Samara's Peril Blog Tour: Author Interview and Book Review

Please welcome Jaye L. Knight, creator of the Ilyon Chronicles! She's here as part of her blog tour for her release of Samara's Peril, which is book 3 in the series. 

Jaye L. Knight is an award-winning author, homeschool graduate, and shameless tea addict with a passion for Christian fantasy. Armed with an active imagination and love for adventure, Jaye weaves stories of truth, faith, and courage with the message that even in the deepest darkness, God’s love shines as a light to offer hope. She has been penning stories since the age of eight and resides in the Northwoods of Wisconsin.

Which of the Ilyon Chronicles was the hardest to write and why?

Well, I have yet to write the final book, but right now I would say book four. I got really frustrated while writing it, and it took longer than the others. The funny thing is though, now that it’s written, it’s my darling. I adore it and can’t imagine why it was so difficult.

I see you have your own imprint for your books. What made you decide on the indie publishing route and what makes it rewarding?

I didn’t really have a choice in the beginning. I wanted to publish, but I had no idea how to go about it. Originally, I published my first book through a self-publishing company. I wouldn’t make that choice again now, but I learned a lot from the experience. It taught me enough to pursue indie publishing completely on my own. Now that I’ve sort of learned the ins and outs, I’m very happy with where I am. I love having control over the entire process. That way I know I can work on a book until I’m completely happy. Plus, I just could never work under strict deadlines. I have a hard enough time actively writing as it is. Throw in a set deadline by a publishing company, and I would probably just fall apart. :P

You describe yourself as a "shameless tea addict". What's your favorite type of tea?

It used to be English Breakfast tea, but then I tried Irish Breakfast tea and fell in love with it. I have at least a mug of it every day.


What's your favorite part of writing Christian books?

The hope that is in them. Even when things are at their very worst, there is hope in the fact that God works all things together for good. That hope is missing in non-Christian books. Like The Hunger Games, for instance. Part of the reason I found them so depressing was because there was no hope. No strength they could reach out to, no faith they could hold on to.


And finally, if you could master any fantasy skill/weapon what would it be and why? 

A sword, most definitely. :) I’ve always wanted to learn how to wield a sword. My brother was always more the archer type, but for some reason I always loved the hand-to-hand combat in swordplay. There’s something really epic about skilled swordsmen/women.

Thanks for taking the time out for an interview!

Book Review: Samara's Peril

The Short:

Samara’s Peril

Ilyon Chronicles, Book 3

By: Jaye L. Knight

4/5 Stars

What: When the Resistance discovers that Samara is Emperor Daican’s next target, they spring into action. And who is the stranger called Elon?

Recommended to those who like: Fantasy, Christian, a bit of romance, and have read books 1 and 2.

The Long:

It was my pleasure to receive an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to Jaye for being awesome and interviewing with us today! Now, let’s hear a little bit about her new release. I’ve tried to keep it spoiler-free in regards to both Resistance and The King’s Scrolls.

Kyrin and her friends embark on a dangerous journey to obtain Daican’s plans for Samara, the neighboring kingdom that still largely follows Elom. More secrets than just his plans come to light, however. Can Jace come to grips with new secrets from his past? And is the healer Elon the one who was promised?

I really wish that I could have given this book five stars. However, the beginning was a bit…scattered. I felt really disconnected from Kyrin and it was hard to keep track of all the minor characters (it’s been a while since I’ve read the other books in the series).

Yet, some aspects of the book were stellar. Jace is still one of my favorite characters--from any book series. He feels real. Also, hats off to Ms. Knight for some fantastic dragon battle scenes at the end. The action sucked me right in.

In spite of some of the hiccups with this book, I’m really excited for the next book in the series. The ending to this one had me worried for a few pages, but I was very pleased with where it left off. There’s a promise of some more great action in the next installment.

As always, Ms. Knight offered a thoughtful Christian message, though some readers might find it a little strong. This book also gets into a little romance.

Bottom Line: Samara’s Peril, while a weaker installment in the series, has a lot to offer to fans of Christian fantasy, including a nice lead into the next book. 

U.S. Residents, be sure to check out the cool giveaway associated with the book!

There will be no Friday Fiction Fix tomorrow due to today's post. See you on Tuesday!

Have you checked out any new releases lately?