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Under His Wings #1
The King's Feather
Pero Moshe’s mom vanished from their Oregon home, and the prophecy says it will happen to Pero, too. But when it does—and Pero is transported to an older universe, life gets more than a little nuts. Throw in a bodyguard who is almost criminally cute, a corrupt and brilliant doctor who wants to steal Pero’s power and rule all of Moon City, and her mom showing up as a pawn in the whole thing. And all Pero wants is to grab her mom and go home. But, uh, yeah, that’s not happening. In the end, Pero is forced to choose between forgiveness or escaping with those she loves before a shout crumbles Moon City’s walls to pieces. And both choices come at a cost she’s not sure she’s willing to pay.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2023
61 people are currently reading
542 people want to read
About the author
Amy Earls
8 books67 followersBest-selling author Amy Earls writes YA fiction that explores intersections between life issues and faith. A professor of first-year college students, she holds a master’s degree in education for adult learners, with an emphasis on writing. Amy lives in Oregon’s Willamette Valley with her husband, daughters, and a never-dying goldfish. Learn more about Amy, her virtual letters, and free offers at amyearls.com.
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July 7, 2023About this book:
“Rescue Mom. Handle The Prophesied Power.
And Don’t Fall in Love.
Sure. No Problem at All.
Pero Moshe’s mom vanished from their Oregon home, and the prophecy says it will happen to Pero, too. But when it does—and Pero is transported to an older universe, life gets more than a little nuts.
Throw in a bodyguard who is almost criminally cute, a corrupt and brilliant doctor who wants to steal Pero’s power and rule all of Moon City, and her mom showing up as a pawn in the whole thing. And all Pero wants is to grab her mom and go home.
But, uh, yeah, that’s not happening.
In the end, Pero is forced to choose between forgiveness or escaping with those she loves before a shout crumbles Moon City’s walls to pieces. And both choices come at a cost she’s not sure she’s willing to pay.”
Series: Book #1 in the “Under His Wings” series.
Spiritual Content- A quote by Joshua in the beginning (Joshua 6:16); A few Scriptures are quoted; Prayers; God is called God, Elohim, Yahweh, & Yeshua; The group of those who follow God are called “Lesaries” and the Bible is called “the Holy Words”; The city of Jericho is called “Moon City” and the events of the wall crashing down are prophesized and talked about (*Spoiler* ); Elohim talks to Pero and *Spoiler* ; Many talks about Elohim, His plans, receiving power from Him, having faith, & forgiveness; 'H's are capital when referring to God; There are three people who are called the “chosen” and on their seventeenth birthday, they each received a gift (it’s said to be “like a power” that comes from Elohim) that has a special action (singing, dancing, & creating/growing trees) & have a special necklace; Pero and her mother are both one of the chosen; A man wants to be Elohim and use the chosen three as a channel to gain their powers; Pero doesn’t care about Elohim because He didn’t bring her mother back (*Spoiler* ); When Pero worships, she received visions of something that will happen; After trusting Elohim, Pero is able to fly; Many mentions of Elohim, prophecies, & visions; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches/church going (called a “sanctuary”), priests, & prayers and songs done there (Pero found it boring);
*Note: There are doors/portals that can lead others into another world/universe/planet and it’s called “magic” a few times as Elohim directs others to go and they “magically appear”; Origo is an older universe and sounds like Bible times in the way they live; Everyone has two different bodies, one on Earth and one on Origo (when they are at one or the other, the body in the other universe hides and if they die in one universe, they’re body can be taken to the other universe to live in that body); In a dark place, Pero is instructed to call out to Elohim as there are invisible creatures there (she says “demons aren’t real, are they?” and the other person answers that “maybe they are, but I think they’ll go away if Elohim’s here”; Pero is then able to sense the spiritual side); Lesaries are able to fly on eagles; Mentions of a healing ointment called a blessing; A mention of a magic wand (used as a reference, not an actual item); A mention of some believing a man has received power from the moon; A mention of a man being worshipped by a community; A mention of a man being called a devil; A mention of a place being called hell; A mention of someone going through hell; A mention of someone having a curse; A mention of someone looking like a Greek goddess; A mention of a goddess of wisdom and war.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a form of ‘blasted’, a ‘crudmuffins!’, a ‘dang it’, a ‘dang you’, a ‘darn it’, a ‘great shimpers!’, a ‘idiot’, an ‘oh my word’, two ‘gosh’s, two ‘heck’s, two ‘shut up’s, three ‘dumb’s, and five ‘stupid’s; A possible derogatory name is cut off; Sarcasm, Sass, & Eye rolling; Pero talks back to her parents & other authority figures; A few mentions of curses (said, not written); Seeing a dead body (up to semi-detailed); Being attacked, Fighting, Pain, & Injuries (up to semi-detailed); Being held at gunpoint and knifepoint, threatened, & seeing someone shot (x4, with an arrow and guns, up to semi-detailed); Pero saw her mother abducted & has had nightmares of the event and her screams ever since; Pero is given a sedative/drug and drinks it; Pero is tempted to steal something, but does not because Elohim is watching; Many mentions of deaths, murders, bodies, violence, battles, fighting, injuries, pain, blood/bleeding, & passing out (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of the possibility of being killed & a plan to kill someone; Mentions of slaves, slavery, & experimentations on slaves (including being able to bring them back to life by eating a special plant if they die); Mentions of torture & beatings; Mentions of being held at gunpoint & threatened; Mentions of abductions & kidnappers; Mentions of nightmares; Mentions of grieving (for a mother, a father, a wife, & parents); Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of alcohol, drunks, drinking, & underage drinking; A few mentions of stalkers; A few mentions of being drugged; A few mentions of betting & bets; A few mentions of hatred; A few mentions of throwing up; A couple mentions of a man killing many children; A couple mentions of rumors; A mention of a burglar; A mention of night clubs; A few mentions of jealousy;
*Note: *Spoiler* ; A few mentions of brand names (Gatorade, Barbie, & Disney); A mention of horror movies with creepy creatures; A mention of a bachelorette show.
Sexual Content- A hand kiss and a semi-detailed kiss; Recalling a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Wanting to kiss; Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, Warmth, Nearness, Butterflies, & Smelling (barely-above-not-detailed); Wanting to touch & embrace (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing & Staring (including muscles, barely-above-not-detailed); A ‘sexy’; *Spoiler* ; It’s implied that Pero’s mother has been a concubine for a man while being held captive by him (including it being said that he took advantage of her and one man referring to her as one of the other man’s many girlfriends); Mentions of kisses, kissing, & touches; Mentions of flirting & blushes; Mentions of boyfriends; A few mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of crushes; A mention of swooning over a handsome older guy; Love, thinking about love, attraction, & the emotions;
*Note: Both Pero’s love interests are in their mid-20s; A group of drunks tell Pero to take off her clothing (she does not nor is she in a dangerous situation because of them); A few mentions of a man being too old for Pero (she finds it gross when he calls her stunning); A couple mentions of a line of guys asking for Pero’s number; A mention of Pero wondering if she’s fallen for a guy like in a book where “the girl falls in love from a wolf-man’s psychedelic eye power? Or was [she] responding to something else in him?”; A mention of some guards making crude comments about women and fighting over them; A mention of a man kneeing another man in the groin; In the author’s note, she mentions about a prostitute from the Bible and a character being based off of her.
-Pero Moshe, age 17
1st person P.O.V. of Pero
280 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars
{ Add up to a full star for Older High School Teens who enjoy Allegories. }
This was a very interesting and different book (that has a great cover, by the way).
