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Ariboslia #1
Astray
After a lifetime with no knowledge of her parents, troubled seventeen-year-old Fallon Webb receives a necklace once belonging to her mother. The amulet leads her on a life-changing journey to a foreign land where she encounters unusual creatures, shape-shifters, and something she’s always longed for—family.
In Ariboslia, she learns her mother is alive. Vampire-like creatures have her, and many others, captive. Most distressing is the prophecy that devastated her family. Can she trust it? Because if it’s right, Fallon must destroy the vampires’ leader—her uncle—to rescue her mother and free her people from the threat.
Unprepared and afraid, Fallon sets out on the journey, with no skills to assist her quest and no other way home. In her travels, she learns about the One True God and how desperately she needs Him. Perhaps, with His help, she’ll find the way to fulfill her destiny.
In Ariboslia, she learns her mother is alive. Vampire-like creatures have her, and many others, captive. Most distressing is the prophecy that devastated her family. Can she trust it? Because if it’s right, Fallon must destroy the vampires’ leader—her uncle—to rescue her mother and free her people from the threat.
Unprepared and afraid, Fallon sets out on the journey, with no skills to assist her quest and no other way home. In her travels, she learns about the One True God and how desperately she needs Him. Perhaps, with His help, she’ll find the way to fulfill her destiny.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 25, 2016
62 people are currently reading
667 people want to read
About the author
J.F. Rogers
14 books125 followersFor a FREE book from J F Rogers: https://jfrogers.com/free-book/
J. F. Rogers lives in Southern Maine with her husband, daughter, pets…and usually an imaginary friend or two. She has a degree in Behavioral Science and teaches a 5th & 6th grade Sunday School class. When she’s not entertaining Tuki the Mega Mutt, her constant companion and greatest distraction, she’s likely tap tap tapping away at her keyboard, praying the words will miraculously align just so. Above all, she’s a believer in the One True God and can say with absolute certainty—you are loved. Connect with her at jfrogers.com.
J. F. Rogers lives in Southern Maine with her husband, daughter, pets…and usually an imaginary friend or two. She has a degree in Behavioral Science and teaches a 5th & 6th grade Sunday School class. When she’s not entertaining Tuki the Mega Mutt, her constant companion and greatest distraction, she’s likely tap tap tapping away at her keyboard, praying the words will miraculously align just so. Above all, she’s a believer in the One True God and can say with absolute certainty—you are loved. Connect with her at jfrogers.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
June 30, 2018
The author, J F Rogers, warned me that she wrote this book for young teen females. I still dove in. First off, it is well written and well edited. I only found a couple of spots where a word was out of sequence, missing, or misplaced.
I like good, well designed fantasy, and I have to say that this is pretty well designed. Rogers does a creditable job of world building and character development. The story and character arcs are strong, with at least one stumble.
The main character, Fallon, struggles with life and faith, due to being raised by a paternal grandmother who blames her for the loss of her son and husband. She ultimately gets dragged across a gateway into a parallel world—Ariboslia. This is a common trope, but seems to work well for Rogers and she does develop things from here well.
Fallon is presented, throughout her journey and experiences in Ariboslia with opportunities to learn about God and understand faith. The one stumble I find here is that Fallon resists too well, for too long. Thus the eventual conversion is sudden and complete—and hard to accept.
Aside from this, Rogers weaves a great story with the dynamics of romance, friendship, and family weaving throughout.
I enjoyed the read, with the one concern. I’m also interested in continuing the series as it comes out. Yeah, it’s written for young teen females and the clues are evident. But, I think it resonates beyond that.
I like good, well designed fantasy, and I have to say that this is pretty well designed. Rogers does a creditable job of world building and character development. The story and character arcs are strong, with at least one stumble.
The main character, Fallon, struggles with life and faith, due to being raised by a paternal grandmother who blames her for the loss of her son and husband. She ultimately gets dragged across a gateway into a parallel world—Ariboslia. This is a common trope, but seems to work well for Rogers and she does develop things from here well.
Fallon is presented, throughout her journey and experiences in Ariboslia with opportunities to learn about God and understand faith. The one stumble I find here is that Fallon resists too well, for too long. Thus the eventual conversion is sudden and complete—and hard to accept.
Aside from this, Rogers weaves a great story with the dynamics of romance, friendship, and family weaving throughout.
I enjoyed the read, with the one concern. I’m also interested in continuing the series as it comes out. Yeah, it’s written for young teen females and the clues are evident. But, I think it resonates beyond that.
July 23, 2018
Her father is dead. Her mother missing. Then a portal appears, and a wolf chases Fallon into a mystical realm.
In Astray, Fallon follows the classic hero's journey through a fantasy world. In some ways, this makes the novel predictable, but even though I felt like I knew the outcome, I enjoyed the ride. The world building was excellent, and the characters interesting.
