be a bonfire the way you look at him.”
“And I really want to be the person you can rest with.”
“Well, thank you for taking care of me, my tirite.”
“I’d walk a lot further to see you,”
Gaacó felt his heart spiraling; it belonged to her. She had been claiming it as her own– piece by piece– ever since they were reunited, but now she owned it completely.
"But I do know that this world is imperfect. It's full of darkness and evil. It's full of selfish people making bad decisions. And God allows it because He loves people enough to let them choose Him. He values every person enough to woo them to Himself instead of forcing them like a heavy- handed master."
"But we know that He promises to use everything for good, eventually. Nothing will be wasted in your life if you continue to follow Him."
"Don't take vengeance or fight to prove yourself. Fight only when you have to. Fight because God has given you a responsibility to protect your people and you refuse to see them destroyed by lawlessness."
“My home is your home."
"If a man like that was following me around, I wouldn't make him ask twice."
"I don't love you because of what you can do– I love you because of who you are."
"love is not meant to be earned. Love is a gift. And the moment you have to work for it, it stops being a gift."
"That's not how Jesus loves. He doesn’t love you because of what you can do for Him. He doesn't need you to do anything.
The moment his soul acknowledged Jesus as the true God and had faith He was able to forgive, relief had flooded Gaacó. Relief that felt as physical as the first drop of rain splashing to the parched earth and spiritual enough to change his very soul.
"You hurt me, Igoi. And the scars of that will forever be upon my flesh." Fresh tears flooded Igoi's eyes as he nodded his head in acknowledgment. "But my sins have left scars on my God's flesh, and He still forgives me."
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Review of Rise of the Falcon by Alexis M. Melvin
Not just a great story.
One of the many strengths of Rise of the Falcon is the way it invites readers to see our culture through the eyes of another.
Comfort, convenience, technology, and abundance have become so commonplace that we can forget how privileged they are. What seems normal to us can be incomprehensible to others, while the simplicity we might dismiss can hold a richness we have overlooked. The novel also challenges our assumptions about “progress” by contrasting our manipulation of the natural world with cultures that regard it with respect, even reverence. Rather than romanticizing simplicity, the story invites us to question what we have accepted as normal.
The novel also offers a sobering reminder that we cannot save people. God can. We can point others toward Jesus, demonstrate His love and mercy, pray, and speak truth, but ultimately God calls the heart, and each person must choose whether to surrender.
Tension between tradition and truth runs through the story as characters examine what they have always believed and determine whether it is actually true. And the value the story placed on honoring commitment demonstrated that it was a choice, not a feeling, and often costs something.
The same deliberate choosing is required when deep wounds make revenge feel justified. The story acknowledges how difficult it can be to relinquish that desire and recognizes the need for God’s help to do so. Forgiveness, too, is presented without sentimentality: “Forgiving a repentant person was a lot different than forgiving a proud sinner.” Forgiveness does not make sin inconsequential or erase its consequences. But it is a way to personal freedom and understanding what Jesus did for us.
Another compelling thread is the danger of becoming so focused on fulfilling what we believe God has called us to do that we stop listening for His direction. Hard work and genuine devotion can still become obstacles when they keep us from hearing the Holy Spirit quietly redirecting our steps.
Beneath these themes is a foundational truth: God’s love cannot be earned. Human worth does not come from performing well enough, sacrificing enough, or accomplishing enough. God loves what He creates and pursues us even when we have done nothing to deserve it. Through Jesus, worth becomes a gift rather than an achievement—a gift no one could ever earn.
Two lines in particular captured some of the humanity I found in these characters “Sometimes I forget how powerful and real He is.” Honestly, what Christian hasn’t? And, “I don’t know what I’m doing, but I’m doing it all the time.” Often this is just life.
Rise of the Falcon is the kind of Christian fiction that offers more than a great story. It raises questions about comfort, culture, truth, obedience, revenge, forgiveness, calling, and surrender—and leaves the reader with truths worth continuing to wrestle with after the final page.
Not just a great story.
One of the many strengths of Rise of the Falcon is the way it invites readers to see our culture through the eyes of another.
Comfort, convenience, technology, and abundance have become so commonplace that we can forget how privileged they are. What seems normal to us can be incomprehensible to others, while the simplicity we might dismiss can hold a richness we have overlooked. The novel also challenges our assumptions about “progress” by contrasting our manipulation of the natural world with cultures that regard it with respect, even reverence. Rather than romanticizing simplicity, the story invites us to question what we have accepted as normal.
The novel also offers a sobering reminder that we cannot save people. God can. We can point others toward Jesus, demonstrate His love and mercy, pray, and speak truth, but ultimately God calls the heart, and each person must choose whether to surrender.
