top of page

Reviews List

We are happy to award deserving books like Light of Mine, Still Small Voice, Fear No Evil and Armor of God,” said Dawn Matheson, CEO, Mom’s Choice Awards. “Our panel of judges really felt this book series merited a place on our list of the best in family-friendly products that parents and educators can feel confident in using.”

Mom's Choice

Towers of Light Series

Read More
Allen Brokken has a talent for weaving beautiful, heart-wrenching themes of family and friendship into a world full of peril and uncertainty. I was instantly captivated by this beautiful adventure. Young readers will especially love the sibling trio at the heart of this tale, as they struggle to hold fast against the Darkness and strain to keep their family together against all the foes bent on their destruction. The new friendships that were formed in this installment of the story were beautiful to behold. This epic adventure would be fantastic as a family read-aloud. Reminiscent of The Spirit Flyer series and The Wingfeather Saga, this up-and-coming series is a fun time for all ages.

Endorsement Wellspring

Wellspring of Life

Read More
Allen Brokken has mastered the art of fireside storytelling. Unique and classical at the same time, Armor of God is family fiction you don’t want to miss.”

Endorsement 2

Armor of God

Read More
I am really enjoying this series. I didn’t care too much for this genre until I started reading books by this author. He brings excitement, adventure, danger and God’s truth in a story that will intrigue many young readers. This is the perfect book for young people to read. The author takes three children on an adventure to rescue their parents while fighting off the darkness. I was happy to see the return of Uncle and the Knight protector. As Lauren , Aiden and Ethan set out to go to Blooming Glen, they will each encounter a dangerous situation. I liked how the author separated them and allowed them to each fight their own demons. God has given them light to overcome darkness. Now they must not fear but be courageous and trust Him. It was interesting to see how each child found the faith and strength they needed to fight darkness and those that stood in their way. Even though it may have seemed hopeless each one fought their battle with the Holt Spirit to give them encouragement. I loved the obstacles they overcame and how they never backed down. A great lesson in overcoming fear and shining light where darkness dwelled. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. “When something important needs to happen, God sends us the Holy Spirit to shine brighter to push back the Darkness.”

Celebrate Lit34

Fear No Evil

Read More
In Fear No Evil, Allen Brokken continues the story of Lauren, Aiden, and Ethan right where they left off in Still Small Voice. There is quite a bit of tension in the story and some violence as the kids fight for good against evil. As they are escaping evil, the three siblings are separated from each other and from all adults who care for them in an accident. Fortunately, they cling to God and are able to turn some of those they come in contact with to the true light.

Celebrate Lit33

Fear No Evil

Read More
" Fear No Evil" by Allen Brokken is the third book in the" Towers of Light" series. I have enjoyed this series even through it is for children in the lower high school grades. But I recommend reading them in order because they a continuation of the book before. This book is a story of faith. I can honesty say if I had read fantasy books like these when I was younger, I might not have such a hard time opening up a fantasy book now that I am older. I am glad I took the time to read these books. And on a side note I am thinking about giving these three books to my grandson who is 8, for one of his Christmas presents, who is like grandma and loves to read. If you like stories that have children as the heroes and that are not all fluff and sweet , then these books are for you.

CelebrateLit32

Fear No Evil

Read More
The adventure continues in Fear No Evil, as the siblings continue on their quest to fight the darkness threatening their land. I enjoyed returning to the land of Zoura, since it is a unique place. I loved the message of faith this story has for middle school age (and older!) readers. I recommend reading the books in order, since this one is a continuation of the previous books. You won't be sorry for taking the time to read through this series!

CelebrateLit31

Fear No Evil

Read More
""Still Small Voice by Allen Brokken is an adventure of a lifetime! Filled with mystery, action, family bonds, and a healthy dose of animal friends this second book in the Tower of Light Series is a fantastic continuation of the journey of siblings Lauren, Aiden, and Ethan. Their quest to spread the Light as Darkness creeps across the land is a faith-filled adventure worth joining."

Endorsement

Still Small Voice

Read More
Fear No Evil is the story of 3 children trying to raise the light to save their parents. They get separated, and meet strange people. Like the Iron Priestesses that show they are reborn in the light by being made of metal. The story has an amazing and interesting ending. I like that Fear No Evil from the Bible keeps coming back in the story. I'm pretty sure people will be entertained if they read this.I want to tell some friends about it. It's a pretty interesting story.

