Book Spotlight: Proclaimer

Do you love all things royal? I fully admit I love wearing a tiara every now and then. There's just something about it. But why? Well, good news. Guest Author, Megan Schaulis is chatting about just this today. Read on to see her theory, as well as learn more about her amazing-sounding books!

​Last year on my daughter's seventh birthday, she spent the entire day dressed as a queen. Like a real queen—Mary, Queen of Scots. My parents found the elaborate regal costume on a trip to England.
In fact, her birthdays have had a royal trend for years, starting at age two when I gave her a gold tutu and a little white dress with "Princess" emblazoned on the front.
If you're a girl-mom and you're reading this, you're likely either sighing because your own daughter is in the throes of her princess phase or sighing because you miss the sparkly crowns and tutus that once covered the house.

​Now that I have a son, I'm sure there will be imaginary jousts and knighthoods in my future as my little prince connects with his inner hero.
All that to say, I'd kind of associated the love of all things royal with children...until I signed my first book contract with a royal-focused publisher.
Enter a world of modern-day fairytales, medieval lords and ladies, and—in my case—futuristic dystopian kingdoms. The evidence is clear: People of all ages long to experience royalty.
But why? What is it about kings and queens, princes and princesses that so wholly captures our imaginations?
"But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9 NKJV).
"[Jesus] has made us kings and priests to His God and Father" (Revelation 1:6 NKJV).
"Redeeming love crowns you as royalty. Your thoughts are full of life, wisdom, and virtue. Even a king is held captive by your beauty" (Song of Songs 7:5 TPT).
I think we're fascinated by royalty because we are the children and heirs of the King of Kings! We are royalty. We have access to all the abundance of our Father's kingdom. And He cherishes us and fights for us like a royal champion.
No wonder authors are so led to create stories of royal wonder and pomp. No wonder we love to find out the ordinary girl is really a princess or to see the dashing young prince rise to answer his calling.
The Susa Chronicles, my debut series, is inspired by real-life royalty: Queen Esther. She wasn’t born into royalty, but she ended up the queen of one of the largest empires in history. Despite the difficulty of her path to a throne, I know one thing for sure. God saw her as royalty long before the world did. In fact, while the world was calling her a worthless, used concubine, God was calling her His beloved, cherished queen.
And He’s given you that title as well.
We ARE the royals dressed as common folk. We ARE the people called to greatness and courage.
I’ve always called my daughter Princess. And ever since she could talk, I've had her tell me why I can make that claim. Ask her, and she'll say she's the daughter of the King of Kings.
I think it's high time I remember who and whose I am, and return to my princess phase too.

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​Proclaimer, The Susa Chronicles Book 2

The only way to save her people is to betray the king she vowed to protect.
After the results of the Protector competition, Novalise is in more danger than ever. King Zadien seeks to destroy the Alphanites, and the only way Novalise can stop him is by winning a Request—one undeniable favor offered only to those who save the king from a deadly threat. With no imminent danger at hand, Novalise will have to commit treason to save her people.
Zadien is finally stepping into his role as king. With his “Astra” by his side, he’s determined to annihilate the traitors responsible for his father’s death. His romantic feelings for her haven’t faded, but pursuing her could leave his kingdom without a monarch. Is their fledgling relationship worth violating the law and risking his crown?
As the clock counts down for her people, Novalise must choose between manipulating the king’s affection and trusting the voice in her heart to lead her. When all her plans crumble, will she hide behind her new identity as a Protector or find a way to rise in such a time as this?

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​About Megan Schaulis
After a year of traveling the country in a 100-square-foot camper with her husband, daughter, and dog, Megan Schaulis was bursting with wonder and inspiration—and she poured it all into her writing.
Megan has a B.A. in Journalism from Arizona State University and is a member of the ACFW. As a special education teacher, she helped young people fall in love with reading and writing. Today, when she’s not spinning stories, Megan uses words in playful and creative ways at her branding agency. Her debut series, The Susa Chronicles, a dystopian reimagining of Esther, released with WhiteCrown Publishing.
Megan lives in Abilene, Texas, where you’ll find her staying up way too late reading or hiking with her family.
Sign up for Megan’s newsletter for clean book recommendations, encouragement from the Word, and a free short story.
Connect with Megan on Instagram (@MeganSchaulis)
Find The Susa Chronicles through your favorite online retailer, or order signed copies directly from Megan.

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