Although this book is the first in a series, the story in Astray tied up nicely while leaving an opening for future books. There is significant Christian content that was woven tastefully into the narrative.
Highly recommended for YA and readers of fantasy.
In Astray, Fallon follows the classic hero's journey through a fantasy world. In some ways, this makes the novel predictable, but even though I felt like I knew the outcome, I enjoyed the ride. The world building was excellent, and the characters interesting.
Although this book is the first in a series, the story in Astray tied up nicely while leaving an opening for future books. There is significant Christian content that was woven tastefully into the narrative.
Highly recommended for YA and readers of fantasy.
June 15, 2019
This story is almost like the first book in a reinvention of the story of Moses, minus the sermon on the mount and with a paranormal flair. Points for originality for sure. Honestly I'm a huge fan of subtle religious undertones and books that make me really think and consider different aspects and parables from all different religions even, however, this book had the subtlety of Godzilla stomping through a city. The religious aspect came across really forceful and in all honesty overshadowed the great message I think the author was trying to deliver which I'm thinking, is that faith is the greatest power with which any race, human or paranormal can wield. I feel like if the author took out the browbeating and forcefulness that she uses to get that message across many readers would come to the conclusion the author was going for. I absolutely agree with that message and it can be turned in so many ways. Faith in oneself, faith in friends, faith in a higher power.. all these things could have been expressed without actually beating one single faith into a reader. Though I also want to give props to the author for writing what she is passionate about.
Fallon, our FMC, has been living a depressed existence. Her friend asks her to turn toward God for answers instead of wallowing in her pain and self mutilation but she cannot see past it. On her way home one night she is pushed through a portal into another realm and discovers a new supernatural world that revolves around religion. Not only is the impossible, possible in this new world but apparently this is where she comes from, where she belongs, and where she has a purpose. Fallon is thrust into a prophesied destiny to which she is unable to comprehend and totally ill equipped to embrace. Only through the faith of those around her does she discover true magic as well as her own faith. Through that faith despite not being the typical bad A heroine, she makes miracles happen in order to start to free her people that have been oppressed by the evil Morrigan.
All in all the story was just ok for me due to the above. Character wise I found it a little hard to reconcile the Fallon we were introduced to at the beginning of the story with the Fallon that emerges after entering the alternate world. She goes through quite a change from nonbeliever to strong in the faith in such a short time with almost no training. Its like Luke with the force only Yoda wasn't around to teach all the lessons she really needed to learn.. I feel like this has a hint of greatness in it though. Honestly if the author can tone it back a little and let the reader come to the conclusions naturally I feel like the message would take root. If that makes sense.
*I recieved an ARC of this from BookSirens and the author, J.F. Rogers in exchange for an honest review.*
Fallon, our FMC, has been living a depressed existence. Her friend asks her to turn toward God for answers instead of wallowing in her pain and self mutilation but she cannot see past it. On her way home one night she is pushed through a portal into another realm and discovers a new supernatural world that revolves around religion. Not only is the impossible, possible in this new world but apparently this is where she comes from, where she belongs, and where she has a purpose. Fallon is thrust into a prophesied destiny to which she is unable to comprehend and totally ill equipped to embrace. Only through the faith of those around her does she discover true magic as well as her own faith. Through that faith despite not being the typical bad A heroine, she makes miracles happen in order to start to free her people that have been oppressed by the evil Morrigan.
All in all the story was just ok for me due to the above. Character wise I found it a little hard to reconcile the Fallon we were introduced to at the beginning of the story with the Fallon that emerges after entering the alternate world. She goes through quite a change from nonbeliever to strong in the faith in such a short time with almost no training. Its like Luke with the force only Yoda wasn't around to teach all the lessons she really needed to learn.. I feel like this has a hint of greatness in it though. Honestly if the author can tone it back a little and let the reader come to the conclusions naturally I feel like the message would take root. If that makes sense.
*I recieved an ARC of this from BookSirens and the author, J.F. Rogers in exchange for an honest review.*
September 7, 2024
I love love love this book! It is now a favorite of mine in the fantasy fiction genre…
"Astray" is the first book of the Ariboslia series. The fantasy elements in this book remind me of: "The Chronicles of Narnia”—with characters stepping through a portal between the human realm and a realm of magical landscapes, beings, and creatures; and “The Lord of the Rings”—influenced by folklore, mythology, and the Christian bible, with a selected group of characters sent on a quest to save the world from evil forces.
What appears to be her debut novel, "Astray" reveals its author’s amazing imagination and storytelling abilities. Something I really enjoyed is her use of comparative descriptions that are quite creative, fun to read, and help form vivid pictures in the minds of readers, such as: "The hairs on my arms stood up like meerkats on the lookout for danger" as a reaction to a creepy environment; and “The clouds let loose, as if God had tightened His fist around them and squeezed” in reference to a downpour of rain.
