Darkness Calls the Tiger by Janyre Tromp gave me a book hangover, and I had to put fiction aside for about two weeks afterward. This novel gripped my attention and my emotions as I connected on a gut-deep level with Kai. I have known that deep pain, so searing that it can overtake and lead to reckless behavior. Kai’s motives and journey of female rage and revenge (which rarely appears in the Christian fiction market) felt understandable and authentic.

Although I plowed quickly through Darkness Calls the Tiger, it was not an easy read. Terrible things happened as the realities of war unfolded. The story may be too dark for some readers, particularly if self-harm, violence, and sexual assault are triggers. Still, the story holds redeeming elements that elevate it beyond a tragic tale of loss and war. Ryan’s devotion to Kai was perfection, even when she didn’t think so. Bits of forgiveness and sacrificial love emerge throughout the story until they culminate near the end as powerful themes in the novel.

Darkness Calls the Tiger by Janyre Tromp will be on my list of top 2025 reads. Tromp is a seasoned editor who has written a potent story with flowing prose, a fresh setting (the jungles of Burma during WW2), and a daring heroine. Five stars!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

To say that Darkness Calls the Tiger by Janyre Tromp is not a typical Christian fiction novel is an understatement. From the striking and intense cover to the unique and gritty plot, it's unlike any other book I've read, general market or faith-based fiction. The writing is outstanding but the subject matter is difficult, and it took me twice as long to read this 350-page book due to the density of the subject matter.

Set in the eastern theater of World War II, Kailyn and her parents are a US missionary family who've devoted their lives to sharing Christianity and humanitarian aid in Burma. As the war intensifies in the region, lives are lost and Kailyn becomes into a warrior focused on retribution. At the same time, missionary Ryan James arrives to assist Kailyn's family and is thrust into the role of soldier while also being a man of faith. Can they survive the ever-present physical dangers and spiritual threats facing them?

Kailyn suffers so much loss in this story, my heart ached for her. Although incredibly dark, it is ultimately - amazingly - hopeful, thanks to the threads of faith seamlessly woven into the plot. This is the first of the author's books I've read, and I'll definitely seek out more after I'm emotionally recovered from this one.

Thank you to Kregel Publications and Uplit Reads for the complimentary copies of this powerful novel. All opinions are my own.

This was a very unique story. I loved that it blended the history of the time with cultural beliefs. The characters were mostly developed well, though I felt like their internal monologues got a bit repetitive, and sometimes slowed down the story. Still, I liked that there was a lot going on, and the characters were complex, and kept changing. It was hard to read about the death and cruelty, but inspiring to read about the faith and trust they all developed, as well as forgiveness. I really liked learning about this part of WWII, and the author's writing style is great (no awkward dialogue or typo problems). I will definitely read more by her in the future!

Darkness Calls the Tiger is set in Burma (now Myanmar) during World War Two. It’s set in a small Christian mission in the Kachin mountains, which is close to the borders of both China and India.

Kailyn Moran has grown up in Burma’s Kachin mountains, surviving the loss of her mother and the alienation of her missionary father. The arrival of a new missionary, teacher Ryan McDonough, changes her life as war approaches.

The first part of the book takes place before the war reaches the village. Parts of this are a hard read, but it’s a fascinating insight into a foreign culture and into a character who’s unlike any I’ve read in Christian fiction before.

There were two things that bugged me about the story. The first was Kailyn’s nickname: “kai” is food in Maori (and it’s water or sea in Hawaiian). It’s a word I see often, and that was a distraction.

The other thing that bugged me was Kai’s father. While I didn’t doubt his dedication to God or to his mission, I do think his critical attitude and behaviour weren’t likely to be effective in bringing the villagers to Jesus, which made Ryan’s role doubly difficult.

But they are minor complaints in comparison to the overall story which had so many plusses: great characters, unpredictable plot, fascinating and unique location, and a deep Christian message.

Author Janyre Tromp must have undertaken a huge amount of research in order to even conceive this novel, let alone write it. Her words take the reader to the far-off mountains of Burma, yet the focus of the novels is always on the story—on Kai and Ryan, on the village and the war. That’s a true achievement.

This is not the book to pick up if you want a quick and entertaining binge-read. It’s got a lot of depth, will stay with you long after you’ve finished the book, and will certainly benefit from a re-read.

Recommended for historical fiction fans, or for those looking for something a little deeper than the norm. Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

While this book explores many dark issues and made me feel vulnerable while reading, the writing was spectacular and the ending.... whew. I'm just glad we made it out alive!

I love a good work of historical fiction. I was especially interested to read Darkness Calls the Tiger because I’ve never read a story that focuses on World War II in Burma. When you think of the Japanese involvement in World War II, you think of Pearl Harbor, the Bataan Death March. But their efforts to conquer Burma with an eye to taking over all of mainland Asia were no less atrocious.

