Heartmender by V. Romas Burton was my first dive into the Fantasy realm of Christian Fiction - I was not disappointed! I jumped into this novel knowing nothing about it. I needed a book to fit a reading prompt for my library’s monthly reading challenge and this YA novel fit the bill. This novel has anything and everything you could want in a fantasy story - a fantastically imagined world, beautifully developed characters (with relatable flaws included), a sweeping and moving faith element that keeps you sucked in and reading more, as well as a bit of a romance. In this case, the romance does not take center stage and for that I am appreciative - the way it slowly develops as a side plot or side story seemed to fit exactly in with the narrative of the book!

V. Romas Burton is a fantastic storyteller and some sections of the book could be considered “scary” if your mind lends to a huge imagination. The way that sin is portrayed in this novel is done beautifully and the author does not shy away from its ugliness. I also greatly appreciated how the author tackled the topic of anxiety - something that I struggle with - in such a beautiful and Christ-worthy way. The characters have flaws and struggles that readers can relate to. It is awesome to see the characters develop despite these flaws and overcome the many obstacles and challenges in their way.