In 2016 B & H Publishing Group published the first in a series of four Christian fantasy fiction books written by Priscilla Shirer, with the help of Gina Detwiler. The series is called The Prince Warriors Series, and the first book carries the title The Prince Warriors. The theme of the series is spiritual warfare and the “Armor of God” referred to in Ephesians 6:10-18. Priscilla Shirer is a Bible teacher, a New York Times Best Seller author, a wife, and a mom to three boys. She is also the daughter of a well known pastor, speaker, and author—Dr. Tony Evans.
Gina Detwiler had plans to be a teacher but changed her mind in favor or writing. The writing she most enjoys involves books for young people.

The first story in the series opens with main characters nine-year-old Evan and his teenage brother Xavier (ZAY-vee-er). The first page made me wonder if the book was geared toward boys. It spoke of Evan’s envy of his big brother’s muscles and arm-pit hair. But the second chapter brought in three other major characters—Levi, Manuel, and a girl named Brianna. Brianna is “all girl,” with her sparkly pink hoody and her sparkly lip gloss. Her imaginative and quick-witted personality often grabs the spotlight in the story. Manuel isn’t too “cool” and suffers feelings of an outcast. Oh, yes. Then there’s “Mr. J Ar,” a coach and a dad of strong character and influence.

Evan and Xavier are drawn into a mysterious realm called “Ahortos” (ay-HOR-tose) by a symbol that appears to them. Likewise, the other main characters, who are acquaintances from the local rec center, find themselves drawn into it in the same strange way.

Once in this other realm, the characters undergo many strange and frightening experiences. The events create non-stop action that will keep the reader turning the page to see what happens next. A mysterious small guide in a purple robe gives them three pieces of armor that he says are the only things they will need—a belt, a breastplate, and special shoes. There is also “The Book,” which spews out jumbled words that must be rearranged. Those who are familiar with the teachings of the Bible will automatically catch on to much of the symbolism. Nevertheless, they will be curious as to what will happen next.

The book introduces subjects important to the young, such as sibling rivalry and bullying. As the story unfolds, it shows how God’s power can transform young lives and impact their relationships on the deepest level. I absolutely loved the last chapter, just before the Epilogue, when they were back in their normal surroundings. It was very moving. I won’t tell you what happened.

One book review site reported the interest level to be grades 4 to 8 and the reading level grade 5. The book is 268 pages. However, the print size is quite generous, making it an easy read. If the reader is unable to interpret the symbolism, no problem. The www.theprincewarriors.com website reveals all the secrets of interpretation. After reading each chapter, the reader can go to the website and click on the chapter number for a revelation of meanings.

Although targeted to middle graders and tweens, adults can be swept into the suspense and impacted by the strong symbolism and the changed lives. Many adults reviewed the books and indicated that they thoroughly enjoyed them. The Christian Book Distributors website gives it 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The second book in the series is The Prince Warriors and the Unseen Invasion. In the second book, “the enemy” is angry about having experienced defeat at the hands of the Prince Warriors. The Warriors are given more pieces of armor. In book #3, The Prince Warriors and the Swords of Remah, “the enemy” is devising new devastating forms of evil to stop the Warriors. The Warriors are given their final piece of armor—their swords. In the last book of the series, The Winter War, the Prince Warriors return once again to Ahortos. They find it empty but perilous.

The author has even written a devotional entitled UNSEEN: The Prince Warriors 365 Devotional to correspond to the series. On top of that, there is an “UNSEEN” app available for IOS and android users.

Perhaps you would like to meet the author and hear in her own words her intent for writing the series. If so, click on the video below.

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