Kailyn Moran, or Kai, has grown up in the village of Tingrabum, on the mountain. The Kachin people call her father, John, the Jungle Light, because he shares the light of the Gospel with them, pointing the way to Karai Kasang, the supreme God. But all Kai sees of her father is unrelenting harshness. Since her mother died, he has all but turned away from Kai unless he’s criticizing her, and she feels like nothing she ever does is good enough to earn his praise or his love.

When the Japanese start encroaching on Burmese territory, John sees no need to flee. He confidently states that God will protect them, and he goes on his usual routine visits to other villages, leaving Kai and the new missionary, Ryan, in charge of their village. But war finds them, and Kai and Ryan must try to get the villagers to safety.

This was not an easy read. Tromp doesn’t flinch at describing the brutality of the Japanese soldiers to anyone who stood in their way, and there are some pretty stout descriptions of battles and injuries suffered. She also doesn’t pull back from the very real emotional challenges her characters faced. Her characters don’t have a touchy-feely, “God loves us all and everything is going to be just fine” kind of faith on display. Kai and Ryan wrestle hard with their faith, and that struggle is writ large on the page. Kai wonders how she can trust Karai Kasang when He has let people she loves be hurt or killed, when her father has basically walked away from her. Ryan questions how he can carry on when his efforts seem to go for naught, when every choice he makes seems to be the wrong one and evil seems to be winning the day.

But this is a compelling, beautiful story, well worth the reading of it. Our characters struggle, yes. When they open their eyes and pay attention, though, they can see God’s hand at work. And when they learn to trust that He is working all things, even the hard and ugly ones, together for good, they can find peace, healing of hearts and minds and old emotional wounds, and the ability to forgive even the most loathed of enemies.

If you’ve read and enjoyed The Long March Home by Tosca Lee and Marcus Brotherton, you’ll love Darkness Calls the Tiger.

I am always on the look for Historical Fiction novels that are set in times/locations less written about. Darkness Calls the Tiger is a novel of World War II Burma. While WWII is often written about, Burma definitely is not! Imperial Japan has just devoured southern Burma after attacking Pearl Harbor. Kailyn and Ryan work to provide comfort to refugees and villagers as pain continues shattering those around them and everything they love.

If you’re looking for a book to take you on an enthralling and powerful journey, then you need to check out Darkness Calls the Tiger! Janyre Tromp is an exceptionally talented writer and she pulls the reader right into WWII Burma alongside Kailyn and Ryan!
If you’re a history nerd like me you’ll love learning about the forgotten and lesser known parts of history featured in this book.
This powerful and incredibly moving story of forgiveness, trust, and hope is certain to become a favorite for fans of sweeping historical fiction.


I received a complimentary ebook copy of this book from the author and publisher!
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own

𝐃𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐫 takes us deep into the jungles of Burma that wrap around the Kachin mountains. I have not read many World War II stories set in Burma, so this was incredibly fascinating.


It is shortly after the Japanese attack Pearl Harbor, and they have set their sights on taking over Mainland Asia, which includes Burma.

Kai, a young missionary’s daughter, grew up among the Kachin people. She has become a fierce warrior, though her father believes God will protect the mission. Ryan is the newest missionary to arrive and is assigned to visit the neighboring villages.

The violence and horror of war creep into their jungle, and Kai and Ryan try to fight against it, helping the villagers - while not losing their faith.

While the writing here is stunning, vivid, and lyrical, the subject matter is very difficult, as war is filled with unimaginable atrocities. You will feel an urgent sense of survival. It’s haunting as Kai and Ryan sneak through the jungle to save the people against this cruel enemy.


Yet, the truth of mercy and forgiveness rings clear—don’t let evil overtake us. There is love and hope and the question of why these things are happening. The story masterfully shows how light can shine even in the darkest of places. The overall message is beautiful and positive, making this a remarkable read.

Thank you @uplitreads and @janyretromp for a spot on tour and a gifted book and ebook via Kregel Publications and NetGalley.

This story made me chuckle, provoked anger, caused tears and left me holding hope. I resonated deeply with Kai—as any pastor’s daughter would—striving and trying to please, then bitterness as it becomes abundantly clear that nothing will, while God seems disinterested.

Opening the gorgeous cover of this book is the beginning of a journey through breathtaking jungle and mountains to the heart of what it means to trust—both people and God. And on the way, you’ll begin to grasp what the Kachin people did for the Allies during the Japanese invasion of Burma… and what the Japanese did to anyone who got in their way.

Janyre Tromp has written another powerful story that left me with a severe case of book hangover. Highly recommend!

