Description
By Megan Schaulis
As the orphaned daughter of a traitor, Novalise grew up in hiding with an outlawed religious group hated by the Crown. She dreams of aiding her people as a scientist and begs her overprotective brother for a chance to assist in his schemes against the government. All her hopes of making a difference implode when she’s kidnapped and forced to compete against the Enhanced—a group of highly trained, biologically upgraded young women—for a position as the king’s Protector.
Plagued by insomnia, King Zadien is still reeling from his father’s untimely death. When his council suggests a competition as the way to choose his new bodyguard, he lacks the confidence to oppose the plan. Given the role he played in his father’s murder, choosing the right Protector could mean relieving his guilt or repeating his worst mistakes. Can he trust the intriguing and beautiful candidate who’s nothing like the others?
After discovering a long-hidden connection between the Enhanced and her father, Novalise realizes winning the competition would give her people the strategic advantage they desperately need. But is that leverage worth compromising herself, body and soul?
hannahrcurrie (verified owner) –
What an incredible story of faith, courage, and purpose. From first page to last I was utterly captivated by Novalise and Zadien’s story and the journey both of them take to discovering not only who they are but their purpose and reason to stand in a world determined to pull them down. Brilliantly written and imagined, Protector is a story that will stay with me a very long time. Can’t wait for book two!
While I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers, I was not required to write a positive review (nope, that just came naturally!). All opinions expressed are my own.
joanna.colclough1 –
I could not put this book down – lots of twists and cliff hangers in each chapter! The creativity of the world-building is especially interesting and I look forward to more books in the series. The chapters alternate between Novalise’s pov and Zadien’s pov, with cute chapter headings that set the tone. The ninja aspect of the story really allows for fighting/combat that is not gory, which I think makes it approachable for many more readers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Kathryn Bochman –
There have been many retelling of the biblical account of Esther, but nothing comes close to Megan Schaulis’s rendition in her newest book, Protector. In spite of being set for a young adult audience, readers of all ages can enjoy this dystopian twist on a beloved story, where instead of a beauty pageant, we have a gladiatoresque contest for chief protector of the king. This fresh take on Esther’s story brings to life a struggle for freedom, palace intrigue, and a desperation to fight for faith and family. I was riveted the whole way through.
And the best part… this is only book one in the retelling. I can’t wait to see what else is in store!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Talita Adendorff –
Absolutely brilliant!!!
I’ve been looking forward to reading this book since I heard of a Dystopian retelling of Esther and I was not disappointed. This book keeps you captivated and I read every minute I got.
The characters have depth and the story is interesting. It has romance, it has action, and enough intrigue to keep you hooked. You will love going on a journey with Novalise, Zadien, and Dex.
I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good dystopian novel. I can’t wait for Book Number Two to come out.
P.S. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
jeanti.steenkamp –
“Protector” by Megan Schaulis is an amazing book that once you start, you won’t be able to put down. It’s a beautiful retelling of the Esther tale set in a dystopian world, packed with action, suspense, romance, and great storytelling.
From page one, it draws you in and keeps you coming back for more. I particularly enjoyed seeing the relationships between characters like Novalise and Zadien develop, as well as Novalise’s talks with Alpha. The emotional and spiritual journey the characters embark on is truly inspiring.
Despite being categorized as a young adult novel, I recommend it to readers of all ages and eagerly await the next installment in the series.
I received a complimentary copy this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
candideweekes –
Protector by Megan Schaulis was amazing!
When I started reading the book I couldn’t put it down !
I really enjoyed the story and I didn’t know when I started that it was a retelling of the story of Esther but I guessed it was straight away and then found out about it online
I think Megan gave me a new way to look at that story (that I already liked) and now I can understand more what Esther might have been through.
It is a powerfull story and I loved how Novalise speaks to Alpha. I think this was one of my favorite parts of the book.
I can’t wait for the second book to come out and read the end of the story !
— I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone. —
laknermegan –
This is seriously one of my favorite books of the year!! I was hooked right from the first page, and I did not want to stop reading. My only complaint about the book is having to wait until book two to see how it will all work out! You would never guess this is the debut book for this author, the way she weaves the story together and all the details she put into building her story world.