Personal

Fear No Evil

Read More
"Once again, I am amazed that I have been blinded and prejudice to the genre of fantasy. I used to say that I didn't like and wouldn't try it, but thanks to Celebrate Lit and these tours, my eyes have been opened. It still isn't my favorite and I probably still won't pick a fantasy book in all the choices that the library and book store has but authors like Allen Brokken has broken my resolved to not read any at all. I recommend this series ""Towers of Light "" it is based on the children's song ""This little light of Mine"" but I think it should be read in order that they were written. I was kept reading ""Still Small Voice"" by Allen Brokken because I was really traveling the journey with the children and wanted to know if they kept to the true path and followed the still small voice or if they followed the easy path which so many believers do. I had to keep reading to see who or if either the Knight Protector or the Uncle was evil. I hope you pick up the book and see for yourself. Yes, this is for children in the middle grades but I am sixty and am enjoying this series. There are even some laughs out loud scenes with a frog and a duck, there is even a kitten named Meow,Meow. I received a contemporary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own. "

CelebrateLit17

Still Small Voice

Read More
"This is a middle-grade fantasy type Christian fiction novel. It is the second book in a series. We were fortunate to be able to review the first book in the series as well. They are best read as a series in the order they were written for the most understanding and enjoyment. As school starts back up we tend to add an extra read aloud to our daily schedule. The Towers of Light series has been amazing. My kids sit still to listen to it and are totally enthralled. The older ones also have read it on their own but they still sit to listen. Book two takes you further and expands on what happens in book one. You can read my review of book one Light of Mine to find out about it. This is a great series about the power of light versus darkness. In this book, the children’s uncle shows up and tries to lead them off their path. He thinks they should go to safety and stay out of the fight. Their faith wavers and they leave their path because they allow his voice to draw them from where they know they should be. The allegories in this book are wonderful! I love that even adults can glean something from the book and it’s a wonderful way of telling and showing how things can apply to the Bible and our faith as well as the modern world when really children think they’re just reading a riveting fiction book. I am very picky of what books I allow to stay on our shelves. We have limited shelf space in our small home. This series will remain on our shelves for all of my children to read. Also, even if I don’t get the chance to review the rest of the series we will be adding them to our collection. Grab a copy of this series and read it! You won’t regret this decision. I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations."

CelebrateLit16

Still Small Voice

Read More
"What a treasure of a book for families to read together! This book is perfect for upper grade school through upper middle school ages and honestly, I had a lot of fun reading it too as an adult. The book came across like an allegory with the darkness being evil and the light being God's presence. The children have adult helpers like Uncle and a knight, but ultimately they must show great bravery trying to fend off the evil and follow the vision to get to Blooming Glen and to the light. The ride is an exciting one, and yet the children are very innocent and honest (and their pets and their names are adorable). I love how their child-like faith reminds us of how the Lord calls us to be when trusting Him, which we forget all too often as adults. Overall, the plot, character development, and fantastical world really flow together to give us a book that makes us want more. Don't miss it! I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own."

CelebrateLit15

Still Small Voice

Read More
"Whether you are talking about the real world or the fantasy world portrayed in The Towers of Light series, there is much darkness in the world. Sometimes the Darkness masquerades as Light. Allen Brokken continues the story he started in Light of Mine. Aiden, Ethan and Lauren struggle to fight the Darkness with the knowledge they have from their parents and wise adults who have mentored them. When their parents both disappear and are assumed to have been captured by the Darkness, their Uncle comes to “rescue” them. He is not a follower of the Light and the children struggle with following the “still small voice” and obeying their elders as taught by their parents. The story is well-thought out and will appeal to children. Still Small Voice is a fantasy in that there are made-up creatures that talk as well as a make-believe world. The struggle the children face is a real one. Each one of us has to daily make decisions which ultimately lead us down the path of Light or the path of Darkness. I look forward to reading more in this series. Still Small Voice and the other books in The Towers of Light series would be appropriate for a K-12 Christian school library. It would appeal to third through sixth graders. I want to thank Celebrate Lit for the complimentary copy of Still Small Voice. This is my honest review."

