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Darkness Overcome
The Rhise Of Light
This is not your typical Christian Fiction story…
The entirety of living civilization stands on the very brink of death. Undead hordes have rampaged across the world. Determined to do his part, Leon Rhise left his wealthy father's estate and chose to defend the last living kingdom by joining the military. It had seemed to be a good idea at the time.
After his career in the airship navy came to an abrupt end Leon arrived home, hoping for a warm reception. Instead, he was abruptly tossed out. Disowned, unemployed, and friendless. All hope seems lost. Then Leon discovers a mysterious relic, which opens up the possibility of him becoming a Judge: a hero of legend. One that has not been seen for centuries.
As Leon travels the road less taken his destiny converges with newfound companions, each one surrounded by mystery. Advised by strange beings in dreams and visions, Leon learns that the undead onslaught the world has suffered is part of a much larger problem. A solution can be found by learning about the forgotten being known as Adonai. But the world is ending, and time is running out.
Delve into a world that brings a unique twist and interpretation to faith-based high fantasy. With emotional highs and lows, certain peril, dysfunction, and humor; tough questions are asked, and answers will come to light.
REVIEWS:
When it comes to a Christian faith journey, this is hands down the best I have read to date. Where there are plenty of authors (including myself) who will hide a faith journey amidst the main plot of a story, Sternberg pulls no punches and places the difficulties of faith right out there in the open. If you do not feel convicted to live a better life for Christ after reading this book, did you even read it at all? He does not place this journey on a pedestal and neither is it smooth or easy. The reality of the Christian walk that he weaves into this completely made-up story is so moving to read. - Amy Lynn McConahy
"Clean Fantasy With Well-drawn Characters" - Chris Wachter
"4.5 out of 5" from Spotlightingtheindieauthor
"A Story of Endearing Misfit Characters Who Learn About The Greatest Love of All" - Kelly Barr
"An excellent read." Joe Clay of Spotlighting the Indie Author
"I am not a fan of fantasy, but I know a good book when I read one." Nina Turnipseed of Spotlighting the Indie Author
The entirety of living civilization stands on the very brink of death. Undead hordes have rampaged across the world. Determined to do his part, Leon Rhise left his wealthy father's estate and chose to defend the last living kingdom by joining the military. It had seemed to be a good idea at the time.
After his career in the airship navy came to an abrupt end Leon arrived home, hoping for a warm reception. Instead, he was abruptly tossed out. Disowned, unemployed, and friendless. All hope seems lost. Then Leon discovers a mysterious relic, which opens up the possibility of him becoming a Judge: a hero of legend. One that has not been seen for centuries.
As Leon travels the road less taken his destiny converges with newfound companions, each one surrounded by mystery. Advised by strange beings in dreams and visions, Leon learns that the undead onslaught the world has suffered is part of a much larger problem. A solution can be found by learning about the forgotten being known as Adonai. But the world is ending, and time is running out.
Delve into a world that brings a unique twist and interpretation to faith-based high fantasy. With emotional highs and lows, certain peril, dysfunction, and humor; tough questions are asked, and answers will come to light.
REVIEWS:
When it comes to a Christian faith journey, this is hands down the best I have read to date. Where there are plenty of authors (including myself) who will hide a faith journey amidst the main plot of a story, Sternberg pulls no punches and places the difficulties of faith right out there in the open. If you do not feel convicted to live a better life for Christ after reading this book, did you even read it at all? He does not place this journey on a pedestal and neither is it smooth or easy. The reality of the Christian walk that he weaves into this completely made-up story is so moving to read. - Amy Lynn McConahy
"Clean Fantasy With Well-drawn Characters" - Chris Wachter
"4.5 out of 5" from Spotlightingtheindieauthor
"A Story of Endearing Misfit Characters Who Learn About The Greatest Love of All" - Kelly Barr
"An excellent read." Joe Clay of Spotlighting the Indie Author
"I am not a fan of fantasy, but I know a good book when I read one." Nina Turnipseed of Spotlighting the Indie Author
- GenresFantasyChristian Fiction
292 pages, Hardcover
First published May 28, 2021
11 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
Max B. Sternberg
6 books76 followersBeliever, Husband, and Father
Max B. Sternberg lives in Virginia with his wonderful wife and two incredible boys. When he is not working, or filling his time with the activities of a husband and dad, he enjoys delving deeper into biblical scripture and telling dad jokes. He strives to live his life as best he can – in all areas – for Jesus. Max believes that humor, mixed with truth, and tied together in a relatable way, can be an amazing way to reach people for the Lord. It is his sincere hope that readers will find his imaginings, paired together with biblical truth, inspirational for a deeper relationship with Christ.