I think it’s important before going into my final thoughts to know that I’m not a big allegory fan…I prefer things and plots of books to be straight up said, rather than have a hidden meaning behind the words. (It should be no shock to learn that I’m not a poetry fan either because of this.)
I would be really curious if someone who is a big fantasy or allegory fan read this book and their opinion on it. I don’t do high fantasy (extremely fantasy fantasy) books so it’s possible all of my lack of understanding is mostly my fault, but I still wished a lot of things were explained more to make it easier on those like me who has a brain that isn’t wired for such themes.
Here’s the thing, this book was well written. How things happened and the dialogue were good. I just wish events and how the worlds work could have been explained more. I struggled with caring about characters that we only knew for a little bit of time, not being sure the motives of others, how things are and people are connected, and points like that. There’s many worlds (?) but I honestly don’t understand really any of it—I’ve tried to do my best in the content sections to explain what I can. We’re pretty thrown into the plot in the first chapter, trying to figure things out, what’s going on, and learning new words. I wish there had been a bit more build-up, personally, in the first couple of chapters to have groundwork done before the main plot kicks in.
Pero can be rebellious, but I’m not sure if that’s her personality or the stress of the current events, because it happens at the beginning and there’s no work up to the events that will apparently take place on her birthday. She was too quick to like someone then switch to another guy. But one corner of the love triangle is handled in a way I wasn’t expecting and can’t say I liked how it went down (*Spoiler* )
I think this book has great potential, but I do think the worlds and how everything is connected could have been explained and fleshed out better.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Author for this honest review.
“Rescue Mom. Handle The Prophesied Power.
And Don’t Fall in Love.
Sure. No Problem at All.
Pero Moshe’s mom vanished from their Oregon home, and the prophecy says it will happen to Pero, too. But when it does—and Pero is transported to an older universe, life gets more than a little nuts.
Throw in a bodyguard who is almost criminally cute, a corrupt and brilliant doctor who wants to steal Pero’s power and rule all of Moon City, and her mom showing up as a pawn in the whole thing. And all Pero wants is to grab her mom and go home.
But, uh, yeah, that’s not happening.
In the end, Pero is forced to choose between forgiveness or escaping with those she loves before a shout crumbles Moon City’s walls to pieces. And both choices come at a cost she’s not sure she’s willing to pay.”
Series: Book #1 in the “Under His Wings” series.
Spiritual Content- A quote by Joshua in the beginning (Joshua 6:16); A few Scriptures are quoted; Prayers; God is called God, Elohim, Yahweh, & Yeshua; The group of those who follow God are called “Lesaries” and the Bible is called “the Holy Words”; The city of Jericho is called “Moon City” and the events of the wall crashing down are prophesized and talked about (*Spoiler* ); Elohim talks to Pero and *Spoiler* ; Many talks about Elohim, His plans, receiving power from Him, having faith, & forgiveness; 'H's are capital when referring to God; There are three people who are called the “chosen” and on their seventeenth birthday, they each received a gift (it’s said to be “like a power” that comes from Elohim) that has a special action (singing, dancing, & creating/growing trees) & have a special necklace; Pero and her mother are both one of the chosen; A man wants to be Elohim and use the chosen three as a channel to gain their powers; Pero doesn’t care about Elohim because He didn’t bring her mother back (*Spoiler* ); When Pero worships, she received visions of something that will happen; After trusting Elohim, Pero is able to fly; Many mentions of Elohim, prophecies, & visions; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches/church going (called a “sanctuary”), priests, & prayers and songs done there (Pero found it boring);
*Note: There are doors/portals that can lead others into another world/universe/planet and it’s called “magic” a few times as Elohim directs others to go and they “magically appear”; Origo is an older universe and sounds like Bible times in the way they live; Everyone has two different bodies, one on Earth and one on Origo (when they are at one or the other, the body in the other universe hides and if they die in one universe, they’re body can be taken to the other universe to live in that body); In a dark place, Pero is instructed to call out to Elohim as there are invisible creatures there (she says “demons aren’t real, are they?” and the other person answers that “maybe they are, but I think they’ll go away if Elohim’s here”; Pero is then able to sense the spiritual side); Lesaries are able to fly on eagles; Mentions of a healing ointment called a blessing; A mention of a magic wand (used as a reference, not an actual item); A mention of some believing a man has received power from the moon; A mention of a man being worshipped by a community; A mention of a man being called a devil; A mention of a place being called hell; A mention of someone going through hell; A mention of someone having a curse; A mention of someone looking like a Greek goddess; A mention of a goddess of wisdom and war.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a form of ‘blasted’, a ‘crudmuffins!’, a ‘dang it’, a ‘dang you’, a ‘darn it’, a ‘great shimpers!’, a ‘idiot’, an ‘oh my word’, two ‘gosh’s, two ‘heck’s, two ‘shut up’s, three ‘dumb’s, and five ‘stupid’s; A possible derogatory name is cut off; Sarcasm, Sass, & Eye rolling; Pero talks back to her parents & other authority figures; A few mentions of curses (said, not written); Seeing a dead body (up to semi-detailed); Being attacked, Fighting, Pain, & Injuries (up to semi-detailed); Being held at gunpoint and knifepoint, threatened, & seeing someone shot (x4, with an arrow and guns, up to semi-detailed); Pero saw her mother abducted & has had nightmares of the event and her screams ever since; Pero is given a sedative/drug and drinks it; Pero is tempted to steal something, but does not because Elohim is watching; Many mentions of deaths, murders, bodies, violence, battles, fighting, injuries, pain, blood/bleeding, & passing out (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of the possibility of being killed & a plan to kill someone; Mentions of slaves, slavery, & experimentations on slaves (including being able to bring them back to life by eating a special plant if they die); Mentions of torture & beatings; Mentions of being held at gunpoint & threatened; Mentions of abductions & kidnappers; Mentions of nightmares; Mentions of grieving (for a mother, a father, a wife, & parents); Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of alcohol, drunks, drinking, & underage drinking; A few mentions of stalkers; A few mentions of being drugged; A few mentions of betting & bets; A few mentions of hatred; A few mentions of throwing up; A couple mentions of a man killing many children; A couple mentions of rumors; A mention of a burglar; A mention of night clubs; A few mentions of jealousy;
*Note: *Spoiler* ; A few mentions of brand names (Gatorade, Barbie, & Disney); A mention of horror movies with creepy creatures; A mention of a bachelorette show.
Sexual Content- A hand kiss and a semi-detailed kiss; Recalling a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Wanting to kiss; Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, Warmth, Nearness, Butterflies, & Smelling (barely-above-not-detailed); Wanting to touch & embrace (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing & Staring (including muscles, barely-above-not-detailed); A ‘sexy’; *Spoiler* ; It’s implied that Pero’s mother has been a concubine for a man while being held captive by him (including it being said that he took advantage of her and one man referring to her as one of the other man’s many girlfriends); Mentions of kisses, kissing, & touches; Mentions of flirting & blushes; Mentions of boyfriends; A few mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of crushes; A mention of swooning over a handsome older guy; Love, thinking about love, attraction, & the emotions;
*Note: Both Pero’s love interests are in their mid-20s; A group of drunks tell Pero to take off her clothing (she does not nor is she in a dangerous situation because of them); A few mentions of a man being too old for Pero (she finds it gross when he calls her stunning); A couple mentions of a line of guys asking for Pero’s number; A mention of Pero wondering if she’s fallen for a guy like in a book where “the girl falls in love from a wolf-man’s psychedelic eye power? Or was [she] responding to something else in him?”; A mention of some guards making crude comments about women and fighting over them; A mention of a man kneeing another man in the groin; In the author’s note, she mentions about a prostitute from the Bible and a character being based off of her.
