Identity

The Shepherds of Oldaem #1

by Devin Anavitarte, Stephanie Wilczynski

Enter the world of Esis where wars rage, cultures clash, religions collide, and a group of men and women struggle to discover who they are. The original four Shepherds were created by the Order: Defense to protect, Mind to educate, Spirit to inspire, and State to lead. Now the Shepherds assist the country of Oldaem in leading the people through the confusing and often dangerous times. Follow Daku a struggling Warden, Kayt a displaced Shepherd of State, Sayla an ambitious Apprentice Defense Shepherd, Ian a lovable Shepherd hopeful, Galen a brooding army cadet, and Cole a searching child as they embark upon the truth of the New and Old Orders, struggle with the light and the darkness within them, and discover the importance of prayer and inner-faith. A wall surrounds, a tower stands, and etched in stone a secret friendship pact struggles to endure the test of time.

584 pages, Paperback

First published June 11, 2015

Reviews

[Ana Miranda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't really know where to begin because I've got a lot to say, but let's start by saying this: do not read the synopsis in the back of the book, it does not do it justice.
Identity is very difficult to describe, so the only way to go into it is simply trusting people's opinions and hope for the best. You're following six different characters that are part of Esis, the world created in Identity. Throughout this novel, you slowly learn about the character's lives and everyday struggles but also learn about the political system of Esis, more specifically, about the country of Oldaem.
The strongest aspect of this book is the characters, they are so well developed that you can't help it but to fall in love with them, and even the ones that aren't likeable are entertaining enough that you want to keep on learning about them. You will read about real people, they are FULL of flaws but most of them have big hearts. Their development is very impressive and at the end of the novel, the characters make a lot of changes.
Although the book is not very plot-driven, a lot of things happen in this world, whether it is politics (which towards the end gets a little crazy) or simply drama between people, everything that happens is interesting to read about. There aren't many "dull" moments and every chapter had its purpose.

This book contains incredible characters, an interesting plot, political intrigue and an in-depth discussion about religion that makes you see the world a little different once you're done. This book gives hope, it touches the subject of humanity in such a unique way... 100% recommend and can't wait to read the next one!!

[Adam Deibert · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good story with interwoven plot lines set in a world just similar enough to ours to be relatable, but different enough to be enjoyable. The spiritual undercurrent that runs through the whole story is also quite thought-provoking in a positive way.
Apart from some minor editorial misses the book is well-written.
The first in a trilogy, it leaves you satisfied about the growth of the characters, while at the same time eager to get the next book to see what follows (I ordered my copy the minute I finished the last page).

[Yvonne Flint · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an engaging YA tale with a strong spiritual underpinnings. The Christian youth who are the target audience will recognize the questions and insecurities of the book's young heroes. I look forward to the continuing story in just-released book two. Full disclosure: one of the c0-authors is my third cousin, I'm proud to say.