Novalise is such a great heroine. Her story arc and all she went through to become a Protector was inspiring and kept me turning the pages to see how she would fare in the competition. King Zadien made a great hero. His struggles with guilt and the pressures of suddenly being the king were very relatable. I adored the sweet romance between him and Novalise and am excitedly looking forward to book 2 to see how their relationship will grow.
The faith element was expertly done and woven into the book in such a way that it never felt preachy or forced. I think the faith struggles that Novalise has, wondering at times if Alpha is real or a figment of her imagination, were very relatable and added depth to her story. I so appreciated how the author showed that relationship as well. I can’t recommend this book highly enough.
I received a free advanced copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
cbabler27 –
Protector by Megan Schaulis brings readers a completely unique experience full of adventure, mystery, a new world, courage, and heartache. Although in the first few chapters I was initially uncertain about where the book was leading, I enjoyed and was truly blown away by this book. I was highly impressed by the great world Ms. Schaulis created and the unique technologies and ideas she incorporated into the Kingdom of Susa. Having a world that was modern, dystopian, and yet had ties and symbols to the Biblical account of Esther was unique and very compelling. I appreciated the personal relationship Novalise had with the Creator as well as the imagery of the sun, reminding me of the very God of all Gods and Light of the world. I appreciated the faith and values that were clearly portrayed in this book. Readers of our day desperately need these lessons of holding fast to faith in God, living a life of upright character, and speaking and fighting for truth in difficult times.
I always enjoy books with family reconciliations and I appreciated the relationships between Novalise and her brother and close friends. As Novalise and her brother Declan or Dex play different roles throughout the book, I was impressed by how realistically Ms. Schaulis made their relationship. Novalise and Dex were obviously not perfect and had plenty of fights and misunderstanding; however, I appreciate how Ms. Schaulis brought reconciliation, trust, and respect between Novalise and Dex by the end of the book. As orphans, Novalise and Dex had close friends that were basically family. The group including Hatch, Lennox, Berg, along with Dex and Novalise reminded me of a fun, fierce, and mildly dysfunctional family. I loved the family dynamics, humor, fierce loyalty, courage, and faith under pressure that were displayed with these characters. The great characters and character development throughout the book tied in with a fast-paced and intriguing plot make it easy for me to give this a five star review. I highly recommend Protector by Megan Schaulis. This book genuinely surprised me, completely drew me in, and left me at the edge of my seat wanting to read the next one. Protector definitely tops my list of favorite and most unique reads so far this year. Check out Protector by Megan Schaulis. Happy reading!
Disclaimer: White Crown Publishing graciously provided me with a copy of this book . All opinions are my own and part of an unbiased review.
paty.hinojosa (verified owner) –
What an amazing dystopian retelling of Esther’s biblical story!
This debut novel from the author is pretty amazing and shows already how promising her books will be! Megan Schaulis has created a unique world in the Kingdom of Susa, very advanced in technology and engineering, especially in solar and energy systems. I love how realistic everything sounds even if it’s not real!
I won’t tell you much about the blurb because you can easily read it for yourself. But I can tell you that the plot full of unique turns and twists is completely unputdownable.