-Pero Moshe, age 17
1st person P.O.V. of Pero
280 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars
{ Add up to a full star for Older High School Teens who enjoy Allegories. }
This was a very interesting and different book (that has a great cover, by the way).
I think it’s important before going into my final thoughts to know that I’m not a big allegory fan…I prefer things and plots of books to be straight up said, rather than have a hidden meaning behind the words. (It should be no shock to learn that I’m not a poetry fan either because of this.)
I would be really curious if someone who is a big fantasy or allegory fan read this book and their opinion on it. I don’t do high fantasy (extremely fantasy fantasy) books so it’s possible all of my lack of understanding is mostly my fault, but I still wished a lot of things were explained more to make it easier on those like me who has a brain that isn’t wired for such themes.
Here’s the thing, this book was well written. How things happened and the dialogue were good. I just wish events and how the worlds work could have been explained more. I struggled with caring about characters that we only knew for a little bit of time, not being sure the motives of others, how things are and people are connected, and points like that. There’s many worlds (?) but I honestly don’t understand really any of it—I’ve tried to do my best in the content sections to explain what I can. We’re pretty thrown into the plot in the first chapter, trying to figure things out, what’s going on, and learning new words. I wish there had been a bit more build-up, personally, in the first couple of chapters to have groundwork done before the main plot kicks in.
Pero can be rebellious, but I’m not sure if that’s her personality or the stress of the current events, because it happens at the beginning and there’s no work up to the events that will apparently take place on her birthday. She was too quick to like someone then switch to another guy. But one corner of the love triangle is handled in a way I wasn’t expecting and can’t say I liked how it went down (*Spoiler* )
I think this book has great potential, but I do think the worlds and how everything is connected could have been explained and fleshed out better.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Author for this honest review.
June 10, 2025
Exciting adventure full of beautiful allegory and strong faith. Although a non-magical portal fantasy this had all the YA angst and family dynamics I enjoy. I can’t wait to read the next one!
August 14, 2024
2.5⭐️
VERY YA…
First person
Some random similarities to the movie Overcomer
VERY YA…
First person
Some random similarities to the movie Overcomer
July 14, 2023
Do you ever choose to read books based off the cover or synopsis? I have a habit of doing it and I love it, I never know quite what I’m getting into.
The King’s Feather by Amy Earls captured my imagination within the first few chapters. Pero was fantastic. A little spunky, a little feisty, and a whole lotta strong character. I really enjoyed following along on her journey and how Amy Earls portrayed her thought process, it was facilitating.
The storyline ended up being a bit of a biblical retelling, but one I totally would not have expected and one I have never read a retelling of before. Very creative!
Overall, this one was a quick, interesting story with good characters, and I cannot wait to see where Amy Earls takes the next book in the series.
4 stars.
*I volunteered to read this book.
The King’s Feather by Amy Earls captured my imagination within the first few chapters. Pero was fantastic. A little spunky, a little feisty, and a whole lotta strong character. I really enjoyed following along on her journey and how Amy Earls portrayed her thought process, it was facilitating.
The storyline ended up being a bit of a biblical retelling, but one I totally would not have expected and one I have never read a retelling of before. Very creative!
Overall, this one was a quick, interesting story with good characters, and I cannot wait to see where Amy Earls takes the next book in the series.
4 stars.
*I volunteered to read this book.
Read
June 23, 2023Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. Opinions expressed are my own.
Scripture Connection
Shout, for the LORD has given you the city.
Joshua 6:16
Spiritual Themes
The King’s Feather is a sci-fi reimagining of the biblical account of Joshua and the battle of Jericho– told from within the walls of Jericho (Moon City). The story features a substantial twist in the treatment of the king of Jericho. There’s also a really neat anachronous appearance by Someone we don’t see mentioned in the book of Joshua.
In addition to the retelling, the novel conveys some beautiful themes, examining what it means to be chosen by God and what it means to be “under His wings.”
What I Liked
The first few paragraphs of the book grabbed my attention. This was a strong beginning that encouraged me to keep going. The plot was intriguing, weaving action and adventure with the speculative alternate history elements. The author included illustration cards with my copy of the book, so I got to see how four of the key characters (Pero, Henry, Dr. Carper and Sam) look.
The inclusion of the supernatural was a different take. It was interesting to see how the necklace functioned as a signpost, as well as seeming to have its own powers at points. What I did like about the inclusion of some of the more “magical” elements, like the supernatural gifting, is that Earls does make it clear that the power is from Elohim and that nothing can happen apart from Him. I also liked that Pero’s gifting is evident in worship. Very cool!
I appreciated the strong inclusion of spiritual content. The book is marketed as a retelling of the story of Joshua and the battle of Jericho, but we’re getting a very different perspective than the one we see in the biblical narrative. Because allegory is my favorite genre, I enjoyed looking for the parallels that would directly correlate to elements from history. Moshe, for example, is the Hebrew form of Moses. I realized that “Bahar” is an inverted spelling of a significant woman. (But, it’s also a name with its own meaning, which I didn’t realize until I reached the Author’s Note). Lesaries is, in my observation, a reworking of the word “Israelis,” to describe the Hebrews. I’m confident that the inclusion of a character named Stone was an allegorical choice (Ezekiel 11:14).
Additionally, there’s a good deal of Hebrew writing, throughout, with characters included at the start of each chapter. Although I do not know Hebrew, I am curious as to the meaning and context of the words chosen as epigraphs. What a cool thing to include!
The title is excellent, as is the feather motif. I really appreciated the theme of God’s protection and lovingkindness, especially tied in with the verses from Psalms. This is a beautiful biblical theme and one that I am delighted to see explored in a YA novel!
Respectful Critique (Mixed Thoughts)
While I very much liked the start of the book, I did have a bit more trouble with the ensuing exposition. There was a good deal of information conveyed through the narrator, some of which required substantial suspension of disbelief, without a lot of explanation to add to its plausibility. Having finished book one, I still feel a little uncertain as to the need for an additional dimension, but I anticipate that will come into play more clearly in the second book.
The romance was a big part of what captured my interest, and I felt quite odd about how that unfolded. In one sense, I can understand the inclusion of a certain element, which contributes to the illustration of God’s grace and presence, even amidst great confusion. On the other hand, I think that the “certain element” was emphasized heavily in the first part of the story, with the result that it feels almost brushed off, in the latter half. I think that the inclusion of this element merits further discussion than what we are getting in the story. In all fairness, though, I can also see how that may have slogged down the pacing of the second half.
I did reach out to the author about the element that was concerning to me, and she kindly provided me with context as to how subsequent books will make more sense of this (and the purpose behind this part of the story). I so appreciated her kindness in offering me an “insider glimpse.”
Content (Spoilers)
One of Pero’s love interests is 24. She’s 17.
One use of “oh my w–d.”
Overall Thoughts
This one’s a little tricky for me. The content concern I cited makes me feel uncomfortable recommending this book to its target audience, but I did very much appreciate the allegory, sweet spiritual content, and Hebrew elements. The plot was intriguing, too, with a cliffhanger ending. My recommendation is prayerful reader discretion.
Scripture Connection
Shout, for the LORD has given you the city.
Joshua 6:16
Spiritual Themes
The King’s Feather is a sci-fi reimagining of the biblical account of Joshua and the battle of Jericho– told from within the walls of Jericho (Moon City). The story features a substantial twist in the treatment of the king of Jericho. There’s also a really neat anachronous appearance by Someone we don’t see mentioned in the book of Joshua.
In addition to the retelling, the novel conveys some beautiful themes, examining what it means to be chosen by God and what it means to be “under His wings.”