The Rhise of Hope is his second literary work, and he is currently working on one additional novel for the Darkness Overcome series.
Max B. Sternberg lives in Virginia with his wonderful wife and two incredible boys. When he is not working, or filling his time with the activities of a husband and dad, he enjoys delving deeper into biblical scripture and telling dad jokes. He strives to live his life as best he can – in all areas – for Jesus. Max believes that humor, mixed with truth, and tied together in a relatable way, can be an amazing way to reach people for the Lord. It is his sincere hope that readers will find his imaginings, paired together with biblical truth, inspirational for a deeper relationship with Christ.
The Rhise of Hope is his second literary work, and he is currently working on one additional novel for the Darkness Overcome series.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 30, 2021
Characters: I loved the characters in this book! Leon had a great character arc: from unbeliever to a Christian who put his life on the line to serve God. And his relationships with his friends Miala and Duame were so well done. The humor was the best!
Language: Clean.
Moral: The Rhise of Light had many great morals: salvation, spiritual warfare, evangelism, the battle that is the Christian life.
Plot: This book had action! No boring moments there. The mixture of Old Testament and fantasy elements made for an entertaining story.
Random comments: To be honest, I was a little apprehensive of this book because I knew it contained zombies. But the more I read, the more I discovered that the zombies actually worked into the allegorical aspects of this story quite well. Basically, if you were unsaved, you came back as a zombie and had to be killed again (a hint of the second death). There was no glorification of the zombies.
I was a little uncomfortable with the mentions of magic. The characters who had the magical powers basically had them forced on them through traumatic circumstances, so the magic’s origins at least are presented in a negative light. But these characters could also use their powers for good which is the part that made me uncomfortable.
Romance: Clean. Only a few hints of romance between a couple I believe will get together in later books :)
Writing: Max Sternberg’s writing style worked great for this book. I could “see” what was going on and found his writing easy to follow.
Overall: The Rhise of Light was an entertaining, thought-provoking read, and I’d recommend it to those who enjoy Christian fiction, fantasy, and allegories. I’m looking forward to reading the second book in the series!
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Language: Clean.
Moral: The Rhise of Light had many great morals: salvation, spiritual warfare, evangelism, the battle that is the Christian life.
Plot: This book had action! No boring moments there. The mixture of Old Testament and fantasy elements made for an entertaining story.
Random comments: To be honest, I was a little apprehensive of this book because I knew it contained zombies. But the more I read, the more I discovered that the zombies actually worked into the allegorical aspects of this story quite well. Basically, if you were unsaved, you came back as a zombie and had to be killed again (a hint of the second death). There was no glorification of the zombies.
I was a little uncomfortable with the mentions of magic. The characters who had the magical powers basically had them forced on them through traumatic circumstances, so the magic’s origins at least are presented in a negative light. But these characters could also use their powers for good which is the part that made me uncomfortable.
Romance: Clean. Only a few hints of romance between a couple I believe will get together in later books :)
Writing: Max Sternberg’s writing style worked great for this book. I could “see” what was going on and found his writing easy to follow.
Overall: The Rhise of Light was an entertaining, thought-provoking read, and I’d recommend it to those who enjoy Christian fiction, fantasy, and allegories. I’m looking forward to reading the second book in the series!
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
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July 29, 2022I am so thankful to all of you for your kind and wonderful reception!
Wooboy, here goes:
I wrote ‘The Rhise of Light’ for a lot of reasons. It was a story that was on my heart for a while. After my job decided everyone needed to work from home late in 2019, I found the time to start writing and to self publish.