The characters of this book are quite interesting with great character arcs. Multiple races (humans, shapeshifters, vampires, and others) can be found in this book, and I love the balance of good and bad shown in every race, with a powerful story of redemption. I especially enjoyed seeing the growth and development of Fallon (the main character) throughout this book. Being in the realm of Ariboslia and surrounded by its natives changes her a great deal, for the better.
Some of my favorite quotes from "Atray" are: “No matter where you are, no matter what has happened, there is a greater purpose for everything” and “Through it all, you are loved by the One True God.”
"Astray" is an inspirational and imaginative fantasy fiction book that teens and adults are sure to enjoy!
I now look forward to reading anything J. F. Rogers ever writes! 😊
Note: I received a free copy of this book from its publisher and author, for which I am incredibly grateful, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"Astray" is the first book of the Ariboslia series. The fantasy elements in this book remind me of: "The Chronicles of Narnia”—with characters stepping through a portal between the human realm and a realm of magical landscapes, beings, and creatures; and “The Lord of the Rings”—influenced by folklore, mythology, and the Christian bible, with a selected group of characters sent on a quest to save the world from evil forces.
What appears to be her debut novel, "Astray" reveals its author’s amazing imagination and storytelling abilities. Something I really enjoyed is her use of comparative descriptions that are quite creative, fun to read, and help form vivid pictures in the minds of readers, such as: "The hairs on my arms stood up like meerkats on the lookout for danger" as a reaction to a creepy environment; and “The clouds let loose, as if God had tightened His fist around them and squeezed” in reference to a downpour of rain.
The characters of this book are quite interesting with great character arcs. Multiple races (humans, shapeshifters, vampires, and others) can be found in this book, and I love the balance of good and bad shown in every race, with a powerful story of redemption. I especially enjoyed seeing the growth and development of Fallon (the main character) throughout this book. Being in the realm of Ariboslia and surrounded by its natives changes her a great deal, for the better.
Some of my favorite quotes from "Atray" are: “No matter where you are, no matter what has happened, there is a greater purpose for everything” and “Through it all, you are loved by the One True God.”
"Astray" is an inspirational and imaginative fantasy fiction book that teens and adults are sure to enjoy!
I now look forward to reading anything J. F. Rogers ever writes! 😊
Note: I received a free copy of this book from its publisher and author, for which I am incredibly grateful, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 21, 2018
Astray by J.F. Rogers is a young adult Christian fantasy fiction book. The main character, Fallon, is an orphan who receives an amulet on her seventeenth birthday from a neglectful and abusive grandmother. The artifact leads her through a portal to a mythical realm in which she learns that her mother is still alive and held captive by her vampire uncle. She meets many interesting characters pulled from Scottish folklore and comes to a saving knowledge of the one true God.
This was a fun light book that I was able to read in a day. Fallon develops and changes through the course of the book, and the mythical world was intriguing. The plot is very straightforward which is typical of folklore and fairytales. The Christian theme is evident but does assume some knowledge of Christianity to grasp the significance of some of the events that progresses Fallon into a saving relationship.
I especially loved the Scottish folklore and the very subtle hints of Scottish accents scattered throughout. I personally would have liked the accents to have been stronger, but I know with my own writing how strongly people dislike that. Editors go crazy correcting lovely accents as well. Still, a beautiful Scottish accent is so fun to hear and read. The hints of Scottish folklore would not be obvious to most American readers, but I enjoyed it like one finding hidden Easter eggs. Again, I would want more: more folklore, more culture, more everything.
The ending of this story does resolve the central conflict of this story, but it definitely leads to a sequel. The love interest was a bit of a frustration to me, and it teases the reader. The vagueness in the relationship is more realistic than most young adult novels who progress very quickly so I can appreciate waiting until future books for things to grow clearer.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and found it a fun book appropriate for teens through adults.
This was a fun light book that I was able to read in a day. Fallon develops and changes through the course of the book, and the mythical world was intriguing. The plot is very straightforward which is typical of folklore and fairytales. The Christian theme is evident but does assume some knowledge of Christianity to grasp the significance of some of the events that progresses Fallon into a saving relationship.
I especially loved the Scottish folklore and the very subtle hints of Scottish accents scattered throughout. I personally would have liked the accents to have been stronger, but I know with my own writing how strongly people dislike that. Editors go crazy correcting lovely accents as well. Still, a beautiful Scottish accent is so fun to hear and read. The hints of Scottish folklore would not be obvious to most American readers, but I enjoyed it like one finding hidden Easter eggs. Again, I would want more: more folklore, more culture, more everything.