What I Liked
The first few paragraphs of the book grabbed my attention. This was a strong beginning that encouraged me to keep going. The plot was intriguing, weaving action and adventure with the speculative alternate history elements. The author included illustration cards with my copy of the book, so I got to see how four of the key characters (Pero, Henry, Dr. Carper and Sam) look.
The inclusion of the supernatural was a different take. It was interesting to see how the necklace functioned as a signpost, as well as seeming to have its own powers at points. What I did like about the inclusion of some of the more “magical” elements, like the supernatural gifting, is that Earls does make it clear that the power is from Elohim and that nothing can happen apart from Him. I also liked that Pero’s gifting is evident in worship. Very cool!
I appreciated the strong inclusion of spiritual content. The book is marketed as a retelling of the story of Joshua and the battle of Jericho, but we’re getting a very different perspective than the one we see in the biblical narrative. Because allegory is my favorite genre, I enjoyed looking for the parallels that would directly correlate to elements from history. Moshe, for example, is the Hebrew form of Moses. I realized that “Bahar” is an inverted spelling of a significant woman. (But, it’s also a name with its own meaning, which I didn’t realize until I reached the Author’s Note). Lesaries is, in my observation, a reworking of the word “Israelis,” to describe the Hebrews. I’m confident that the inclusion of a character named Stone was an allegorical choice (Ezekiel 11:14).
Additionally, there’s a good deal of Hebrew writing, throughout, with characters included at the start of each chapter. Although I do not know Hebrew, I am curious as to the meaning and context of the words chosen as epigraphs. What a cool thing to include!
The title is excellent, as is the feather motif. I really appreciated the theme of God’s protection and lovingkindness, especially tied in with the verses from Psalms. This is a beautiful biblical theme and one that I am delighted to see explored in a YA novel!
Respectful Critique (Mixed Thoughts)
While I very much liked the start of the book, I did have a bit more trouble with the ensuing exposition. There was a good deal of information conveyed through the narrator, some of which required substantial suspension of disbelief, without a lot of explanation to add to its plausibility. Having finished book one, I still feel a little uncertain as to the need for an additional dimension, but I anticipate that will come into play more clearly in the second book.
The romance was a big part of what captured my interest, and I felt quite odd about how that unfolded. In one sense, I can understand the inclusion of a certain element, which contributes to the illustration of God’s grace and presence, even amidst great confusion. On the other hand, I think that the “certain element” was emphasized heavily in the first part of the story, with the result that it feels almost brushed off, in the latter half. I think that the inclusion of this element merits further discussion than what we are getting in the story. In all fairness, though, I can also see how that may have slogged down the pacing of the second half.
I did reach out to the author about the element that was concerning to me, and she kindly provided me with context as to how subsequent books will make more sense of this (and the purpose behind this part of the story). I so appreciated her kindness in offering me an “insider glimpse.”
Content (Spoilers)
One of Pero’s love interests is 24. She’s 17.
One use of “oh my w–d.”
Overall Thoughts
This one’s a little tricky for me. The content concern I cited makes me feel uncomfortable recommending this book to its target audience, but I did very much appreciate the allegory, sweet spiritual content, and Hebrew elements. The plot was intriguing, too, with a cliffhanger ending. My recommendation is prayerful reader discretion.
July 13, 2023
The fate of two planets may depend on her...
Over the years I've read a number of Biblical retellings – some more straightforward than others – and I've also enjoyed some pretty good YA fantasy. The King's Feather is, I think, one of the more interesting combinations of the two genres. This first Under His Wings novel blends fantasy in a modern setting with some inspiration from one of the Bible's more intriguing accounts, that of Rahab and the destruction of Jericho.
Amy Earls has a little bit of everything in this rather exciting novel. From hidden identities and family secrets to betrayal and sacrifice. Add in a girl's fledgling faith, a hint of young love, the hope of redemption, and you get a sometimes slightly gritty tale that took me a little bit to get into at first but then found that it was hard to put down.
The King's Feather was an entertaining read that also managed to slip in some moments that begged me to think on faith and a Biblical story that I haven't read in awhile but really should. This is the first Under His Wings book and I can tell you that it has me intrigued enough to be anticipating the next novel in this series from Amy Earls. Seriously, there are things I HAVE to know....
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
Over the years I've read a number of Biblical retellings – some more straightforward than others – and I've also enjoyed some pretty good YA fantasy. The King's Feather is, I think, one of the more interesting combinations of the two genres. This first Under His Wings novel blends fantasy in a modern setting with some inspiration from one of the Bible's more intriguing accounts, that of Rahab and the destruction of Jericho.
Amy Earls has a little bit of everything in this rather exciting novel. From hidden identities and family secrets to betrayal and sacrifice. Add in a girl's fledgling faith, a hint of young love, the hope of redemption, and you get a sometimes slightly gritty tale that took me a little bit to get into at first but then found that it was hard to put down.
The King's Feather was an entertaining read that also managed to slip in some moments that begged me to think on faith and a Biblical story that I haven't read in awhile but really should. This is the first Under His Wings book and I can tell you that it has me intrigued enough to be anticipating the next novel in this series from Amy Earls. Seriously, there are things I HAVE to know....
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
July 13, 2023
The King's Feather is a Young Adult Christian Portal Fantasy story. This is a story loosely based on the Biblical story of The Walls of Jericho. The main character Pero lost her mother at a very young age. As a teenager, she finds out that her mom is still alive and she has to go to another world to find her. This quest tries her so much and she learns a lot about her faith and how love is greater than fear. This book has so many wonderful messages for teens with questions about God and trusting him. I loved the words that Pero wrote in the years she was missing her mother...
“I am loved. I am chosen. I am somebody’s daughter.
And that is all I need.”
Teens will love this story as Pero faces challenges that help her learn and grow. This is a clean book with mild violence and dynamic good and evil characters.
3.5-4 Stars
“I am loved. I am chosen. I am somebody’s daughter.
And that is all I need.”
Teens will love this story as Pero faces challenges that help her learn and grow. This is a clean book with mild violence and dynamic good and evil characters.
3.5-4 Stars
July 5, 2023
I’ve noticed recently that I’ve been going into books blind. And half of me likes it, while the other half doesn’t. And I did that with this book! I knew absolutely nothing about it. lol Which kinda made me confused, so, I recommend reading the blurb first! Just in case. ;)
I loved the characters! Pero was relatable and felt realistic. She had an interesting personality and I loved seeing it from her point of view. Dr. Calvin Carper wasn’t a favorite for about the first half of the book, but he grew on me the second half.
I loved Sam and Henry! You could tell how much Henry cared about Pero and wanted to protect her, same with Sam. They just were great main characters! 😭 But with it came a love triangle…..and I can’t with it!! I love and hate it! And I can’t choose! I mean, I know I’m not choosing the dude, but I am choosing which one she should end up with. XD And it’s super duper hard! 😭 But over all I loved how each character was different and not just ‘kinda the same with a little differences’. I was a little confused with trying to figure out which characters were in the character list. There were just some similarities in names that confused me.
I loved the biblical side of the book. I haven’t read much of retellings of Bible story’s, but this one was really good! I loved the use of the names Elohim and Yeshua. There were just so many little things about it that made me happy!
Over all it was a great book! If you are looking for a good Christian book with adventure and some romance, I highly recommend it!
On another note, please make the next book soon!! :)
I loved the characters! Pero was relatable and felt realistic. She had an interesting personality and I loved seeing it from her point of view. Dr. Calvin Carper wasn’t a favorite for about the first half of the book, but he grew on me the second half.