It was one day that I came up with a mission statement for the book series: entertain, educate, and evangelize. I love to entertain, so I wanted to make sure that there was action and humor in the book. I love to joke around, so it was fun. I also wanted to educate others on things like biblical concepts that are not often talked about, like spiritual warfare. Lastly, I wanted to evangelize, because this is my ministry, and I wanted it to be something that appealed to all, regardless of if you believed or not.
If my book series helps brings one person to Christ or renews someone’s faith then it would all be worth it. Truthfully though? I pray fervently that I could pit my series against all the glittery vampires, vulgar sexual monsters, and leave them in the dust. I want a clean fantasy parable with a positive message to stand against the secular competition. If its not my own work, then that's perfectly fine. If it IS my books, then so be it. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against the people who write about glittery vampires. It can be a slippery slope though. Especially for young readers.
As of mid 2021, there are news articles about 10-year olds being given free condoms in Chicago at school. 5th graders. AT SCHOOL! HOW IS THAT OK? Answer: It's not. It is inviting trouble. I do not need the world to teach my children or anyone else's children about the kink and a wink when it is supposed to be the birds and the bees at an age where they can comprehend it. If there is one thing that I will always fight against, it will be child exploitation. So this book, this series, will be my way of fighting back.
Does my book have violence in it? No more than you would find in the Bible. Beyond that, it’s clean. It deals with the tough issues like forgiveness, abuse, and consequences for your actions no matter how small. The series will also give you topics that may make your think about your spiritual walk. I do hope you sincerely enjoy it!
Phew. So, anyway.
‘The Rhise of Light’ is free on Kindle Unlimited, and available for e-book, paperback, and hardcover. There will eventually be an audiobook (voiced by myself).
For more information like free chapters, interviews, and reviews, you can visit maxbsternberg.com. Also, you can order from me directly there if you want to avoid the Amazon overlords.
This is not your average story…
This is ‘The Rhise of Light’.
Wooboy, here goes:
I wrote ‘The Rhise of Light’ for a lot of reasons. It was a story that was on my heart for a while. After my job decided everyone needed to work from home late in 2019, I found the time to start writing and to self publish.
It was one day that I came up with a mission statement for the book series: entertain, educate, and evangelize. I love to entertain, so I wanted to make sure that there was action and humor in the book. I love to joke around, so it was fun. I also wanted to educate others on things like biblical concepts that are not often talked about, like spiritual warfare. Lastly, I wanted to evangelize, because this is my ministry, and I wanted it to be something that appealed to all, regardless of if you believed or not.
If my book series helps brings one person to Christ or renews someone’s faith then it would all be worth it. Truthfully though? I pray fervently that I could pit my series against all the glittery vampires, vulgar sexual monsters, and leave them in the dust. I want a clean fantasy parable with a positive message to stand against the secular competition. If its not my own work, then that's perfectly fine. If it IS my books, then so be it. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against the people who write about glittery vampires. It can be a slippery slope though. Especially for young readers.
As of mid 2021, there are news articles about 10-year olds being given free condoms in Chicago at school. 5th graders. AT SCHOOL! HOW IS THAT OK? Answer: It's not. It is inviting trouble. I do not need the world to teach my children or anyone else's children about the kink and a wink when it is supposed to be the birds and the bees at an age where they can comprehend it. If there is one thing that I will always fight against, it will be child exploitation. So this book, this series, will be my way of fighting back.
Does my book have violence in it? No more than you would find in the Bible. Beyond that, it’s clean. It deals with the tough issues like forgiveness, abuse, and consequences for your actions no matter how small. The series will also give you topics that may make your think about your spiritual walk. I do hope you sincerely enjoy it!
Phew. So, anyway.
‘The Rhise of Light’ is free on Kindle Unlimited, and available for e-book, paperback, and hardcover. There will eventually be an audiobook (voiced by myself).
For more information like free chapters, interviews, and reviews, you can visit maxbsternberg.com. Also, you can order from me directly there if you want to avoid the Amazon overlords.
This is not your average story…
This is ‘The Rhise of Light’.
ebooks-i-own
August 22, 2022This book is currently offered for free on Amazon until 8/24! I believe it is a good Christian fantasy.