The ending of this story does resolve the central conflict of this story, but it definitely leads to a sequel. The love interest was a bit of a frustration to me, and it teases the reader. The vagueness in the relationship is more realistic than most young adult novels who progress very quickly so I can appreciate waiting until future books for things to grow clearer.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and found it a fun book appropriate for teens through adults.
October 30, 2019
I haven't been so moved by a book for a long time. Fallon was raised by her grandparents after her parents death when she was young. When her grandfather dies, her grandma blames her and treats her badly. Her best friend believes in God and prays for her, but Fallon has no reason to believe that God cares for her at all.
But suddenly, Fallon finds herself alone in another world, a world filled with unspeakable violence as well as unimaginable good. Fallon meets family she didn't know she had, she makes friends of people who believe she is chosen by God, she comes face to face with the One True God and comes to know and believe for the first time in her life that she is loved.
Setting out on a quest to save her newfound kin, Fallon comes to have faith slowly as she realize that God is with her and that he can be trusted. She learns to make unselfish decisions and care for others. And ultimately, she grows willing to risk sacrificing everything, believing that she has already gained so much more than she could ever have imagined.
This book is unapologetically Christian in its content and theology. There is no guesswork about who God is or who he loves. There is also no limit on God's redemptive plan for all of his creation.
Best quote:
I wanted to reach out to him, to soothe him, but I held back, unsure. “I’m sorry.” So lame, but I couldn’t think of anything else to say.
“You’re sorry?” He looked at me, his face puckering. “This isn’t your fault.”
“I know. It’s something we humans say, or…full-humans, I mean. When we feel bad for someone and don’t know what to say, we say sorry.”
“Oh.” He gazed out at the sea. “Know what the Cael say?”
“No. What?”My gaze followed his. The sparkling light dancing on the waves calmed my mind.
“We say, ‘You are loved.’”
“Oh.” I didn’t see that one coming.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
But suddenly, Fallon finds herself alone in another world, a world filled with unspeakable violence as well as unimaginable good. Fallon meets family she didn't know she had, she makes friends of people who believe she is chosen by God, she comes face to face with the One True God and comes to know and believe for the first time in her life that she is loved.
Setting out on a quest to save her newfound kin, Fallon comes to have faith slowly as she realize that God is with her and that he can be trusted. She learns to make unselfish decisions and care for others. And ultimately, she grows willing to risk sacrificing everything, believing that she has already gained so much more than she could ever have imagined.
This book is unapologetically Christian in its content and theology. There is no guesswork about who God is or who he loves. There is also no limit on God's redemptive plan for all of his creation.
Best quote:
I wanted to reach out to him, to soothe him, but I held back, unsure. “I’m sorry.” So lame, but I couldn’t think of anything else to say.
“You’re sorry?” He looked at me, his face puckering. “This isn’t your fault.”
“I know. It’s something we humans say, or…full-humans, I mean. When we feel bad for someone and don’t know what to say, we say sorry.”
“Oh.” He gazed out at the sea. “Know what the Cael say?”
“No. What?”My gaze followed his. The sparkling light dancing on the waves calmed my mind.
“We say, ‘You are loved.’”
“Oh.” I didn’t see that one coming.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 16, 2020
Brave beginnings
A brilliant debut novel. A brave coming of age story, with adventure and All.The.Feels that marks a teenager's growing up. Despite the fact she is only 17, there is something about Fallon that draws you in, that makes you care about what happens to her. I love that her journey is both physical as well as spiritual: and the moment where she encounters God is so well written, the emotions jump off the page. The author has the gift of description that makes Ariboslia feel so real that I am going to be eyeing megaliths suspiciously. This first book resolves some tension and sets the scene for more adventure in the following books. I can't wait...
A brilliant debut novel. A brave coming of age story, with adventure and All.The.Feels that marks a teenager's growing up. Despite the fact she is only 17, there is something about Fallon that draws you in, that makes you care about what happens to her. I love that her journey is both physical as well as spiritual: and the moment where she encounters God is so well written, the emotions jump off the page. The author has the gift of description that makes Ariboslia feel so real that I am going to be eyeing megaliths suspiciously. This first book resolves some tension and sets the scene for more adventure in the following books. I can't wait...
December 22, 2022
Not my normal genre to read, but the book was well-written and saturated with many great Christian lessons for every walk of faith. I'd recommend it to older teens and adults (because of a few gruesome parts that weak-stomached people might find ... slightly unpleasant.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2017
We are proud to announce that ASTRAY by J.F. Rogers is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!
April 5, 2019
After a lifetime with no knowledge of her parents, troubled seventeen-year-old Fallon Webb receives a necklace once belonging to her mother. The amulet leads her on a life-changing journey to a foreign land where she encounters unusual creatures, shape-shifters, and something she’s always longed for—family.