I loved Sam and Henry! You could tell how much Henry cared about Pero and wanted to protect her, same with Sam. They just were great main characters! 😭 But with it came a love triangle…..and I can’t with it!! I love and hate it! And I can’t choose! I mean, I know I’m not choosing the dude, but I am choosing which one she should end up with. XD And it’s super duper hard! 😭 But over all I loved how each character was different and not just ‘kinda the same with a little differences’. I was a little confused with trying to figure out which characters were in the character list. There were just some similarities in names that confused me.
I loved the biblical side of the book. I haven’t read much of retellings of Bible story’s, but this one was really good! I loved the use of the names Elohim and Yeshua. There were just so many little things about it that made me happy!
Over all it was a great book! If you are looking for a good Christian book with adventure and some romance, I highly recommend it!
On another note, please make the next book soon!! :)
April 15, 2023
After I read “Behind Walls” by this author, I couldn’t wait to read more of this intriguing tale. To re-connect with the characters again and dig deeper into their lives.
Wow! I was captured and taken on a ride like never before!
I enjoyed how Amy Earls used familiar Biblical stories and gave them a sweet twist into this fascinating world.
I loved getting to know some of the new characters and watching Pero struggle to understand everything that was happening around her. Also, how the smooth author wove deep life lessons into this story. I came away with a conviction to be like Pero and place my trust in God because He’s got it all and is with me!
Amy Earls is an author I will continue to seek out new books from. Her writing is rich and the story flows with beautiful word pictures. She makes the reader believe that anything is possible if we trust and believe in the Creator of all. Our Elohim!
I highly recommend you pick this book up to read and enjoy. Go on an amazing adventure!
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Wow! I was captured and taken on a ride like never before!
I enjoyed how Amy Earls used familiar Biblical stories and gave them a sweet twist into this fascinating world.
I loved getting to know some of the new characters and watching Pero struggle to understand everything that was happening around her. Also, how the smooth author wove deep life lessons into this story. I came away with a conviction to be like Pero and place my trust in God because He’s got it all and is with me!
Amy Earls is an author I will continue to seek out new books from. Her writing is rich and the story flows with beautiful word pictures. She makes the reader believe that anything is possible if we trust and believe in the Creator of all. Our Elohim!
I highly recommend you pick this book up to read and enjoy. Go on an amazing adventure!
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 11, 2023
Okay, so putting my thoughts down about this book is rather hard. First, I want to say I didn't hate it. In fact, I found the premise rather interesting. It isn't every day that I run into a retelling of the story of Jericho. I found the writing to be excellent, with plenty of personality. The characters were well developed, and the Earls really knew what she was doing with their arcs. I also love how the villain wasn't painted as a cardboard character and had some depth to him. Also, I do really like portal fantasy, so that was a nice addition.
Now, some things I wasn't in love with. First, the love triangle. I wasn't in love with the half-brother twist. It reminded me of From Up on Poppy Hill which I hate to say is my least favorite Ghibli film. If you love the movie, then I would definitely recommend the book, but if you're not a fan, then just a fair warning.
Another thing was the worlds and how they connected, plus the overall fantasy-esqueness of it and how Elohim/the Trinity fit into it. I will admit that writing separate worlds, fantasy systems, and incorporating religion into a book without it being preachy or bogging down the story is hard. I really do, so I value Earls's efforts. I just think it could have been executed in a more linear and sensible way to make things make more sense. I also was afraid that the story would end up being a little cliche, but was different enough to interest me. (It's hard as someone who has read a LOT of books to not find a few as cliche.)
Other than that, I think The King's Feather was a solid story. It's nice to have more Biblical retellings immersed in fantasy on the shelves for those readers who would rather not read the historical Biblical fiction and is also a way to keep teens grounded in the Bible while still giving them a fun adventure. I think it helps to not be so heavy-handed, however.
Overall, The King's Feather is a fun adventure perfect for those who love allegorical fiction with a mix of fantasy.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy from the author for review purposes only. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Now, some things I wasn't in love with. First, the love triangle. I wasn't in love with the half-brother twist. It reminded me of From Up on Poppy Hill which I hate to say is my least favorite Ghibli film. If you love the movie, then I would definitely recommend the book, but if you're not a fan, then just a fair warning.
Another thing was the worlds and how they connected, plus the overall fantasy-esqueness of it and how Elohim/the Trinity fit into it. I will admit that writing separate worlds, fantasy systems, and incorporating religion into a book without it being preachy or bogging down the story is hard. I really do, so I value Earls's efforts. I just think it could have been executed in a more linear and sensible way to make things make more sense. I also was afraid that the story would end up being a little cliche, but was different enough to interest me. (It's hard as someone who has read a LOT of books to not find a few as cliche.)
Other than that, I think The King's Feather was a solid story. It's nice to have more Biblical retellings immersed in fantasy on the shelves for those readers who would rather not read the historical Biblical fiction and is also a way to keep teens grounded in the Bible while still giving them a fun adventure. I think it helps to not be so heavy-handed, however.
Overall, The King's Feather is a fun adventure perfect for those who love allegorical fiction with a mix of fantasy.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy from the author for review purposes only. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 16, 2024
I picked this book up about a year ago, at the recommendation of a friend, but wasn't in the mood to try it until this week. I really enjoyed it - great characters, unpredictable plot twists, great interactions between the teenaged characters, relevant themes - Who am I? Where did I come from? Where I am going? Does God care about me? The scriptural foundation is well done too.
I was thankful to find out I'd put off reading the book long enough that the sequel had just come out! However, the last book in the trilogy isn't coming out for another year. They're so closely tied together, you may want to wait until you can read them all at once.
I was thankful to find out I'd put off reading the book long enough that the sequel had just come out! However, the last book in the trilogy isn't coming out for another year. They're so closely tied together, you may want to wait until you can read them all at once.
December 25, 2023
The King's Feather was a page-turning fantasy thriller that was difficult to put down! The author writes with vivid descriptions. I was easily pulled into Pero's adventures through portals, forests, and the tall strong walls of Moon City to find her mom. Not only does Pero find her mom, but also finds herself, falls in love twice, and accidently helps uncover the future king of the Lesarie people.
The King's Feather leaves one to wonder if life is simply ordinary, or if there is more purpose waiting to be discovered perhaps in another dimension we can only reach in a vision, or with a necklace, in Pero's case. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the next one!
The King's Feather leaves one to wonder if life is simply ordinary, or if there is more purpose waiting to be discovered perhaps in another dimension we can only reach in a vision, or with a necklace, in Pero's case. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the next one!
December 21, 2023
this is a young adult fantasy with excellent characters, and an unputdownloadable storyline.
This fantasy, even though it moves between two worlds, has a Christian worldview that is taken from the Hebrew translation of the bible. The compelling story and characters. Keep you turning pages to find out what happens next.
This fantasy, even though it moves between two worlds, has a Christian worldview that is taken from the Hebrew translation of the bible. The compelling story and characters. Keep you turning pages to find out what happens next.
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July 13, 2023I applaud the concept behind THE KING’S FEATHER and appreciate what the author was trying to accomplish. For me, after about 20% of the story, I couldn’t quite follow the plot and I think I needed just a bit more detail to fully grasp how the plot went from point A to point B.
Although it was clear that this was a biblical retelling, it was woven well into the fantasy aspect of the story. The characters felt very YA, which is not a criticism as this is written for the audience and I think younger female readers will especially connect with Pero through her honest portrayal. I think the overall message of forgiveness was the best aspect about this book and it is an important biblical truth for young readers to learn.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are my own.