September 6, 2021
A very good start to a series. Would like some of the story's main characters to be on the cover along with the spear.
March 16, 2022
For a Christian fantasy story, I enjoyed the story more for not following too close with any traditional tropes for the genre characters where they became cliché, and storyline, yet they were there in the right dose for me. For example you did have the strangers meet, unifying circumstances and challenges, and we're on a quest, and look what we found. Dwarves were dwarves, mancers were mancers (unique in a sense to be truthful), orcs were orce, etc. Yet, it was an interesting take to see traditional fantasy creatures interact in unique ways, all facing the same evil threat in the land. The various race of characters melded in a way that fell in line with the evil across the land, mainly the zombies, lots of zombies.
As much where you have the various antagonists in the story operating in opposition to the main characters, all the characters are seen from a distinctive Christian viewpoint with their allegorical elements, albeit sometimes too straightforward, but still insightful. Also, the characters were all very distinct, unique, and entertaining. You see rich backstories for many of the main characters, and how they intertwined with one another providing for compelling conflict, falling in line with what you would expect from their actions.
I did want to know a little more about the key artifact in the story, but the author does seem to be slowly developing this plot point in the sequel(s). And maybe that's why I appreciate the story, there's not a lot of unnecessary exposition dumps. We learn the background and history of the world he's developed as we learn the characters. Hopefully, we learn more of the family's history in relation to the revelations discovered by the main character. Thus I am intrigued.
My only drawback is how the dream sequences are handled and what occurs, and how certain aspects for the character growth could have been handle differently, but I've learned to pull back from over-analyzing stories and enjoy the story for the story's sake, hence why the five stars. It was still a fun read and kept me interested.
As much where you have the various antagonists in the story operating in opposition to the main characters, all the characters are seen from a distinctive Christian viewpoint with their allegorical elements, albeit sometimes too straightforward, but still insightful. Also, the characters were all very distinct, unique, and entertaining. You see rich backstories for many of the main characters, and how they intertwined with one another providing for compelling conflict, falling in line with what you would expect from their actions.
I did want to know a little more about the key artifact in the story, but the author does seem to be slowly developing this plot point in the sequel(s). And maybe that's why I appreciate the story, there's not a lot of unnecessary exposition dumps. We learn the background and history of the world he's developed as we learn the characters. Hopefully, we learn more of the family's history in relation to the revelations discovered by the main character. Thus I am intrigued.
My only drawback is how the dream sequences are handled and what occurs, and how certain aspects for the character growth could have been handle differently, but I've learned to pull back from over-analyzing stories and enjoy the story for the story's sake, hence why the five stars. It was still a fun read and kept me interested.
July 29, 2021
This book contains everything: Flying warships. A son returning from war to be rejected by his father. A magic spear. An angel of the Lord speaking of redemption and eternal love to a bitter and lost son. Bodies that rise up from death into a zombie-like form, and need to die a second time (called the Dead Wars). Fights against dragons. Alliances with dwarves - you name it!
I was rewarded for taking the time to get into the story and the characters. I loved the way Sternberg mixed in the gospel message of a loving, forgiving and redeeming God into this fantasy story. He did a good job of bringing his key characters to life - helping me understand what they were thinking and feeling as they went through harrowing adventures.
The author says he is working on books 2 and 3 in his series. I will read them, looking for how he continues to bring Adonai into the lives of his characters.
I was rewarded for taking the time to get into the story and the characters. I loved the way Sternberg mixed in the gospel message of a loving, forgiving and redeeming God into this fantasy story. He did a good job of bringing his key characters to life - helping me understand what they were thinking and feeling as they went through harrowing adventures.
The author says he is working on books 2 and 3 in his series. I will read them, looking for how he continues to bring Adonai into the lives of his characters.
November 7, 2022
Christian zombie story filled with hope
I highly recommend this novel. The author blends fantasy, zombie apocalypse, and Bible teachings into a story worthy of an epic fantasy campaign. I look forward to reading the rest of his works as they are printed.
I highly recommend this novel. The author blends fantasy, zombie apocalypse, and Bible teachings into a story worthy of an epic fantasy campaign. I look forward to reading the rest of his works as they are printed.
