The Legend of the Firefish (Trophy Chase Trilogy)

George Bryan Polivka
Harvest House Publishers (2007)
ISBN 0736919562
Reviewed by Lori Plach for Reader Views (4/07)

Just sit right back and you'll read a tale, a tale of a fateful ship. Packer Throme—a failed seminarian turns brilliant swordsman—sets out on a great quest.He is looking to honor God by stowing away on (former) pirate Scatter Wilkins's ship “Trophy Chase.” “He tries to encourage the captain and the crew to seek the firefish, which is no easy task. Accomplishing catching the feat would certainly bring prosperity rather than poverty to his fishing villages. The payoff for him would be winning the heart of the beautiful Panna Seline, who he has been in love with for a very long time.” There are frequent sword fights in this book which only add to the whole theme and setting of the book. The author has given Panna, a strong personality as well as a mighty right hook in her part of the adventure. This is not just a book where there is a damsel who is weak and afraid to stand up for herself. Panna reflects angrily about the plight of women. The combination of being a romance novel with Panna and Packer is packed with high seas adventure.

There are so many scenes on the ship where the readers will be able to see similarities between some of Packer's trials and Jesus Christ's. Packer needs to hold onto his faith regardless of what is dealt his way and keep on the narrow path. He believes that great is his reward at the end of his journey. Although "The Legend of the Firefish" is a fantasy tale there are plenty of places throughout the novel which will build up faith. The imagery in this novel gives way to similarities with C.S. Lewis in its imagery.

"The Legend of the Firefish" is an excellent book for children and adults. The story is captivating and will keep you on the edge of your seat. I had a very difficult time laying this book down before reading the last word of the book. Yet the story is not all told. I'm excited to know that "The Legend of the Firefish" is the first of a trilogy. George Bryan Polivka is an outstanding author who has a gift for writing and showing faith in his work. I can't wait to read the second book in the Trophy Chase Trilogy!

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