Tension between tradition and truth runs through the story as characters examine what they have always believed and determine whether it is actually true. And the value the story placed on honoring commitment demonstrated that it was a choice, not a feeling, and often costs something.
The same deliberate choosing is required when deep wounds make revenge feel justified. The story acknowledges how difficult it can be to relinquish that desire and recognizes the need for God’s help to do so. Forgiveness, too, is presented without sentimentality: “Forgiving a repentant person was a lot different than forgiving a proud sinner.” Forgiveness does not make sin inconsequential or erase its consequences. But it is a way to personal freedom and understanding what Jesus did for us.
Another compelling thread is the danger of becoming so focused on fulfilling what we believe God has called us to do that we stop listening for His direction. Hard work and genuine devotion can still become obstacles when they keep us from hearing the Holy Spirit quietly redirecting our steps.
Beneath these themes is a foundational truth: God’s love cannot be earned. Human worth does not come from performing well enough, sacrificing enough, or accomplishing enough. God loves what He creates and pursues us even when we have done nothing to deserve it. Through Jesus, worth becomes a gift rather than an achievement—a gift no one could ever earn.
Two lines in particular captured some of the humanity I found in these characters “Sometimes I forget how powerful and real He is.” Honestly, what Christian hasn’t? And, “I don’t know what I’m doing, but I’m doing it all the time.” Often this is just life.
Rise of the Falcon is the kind of Christian fiction that offers more than a great story. It raises questions about comfort, culture, truth, obedience, revenge, forgiveness, calling, and surrender—and leaves the reader with truths worth continuing to wrestle with after the final page.
August 29, 2026
What better way to end my summer than reading one of my favorite authors' newest releases?! Not only was this my 50th read of the year, but it was definitely one of my favorites! Melvin has such a God-given talent for writing stories that build upon your faith and encourage you to strengthen your own relationship with the Lord! ❤️
As y'all are probably aware, The Call of the Living Water (book #1) was one of my favorite reads last year (I even read it again before ARC reading this one), and I loved seeing both old and new characters!
Mar was probably my favorite. I really resonated and connected with her on a personal level, from her insecurities and questions surrounding her purpose to opening up her heart to love. In some ways, I also connected to Gaacó's character and loved seeing his progression of faith strengthen and turn his rather quick-to-anger, hot-headedness to use for His good.
The Paraguayan rainforest is also such a fun and unique setting. While I love my Regency-era 1800s London settings, it's definitely refreshing to get a perspective from a different culture and way of life. Melvin always portrays tribal life in such a respectful and honoring manner, though the need for the God of Living Water is evident in these people's lives.
In all, the strong Christian themes and faiths are the forefront and backbone of this story. God's purpose for us is truly in every aspect of our lives, and I loved seeing how the characters applied their faith to their relationship and learning to forgive themselves.
✨ Homecoming
✨ God's Provision
✨ Depression Rep
✨ Doctor FMC
✨ Dual POV
✨ Identity in Christ
✨ Protector MMC
✨ Friends to More
✨ Healing from Trauma
✨ South American Rainforest
✨ Rise of the Falcon is the second installment in the "Refuge Series." While it can be read as a standalone, I definitely recommend you start with book #1, The Call of the Living Water. Suitable for mature (16+) young adult readers and older due to heavy thematic material (grief, death, mental health). ✨
As y'all are probably aware, The Call of the Living Water (book #1) was one of my favorite reads last year (I even read it again before ARC reading this one), and I loved seeing both old and new characters!
Mar was probably my favorite. I really resonated and connected with her on a personal level, from her insecurities and questions surrounding her purpose to opening up her heart to love. In some ways, I also connected to Gaacó's character and loved seeing his progression of faith strengthen and turn his rather quick-to-anger, hot-headedness to use for His good.
The Paraguayan rainforest is also such a fun and unique setting. While I love my Regency-era 1800s London settings, it's definitely refreshing to get a perspective from a different culture and way of life. Melvin always portrays tribal life in such a respectful and honoring manner, though the need for the God of Living Water is evident in these people's lives.
In all, the strong Christian themes and faiths are the forefront and backbone of this story. God's purpose for us is truly in every aspect of our lives, and I loved seeing how the characters applied their faith to their relationship and learning to forgive themselves.
✨ Homecoming
✨ God's Provision
✨ Depression Rep
✨ Doctor FMC
✨ Dual POV
✨ Identity in Christ
✨ Protector MMC
✨ Friends to More
✨ Healing from Trauma
✨ South American Rainforest
✨ Rise of the Falcon is the second installment in the "Refuge Series." While it can be read as a standalone, I definitely recommend you start with book #1, The Call of the Living Water. Suitable for mature (16+) young adult readers and older due to heavy thematic material (grief, death, mental health). ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
After absolutely LOVING The Call of Living Water, I was so excited to continue the Refuge series! Rise of the Falcon was another beautiful, deep, faith-filled story. 🤍
This book specifically dives deeply into the theme of forgiveness~ God’s forgiveness toward us, learning to forgive ourselves, and learning to forgive others.