November 28, 2021
An all around great start to a series.
First of all let me say I loved how open the writer was with his faith in this story. Where so many writers would have tried to hide their faith in allegory to try and increase their audience Max writes with boldness of faith that I find refreshing. His characters are well developed and entertaining, his plot kept me turning pages, and his theme kept me reflecting on my own life and faith journey. Really what more could you ask for?
First of all let me say I loved how open the writer was with his faith in this story. Where so many writers would have tried to hide their faith in allegory to try and increase their audience Max writes with boldness of faith that I find refreshing. His characters are well developed and entertaining, his plot kept me turning pages, and his theme kept me reflecting on my own life and faith journey. Really what more could you ask for?
October 24, 2021
Let me get this out of the way first: I don’t read fantasy, Christian or not. I just don’t do it. But I’d met the author of this book in an online writing group, and he seemed nice so I thought I should read it to support him. I dragged my feet on it. I did. I cannot lie. I was like a little child. I folded my arms across my chest, slouched down on the couch and pulled my hood down over my face.
I pushed my lower lip out. “I don’t like fantasy books. All those ridiculous names and magic and sword battles with fantastical creatures.”
I huffed out a breath and grabbed my Kindle. “Fine. I’ll try it, but only because Max is a nice guy.”
Now, after reading The Rhise of Light, I can’t say that I will keep reading fantasy, but I can say I will read more fantasy written by Max Sternberg.
The Rhise of Light is not only full of well-written prose and dialogue and good, smart fun. It is also deeply theological, thought-provoking, and spiritually moving.
I fell in love with the main characters, Leon, Miala, Duame, and Kelleren but then there were even more characters to fall in love with as the book went on.
Creative well-developed characters and his descriptions make you feel like you are right there and all the characters are alive and real – whether they are human, elf, dwarf, dog, or an undead zombie.
Sternberg paints a vivid image of the world Leon and his friends live in, so vivid that sometimes it is a bit scary, considering that when people die they immediately become undead zombies who want to kill everyone else, no matter how nice they were in life or how they died. The only way to kill them for good is to dispatch them a second time and often in a grisly way.
Sternberg doesn’t pull any punches in fight scenes, but he also isn’t overly graphic. He weaves humor in the midst of heavy and serious and touching in the midst of heartbreaking.
Perhaps you’re not a fan of fantasy either. Don’t overlook this one because of your preconceived notions. You might just be as surprised and as enchanted as I was with Sternberg’s debut novel.
I pushed my lower lip out. “I don’t like fantasy books. All those ridiculous names and magic and sword battles with fantastical creatures.”
I huffed out a breath and grabbed my Kindle. “Fine. I’ll try it, but only because Max is a nice guy.”
Now, after reading The Rhise of Light, I can’t say that I will keep reading fantasy, but I can say I will read more fantasy written by Max Sternberg.
The Rhise of Light is not only full of well-written prose and dialogue and good, smart fun. It is also deeply theological, thought-provoking, and spiritually moving.
I fell in love with the main characters, Leon, Miala, Duame, and Kelleren but then there were even more characters to fall in love with as the book went on.
Creative well-developed characters and his descriptions make you feel like you are right there and all the characters are alive and real – whether they are human, elf, dwarf, dog, or an undead zombie.
Sternberg paints a vivid image of the world Leon and his friends live in, so vivid that sometimes it is a bit scary, considering that when people die they immediately become undead zombies who want to kill everyone else, no matter how nice they were in life or how they died. The only way to kill them for good is to dispatch them a second time and often in a grisly way.
Sternberg doesn’t pull any punches in fight scenes, but he also isn’t overly graphic. He weaves humor in the midst of heavy and serious and touching in the midst of heartbreaking.
Perhaps you’re not a fan of fantasy either. Don’t overlook this one because of your preconceived notions. You might just be as surprised and as enchanted as I was with Sternberg’s debut novel.
October 8, 2023
I usually don't go in for Christian fiction. And I was leery about this one too. But man am I glad I gave it a chance.
You should too.
You should too.