Although it was clear that this was a biblical retelling, it was woven well into the fantasy aspect of the story. The characters felt very YA, which is not a criticism as this is written for the audience and I think younger female readers will especially connect with Pero through her honest portrayal. I think the overall message of forgiveness was the best aspect about this book and it is an important biblical truth for young readers to learn.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are my own.
July 8, 2023
I enjoyed this fast paced, fantasy story tremendously! The author does a wonderful job of bringing to life a world that has some similarities to the Old Testament story of Jericho, though it is also very different. I love how the author made it unique and her own, while still having a very gospel centered message. This story doesn't shy away from difficult subjects, like grief and wrestling with where God/Elohim leads. I highly recommend this delightful story for all ages!
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
July 2, 2023
Amy Earls has taken a Biblical story and retold it in a way I don’t think I’ve seen before - and I like it. There are so many layers to this story that I think readers may get something different out of the story every time they read it.
Pero’s mom disappeared when she was three years old. She is about to turn seventeen and something strange is going on. She has a bodyguard Henry who just showed up and said he was sent to protect her. Pero and her dad have moved around a lot and Pero has lived a very sheltered life.
Pero is taken by the same man that took her mother fourteen years ago. It turns out there is another world, the original world, called Origo. People can travel back and forth between the two worlds when Elohim opens a door for them to do so.
The story of Joshua and the Battle of Jericho is incorporated into the story. Biblical principles of listening to God as well as forgiveness are also incorporated.
The story is a beautiful one. It does have a somewhat abrupt ending with some unanswered questions so I am looking forward to the next book. I hope it comes out soon. Earls does include the first chapter of the next book at the close of The King’s Feather.
The King’s Feather would be a great addition to the fantasy section of a K-12 Christian school library. It is appropriate for middle school and up.
I received a complimentary copy of The King’s Feather. This is my honest review.
Pero’s mom disappeared when she was three years old. She is about to turn seventeen and something strange is going on. She has a bodyguard Henry who just showed up and said he was sent to protect her. Pero and her dad have moved around a lot and Pero has lived a very sheltered life.
Pero is taken by the same man that took her mother fourteen years ago. It turns out there is another world, the original world, called Origo. People can travel back and forth between the two worlds when Elohim opens a door for them to do so.
The story of Joshua and the Battle of Jericho is incorporated into the story. Biblical principles of listening to God as well as forgiveness are also incorporated.
The story is a beautiful one. It does have a somewhat abrupt ending with some unanswered questions so I am looking forward to the next book. I hope it comes out soon. Earls does include the first chapter of the next book at the close of The King’s Feather.
The King’s Feather would be a great addition to the fantasy section of a K-12 Christian school library. It is appropriate for middle school and up.
I received a complimentary copy of The King’s Feather. This is my honest review.
October 4, 2024
5 STARS IMMEDIATELY!!!
Pero (Our main female character) is focused on finding her mom again; but what happens when their reunion isn't exactly how she had imagined?
I love love love this book. The representations of Jesus. The biblical reimagining was just. *CHEF'S KISS*
The drama. The hope. The faith!!
Recommend to any fantasy, faith based, YA lovers.
YA novel with all the angst, romance, and drama; Without the language, and secular beliefs.
Trigger warnings:
Death. Injuries. Kidnapping. Mentions of slavery.
Pero (Our main female character) is focused on finding her mom again; but what happens when their reunion isn't exactly how she had imagined?
I love love love this book. The representations of Jesus. The biblical reimagining was just. *CHEF'S KISS*
The drama. The hope. The faith!!
Recommend to any fantasy, faith based, YA lovers.
YA novel with all the angst, romance, and drama; Without the language, and secular beliefs.
Trigger warnings:
Death. Injuries. Kidnapping. Mentions of slavery.
August 30, 2023
Epic Saga! If you wanted a light little adventure, you’ll change your mind! There is plenty to dig into in this first of a series. Characters are well developed, but don’t expect them to be hand fed to you. You’ll get to know them as the story progresses. Full of twists and turns, you’ll have a hard time knowing who to trust. Characters develop and grow. First impressions can quickly change with eye opening revelations. Expect the story to call you back if you have to set the book down. It is easy to rush through, eager to see what happens next, but you may miss things in the details. I got even more out of it the second time I read it!
It’s a really awesome book and I love the impact it’s going to have once more people have read it
“You’re under my wing.”
“Elohim’s voice rang calm yet deep, peaceful yet dangerous. I closed my eyes and imagined that an eagle flew into that very room. The eagle paused time. The eagle opened his wing. I ran there and felt his warm, soft feathers. Like a pillow to sink into. He closed his wing over me. The walls would fall, but I wouldn’t fear. I was the King’s feather, and I found safety under His wings.”
It’s a really awesome book and I love the impact it’s going to have once more people have read it
“You’re under my wing.”
“Elohim’s voice rang calm yet deep, peaceful yet dangerous. I closed my eyes and imagined that an eagle flew into that very room. The eagle paused time. The eagle opened his wing. I ran there and felt his warm, soft feathers. Like a pillow to sink into. He closed his wing over me. The walls would fall, but I wouldn’t fear. I was the King’s feather, and I found safety under His wings.”
July 12, 2023
Full of intrigue, adventure, and mystery, The King’s Feather combines themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the power of a family bond seamlessly throughout the events that shake the protagonist's world and even the resolute faith of God’s people. Although the work’s tangled romance tended to be a bit disjointed, overall the work was an inspiring new twist on an ancient biblical account, spun from themes that remain true through the thousands years.
A King’s Feather follows Pero Moshe as she searches for her mother, who has been held captive on a neighboring planet for 14 years. There, time is slower and an evil king stands against the march of God’s chosen people, the Lesaries, as they come to reclaim the promised land. Descended from Abram, the father of the Lesarie, Pero knows that Elohim has a special plan for her and her family, but she did not expect that plan to include her being kidnapped. As Pero struggles to recover control of her shattered life, she finds again and again that it is only through following Elohim’s plan for her life that she can succeed -- even when that plan seems to make no sense.
Over and over again, Elohim’s plan forces Pero to confront her flaws and face her fears. Amy Earls used this to draw out deeper themes of forgiveness, self-sacrifice, and the love of Elohim, applying them with more skill and accuracy than many other Christian fiction authors. She did not shy away from the difficult aspects of the Gospel’s truths, instead putting them on full display through her protagonist’s character arc and resolving the harder themes with sensitivity and understanding.
Amy Earls also traced not only her protagonist’s arc, but also her villains’ redemption arcs with amazing skill. Without an excuse or justification for her villains’ crimes, she simply offers them (and the readers) the promise of Elohim’s overpowering love and forgiveness. We don’t relate to their past actions and are far from feeling that they are justified. Rather, their arcs remind the readers of our own redemption -- and that our own pasts are without excuse or justification save from the love of God.
Amy Earls wove threads of the promised Messiah into her work with a skill that is reminiscent of the Old Testament prophets. She balanced the current triumph of God’s people with the ever-present cry for a greater leader than a human could ever be, satisfying that cry with the whispered promise that one day He would come. Balancing both Old and New Testament truths with an action-packed plot and a twist on a biblical account made The King’s Feather an exciting, inspiring read, and its cliff-hanger ending makes the sequel a promised bestseller!
A King’s Feather follows Pero Moshe as she searches for her mother, who has been held captive on a neighboring planet for 14 years. There, time is slower and an evil king stands against the march of God’s chosen people, the Lesaries, as they come to reclaim the promised land. Descended from Abram, the father of the Lesarie, Pero knows that Elohim has a special plan for her and her family, but she did not expect that plan to include her being kidnapped. As Pero struggles to recover control of her shattered life, she finds again and again that it is only through following Elohim’s plan for her life that she can succeed -- even when that plan seems to make no sense.
