Book: Illuminator by Kara Reynolds
Reviewed by Micca
Rating: 5/5
I was already a fan of Helena, the entire Priestess group that creates a found family. I already adored Thatcher and how he cared for her and was patient. Reading this book, besides how they came to both live in Tintar, the way he approached his care for her and the way he respects her…how could you want anyone that wouldn’t do that for you? This book is full of self discovery, the full backstory of Helena’s life, overcoming trauma, and finding what it is like to have someone love you that has so much patience and understanding. This is the same timeline as the Priestess, so make sure to read it first.
Helena learns so much about herself as a mother, and artist, and a woman. The trauma she has suffered breaks my heart. However she finds the road to healing and her own empowerment. Kara really balances the rough times, banter between friends and with Thatcher, the slow burn up to the raging fire moments, and self exploration. I highlighted so many lines, but all of them I want you to read for yourself. We might not get more stories with insight into the lives of the women and men of this found family, but I hope we do.