The characters are so well developed, particularly Novalise -later Astra- and King Zadien. They were not perfect at all, each with their own flaws, fears and insecurities. But that’s why they felt so relatable. Novalise, always wanting to become more involved in her brother and friends team -a family of outcasts due to their religion beliefs- that infiltrates the Royal Citadel, finally gets her chance to prove herself. But is her new mission about proving her worth or about sacrificing herself for the freedom of her people? I loved her sassiness, her sense of humor and her courage too. King Zadien has his own demons to fight, carrying enormous guilt surrounding his father’s murder. Sleeplessness, anxiety are only few of the battles he’s fighting. Filling in his father’s shoes feels like an impossible burden full of exceeding expectations. But when he meets Astra. Who completely ignores his Royal status, he finally finds someone he can be himself with, who values him for who he is inside and not for his title or the power he beholds. But his hidden identity can’t remain like that forever. Will Astra forgive him and most of all, will she accept him with all his emotional baggage? The events keep you reeling and guessing as to what will happen next. The world of the Enhanced women -with astounding abilities due to nanotechnology injected in their bodies- was pretty intriguing and unique. I loved the friendship Astra finds in Lynelle and Dahlia, so human and loyal in spite of their superhuman condition. Novalise’s relationship with Dex, her half brother and protector, was realistic as she battles untrust and a possible betrayal. I loved how their relationship was restored at the end, and the way that was achieved. I also loved Novalise’s childhood friends, who were more like family: Berg, Lennox, Hatch. All so loyal and supportive. Loved their banter and different personalities. Loved the way the author describes the emotions and thinking from both main characters POV. Complex, yet genuine. my favorite part was Novalise’s relationship with her God, known as Alpha. their relationship was intimate, trusting, and not devoid of humor. You can sense Alpha’s unconditional love for Novalise, and it made me yearn for such a close relationship with God, with Jesus. Talking to him through your mind and heart during the day and is special moments. The faith inspiring message about trusting God, not your physical abilities, about forgiveness, about what’s really important in life, was priceless. The story isn’t finished, Novalise is just starting new mission in this book, so I can’t wait to read the next installment of Susa Chronicles! I’m sure is going to be as exciting or more than this one! This is a story I highly recommend, not only for YA, but for older adults the same. It’s amazing and captivating! I couldn’t get enough!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion. I liked the book so much that halfway reading it I bought my own copy!
mackenzieharting –
I received an early e-copy in exchange for an honest review. I loved it!!! It kept me on my toes and I didn’t want to put it down! It has a Dual point of view, which is enjoyable to see the main character development. It has a modern day spin on the story of Esther from the Old Testament.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
authorkendallhoxsey –
The story of Esther is one of my favorite bible stories. Every young woman can learn something about the strength and fortitude it takes to stand up for something or someone when you have everything to lose. Protector by Megan Schaulis invigorates the story and readers will be completely caught up in the story of Novalise and King Zadien. The characterization of the FMC and MMC show applicability for readers in the current world and the choices we all can make. The faith aspect is well woven into the world that Schaulis has created. Looking forward to book #2!
I requested a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
kewkew34 –
Wow! Protector by Megan Schaulis is a wonderful debut. This is the first book in the Susa Chronicles and I can not wait to read book two (especially because it ends on a cliffhanger).
As soon as I learned about this book I was intrigued. Not only is it a distopian novel, which I love, but it is also a biblical retelling of the book of Esther, which I’m learning is one of my favorite Bible stories to read retellings of.
I loved discovering the biblical parallels as I read about Novalise and King Zadien in this future, distopian world set in the Middle East.
Novalise is an Alphanite, a believer in Alpha, which is a forbidden religious group. She lives with what is left of her family and her friends in a mountain community. She’s been helping her brother and a few friends fake required registration tatoos so they can work in the Citadel, though she would love to do more. And then, she suddenly finds herself kidnapped and being forced to take place in a competition that will determine which of the Enhanced girls will become a part of King Zadien’s new protection squad. Tiny problem, the Alphanites don’t believe in getting registered and she has none of those fancy nanotech enhancements that are required. How will she survive against these superhuman young ladies? How will she keep her secret from becoming exposed?
King Zadien is a young monarch whose father was recently attacked and murdered, which is why a new protector team needs to be chosen. But there is guilt and uncertainty he is dealing with, which allows him to be manipulated by members of his council. And there is rage against whoever it was that killed his father.
A chance meeting at night brings Novalise and King Zadien together, though they have their secrets and don’t really know who the other really is. Additionally Zadien knows he can’t have a relationship with his Protector, so he can’t allow himself to have feelings for this young lady.
The author did a great job making me care for these main characters and there were some great side characters as well. I was intrigued by this world, though I did hope to learn more about how the world ended up divided the way it was. I loved Novalise’s relationship with Alpha and her strong faith. It is a wonderful book, and I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.