In Ariboslia, she learns her mother is alive. Vampire-like creatures have her, and many others, captive. Most distressing is the prophecy that devastated her family. Can she trust it? Because if it’s right, Fallon must destroy the vampires’ leader—her uncle—to rescue her mother and free her people from the threat.
Unprepared and afraid, Fallon sets out on the journey, with no skills to assist her quest and no other way home. In her travels, she learns about the One True God and how desperately she needs Him. Perhaps, with His help, she’ll find the way to fulfill her destiny.
This is the author’s debut novel, and she’s off to a good start. The story is well laid out with a plot that never drags
This was such a different take on good VS evil than I expected so bravo for that.
I really liked this book! The characters are interesting and realistic, the plot kept my attention and even surprised me in parts, and the book was well-written and enjoyable to read.
I highly recommend all fantasy and paranormal lovers pick this book up and give it a go and I am sure you will love it.
In Ariboslia, she learns her mother is alive. Vampire-like creatures have her, and many others, captive. Most distressing is the prophecy that devastated her family. Can she trust it? Because if it’s right, Fallon must destroy the vampires’ leader—her uncle—to rescue her mother and free her people from the threat.
Unprepared and afraid, Fallon sets out on the journey, with no skills to assist her quest and no other way home. In her travels, she learns about the One True God and how desperately she needs Him. Perhaps, with His help, she’ll find the way to fulfill her destiny.
This is the author’s debut novel, and she’s off to a good start. The story is well laid out with a plot that never drags
This was such a different take on good VS evil than I expected so bravo for that.
I really liked this book! The characters are interesting and realistic, the plot kept my attention and even surprised me in parts, and the book was well-written and enjoyable to read.
I highly recommend all fantasy and paranormal lovers pick this book up and give it a go and I am sure you will love it.
August 12, 2019
Portal fantasy for the ya fantasy fan
Astray is a great introduction to the world of Ariboslia where a teenage girl named Fallon finds herself transported when chased by a wolf...who might not be a wolf after all.
Astray has the subtle feel of an allegory for the Christian life, and it is wrapped so well in the imaginative fantasy created by talented author J. F. Rogers. Fallon is practically alone in the world after the tragic deaths of her parents, and later her precious grandpa. She is left to live with her bitter grandmother. On her 17th birthday she receives one gift, but it's not anything she ever expected: a necklace that belonged to her mother.
Walking home from her best friend's house through a graveyard in a storm she is chased by the wolf and, by design, falls through a portal to another world where her entire life is turned upside down in all the best and worst ways. Fallon can embrace the new path set before her, but her ability to make a difference and save lives all rests upon her willingness to trust.
A story of faith, hope, and forgiveness, I recommend Astray to anyone teen and older who enjoys Christian fiction, adventure, shape-shifters, vampire stories, and a touch of sweet romance.
One caution - there is the difficult issue of self-harm in the way of cutting that is lightly touched upon.
Astray is a great introduction to the world of Ariboslia where a teenage girl named Fallon finds herself transported when chased by a wolf...who might not be a wolf after all.
Astray has the subtle feel of an allegory for the Christian life, and it is wrapped so well in the imaginative fantasy created by talented author J. F. Rogers. Fallon is practically alone in the world after the tragic deaths of her parents, and later her precious grandpa. She is left to live with her bitter grandmother. On her 17th birthday she receives one gift, but it's not anything she ever expected: a necklace that belonged to her mother.
Walking home from her best friend's house through a graveyard in a storm she is chased by the wolf and, by design, falls through a portal to another world where her entire life is turned upside down in all the best and worst ways. Fallon can embrace the new path set before her, but her ability to make a difference and save lives all rests upon her willingness to trust.
A story of faith, hope, and forgiveness, I recommend Astray to anyone teen and older who enjoys Christian fiction, adventure, shape-shifters, vampire stories, and a touch of sweet romance.
One caution - there is the difficult issue of self-harm in the way of cutting that is lightly touched upon.
August 7, 2020
Fallon has already lost her father, her grandfather, and her mother has been missing for years. On her 17th birthday, Grandma Fiona gave Fallon a necklace. The necklace had an odd pendant and supposedly came from Fallon’s mother who had disappeared when Fallon was little.
Bumpah--Fallon’s grandfather and Fiona’s late husband--had been instructed to hold on to the odd necklace until Fallon turned 17. Unfortunately, Bumpah passed away before the special birthday, so Fiona grudgingly gave Fallon the necklace. Having lost both her son (Fallon’s father) and her husband (Bumpah), Fiona seemed to resent being stuck with her granddaughter.
