A Silent Hope: A Wounded Lion retelling by Madisyn Carlin (Hope Ever After Book 3)

Calaine will do anything to save her brother’s life, including taking work far from home where giants and other dangers lurk. Renner wishes he could sacrifice his life for his brother’s, but he’s stuck being a diplomat while his brother fights.

Both determined to do everything they can to save their siblings, Calaine and Renner become unlikely friends when a plot against the country grows nearby. Can they save the people of Leorin before it’s too late? Will Calaine learn to trust someone with her heart?

“Hope. Such a small word with such incredible significance.”

~ Madisyn Carlin, A Silent Hope

I loved the world Carlin created, one in which lions and giants roam free. Renner and Calaine are both adorable, even though they both compare Renner to their own brothers. Fald was by far my favorite character. He’s snarky and closed-off, but by the end, he’s learned to trust…but managed to keep a lot of his endearing snark.

The story is described as “faith-filled,” and I enjoyed a fantasy book in which characters openly look to God for guidance and help, and don’t lean on their own strength. Carlin did a great job portraying a Deaf character and the story world through her eyes.

Mild violence. Injuries from battles, as well as some abuse. Not graphic.
Two innocent kisses.
In-world swears only.