CelebrateLit14

Still Small Voice

Read More
"This is book 2 of the Tower of Light series. In this it is all about the journey of the kids getting to their grandmothers place, while fighting off evil. Lauren, Aiden, and Ethan are left to travel with their Uncle to get them safe to their grandmothers and they come across people that make them wonder to trust or is this evil attacking them. I would recommend this to young readers and anyone that has read book 1. If you haven't read book 1 of the series you will not understand about the darkness and evil the children are running from. The book might be read as a stand alone, however, you will not get the whole story line and what the kids are running from. I enjoy this series and can't wait for book 3 to see if the children can bring light back into the world. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, ""Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

CelebrateLit13

Still Small Voice

Read More
"Book two picks right up where the first book left off. I love how the author did that, it was like finally watching the second episode of a favorite TV series. Now, let's get to the crux of the matter. What voice are you hearing and what voice do you follow? The children's uncle is not a believer. So how much of his voice can they head? Being a fantasy read, the creatures that are included are simply fantastic. You have to hear the voice of the Light if you are to follow the Light and not be deceived by Darkness. Going through this struggle with these kids was a read well worth reading. I love this series even more than I did before. Thank you to Celebrate Lit for my copy of this book. This review is left freely, a positive review was not required."

CelebrateLit12

Still Small Voice

Read More
"Growing up, I was an avid reader, devouring as many books as I could and blazing through series after series. Among my favorites were “Little House on the Prairie” and “The Younguns of Mansfield.” The nineteenth-century has always held a special place in my heart, and slipping into that bygone world through literature was and continues to be a great joy for me. I read almost exclusively Christian works, and my favorite genre is, unsurprisingly, historical fiction, while fantasy has rarely found a place on my shelves over the years. However, over the past year, I have stepped out of my comfort zone and taken advantage of the opportunity to review books from the fantasy genre, which has proven to be a blessing and has introduced me to many wonderful authors and their books. One of these is Allen Brokken, author of the Towers of Light middle-grade fantasy adventure series. As much as I love discovering quality adult fiction, finding the same for children is a double blessing because it is so needed these days. “Still Small Voice” is book two in the series, which should be read in order because the story continues seamlessly from one book to the next. This second book deals mainly with transitions, setting the scene for what I predict may be a showdown in book three. However, this is not to say that “Still Small Voice” is unexciting or merely a placeholder. Far from it! Rather, we see Lauren, Aiden, and Ethan facing difficult decisions and learning that these decisions have consequences. In order to keep the Light burning, they need to remain strong in faith, but that isn’t always easy to do, particularly when their Uncle is not a believer and they are confronted with negative feelings. “Still Small Voice” immerses readers further into the world of Zoura while gently teaching Biblical truths along the way. I love that Brokken does this so naturally, without making his stories seem preachy and sententious. Although I am quite beyond the target audience age range, I love the inclusion of special animals and the humor that the author infuses into the narrative despite the overall serious tone resulting from the threat of danger. Brokken demonstrates skillful insight into children’s behavior by the way in which he writes the story mostly from their viewpoint, highlighting their concerns and uncertainties. Also, it is very refreshing to read about children who are respectful and God-honoring and who are trying to follow the Holy Spirit’s still, small voice to conquer the darkness threatening Zoura and their own family. Another thought-provoking, heart-stirring story in the Towers of Light series that leaves readers anxiously awaiting the third book and hopefully learning to listen to the still, small voice within. I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own."

CelebrateLit11

Still Small Voice

Read More
"This story is an excellent one to pick up and enjoy as a family! I thought that the premise was interesting and I am enjoying getting to know the characters as they seek to listen to the Still Small Voice. I loved that they are kind hearted children who are concerned about their Uncle's welfare, even when the reader might be feeling like there are warning signs for them not to be so trusting of him. I also love the setting. This is a delightful fantasy style series that will delight readers of all ages. I received this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review. "

CelebrateLit10

Still Small Voice

Read More
"I have been waiting for this book to come out since reading the first in the series. The author immediately captured my attention with his epic details and fantasy like creatures. How many times have you heard a voice tell you to do something and you ignored it? In this story we find three children trying to understand who they should listen to. The darkness is out there and they must defeat it and rescue their parents. I was uncertain if I trusted their uncle. He comes to take them somewhere but they have been told to go elsewhere. Oh that small voice is loud as they try to be obedient, but they are battling against their uncle who is an unbeliever. When we don’t listen to God and His warnings, we find ourselves taking a path that could be harmful. The children are very gifted and I didn’t sense any swaying of their beliefs at all. They so wanted their uncle to trust them, but he is determined to take them where the unknown waits for them. It is a race against darkness to reach their destination in this adventure filled with creatures that are ready to attack and darkness that wants to destroy them. The author gives great illustrations in the story that reference biblical times. Darkness is around us and we need to always listen to that still small voice that warns us against evil. The ending is good and I will be waiting for the next book to see if the children can find their way to let their light shine. I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion."

CelebrateLit9

Still Small Voice

Read More
I was hooked when I saw the title, as I grew up singing a song like it. "This little light of mine" is the song. Would this book live up to my expectations? Actually, it surpassed them. It's full of scripture, faith. and a good storyline too! So much scripture is included in this book, I could read it again, and again. It focuses on knowing God and obedience. Any age can enjoy this book, but I'd say ages 6 and up. Books like this one should be in libraries and churches so more people can read it. I like how light fights the darkness in this book, and how much these three children worked their way into my heart.

CelebrateLit8

Light of Mine

Read More
This is book one of the Tower of Light Series. This is a fantasy, young readers book - but can be read by any age. The story is about three siblings, whose parents have disappeared. The dad has gone off to war to fight evil and the mom was going on a errand for the day to return in the evening. As the story goes on neither parent has returned home and the children are left to fend off evil by themselves. Darkness is trying to take over the Light with the children having to figure out what is happening and how God's plan involves them. They go through a journey and have clues and items show up throughout the story, to help them win over darkness. I would recommend this book to any young reader and their parents to read with them. This book is based on the song, This little light of mine. I loved the theme and all the different messages the author gives in this book. One was when the children tell a lie the light goes dim on the lighthouse and when they tell the truth or do the right thing it stays bright. This was a very enjoyable read for the imagination and a learning experience. I can't wait for book 2 to come out so you can continue with the story. This book does have an ending, but you know it will continue on in book 2 and you fall for this story so much that you don't want it to end, you want to stay in this world to see evil lose. Great gift book for children and families to enjoy and discuss.

CelebrateLit7

Light of Mine

Read More
Reading is always an adventure, and I love it when the opportunity arises to review a children’s or middle-grade novel. Not only is it a nice change of pace, especially as we navigate this pandemic, but it also offers a fresh perspective. When it comes to Christian literature, Jesus’ teachings about having the faith of a child become so much more clear as we witness the wholehearted and innocent trust that children possess. As Ethan remarks in the story, “Daddy says if we have a need, we pray. God takes care of it.” Instead of becoming jaded by the darkness of this world, we should keep our hearts soft toward others and love God above all else. After all, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). “Light of Mine” by Allen Brokken begins the Towers of Light series, and I intend to read the second book when it releases. This is exactly the type of book that I devoured when I was growing up. It is billed as being in the vein of “Little House on the Prairie”, and I also see delightful similarities with Thomas L. Tedrow’s “The Younguns of Mansfield.” Because I usually avoid looking at the synopsis before reading a book, I expected this one to have a contemporary or even future setting, so the old-fashioned farm location charmed me. It is so refreshing to read a book that does not contain bullying or kids trying to be “cool”, but rather just being kids while also working hard and being respectful. Lauren, Aiden, and Ethan have their disagreements like any siblings, but they work together to solve the problems facing them, taking to heart their father’s words: “Children, as long as we stay faithful to the Lord, this Light will shine over the Heathlands. We must do our work the very best we can as if for the Lord. We must pray, read the Good Book, and honor the Sabbath…We must do our work obediently, with a happy heart, and the Light will always shine.” Brokken astutely writes this novel to appeal to the younger generation. The theme of obedience runs throughout, but in such a way that it is not forced or repellant. Trying to put myself in the shoes of a middle-grader, I don’t think that this story will be too frightening. There are a few intense scenes, particularly at the end, that might cause distress in sensitive children, but I think that these episodes accomplish their purpose to unveil true darkness vs. true light. This is a very important distinction for children to learn how to make as they grow older, and “Light of Mine” certainly succeeds in helping them to do so. The animal characters in the story, Sparkle Frog, Daddy Duck, and Meow-Meow, lighten the tone and bring some cheerful relief. I did find the epilogue to be rather off-putting, however, although maybe for younger readers it would not be an issue; as it is, I thought that there would either be more resolution or there would be clearer direction as to where book two would go. This may just be my personal preference, however, and I am not deducting stars for it. Whether you are 10 or 100, “Light of Mine” encourages and inspires all of us to “let our light shine before others, that they may see our good deeds and glorify our Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

CelebrateLit6

Light of Mine

Read More
I am always on the look-out for good children’s books. Lately, my children have really begun to like fantasy books. They’ll look at the library and see some that look interesting and bring them to me to see if they can check them out. All too often I have to tell them no, that they can’t get the book until I’ve had a chance to research the author and the book. Or sometimes, I have to grab the e-copy from the library and read it myself first. With this book, I knew that I wouldn’t have to pre-read it. The author is a Christian father so I have to think that he also has faced wanting his children to read good wholesome books. Knowing that I did still pre-read this book because I wanted to be able to give it an honest review. My honest review is. . . we can’t wait for books two and three to come out later this year!! This is a great fun read and my kids have all been taking turns reading it. Every child who can read chapter books has read this book as quickly as they could because the next child was ready to snatch it from them! We highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the rest of the series. I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

CelebrateLit5

Light of Mine

Read More
I really enjoyed "Light Of Mine" by Allen Brokken and, yes I will be reading the next book is this series. I have to be honest and say that when I was reading the words to this song, I sang the words aloud. ( I know silly but even as adults we need to shine our light. Yes, this book is about shining the light of Jesus in everything we do. This is a book that I recommend for the more advanced kids and adults. The subject is one that we all need to be aware of, because it is about Good virus Evil. This is a story about people being deceived about what the Bible ready says about certain things and how people are tricked into believing lies. I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.

CelebrateLit4

Light of Mine

Read More
As a homeschooling mother and blogger, I love finding new books for my children to read as well as for me to recommend. This book aimed as children in the middle grades caught my attention. This book is the first book in the Towers of Light Series. I love how the story combines fantasy with Wild West aspects to create an amazing storyline. The characters are believable and interesting. The fantasy aspect may keep children interested while helping them grow in their faith and belief in God. The story takes some twists and turns that add to the intresting aspects of this book. I definitely recommend this book for middle graders. I think it would also make a great story to read aloud as well. So check out this book for yourself. I received a copy of this book for my fair and honest review.

CelebrateLit1

Light of Mine

Read More
Right away I noticed something very important about this book. One of the characters say, “When you love the Lord with all your heart, mind, and spirit, the Good Book says you reflect the Savior’s Light on the world, which pushes back the Darkness.”It is a great statement to remind us that we can overcome the darkness when we surrender everything to God. We don’t have to fear anything because God in us has overcome darkness. Oh I’m so excited to read this book and share my thoughts . I loved how the children worked together as their parents turn up missing. Strange things are going on around them but they take their responsibilities serious. The author does a great job of writing a book that is filled with whimsical animals , fighting off the darkness and presenting Biblical references that shine the light on God. When the author mentioned the song, “This Little Light of Mine ,” I was immediately reminded of all the times I sang that song in Sunday school growing up. Today that song has such a deeper meaning for me. God wants us to shine light where darkness lingers. He wants us to to be the light that encourages others and shares His truth with others. The book is an excellent example of three young children shining light and trusting God. The children encounter danger and I liked how the author uses examples that help readers of all ages understand dark vs light. It is a great book that have lessons on trust, faith and standing up against the enemy. I think this would make a great TV show for children.

CelebrateLit2

Light of Mine

Read More
Allen Brokken has written a story for older elementary students based on the concept of the Sunday School song This Little Light of Mine. Light of Mine is book one in Brokken’s new series The Towers of Light. This intermediate level fantasy novel has several things that will appeal to older elementary children. The first being the children left alone by their parents. Lauren is the oldest at twelve, Aiden is nine, and Ethan is just five. What pre-teen doesn’t think they are old enough to take care of things while their parents are gone. This age group will also enjoy the fight of good over evil and understand the difficulty the children have in determining who is on the side of Light and who is on the side of Darkness. The book does seem a bit didactic and simplistic at times which may turn some children off to the plot. Overall, I think this is a good book for children. Light of Mine sounds like a story parents may read to their children at bedtime. Homeschool families may be interested in using the book. I look forward to reading more in Allen Brokken’s series The Towers of Light. There would not be a problem with adding Light of Mine to a K-12 Christian school library. It is appropriate for upper elementary and middle school students. I want to thank Celebrate Lit for the complementary copy of Light of Mine. This is my honest review.

CelebrateLit3

Light of Mine

Read More
bottom of page