February 21, 2022
Twenty year old Leon Rhise is the son of the wealthy Lord Lucian Rhise, a very important nobleman in the kingdom of Xaelon, but the young man left home five years ago to fight in the Undead Wars. After a horrific, wartime accident which brings his career in the airship navy to an abrupt end, Leon returns home, hoping for a warm reunion, but finds that his reception is very cold, and he is abruptly driven away. His only possessions are the clothes on his back, a necklace with a Levigem that represents his family, and an ancient, rusty spear. Disowned, unemployed, and friendless, he feels that all hope seems lost. Then he discovers that the old spear is actually a mysterious relic, which opens up the possibility of his becoming a Judge, a hero of legend that has not been seen for centuries, according to what an angel tells him that night in a bizarre dream which he experiences.
Will Leon choose to follow his destiny as Judge and bring back the knowledge of the forgotten God known as Adonai? Does he find anyone who believes his story and agrees to help him? And what happens to him when wanted posters appear offering a reward for his capture whether alive or dead? This book could be categorized as “Christian Fantasy.” Woven through the plot with plenty of action, humor, and intrigue are themes like repentance, redemption, faith, and forgiveness from abuse, as well as numerous Scripture references. The Rhise of Light , which is a clean novel with an interesting story line, well-developed characters, and rich description, as well as a good amount of adventure, is Book 1of the “Darkness Overcome Series.” Author Max B. Sternberg has been working on two additional novels for the series. Book Two is The Rhise Of Hope.
Will Leon choose to follow his destiny as Judge and bring back the knowledge of the forgotten God known as Adonai? Does he find anyone who believes his story and agrees to help him? And what happens to him when wanted posters appear offering a reward for his capture whether alive or dead? This book could be categorized as “Christian Fantasy.” Woven through the plot with plenty of action, humor, and intrigue are themes like repentance, redemption, faith, and forgiveness from abuse, as well as numerous Scripture references. The Rhise of Light , which is a clean novel with an interesting story line, well-developed characters, and rich description, as well as a good amount of adventure, is Book 1of the “Darkness Overcome Series.” Author Max B. Sternberg has been working on two additional novels for the series. Book Two is The Rhise Of Hope.
October 1, 2022
Great Christian Fiction
Very detailed and an excellent job of detailing every scene. Spiritual messages throughout the entire thing. The MC is very easy to relate to.
Very detailed and an excellent job of detailing every scene. Spiritual messages throughout the entire thing. The MC is very easy to relate to.
July 27, 2021
I had the privilege of reading a free copy of this book, kindly provided to me by the author. All opinions expressed are my own, a positive review was not required.
The Rhise of Light is a debut Christian fantasy novel about a young man chosen to lead and save people from the destruction that has come upon the world in the form of undead hordes that ravage the lands. This book's strongest points are it's imaginative world building, including technology, races, and magic, the changing moods and atmospheres, most specifically the creepy one created by conflicts with the undead, and the main characters arc. While I rate the book three stars, it is not due to any huge flaw of its own, rather my own preferences and standards that have developed after reading a wide selection of literature. The main thing I'd like to see improved is depth of character and their manner of speech (less modern style of talking, no capitalization in dialogue, etc.).
This book is a promising debut, and the premise suggests much potential for the series. I recommend it to those who enjoy Christian indie fantasy and are looking for creative representations of themes such as faith and spiritual warfare.
The Rhise of Light is a debut Christian fantasy novel about a young man chosen to lead and save people from the destruction that has come upon the world in the form of undead hordes that ravage the lands. This book's strongest points are it's imaginative world building, including technology, races, and magic, the changing moods and atmospheres, most specifically the creepy one created by conflicts with the undead, and the main characters arc. While I rate the book three stars, it is not due to any huge flaw of its own, rather my own preferences and standards that have developed after reading a wide selection of literature. The main thing I'd like to see improved is depth of character and their manner of speech (less modern style of talking, no capitalization in dialogue, etc.).
This book is a promising debut, and the premise suggests much potential for the series. I recommend it to those who enjoy Christian indie fantasy and are looking for creative representations of themes such as faith and spiritual warfare.