Step into the past with "Darkness Calls the Tiger," a **masterpiece** of historical fiction that brings World War II to life through a fresh and compelling perspective. The author's unwavering commitment to historical precision and the intricate portrayal of characters elevate this novel to a must-read status. Imagine holding a book that not only captivates your imagination but also expands your understanding—a book that is as **enlightening** as it is entertaining. This is the book you need in your collection if you're passionate about history, crave stories with profound character arcs, and seek a narrative that resonates with a powerful, enduring message.

In conclusion, Janyre Tromp's "Darkness Calls the Tiger" is not just a novel; it's a **testament** to the indomitable spirit of humanity. With its authentic historical backdrop and emotionally charged storytelling, this book doesn't just deserve a recommendation—it demands to be read and cherished. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience this **exceptional** journey through history.

The author of this book is a very skilled and talented wordsmith. I stopped and reread many sentences, just to enjoy how beautifully they were written.

This book was immersive and emotive, right from the beginning. I couldn’t stop thinking about the people of Burma and those who loved, served and worked among them.

The characters had so many intense struggles and ongoing hardships. Choices were made between revenge and forgiveness…suspicion and trust. All needed to find their way home and sometimes that required great sacrifices…even the ultimate sacrifice.

Bravery showed up as intentional and even costly acts of kindness. Courage showed up, often in the ability to be gentle. Strength was used to practice restraint. Amazing life lessons!

I was deeply absorbed into the storyline and as I finished this book, it felt as though I was emerging from the jungle with the beloved characters.

I received complimentary copies of this amazing book from Kregel Publications and through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

I really enjoy reading about WWII and learning new things about this time period and the many brave and selfless people who sacrificed so much. This story was really fascinating to me because, even with what I consider a pretty decent knowledge of this era, I never knew about the reach of the war and the way it played out in Burma and the CBI theater. It was enthralling. I was completely heartbroken throughout most of the book, but in the end, it was hopeful and ended on a note to keep moving forward, better days will come.
I liked that the story was told through both Kai and Ryan's POVs. Ryan was such a strength, even when so much was against him, he never truly waivered. I realize why Kai struggled so much, but I got frustrated a few times with her stubbornness and how her refusal to be rational at times caused her more difficulties. It was actually kind of dark and very tragic in some ways, but I do think the overall message was really good about choosing to forgive and to love vs hate. The ending was really strong for me.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content: depictions of the horrors of war (most implied, but easy to understand what happened), implied rape (off the page), Christian themes.

"Some of us just see the light more clearly than others. She needs you to find it again, and then, in time, to show it to her."

This is my first full-length novel by Janyre Tromp and I was impressed with her research of Burma during WWII and how she made the setting and characters come alive. It was not the easiest of novels to read because war is atrocious and the people of Burma faced unspeakable horrors. It also did have some violence as villagers engaged in guerilla-like tactics to get ahead of the Japanese invaders. But underneath all the trauma and horrors of warfare, there is a gentle but persistent theme of forgiveness and receiving and offering grace. We are reminded that salvation is not earned but freely given to be freely received.
Kailyn's metamorphosis into a "tiger", driven by anger, fear, and regret, was heart-breaking. Her first person voice was pure anguish and despair. But even in the midst of her darkness, God's grace, Ryan's tenderness, and her father's repentance reached her to bring her back into the light. Ryan's third person voice portrayed so much of the helplessness but also determination of the people to fight back.

If you enjoy WWII historical fiction, this book will hit you hard. Among the heartache, suffering, and loss, there is hope that is extended to all which surpasses this world. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Kregel Publication and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

Where to begin to share my thoughts on this deep and powerful story. I couldn't even have imagined what I'd read in Darkness Calls the Tiger had I tried. Yes, it's set during WWII, but not the WWII you'd be thinking of.

I will say that this story isn't an easy read. War stories typically aren't, but this one is next level. It's raw, and dark, and gives you a clear understanding as to why people have PTSD to the nth degree! I "enjoy" war stories because they remind me of the resilience of human beings, people overcoming the odds, overcoming death. Thankfully, reading them with a Christian worldview, there's hope infused into those stories. Like Moran Kai, sometimes people have to dig deep (deeper than we could ever imagine) to find and hold onto that faith.

We meet Kai as a wide-eyed little girl. Then, everything changes. Her entire world is turned upside down. She and her parents are living as missionaries in this small village in Burma. Years later, she and her father are still in the village when the Japanese start to infiltrate the Kachin Mountains. Ryan shows up to come alongside them as a missionary. Not long after, Kai's father heads into the jungle and leaves them to take care of the villagers.

It's so interesting how the author weaves in their beliefs and understanding of God together, but also how they're still somewhat attached to their former ways. Kai has been around these people all her life and she has learned their ways. Many of the people don't trust her because of reasons I won't reveal, but it has a profound impact on her when the villagers have to flee for their lives.

