About the Book
Book: Thalia in Exile
Author: Allen Brokken with Thalia Schertzer
Genre: Middlegrade Christian Fantasy
Release Date: June 26, 2026
Thalia never expected to be taken. But the Darkness has plans of its own.
When the dreaded Steele Brothers and their Giant allies raid her home at midnight, Thalia and her friends are forced on a harrowing journey to the mysterious academy at Emohnomed. Like the young men of Judah chosen for the King of Babylon’s service, they are dragged towards a land of shadowed luxury to learn the language and literature of a culture that serves the Darkness.
Thalia finds brief respite aboard a luxurious train. But when Headmistress Imogen adds a “gift from the bishop” to the students’ punch, Thalia’s keen senses catch the putrescent smell of a counterfeit light. Clinging to the Good Book she smuggled into her bag, she refuses the smoke-laced food that turns friends into unthinking foes. In a world of beautiful lies, Thalia must stand firm against false accusations and prove that the only true strength comes from the Light that cannot be tainted.
Because this isn’t just about escaping her captors. It’s about saving the people who no longer know they need to be saved.
Author Q&A 7
- Which character in Thalia in Exile do you connect with best?
I was most connected to Thalia’s Mother during the opening segment as war coming to your door step is particularly harrowing for a parent with young children.
- Which part of Thalia in Exile was the most difficult to write?
The story transitions from the frontier to transport on the train. Constraining things to what can happen on a train, getting the setting right, and making things flow was particularly hard given the tight environment. I took a ride on a historical train and tons of photos and we had to make a map to make it all work.
- What are you reading right now?
The Watcher Key by my publishing partner Troy Hooker
Studying the Book of John
- If you could have one book, piece of art, or music on a deserted island, what would it be?
The Bible, epic stories mixed with timeless truth that can be read over and over and gain new insight every time.
- What is your favorite writing snack or drink?
I’m a big coffee drinker, but have had to switch to decaf for my health.
- What does your family think of your writing?
My kids enjoyed it when they are younger and now they work for me producing and selling my books. So I’m pretty sure they think it’s pretty cool. However, I have to admit everybody likes my picture book Meow Meow Milks the Cow the best, but that’s because of my daughter in law’s illustrations not my writing. 😉
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About the Authors
Allen Brokken is a teacher at heart, a husband and father most of all. He’s a joyful writer by the abundant grace of God. He began writing the Towers of Light series for his own children to help him illustrate the deep truths of the Bible in an engaging and age-appropriate way. He’s dedicated 15 years of his life to volunteer roles in children’s ministry and youth development. Now that his own children are off on their own adventures, he’s telling stories and sharing clean humor on social media.
Thalia Shertzerr is a dedicated writer whose Christian faith is the central part of her life and the heart of her storytelling. Outside of writing, she has a strong interest in science and hopes to pursue a future career in clinical medicine. Thalia balances her time between her academic goals, her faith, and her love for reading and capturing moments through the lens of her camera.