In a world where reading is a rare ability you must be born with, there are many who strive to become a Scribe. These are men of great stature, responsible for writing the legends of old. But there have only been twelve Scribes throughout history and the world desperately needs another. There is no shortage of young men lining up for scribal training, but this position isn't earned, it is chosen. The only problem is that it's been decades and a new Scribe still hasn't surfaced ... or has she?
Amana Hart believes she was born with the Gift; the ability to understand and speak multiple languages without ever learning them beforehand. She can read and write in Arabic, French, Spanish, and more--but she must keep this a secret. Only men of great wealth and stature are supposed to have this ability, so when Amana decides she wants to pursue her dream of becoming a Scribe, she must take on a new identity and do it in secret. Only God can keep Amana safe. The Scribal Institution will stop at nothing to silence the voice of liars and fakes. If she isn't careful, she could end up burned at the stake.
This is a standalone work of Christian Fantasy/Historical Fiction. A fictional take on the story of some of the greatest writers in history.
I didn't truly know what to expect from this book, but I'm so glad I read it. Amana, a young black girl born a peasant, has a gift for languages and reading in a world where no one but a select few have this ability. Her journey, both physical and spiritual, is amazing and heartbreaking. I truly enjoyed Amana's strength and faith. I normally don't read anything that has religious facets, and I absolutely loved this book.
I love love loved this book! I won’t exactly say that it was a heavy Christian themed book, it was more so lighter Christian themed but God was still in the center of it. I loved that, even though Amana’s mom was not the nicest of people, Amana still loved her mom despite the abuse. I also love that the author put that in. It’s not a huge topic in the Christian author community when we write books, and when it is we don’t usually see authors describe how a mother would choke her child. Like- WHAT??? I love how A. Bean put real life issues in the book, and wasn’t shy on it. I love how Amana fought for her place as a Scribe and was genuinely concerned and confused for the future Scribes to read made up stories. I love Ray. He’s so cute he’s a little fluffy guy who’s so sweet and kind. We all need a Ray in our lives 🥰🩷 Overall, I’ll definitely be reading more and more books by A. Bean! 🩷 I have fallen in love with her writing 🩷
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I will be honest, I started reading this book thinking that it was going to be hard to get through. But boy was I wrong! I read this whole book in a day it was so well written and it just kept pulling me back in! I loved the different elements of this story and how God was a large part of it! The character development of Amana was inspiring. The themes of love and forgiveness runs deep through this book and it is just overall a great book! I am so glad that I read this!
I never understood the setting, characters or plot of this book. However I felt that with a bit more focus this could have been an excellent book. I hope the author keeps writing but builds his characters a bit more. Take out the unnecessary and build the story around the characters before adding too many people to confuse readers.
Good read. I recommend this book. Finally found a book I have enjoyed from start to finish. I.loved the characters. The description of the sound of a page turning in a book was perfect.
If you have ever felt like you are squandering a gift, felt like a failure, or felt overcome by your many mistakes, this story brings you hope with an unusual tale.
Although fictional it was quite believable. As the stories were conceived I could imagine the title to some before they were written especially after knowing who the author was.
This held me captive from start to not wanting it to finish! Truly a gifted journey weaved in imagination spiced with spiritual possibilities and knowledge. This writer has been places and weaved a provocative exciting tale.
I really enjoyed the development of the characters and storyline. The Scribe was confident, determined, proud and truly beloved in herself. Nice twist with the scribal school, the killings and the wealthy outcome. Didn't like how it ended.
At first I didn’t understand but I quickly caught on. What a beautiful story in time about something so natural and forbidden at the same time. I’m glad nothing held her back and she was able to proceed and become. God is indeed with us on a constant basis He promised never to leave me alone 🙌🏾