Over and over again, Elohim’s plan forces Pero to confront her flaws and face her fears. Amy Earls used this to draw out deeper themes of forgiveness, self-sacrifice, and the love of Elohim, applying them with more skill and accuracy than many other Christian fiction authors. She did not shy away from the difficult aspects of the Gospel’s truths, instead putting them on full display through her protagonist’s character arc and resolving the harder themes with sensitivity and understanding.
Amy Earls also traced not only her protagonist’s arc, but also her villains’ redemption arcs with amazing skill. Without an excuse or justification for her villains’ crimes, she simply offers them (and the readers) the promise of Elohim’s overpowering love and forgiveness. We don’t relate to their past actions and are far from feeling that they are justified. Rather, their arcs remind the readers of our own redemption -- and that our own pasts are without excuse or justification save from the love of God.
Amy Earls wove threads of the promised Messiah into her work with a skill that is reminiscent of the Old Testament prophets. She balanced the current triumph of God’s people with the ever-present cry for a greater leader than a human could ever be, satisfying that cry with the whispered promise that one day He would come. Balancing both Old and New Testament truths with an action-packed plot and a twist on a biblical account made The King’s Feather an exciting, inspiring read, and its cliff-hanger ending makes the sequel a promised bestseller!
June 30, 2023
After Pero's mother was stolen away when Pero was a child, she led a very sheltered life to save her from the same fate - only to succumb regardless on her 17th birthday. Now in a world she doesn't understand, she's doing her best to save her mother while baulking the man who captured them both in his plan to take over the world. But when it comes down to it, she may need to be willing to let go of her own hopes and plans and forgive the man who is responsible for wrecking her life if she is to have any chance of success...
I'm not quite sure what I thought about this book. I think my overall feeling is that the concept was interesting but the execution wasn't what I expected.
Pros:
- The writing was good and held my interest
- I liked the idea of a Biblical retelling in a fantasy world
- The message about the need for forgiveness was woven into the story nicely
Cons:
- I felt like the Biblical retelling was very much background to the main story - incidental rather than really part of the story
- I didn't feel like I had a good grasp of the two worlds, how they fitted together and how one moved between them. In fact, at times it felt like no one did...
- Okay, this is probably my problem rather than a real 'con', but I'm not a fan of love triangles. I like to know who to root for, and this story left me feeling rather lost at times in that respect
- I didn't appreciate the introduction of the Trinity somewhere it doesn't belong (I see the author's point of view, but I disagree)
- The ending didn't feel like it actually resolved anything much
Would I read more by the author? Probably - the writing was good, as mentioned, and the concepts interesting. But I haven't decided whether I want to continue with this particular series.
3.5 stars.
I'm not quite sure what I thought about this book. I think my overall feeling is that the concept was interesting but the execution wasn't what I expected.
Pros:
- The writing was good and held my interest
- I liked the idea of a Biblical retelling in a fantasy world
- The message about the need for forgiveness was woven into the story nicely
Cons:
- I felt like the Biblical retelling was very much background to the main story - incidental rather than really part of the story
- I didn't feel like I had a good grasp of the two worlds, how they fitted together and how one moved between them. In fact, at times it felt like no one did...
- Okay, this is probably my problem rather than a real 'con', but I'm not a fan of love triangles. I like to know who to root for, and this story left me feeling rather lost at times in that respect
- I didn't appreciate the introduction of the Trinity somewhere it doesn't belong (I see the author's point of view, but I disagree)
- The ending didn't feel like it actually resolved anything much
Would I read more by the author? Probably - the writing was good, as mentioned, and the concepts interesting. But I haven't decided whether I want to continue with this particular series.
3.5 stars.
November 9, 2022
The King’s Feather transported me into an ancient, otherworldly universe full of mystery, suspense, and non-stop adventure. I remained on edge as seventeen-year-old Pero Moshe was forced to leave her hometown on earth--Green Meadow--to familiarize herself with her new surroundings, including its intriguing citizens in Moon City. Who she could learn to trust, who she couldn’t. All the while trying to uncover the reason for her mother’s disappearance. Even more so, accepting her fate as the Lesaries’ next-in-line prophesied power.
As for Pero, she’s authentic, loyal to her loved ones, and shows compassion to others. Even to those against her. Despite times of distrust and fear, her determination fuels her courage to help and protect others. But amid it all, her teenage heart has its own battles to overcome. The boy from Green Meadow? Or the one from Moon City?
Themes of trust, determination, forgiveness, and discovery can be found in this Christian portal fantasy. A story that will grip you from beginning to end. SO looking forward to the next book in this young adult series.
A couple of my favorite quotes from the King’s Feather:
“Run home, Pero, I am your home.” ~Elohim.
“Everything is made in China.” ~Pero (Lol!)
As for Pero, she’s authentic, loyal to her loved ones, and shows compassion to others. Even to those against her. Despite times of distrust and fear, her determination fuels her courage to help and protect others. But amid it all, her teenage heart has its own battles to overcome. The boy from Green Meadow? Or the one from Moon City?
Themes of trust, determination, forgiveness, and discovery can be found in this Christian portal fantasy. A story that will grip you from beginning to end. SO looking forward to the next book in this young adult series.
A couple of my favorite quotes from the King’s Feather:
“Run home, Pero, I am your home.” ~Elohim.
“Everything is made in China.” ~Pero (Lol!)
July 18, 2023
The King’s Feather, by Amy Earls, is a unique and captivating dual-universe fantasy. I appreciate the truly mobile-friendly format. There are plenty of plot twists and turns to keep readers turning pages! I enjoyed getting to know Pero and other supporting characters better. A sample chapter from the second book in the series gives readers a taste of what to expect and look forward to while they wait for its release.
July 1, 2023
An intense adventure full of twists and turns. A story of hope and redemption.
July 10, 2023
I want to say I really enjoyed this book. The world building is simple but imaginative and done well for the story itself. The characters were well developed and definitely curious to see thier on going journey coming back to the earth. I absolutely the chapters when Jesus meets two girls in the woods. The conversation and how He helps them and provides food and fire to stay warm. The story focuses on faith, trust, and work together as a team. Even when things don't make sense at first. I will definitely read the sequel!
May 9, 2024
Earls has crafted a spectacular novel. I was immediately immersed into the drama. Twists and turns kept me turning the pages. I devoured this novel in one sitting.
Recommend to readers who enjoy young adult fantasy.
I borrowed a copy from KU. I have expressed my honest view.
Recommend to readers who enjoy young adult fantasy.
I borrowed a copy from KU. I have expressed my honest view.
November 27, 2022
The King's Feather was such a fantastic read, both for myself and my teenage son. The plot was very engaging and full of surprises, even with it being inspired by a familiar Bible story. One of my favorite parts was the meeting of Pero with Yeshua - I could tell the author was writing from her own experience, and that made it so impactful. I think young Christians are curious about what it means to have a personal encounter with God, and the author describes it so beautifully.
April 26, 2024
I had no idea of its biblical content when I started this novel. How I wish there had been more options like this when I was actually a YA! 😂 I would have loved it back then.
October 30, 2023
This book was written in first person, which made for an especially engaging read. You get to experience Pero’s journey to faith intimately and in her own words, which really helped me to identify with her as a character.
Pero was a troubled character that wasn't troublesome. She wanted to do right and be alright, but she needed help from Someone bigger than herself and stronger than the problems in the world around her.
Even though everyone has a different journey to faith, the issues Pero encounters and faces on her journey hit close to home, and her arrival at “the king’s feet” was my favorite part of the book. I really felt like the narrative portrayed emotional pain, anger, and fear realistically in Pero’s character, yet never leaving out the hope of the gospel message that this book emanates.