Fallon did have her best friend Stacy to depend on, and Stacy’s mom looked out for Fallon’s needs. After Fallon showed Stacy the necklace, Fallon was chased on her way home. But instead of getting home, Fallon woke up in a strange land with people she couldn’t understand unless she was wearing the necklace. And then she met a woman who claimed to be her mother’s mother--her grandmother.
I was going through my kindle library, came across this book and decided to give it a try. The story quickly drew me in. This was an exciting young adult Christian story, perhaps even appropriate for middle grade.
Bumpah--Fallon’s grandfather and Fiona’s late husband--had been instructed to hold on to the odd necklace until Fallon turned 17. Unfortunately, Bumpah passed away before the special birthday, so Fiona grudgingly gave Fallon the necklace. Having lost both her son (Fallon’s father) and her husband (Bumpah), Fiona seemed to resent being stuck with her granddaughter.
Fallon did have her best friend Stacy to depend on, and Stacy’s mom looked out for Fallon’s needs. After Fallon showed Stacy the necklace, Fallon was chased on her way home. But instead of getting home, Fallon woke up in a strange land with people she couldn’t understand unless she was wearing the necklace. And then she met a woman who claimed to be her mother’s mother--her grandmother.
I was going through my kindle library, came across this book and decided to give it a try. The story quickly drew me in. This was an exciting young adult Christian story, perhaps even appropriate for middle grade.
March 30, 2019
The story begins in a sad tone because Fallon feels like everyone has abandoned her. Her mother missing, her father and her favorite grandpa dead. She is left with a bitter grandma that wishes that Fallon never stepped foot in her house. Luckily she has a friend she can count on until she wakes up in a world she didn't know existed. Protected by a wolf she learns a lot of this fantastical realm, where she originally comes from. I wonder what I would do if I woke up in a strange world and all you know is gone. Fallon takes is quiet well especially when she learns she is their savior. Those are big shoes to fill as everybody sees you that you already saved them, but deep in her heart she is scared she can't fulfill this promise. The world where you change into animals is exciting and a new take on a magical journey. There is one constant thread in this book is the Christian influence and having faith that everything is going to be alright if you put your life in the trusted hands of HIM.
June 12, 2019
Astray is the first book in the Airboslia series. Young adult Christian fantasy genre, didn't you know that thing existed? Nope, me neither until now but I've enjoyed this book very much.
Having been raised by her grandmother in what we would call a very dysfunctional home, Fallon is more than surprised to receive a strange amulet for her birthday. That amulet would lead her to a new land filled with amazing creatures, some friend, some foe, and even family... While we accompany her in her adventures, we'll see her grow and discover her faith. Will she has in her what it is needed to fulfill her mission? You'll have to discover it for yourself, but get ready to get the next book in the series because Rogers will leave you more and more!
*I GOT AN ARC COPY OF THIS BOOK VIA BOOKSIRENS AT MY REQUEST IN EXCHANGE OF AN HONEST REVIEW*
Having been raised by her grandmother in what we would call a very dysfunctional home, Fallon is more than surprised to receive a strange amulet for her birthday. That amulet would lead her to a new land filled with amazing creatures, some friend, some foe, and even family... While we accompany her in her adventures, we'll see her grow and discover her faith. Will she has in her what it is needed to fulfill her mission? You'll have to discover it for yourself, but get ready to get the next book in the series because Rogers will leave you more and more!
*I GOT AN ARC COPY OF THIS BOOK VIA BOOKSIRENS AT MY REQUEST IN EXCHANGE OF AN HONEST REVIEW*
August 30, 2019
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Astray by J.F. Rogers is an amazing ride through a fantastic world. If you like fantasy world adventures, with Christian perspectives, this is a book for you. It is the first in a series and I an so looking forward to reading book #2. We meet Fallon who has lost all of her family except for her maternal grandmother. Unfortunately, her grandmother resents her for the loss of her son and husband. On her 17th birthday she receives an amulet that was her mothers, and her adventure begins. She ends up in Ariboslia, where her mother is from. She also finds a love that is unconditional. Will it heal her heart and hurts? Will she fulfill the prophecy concerning her? Read on to find out. If you enjoy Ted Dekker, Rachelle Dekker, or Tosca Lee, you will also love J. F. Rogers.
Astray by J.F. Rogers is an amazing ride through a fantastic world. If you like fantasy world adventures, with Christian perspectives, this is a book for you. It is the first in a series and I an so looking forward to reading book #2. We meet Fallon who has lost all of her family except for her maternal grandmother. Unfortunately, her grandmother resents her for the loss of her son and husband. On her 17th birthday she receives an amulet that was her mothers, and her adventure begins. She ends up in Ariboslia, where her mother is from. She also finds a love that is unconditional. Will it heal her heart and hurts? Will she fulfill the prophecy concerning her? Read on to find out. If you enjoy Ted Dekker, Rachelle Dekker, or Tosca Lee, you will also love J. F. Rogers.