June 11, 2021
The Rhise of Light is an excellent Christian fantasy that brings to life a perspective of Judges in the Old Testament. I got a hold of this book and could not put it down and finished it in one day. Book two is going to be just as good and I hope that it is not far behind.
June 14, 2021
When Leon Rhise returns home after a horrific, wartime accident, his reception is cold—more like frigid—and he is driven away. His only possessions are the clothes on his back, a necklace with a Levigem that represents his family, and an ancient, rusty spear.
That night, he experiences a bizarre dream in which an angel tells him he is the new Judge. Thus, Mr. Sternberg introduces the reader to the idea of Judges, as in the Judges, or heroes, of the Old Testament.
The book features quotes from the Bible, but this is first and foremost a fantasy adventure with Christian themes woven artfully through the story, not just tacked on. As Leon approaches a village the next night, he is caught up in an Undead attack. It is brutal and Leon offers to follow the band of Undead and rescue those taken. On this mission, he is joined by Duame, a rather cantankerous dwarf blacksmith; Miala, a pyromancer; and Miala’s companion, a dog named Kelleran.
Against all odds, they take on a Vampire and his Undead servants. During the battle, the spear’s true nature is revealed, and Leon accepts his calling as a Judge. But this is only the beginning as the four mismatched characters reveal bits of their histories and begin the journey that will lead them to confront the truth of what is really happening in the Undead Wars.
I enjoyed The Rhise of Light. It is filled with adventure, action, and a cast of unique characters. The Christianity is not overdone, but appropriate for the story. The premise that everyone who dies, rises as Undead and must be killed again by family, friends, or ultimately, in the war, adds to the horror of the war and opens the door for Leon’s calling. The stakes are high and when Leon realizes he has the cure for this plague of death, he knows he must share what he has learned. There are a couple other subplots that add dimension to the book.
Unfortunately, the writing lacks the polish I expect in a story like this. A good edit would have helped. Too much telling rather than showing, improper word usage, and improper grammar, as well as a fair amount of head-hopping diminished my joy in the read. Thus, though the story deserves five stars, the best I can do for the finished product is four stars. Having said that, though, most readers won’t notice the things I’ve mentioned.
If you are looking for a clean, fantasy read with interesting, well-drawn characters, as well as a fair amount of adventure, I recommend The Rhise of Light. Enjoy the story.
That night, he experiences a bizarre dream in which an angel tells him he is the new Judge. Thus, Mr. Sternberg introduces the reader to the idea of Judges, as in the Judges, or heroes, of the Old Testament.
The book features quotes from the Bible, but this is first and foremost a fantasy adventure with Christian themes woven artfully through the story, not just tacked on. As Leon approaches a village the next night, he is caught up in an Undead attack. It is brutal and Leon offers to follow the band of Undead and rescue those taken. On this mission, he is joined by Duame, a rather cantankerous dwarf blacksmith; Miala, a pyromancer; and Miala’s companion, a dog named Kelleran.
Against all odds, they take on a Vampire and his Undead servants. During the battle, the spear’s true nature is revealed, and Leon accepts his calling as a Judge. But this is only the beginning as the four mismatched characters reveal bits of their histories and begin the journey that will lead them to confront the truth of what is really happening in the Undead Wars.
I enjoyed The Rhise of Light. It is filled with adventure, action, and a cast of unique characters. The Christianity is not overdone, but appropriate for the story. The premise that everyone who dies, rises as Undead and must be killed again by family, friends, or ultimately, in the war, adds to the horror of the war and opens the door for Leon’s calling. The stakes are high and when Leon realizes he has the cure for this plague of death, he knows he must share what he has learned. There are a couple other subplots that add dimension to the book.
Unfortunately, the writing lacks the polish I expect in a story like this. A good edit would have helped. Too much telling rather than showing, improper word usage, and improper grammar, as well as a fair amount of head-hopping diminished my joy in the read. Thus, though the story deserves five stars, the best I can do for the finished product is four stars. Having said that, though, most readers won’t notice the things I’ve mentioned.
If you are looking for a clean, fantasy read with interesting, well-drawn characters, as well as a fair amount of adventure, I recommend The Rhise of Light. Enjoy the story.