What Kailyn goes through for the entirety of the book is absolutely traumatizing, but when is war not? Nothing is left out in this story. Horrific things happen left and right. YET, there's always this underlying faith that stalks Kai like a tiger. Will she give in to the light or to the darkness? Ryan, despite all of his effort, can't keep her safe, but the choices she makes for so many painful reasons, leads them on a journey that's treacherous and filled with destruction.

I'll admit that this story isn't going to be for everyone, but it certainly was for me. It's not an easy read, but there's a force that pulled me to keep going. It's heavy, but the people endure. It's dark, but there is always a spot of light drawing the characters to keep doing the "first thing's first". My heart was twisted and wrung out by the time I finished the story, but like spring shoots of green begin to sprout and a teeny tiny ray of sunshine begins to unwind it.

I hope you'll give this story a chance because I think you'll find it powerful and gives hope in the end!

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Uplitreads, Kregel Publications and author Janyre Tromp for the gifted physical copy and e-arc of this book to read and review!

The World War 2 invasion of Burma by Imperial Japan is not a period of time that I have ever read about in historical fiction. I was immediately drawn to the synopsis because of this fresh angle for me and also because of the subject of mission work to the people of Burma.

Missionaries are heroes.

Seeing the threat of decimation and destruction of these small mountain villages through the eyes of the missionaries called to this region was emotional and inspirational. John, Kailyn & Ryan’s story is captivating as we watch their love for the Kachin people result in heart pounding acts of self-sacrifice, service and protection. Their impossible calling and journey grows their faith both spiritually and personally, with each other!

This was an absolutely stunning and lyrical book about courage, the difficult act of forgiveness and the even more difficult act to trust in the darkest of times that God’s goodness will always win.

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)

Let me just tell you—WOW. I’ve read other books by this author and have come to expect that they’re going to be fantastic, however this simply surpassed my every expectation and then some. It’s not merely the story of a young woman in a remote Burmese village at the dawn of WWII. It’s an entire novel of poetry. Kai is coming of age in a time where women are largely undervalued, being raised by her father, a missionary embittered by grief who chooses not to see that the world is changing around him. That failure has far reaching effects as the home they love is decimated. Kai’s choices then lead her to a crossroad (interesting thought, that!) where she must choose either to let the anger and despair consume her, or to trust in the Mighty hand that saves. Meanwhile, as she slips further into the jungle, the young missionary working with her father is trying urgently to bring her back to the life that is waiting for her. A beautiful story of a time and place history has forgotten, and no one who reads this book will remain unchanged. I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a positive review.

Janyre Tromp's gripping novel, Darkness Calls the Tiger, plunges readers into the heart of World War II Burma. We meet Kailyn Moran, a missionary's daughter disillusioned with her role, just as war engulfs her peaceful life.
As the Japanese invasion tears through the Burmese countryside, Kailyn forms an alliance with the kind but untested missionary Ryan McDonough. Together, they face the brutality of war firsthand, offering solace to villagers and refugees. However, a devastating loss throws Kailyn into a spiral of vengeance, threatening to consume her.
Tromp masterfully weaves a story of love, faith, and the enduring human spirit against the backdrop of a harrowing historical event. The vivid descriptions transport you to the lush jungles and treacherous mountains of Burma, while the characters' struggles resonate deeply. This is a must-read for those seeking a powerful and emotionally charged historical novel.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

I decided this book was not for me and chose to put it down. It started to feel weird to me to read about this period of time in this country through the eyes of a white Christian missionary. I would have much rather read the perspective of a native.

Darkness Calls the Tiger is the first book I have read written by Janyre Tromp. I look forward to reading some more novels by her. Darkness Calls the Tiger is well written. Though a little dark, it was full of reality of the times.

The character development was great. Slowly evolving throughout the novel. Kailyn and Ryan both have layers to their character. Their harsh pasts effect their lives. And finding themselves in the middle of attacks also affects them, past meeting the present.

The storyline was great. I could really picture myself in the middle of Burma mountains during WWII. The writing interesting. Kailyn’s perspective written in first person and Ryan’s in third person. It gave an interesting dynamic. I will say, this was a little dark and heavy hearted, as are most stories written during war time period. So, it took a lot out of me to read it, but it was very enjoyable.

The relationship between Kailyn and Ryan is sweet. A slow-moving romance. Nothing over the top, nothing too physical. Which I appreciate in a novel. The dynamic of their relationship was more focused on.

Janyre Tromp did an excellent job intertwining faith throughout the book. Looking at the aspects of faith in a difficult time. Also, aspects of mission work. I was encouraged by this book.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.