Illuminary: Volume 1

By: Schroeder, Chawna

Glimpse the past, illuminate the future.

Yosarai Patican dreams of becoming an illuminator in a country that values art above all else. A lofty goal that finally seems within reach when she earns a position at the prestigious Academy of the Seven Arts. Although Yosarai loathes to leave behind her quiet country life, she travels to the capital, determined to live up to her mother's fame as one of Indel's greatest artists.

Prince Xander never planned to become king. Indeed, he never wanted to become king. But when his father dies suddenly, he is thrust into the middle of coronation preparations--and assassination attempts. With everyone around him in increasing danger, Xander decides to hide in neighboring Indel until the time for him to be crowned king arrives.

Posing as an inventor struggling with aesthetics, Xander enlists Yosarai's aid as part of his cover, but soon he suspects she knows more than she should. But when danger threatens and secrets are exposed, entering a competition reputed as cutthroat may be the only way for them to protect everything they hold dear.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0DGS7D2BL
• ISBN13: 9798886051902
• Release Date: April 2025
• Publisher: Enclave Escape
• Length: 368 Pages
• Weight: 1.10 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.3" x 5.5" x 8.6"
• Age Range: 13 to 18 years
• Grade Range: Grade 8 to Postsecondary

Customer Reviews

Can't wait to read the next in the series!

This reminded me a little bit of Christina Baehr's Secrets of Ormdale series and Angela Bell's A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure, but with a dash of India-inspired influence. A young heroine with faith, a world full of a special touch of magic, a loving family, dear friends from all corners of life and landscape - and an adventure full of surprises, laughter, heartache, and triumph had me turning pages when I should have been doing many other things! I look forward to reading the next book in the series!

Enchanting YA fantasy

“Ask why less and how more.” This is my first book by Chawna Schroeder and I am completely hooked. The author’s gifted imagination is on full display in this detailed, absolutely delightful fantasy world. I loved learning about Egdonia and Indel and how these two Realms are similar and different. The strong faith thread woven into the storyline was grounding and I really enjoyed watching Xander and Yosi grow in faith and maturity. It was really interesting that an unnamed villain (likely an Egdonian) and Yosi had first person voices while Xander and Yosi’s not-very-likable cousin Lavidah had third person voices. These multiple narrators gave depth and insight into the storyline as a whole. The Quest that took up the latter half of the book was intricately laid out and quite fascinating. I was on the edge of my seat with each challenge the team faced. But the book has more than just unique characters, suspense, a beautiful setting and a fast-paced and exciting plot; it also addresses racism, social justice, loyalty, honor, and compassion. This book does end on a cliff hanger. I need the next book soon! I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Enclave Publishing via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.