October 16, 2019
Astray
By JF Rogers
Book 1 of Ariboslia series
Rating: 4/5
Christian fantasy? Sign me up!
I haven’t read Pilgrim’s Progress in years but this book gave off that feeling for me and added in fantasy elements and characters. Fallon is on a quest and meets friends and adversaries along the way while exploring her faith and values.
It was a bit of a slow starter for me but I quickly got into it after a few chapters. The Christian Faith aspect is beautifully woven throughout and I enjoyed briefly getting to the know the characters. Would have loved to delve into their stories more.
This is the first book in the series and I must find out what happens next.
Highly recommend.
My thanks to the author and BookSirens for an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
By JF Rogers
Book 1 of Ariboslia series
Rating: 4/5
Christian fantasy? Sign me up!
I haven’t read Pilgrim’s Progress in years but this book gave off that feeling for me and added in fantasy elements and characters. Fallon is on a quest and meets friends and adversaries along the way while exploring her faith and values.
It was a bit of a slow starter for me but I quickly got into it after a few chapters. The Christian Faith aspect is beautifully woven throughout and I enjoyed briefly getting to the know the characters. Would have loved to delve into their stories more.
This is the first book in the series and I must find out what happens next.
Highly recommend.
My thanks to the author and BookSirens for an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
January 25, 2021
A great story with a Christian theme and Celtic elements
This is a great story for teens. Fallon is a character with relatable flaws who goes through a major worldview shift. I appreciate finding a series that pays more than lip service to the "Christian" in Christian fantasy. This is the only one I have come across that mentions total depravity of the human nature and unabashedly embraces our need for a savior. Jesus is not named outright, but when he shows up it's pretty obvious who he is. I chuckled at all the pop culture references, too. My only real complaints are 1) some of the characters are too good to be true and 2) the narrative felt a bit rushed and kind of choppy toward the end, for lack of better words. Things seemed to be resolving too quickly. Regardless, I look forward to seeing what happens in the next book.
This is a great story for teens. Fallon is a character with relatable flaws who goes through a major worldview shift. I appreciate finding a series that pays more than lip service to the "Christian" in Christian fantasy. This is the only one I have come across that mentions total depravity of the human nature and unabashedly embraces our need for a savior. Jesus is not named outright, but when he shows up it's pretty obvious who he is. I chuckled at all the pop culture references, too. My only real complaints are 1) some of the characters are too good to be true and 2) the narrative felt a bit rushed and kind of choppy toward the end, for lack of better words. Things seemed to be resolving too quickly. Regardless, I look forward to seeing what happens in the next book.
July 29, 2023
I love books for teens, especially if they have a message of faith to them. Fallon is struggling since her mother disappeared and her father died. She is depressed and self-mutilates. Her friend keeps trying to convince her that all she needs to do is have faith. When she goes through a portal into another world, Fallon finds what she has been missing. However, like so many teens, she is stubborn. Her journey in Ariboslia is one she must go through to learn who she is and grow her faith. This is a book about finding your faith among all the troubles you’ve had. I really enjoyed the characters in this book. They reminded me of the type of characters Kandi Wyatt created in her “Myth Coast Adventure” series. Maybe that is why I liked this so much. I also enjoyed the way the ending left room for a sequel. Must read book.
May 2, 2024
Awesome characters with flaws but likable traits. A gripping and entertaining page-turning story with a slow burn romance you can't help but cheer on. Great descriptions, vivid world building (but not too much description to bore you), and fantastic, flowing dialog that kept me hooked from the start. Best of all, the way the author intertwined God and so much of Christ's sacrifice and love into the story without it coming off as cheesy was impressive! I loved all the of symbolism scattered throughout too. I am most assuredly getting the next book, and if you haven't read this book, fix that now lol. It's got romance, action, thrills, love, sacrifice, shapeshifters, and a strong FMC...what more could you ask for?
June 19, 2019
It was a great book, considering it's not normally a type I would choose to read. I'm anxious to read the next book in the series. Normally I don't choose to read Christian books, but this fantasy Christian novel was actually interesting. It was about how in another realm there are shapeshifters and vampires and on her birthday the main character Fallon ends up in her mother's home. She has the ability to save the shapeshifters from being taken over from the vampires as long as she has faith in God. She must trust that God will lead her and she serves God's plans. I voluntarily reviewed this after received an advanced reader copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2021
Astray is the first book in a series of three in the Ariboslia Christian fantasy series. And I highly recommend reading these books in order and if you can pick all three up as you won’t want, to have to wait to get the next book in.this series. This novel reminds me of the Chronicles of Narnia, as it infuses the themes of Christianity throughout. This is a fast paced world, featuring supernatural creatures and solidly fleshed out characters. The plot contains many unbelievable twists and turns. I enjoyed the episodes in this novel and the author stayed way ahead of me – a great read! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 17, 2021
I really liked this book. The author does some great world-building and I think most of the characters are well fleshed-out. The protagonist, Fallon, is relatable in that she isn't perfect and sometimes struggles with doing the right thing or even knowing what the right thing is.