One of my favorite things about these books is how the author tackles the real struggles Christians face. She writes about things like anger, guilt, shame, and struggling with guilt even after Christ has already forgiven you, and somehow she puts these truths into a story in a way that just clicks. I have genuinely learned so much from these books!
It did take me a little while to completely fall in love with Gaacó and Mar, but once I did… I COULD NOT STOP SWOONING OVER THEM! 🥹 They were so cute, and I’m so happy everything finally worked out for them!
This was another beautiful addition to the series, and I absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for Christian fiction with strong faith themes, meaningful spiritual lessons, and a sweet romance woven throughout.
This book specifically dives deeply into the theme of forgiveness~ God’s forgiveness toward us, learning to forgive ourselves, and learning to forgive others.
One of my favorite things about these books is how the author tackles the real struggles Christians face. She writes about things like anger, guilt, shame, and struggling with guilt even after Christ has already forgiven you, and somehow she puts these truths into a story in a way that just clicks. I have genuinely learned so much from these books!
It did take me a little while to completely fall in love with Gaacó and Mar, but once I did… I COULD NOT STOP SWOONING OVER THEM! 🥹 They were so cute, and I’m so happy everything finally worked out for them!
This was another beautiful addition to the series, and I absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for Christian fiction with strong faith themes, meaningful spiritual lessons, and a sweet romance woven throughout.
Review of advance copy received from Author
After being introduced to Gaaco in The Call of Living Water, I could not wait to read his story in the beautifully written and compelling book, Rise of the Falcon. I couldn’t put it down!
This book is full of exciting adventures set in the jungle. A real page turner! I loved the sweet romance coupled with real-life, very normal questions about God’s will and calling on one’s life. Readers will find the internal struggles the characters face relatable and will enjoy how the author resolves them in the end.
I truly believe God will speak to you through this book and am so grateful the author took the time to write these words for us.
This book is full of exciting adventures set in the jungle. A real page turner! I loved the sweet romance coupled with real-life, very normal questions about God’s will and calling on one’s life. Readers will find the internal struggles the characters face relatable and will enjoy how the author resolves them in the end.
I truly believe God will speak to you through this book and am so grateful the author took the time to write these words for us.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Alexis has truly been called to minister through her ability to write a captivating novel that ties together faith, adventure and a love story! I had the pleasure of reading her first book which was amazing and somehow this was just as good! If you would like to see God in a book that is a page-turner and has clean romance themes then this is the book for you! I can’t recommend it enough and hope this book blessed you the way it did me!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh, as always Melvin he bolstered my spirit and reminded me that God is in charge ♥️ plus, after reading The Call of Living Water I wanted to get back to this beautiful country, people and village. The reminders of God’s power was welcome, and the ending, happy. I can’t wait to see if there is more in this amazing series 🥰
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rise of the Falcon is a perfect sequel to The Call of Living Water, and an excellent read! I seriously could not put it down! It is engaging, exciting, heart wrenching, and joyful- plus, all of the characters stories get wrapped up beautifully by the end, which is so satisfying. I love love loved this book!!! (And you will too!)
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book is worth the read! The perfect sequel!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am completely enamored by this story of Mar and Gaacó! In many ways, Gaacó reminds me of the Apostle Paul in that his life is transformed just as completely in once being against God and His people to now winning others to Him. Getting to see him learn how to apply Christian truths to his calling and relationships is a delight and a growth-filled journey that demonstrates how God cares for every single detail in our lives. There is no struggle that is beyond His sovereignty and concern. I also love that Mar is heading down a similar path as a more established believer, showing us what continual surrender looks like. Seeing her plans and thinking upended reminds us that we are not in control of our destinies.
With the Refuge series, Alexis M. Melvin richly portrays tribal life and all of its sights and senses without glamourizing some of the evil and superstitious practices that people have taken on. Portraying them in a compassionate light, she shows why the need for the God of Living Water is so strong and how only He can break people from the chains of oppression and hopelessness. Avid fans of missionary fiction will love these books and how well they communicate the contextualization of the Gospel in cultural settings different than our own, along with the need to protect vulnerable persons from needless sacrifice and exploitation.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
With the Refuge series, Alexis M. Melvin richly portrays tribal life and all of its sights and senses without glamourizing some of the evil and superstitious practices that people have taken on. Portraying them in a compassionate light, she shows why the need for the God of Living Water is so strong and how only He can break people from the chains of oppression and hopelessness. Avid fans of missionary fiction will love these books and how well they communicate the contextualization of the Gospel in cultural settings different than our own, along with the need to protect vulnerable persons from needless sacrifice and exploitation.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews