Kailyn Moran is a missionary’s daughter, raised in Burma but set adrift by circumstances. Ryan McDonough is the big, bumbling but kind new missionary from America. As the Japanese invade, Kai becomes Sharaw, the tiger-man of legend who seeks revenge for the death of loved ones and Ryan grows into his nickname of the Bear of Burma as part of the U.S. forces.
A grueling, brutal story emerges of guerilla warfare and the cost of survival. This is a story of pain and anger, guilt and forgiveness, the struggle for faith and trust when both are in short supply, and the yearning for safety and belonging.
Occasionally there is an author whose stories are out of my comfort zone but made irresistible by the author’s talent and skill as a writer and a storyteller. Janyre Tromp is one. Darkness Calls the Tiger is Janyre Tromp’s second published novel and a strong follow up to her haunting debut, Shadows in the Mind’s Eye.
Highly recommended.
This review refers to both a NetGalley digital copy and a paperback that I voluntarily read and reviewed, courtesy of the publisher, as part of the launch team. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
About the Book
After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Imperial Japan devours the southern portion of Burma, intent on taking over mainland Asia. Unaware of the coming darkness, Kailyn Moran drifts in her role as the only daughter of a widowed missionary.
As whispers of war snake through the Kachin mountains, Kai’s father is convinced God will protect the mission. He entrusts the village to her and the kind yet inexperienced new missionary, Ryan McDonough, while he makes routine visits to neighboring villages.
War descends like a tempest upon the mountain peaks, and an unbreakable bond forms between Kailyn and Ryan as they unite to provide solace to both villagers and the flood of refugees. Despite their tireless efforts, a brutal enemy shatters almost everything they love, pushing Kailyn to embark on a path of unrestrained vengeance.
Afraid he’s losing the woman he loves, Ryan fights to protect Kai from the deadly consequences of her choices. But in the face of destruction, can he convince her of the power and freedom of forgiveness?
Darkness Calls the Tiger by Janyre Tromp | Kregel Publications, May 14, 2024 | paperback, 352 pages
bookworlder 