Her struggle in her emotional and spiritual journey was my favorite aspect of this story, and the author included discussion questions at the back of the book that I believe every teen should ask themselves.
Though this book is based on the Bible’s account of the fall of Jericho and includes characters that are reminiscent of Rahab, Joshua, and the spies; there are other characters that symbolize people further down the line in Jesus’ genealogy such as Ruth, Boaz, and King Saul. I haven't read many Bible story retellings, so it was interesting to see the clever ways that these characters related to each other through this reimagining.
There were some more mature romantic themes in this book but I found that they were handled carefully, and without unnecessary depictions. That being said, the level of violence was higher than I had expected for this book, and I found the detailed descriptions from Pero’s perspective a little overly graphic and slightly out of place at times.
Overall, I would recommend THE KING'S FEATHER to people who love Bible retellings, portal fantasy stories, don’t mind a little blood, and want to experience Pero’s journey for themselves.
Pero was a troubled character that wasn't troublesome. She wanted to do right and be alright, but she needed help from Someone bigger than herself and stronger than the problems in the world around her.
Even though everyone has a different journey to faith, the issues Pero encounters and faces on her journey hit close to home, and her arrival at “the king’s feet” was my favorite part of the book. I really felt like the narrative portrayed emotional pain, anger, and fear realistically in Pero’s character, yet never leaving out the hope of the gospel message that this book emanates.
Her struggle in her emotional and spiritual journey was my favorite aspect of this story, and the author included discussion questions at the back of the book that I believe every teen should ask themselves.
Though this book is based on the Bible’s account of the fall of Jericho and includes characters that are reminiscent of Rahab, Joshua, and the spies; there are other characters that symbolize people further down the line in Jesus’ genealogy such as Ruth, Boaz, and King Saul. I haven't read many Bible story retellings, so it was interesting to see the clever ways that these characters related to each other through this reimagining.
There were some more mature romantic themes in this book but I found that they were handled carefully, and without unnecessary depictions. That being said, the level of violence was higher than I had expected for this book, and I found the detailed descriptions from Pero’s perspective a little overly graphic and slightly out of place at times.
Overall, I would recommend THE KING'S FEATHER to people who love Bible retellings, portal fantasy stories, don’t mind a little blood, and want to experience Pero’s journey for themselves.
May 9, 2023
Amy Earl’s debut fantasy richly develops her world, so that you feel that you can see it, smell it, walk in it with Pero. Even though that seventeen-year-old protagonist can see another planet in the sky, she doesn’t believe what her friendly guard tells her about life on it. That is, until she is swept there by her family’s ancient enemy, Dr. Calvin Carper.
For Pero is one of the Chosen.
She wrestles throughout the story with what “chosen” means, how it impacts her choices. Her mentor explains, “You can’t escape Elohim’s plan for you, Pero.” That’s exactly what I wanted to do. “What if I did escape?” He smiled. “Then He’d bring you back.”
Elohim gradually shows Pero she dwells under his wings.
This sheltered teen encounters things she never dreamed could exist while trying to resolve being abandoned, abducted, deceived. And which magnetic suitor should she trust? In her conflicts, she discovers that every person matters. There are no accessory characters who can be deleted without consequence in real life.
The King’s Feather does not make light of personal trauma as many romantic novels tend to do. I love it that Pero’s grief was not simply forgotten over time; the idea of “just get over it” has no place in this novel.
Amy Earls has woven an enigmatic storyline, laced with questions about the walls within, the walls without, and the power of personal symbols. I enjoyed the invitation to plunge deeper into the story, though I found myself having to reread descriptions of actions in several places where I could not follow what she was saying. I ended up feeling a bit frustrated, with more questions than answers about the backstory and some events. I wanted to know more!
The author’s ending note is beautiful, and I enjoyed the discussion questions at the end. I think The King’s Feather is an interesting book for YA fantasy readers to discuss.
I’m looking forward to Amy Earls’ future writings!
For Pero is one of the Chosen.
She wrestles throughout the story with what “chosen” means, how it impacts her choices. Her mentor explains, “You can’t escape Elohim’s plan for you, Pero.” That’s exactly what I wanted to do. “What if I did escape?” He smiled. “Then He’d bring you back.”
Elohim gradually shows Pero she dwells under his wings.
This sheltered teen encounters things she never dreamed could exist while trying to resolve being abandoned, abducted, deceived. And which magnetic suitor should she trust? In her conflicts, she discovers that every person matters. There are no accessory characters who can be deleted without consequence in real life.
The King’s Feather does not make light of personal trauma as many romantic novels tend to do. I love it that Pero’s grief was not simply forgotten over time; the idea of “just get over it” has no place in this novel.
Amy Earls has woven an enigmatic storyline, laced with questions about the walls within, the walls without, and the power of personal symbols. I enjoyed the invitation to plunge deeper into the story, though I found myself having to reread descriptions of actions in several places where I could not follow what she was saying. I ended up feeling a bit frustrated, with more questions than answers about the backstory and some events. I wanted to know more!
The author’s ending note is beautiful, and I enjoyed the discussion questions at the end. I think The King’s Feather is an interesting book for YA fantasy readers to discuss.
I’m looking forward to Amy Earls’ future writings!
June 16, 2023
A fast-paced journey through dangers, shocking revelations, and life-altering questions.
Seventeen-year-old Pero has spent fourteen years waking up to the nightmare of her mother’s scream and disappearance, hiding with her overprotective father and, recently, a young bodyguard. Mysteries have dominated Pero’s life, and they continue even as, gradually, she learns details of her mother’s disappearance, an evil person coming to capture her, and an alternate world where she’ll have to travel to try to recover her mother, return, and restore her family. But unexpected events and truths that stun, rather than clarify, make Pero’s understanding and choices far from simple.
Can the code word “Koach” and a special necklace left for her bring the help and power she needs to face fears and endure painful tests? More important, how can Pero tell whom to trust, when so many secrets have been kept from her – secrets that make her question friends’ and family members’ loyalties, and even her own identity?
Dangers and challenges leadThe King's FeatherThe King's Feather Pero to a person she has heard about but not really known. Her future – purpose, relationships, and life – seems in doubt and constant flux. Finding her way, and discovering where she truly belongs, hinge on decisions and relationships she has little time to consider.
YA and adult readers will find contemporary issues, universal experiences, imaginative reflections, and timeless personal questions in this fascinating adventure in a world both different from, yet also like, our own.
Seventeen-year-old Pero has spent fourteen years waking up to the nightmare of her mother’s scream and disappearance, hiding with her overprotective father and, recently, a young bodyguard. Mysteries have dominated Pero’s life, and they continue even as, gradually, she learns details of her mother’s disappearance, an evil person coming to capture her, and an alternate world where she’ll have to travel to try to recover her mother, return, and restore her family. But unexpected events and truths that stun, rather than clarify, make Pero’s understanding and choices far from simple.
Can the code word “Koach” and a special necklace left for her bring the help and power she needs to face fears and endure painful tests? More important, how can Pero tell whom to trust, when so many secrets have been kept from her – secrets that make her question friends’ and family members’ loyalties, and even her own identity?
Dangers and challenges leadThe King's FeatherThe King's Feather Pero to a person she has heard about but not really known. Her future – purpose, relationships, and life – seems in doubt and constant flux. Finding her way, and discovering where she truly belongs, hinge on decisions and relationships she has little time to consider.
YA and adult readers will find contemporary issues, universal experiences, imaginative reflections, and timeless personal questions in this fascinating adventure in a world both different from, yet also like, our own.
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