January 17, 2023
Loved this book! Finished it in three days, tops. Great characters, great pacing, interesting plot. I got the second book as soon as I finished the first, if not during the last few chapters. Can't wait for number 3!
June 2, 2021
The Rhise of Light: Darkness Overcome (Book 1) by Max B. Sternberg is a debut Christian fantasy novel. As a book reviewer, I received an Advance Reader Copy, and this is my honest review. I was not required to write a review of any kind.
I prefer a book that takes me deep into the mind of the main character, but this book was written mostly from a narrative point of view, therefore I wasn’t as deeply engaged in the main character’s life as I would have liked.
The main character, Leon returns home after his Naval airship is destroyed in battle. However, things at home are not what he had hoped and though he wants to help, he has no power to do so. Therefore he sets out on a new adventure, unsure of where he is going or what he will do.
Along his journey, he meets a dwarf, a pyromancer and her dog companion. These characters join him on his adventure after helping him battle a group of undead (a.k.a. zombies) that have been reeking havoc on their town. As this group of misfits continues on their journey, they meet more fantastical creatures and face more battles, and each of them must face pains of their past.
The main characters are my favorite part of the book. They are well-developed and unique, and seem an unlikely group of friends, but a bond of friendship builds between them.
There are some action scenes, as well as scenes of suspense that kept me turning pages.
Finally, there is a Christian message that threads throughout the story. I found it a bit unclear in some of its lessons, but it certainly exhibits hope and love.
I recommend this story to young adults and adults who enjoy Christian fantasy or who are looking for a story of friendship and hope amid life’s difficult struggles.
Max B. Sternberg promises two more books to come in this “Darkness Overcome” series.
I give The Rhise of Light 4 stars.
I prefer a book that takes me deep into the mind of the main character, but this book was written mostly from a narrative point of view, therefore I wasn’t as deeply engaged in the main character’s life as I would have liked.
The main character, Leon returns home after his Naval airship is destroyed in battle. However, things at home are not what he had hoped and though he wants to help, he has no power to do so. Therefore he sets out on a new adventure, unsure of where he is going or what he will do.
Along his journey, he meets a dwarf, a pyromancer and her dog companion. These characters join him on his adventure after helping him battle a group of undead (a.k.a. zombies) that have been reeking havoc on their town. As this group of misfits continues on their journey, they meet more fantastical creatures and face more battles, and each of them must face pains of their past.
The main characters are my favorite part of the book. They are well-developed and unique, and seem an unlikely group of friends, but a bond of friendship builds between them.
There are some action scenes, as well as scenes of suspense that kept me turning pages.
Finally, there is a Christian message that threads throughout the story. I found it a bit unclear in some of its lessons, but it certainly exhibits hope and love.
I recommend this story to young adults and adults who enjoy Christian fantasy or who are looking for a story of friendship and hope amid life’s difficult struggles.
Max B. Sternberg promises two more books to come in this “Darkness Overcome” series.
I give The Rhise of Light 4 stars.
September 19, 2025
What would happen if you made a chapter of Judges into a D&D Campaign? This, basically.
December 19, 2021
Zombies! Who knew they could be so entertaining? I’m not a fantasy enthusiast. I mean, AT ALL. But after reading good things about The Rhise of Light I was intrigued. This is the first book I read in this genre, and I was pleasantly surprised. This cleverly woven blend of Christian and Science Fiction has plenty of adventure and action, and an interesting assortment of characters, including friendly dwarfs, living dead and dragons, coexisting in a conflicted world made more fascinating with magic and futuristic technology. Its message, though, is anything but creepy. It is above all a story of faith and redemption, of strength and leadership.
The narrative is rich in description and well written, with a few minor typos. Though the characters are well developed I would have liked more depth to them and less head hopping. But that’s my personal preference. Overall a good debut novel and recommended for all ages.
The narrative is rich in description and well written, with a few minor typos. Though the characters are well developed I would have liked more depth to them and less head hopping. But that’s my personal preference. Overall a good debut novel and recommended for all ages.
November 13, 2021
I am in love with so many characters within this story! I like that the author played with traditional character tropes, but also added his own twist to things. The story was compelling and I feel for the characters involved. I am excited for book two to release!
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