Note: This is definitely a Christian fantasy, so if that isn't your thing, you probably won't like the book. As a lover of both Jesus Christ and fantasy novels, "Astray" was right up my alley and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Note: This is definitely a Christian fantasy, so if that isn't your thing, you probably won't like the book. As a lover of both Jesus Christ and fantasy novels, "Astray" was right up my alley and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
August 1, 2022
A Solid Portal Fantasy
I’m a fan of portal fantasies and Astray didn’t disappoint.
Fallon was a likable character and her home life made you cheer for her to leave it. There’s a strong cast of supporting characters and a villain who holds his own.
The story is well-paced with action and knowledge slowly spiraling to the conclusion.
There’s a solid Christian message. There’s no heat or excessive violence/gore. There is action, but it’s more suspenseful than scary. A solid read for teens and up.
I’m a fan of portal fantasies and Astray didn’t disappoint.
Fallon was a likable character and her home life made you cheer for her to leave it. There’s a strong cast of supporting characters and a villain who holds his own.
The story is well-paced with action and knowledge slowly spiraling to the conclusion.
There’s a solid Christian message. There’s no heat or excessive violence/gore. There is action, but it’s more suspenseful than scary. A solid read for teens and up.
August 2, 2019
Incredible
How do you put being saved into words? I never could, but Ms. Rogers does an amazing job of it! So amazing in fact, that I vividly recalled my own experience while reading it, even down to the exact feelings.
These characters and the world building are really awesome and interesting and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone. Thank you for sharing this story - it's an important one.
You are loved.
How do you put being saved into words? I never could, but Ms. Rogers does an amazing job of it! So amazing in fact, that I vividly recalled my own experience while reading it, even down to the exact feelings.
These characters and the world building are really awesome and interesting and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone. Thank you for sharing this story - it's an important one.
You are loved.
February 6, 2019
Completely enjoyable
What a fun series this will be. I totally enjoyed this first installment! It was such a different take on good VS evil than I expected so bravo for that. The characters are intriguing and unusual and the message very clear... Follow that which God asks and you will be rewarded.
What a fun series this will be. I totally enjoyed this first installment! It was such a different take on good VS evil than I expected so bravo for that. The characters are intriguing and unusual and the message very clear... Follow that which God asks and you will be rewarded.
March 22, 2019
Awesome book!!
I really loved the Christian elements to this book, because there's not a lot of good Christian fantasy fiction out there to read! The story was engrossing, and kept me not wanting to put it down! It was told really well! Thank you for putting this out there for others to enjoy! I can't wait to read the next one!
I really loved the Christian elements to this book, because there's not a lot of good Christian fantasy fiction out there to read! The story was engrossing, and kept me not wanting to put it down! It was told really well! Thank you for putting this out there for others to enjoy! I can't wait to read the next one!
March 30, 2019
Over the top religious
This could have been a good young adult fantasy story with portals, shapeshifters & vampires but forcing "trust in the one true God" references into every paragraph ruins it.
There is even a section with creationism vs evolution discussions!
Suitable for early teens Sunday school attendees only
This could have been a good young adult fantasy story with portals, shapeshifters & vampires but forcing "trust in the one true God" references into every paragraph ruins it.
There is even a section with creationism vs evolution discussions!
Suitable for early teens Sunday school attendees only
September 17, 2019
Awesome, real, great story for teens
The author captured the essence of a troubled teen, from their perspective. Hope is brought into the mix and we get to see the main character struggle and grow.
The fantasy element is plausible! It makes sense, and yet, is fun to explore.
I couldn't put the book down! I just had to see what happened next.
The author captured the essence of a troubled teen, from their perspective. Hope is brought into the mix and we get to see the main character struggle and grow.
The fantasy element is plausible! It makes sense, and yet, is fun to explore.
I couldn't put the book down! I just had to see what happened next.
January 5, 2026
portal fantasy with vampires and werebeings are not my go-to stories. So, imagine my surprise when I enjoyed Astray by JF Rogers. Well written, good story, fast paced, and I even found myself identifying with the MC, a teenager and female no less. I'm about as far from that irl as can be. A well told tale!
December 28, 2018
I really liked this book! The characters are interesting and realistic, the plot kept my attention and even surprised me in parts, and the book was well-written and enjoyable to read. Clean and with overt Christian themes.
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