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Aries
When the last apostles laid hands to bestow spiritual gifts, the Holy Spirit chose some who would have supernatural strengths to protect mankind from itself until Christ's return. These were known as those of the Craft.
In the land of Nereheim, Nafaria is the daughter of Lord Jason Mauldon; a vineyard owner and one of the Craft. She was always taught that her knowledge and talents were to be used to help others and was nothing to fear.
However, when persecution breaks out in Denholm Glen, her family flees in the night to another city where they are unknown.
Lord Jason's wish was to remain anonymous, but his wisdom and willingness to help those around him forces him before the king in an effort to resolve an old legend began with the disappearance of the last Court Adviser to the king.
As Nafaria grows up, she discovers that using her talent for healing and honoring her father's wish to remain anonymous for her own safety is difficult. To help those around them, the family comes into the public eye. Once again, their fate is tied to a few who bear their secret.
What happens if that chosen few betrays them?
In the land of Nereheim, Nafaria is the daughter of Lord Jason Mauldon; a vineyard owner and one of the Craft. She was always taught that her knowledge and talents were to be used to help others and was nothing to fear.
However, when persecution breaks out in Denholm Glen, her family flees in the night to another city where they are unknown.
Lord Jason's wish was to remain anonymous, but his wisdom and willingness to help those around him forces him before the king in an effort to resolve an old legend began with the disappearance of the last Court Adviser to the king.
As Nafaria grows up, she discovers that using her talent for healing and honoring her father's wish to remain anonymous for her own safety is difficult. To help those around them, the family comes into the public eye. Once again, their fate is tied to a few who bear their secret.
What happens if that chosen few betrays them?
388 pages, Paperback
Published May 14, 2021
1 person is currently reading
494 people want to read
About the author
Lara Giesbers
4 books15 followersLara Giesbers is a wife and mother and also works as a waitress at a local restaurant. Her roles as waitress, mother and wife help her see the value of putting the needs of others before her own, and what it means to be a servant to all. As a Christian, her goal is for people to see the Bible for what it is; a road map for daily life written by a being who wants his creation to have the greatest chance at success not only in this life, but in the one to follow.
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
April 2, 2017
Just wanted to start off by saying thank you for the chance to read this book! I was lucky enough to win it in the Goodreads Giveaway. Now to review.
I really enjoyed the story/plot line in the book. Fairly predictable, but still fun. A moderately complex world with lots of interacting characters whose motives are understandable. The writing style is quite different compared to what I usually read. The speech is very formal and repetitive; a lot of it is telling the reader what we've already been told, which grows old quickly. I think the reader could be given a little more credit.
I thought the biblical premise was quite intriguing also! All in all, the content didn't necessarily match up with the writing style. There were mature concepts, but I feel like stylistically, I could have read it in middle school. I also feel like there was a great opportunity for some creative, interesting, and elegant descriptions of the surroundings, but it wasn't taken advantage of. Anyways, I really like the premise of this book!
I really enjoyed the story/plot line in the book. Fairly predictable, but still fun. A moderately complex world with lots of interacting characters whose motives are understandable. The writing style is quite different compared to what I usually read. The speech is very formal and repetitive; a lot of it is telling the reader what we've already been told, which grows old quickly. I think the reader could be given a little more credit.
I thought the biblical premise was quite intriguing also! All in all, the content didn't necessarily match up with the writing style. There were mature concepts, but I feel like stylistically, I could have read it in middle school. I also feel like there was a great opportunity for some creative, interesting, and elegant descriptions of the surroundings, but it wasn't taken advantage of. Anyways, I really like the premise of this book!
March 17, 2017
It was a wonderful, enchanting allegorical tale, with many Biblical allusions sprinkled throughout. I would love to see a sequel. Or perhaps even a series of volumes. The theme of redemption is paramount, as is the concept of faithfulness--which permeates the story. A very encouraging, strengthening, and comforting read!
May 7, 2017
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*
First Impression: Such a magical cover and intriguing premise about supernatural gifts bestowed on mankind by God.
Characters: Connected families, their relationships, and their enemies are all unfolded in a tale that evokes Downton Abbey crossed with the Salem Witch Trials. The characters are simple in nature, yet rich in spirit. I found myself wishing for a simpler time when people had convictions.
World Building: I imagined scrolling castle hills and markets of time gone by. I appreciate the character driven story line as the scene.
Writing Style: Giesbers writes with ease and wistful dialog. Bible verses are quoted throughout in character conversations, which is great for anyone interested in real world application of biblical passages.
What I Enjoyed: The heartbreaking tension between grief and joy was displayed with innocence throughout Aries. I adored the relationships and social commentary warnings hauntingly appropriate for today's climate.
Deal Benders: Although the characters were drawn in a simpler time, I would have like to see more depth. Sometimes it felt they were a little one-dimensional, even if each in their own dimension.
Overall Rating: 4 stars because I appreciate well-done historical fiction and whimsy.
For Fans Of: Downton Abbey, any historical or christian fiction.
First Impression: Such a magical cover and intriguing premise about supernatural gifts bestowed on mankind by God.
Characters: Connected families, their relationships, and their enemies are all unfolded in a tale that evokes Downton Abbey crossed with the Salem Witch Trials. The characters are simple in nature, yet rich in spirit. I found myself wishing for a simpler time when people had convictions.
World Building: I imagined scrolling castle hills and markets of time gone by. I appreciate the character driven story line as the scene.
Writing Style: Giesbers writes with ease and wistful dialog. Bible verses are quoted throughout in character conversations, which is great for anyone interested in real world application of biblical passages.
What I Enjoyed: The heartbreaking tension between grief and joy was displayed with innocence throughout Aries. I adored the relationships and social commentary warnings hauntingly appropriate for today's climate.
Deal Benders: Although the characters were drawn in a simpler time, I would have like to see more depth. Sometimes it felt they were a little one-dimensional, even if each in their own dimension.
Overall Rating: 4 stars because I appreciate well-done historical fiction and whimsy.
For Fans Of: Downton Abbey, any historical or christian fiction.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews