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Children of the Elementi
From the ashes of an ancient empire, five teenagers must save the future.
Last in line to the Elementi High-King throne, sent through time and space to be brought up in an alien world, he has no knowledge of his past.
As the caretaker of the mysterious Citadel which hosts the dying crystal mind of the Matrix, her air power is the only link to the old world.
A Romani foundling with growing powers over nature, she is searching for a better life away from her criminal past.
They must find the other two heirs and reunite all their elemental powers over earth, air, fire, and water together with the Matrix to defeat the Empire that conquered their parents.
With a fire-demon on his trail, can Jake bring together the last of the Elementi in time?
The room began to smell of sulfur as the being he called fought for its freedom. Sweat broke out on Aras' forehead. His body felt like it was on fire. This was a strong one, or did it show how much he had been weakened by the rise of the Elementi power? An acrid stench filled his nostrils, but he held on. Throwing the last of his energy in, he felt the creature's presence fill the room. In the circle, the Deoc glared at Aras. Its body was made entirely of fire but as Aras watched, the flames flickered and died out. Skin formed over the creature's body, first on its arms and legs. At last its face formed, and it was covered completely in skin. Over this, a robe appeared until a man stood before him with red and gold-flecked eyes.
"What do you want?"
"I need you to kill a boy."
"Why would I do that?" The creature smiled, confident in its power.
"You have no choice."
This is a coming of age, science fiction/fantasy adventure.
When the Atlanteans colonised an alternate dimension in the distant past, five families developed powers using crystals which amplified their fledgling abilities when in contact with a planet-wide crystalline mind known as the Matrix.
Later, the powerful Elementi Empire spanned over a thousand years. Its kings and queens loved and revered by their people and their elemental powers feared by their enemies. One fateful night almost a century ago, the Empire was destroyed by treachery and Magi illusion. All five heirs were thought to be lost... until now.
On present day Earth, Jake has an ordinary life, school,bullies, parties... until he stumbles on an ancient crystal and discovers his adoption and a royal past.
As Jake touches the pendant, the Magi Emperor in Eleria is alerted that not all the Elementi were killed all those years ago. The Emperor summons an evil fire-demon and sends him across the dimensional barrier to hunt and kill the last of the Elementi.
Jake and the other heirs have immense powers but the very abilities which could restore their thrones and remove the invaders could also lead to their undoing.
This debut novel from Ceri Clark, Children of the Elementi is a new addition tothe great fantasy tradition of C. S.Lewis, Anne McCaffrey, Midori Snyder and J.K. Rowling.
Last in line to the Elementi High-King throne, sent through time and space to be brought up in an alien world, he has no knowledge of his past.
As the caretaker of the mysterious Citadel which hosts the dying crystal mind of the Matrix, her air power is the only link to the old world.
A Romani foundling with growing powers over nature, she is searching for a better life away from her criminal past.
They must find the other two heirs and reunite all their elemental powers over earth, air, fire, and water together with the Matrix to defeat the Empire that conquered their parents.
With a fire-demon on his trail, can Jake bring together the last of the Elementi in time?
The room began to smell of sulfur as the being he called fought for its freedom. Sweat broke out on Aras' forehead. His body felt like it was on fire. This was a strong one, or did it show how much he had been weakened by the rise of the Elementi power? An acrid stench filled his nostrils, but he held on. Throwing the last of his energy in, he felt the creature's presence fill the room. In the circle, the Deoc glared at Aras. Its body was made entirely of fire but as Aras watched, the flames flickered and died out. Skin formed over the creature's body, first on its arms and legs. At last its face formed, and it was covered completely in skin. Over this, a robe appeared until a man stood before him with red and gold-flecked eyes.
"What do you want?"
"I need you to kill a boy."
"Why would I do that?" The creature smiled, confident in its power.
"You have no choice."
This is a coming of age, science fiction/fantasy adventure.
When the Atlanteans colonised an alternate dimension in the distant past, five families developed powers using crystals which amplified their fledgling abilities when in contact with a planet-wide crystalline mind known as the Matrix.
Later, the powerful Elementi Empire spanned over a thousand years. Its kings and queens loved and revered by their people and their elemental powers feared by their enemies. One fateful night almost a century ago, the Empire was destroyed by treachery and Magi illusion. All five heirs were thought to be lost... until now.
On present day Earth, Jake has an ordinary life, school,bullies, parties... until he stumbles on an ancient crystal and discovers his adoption and a royal past.
As Jake touches the pendant, the Magi Emperor in Eleria is alerted that not all the Elementi were killed all those years ago. The Emperor summons an evil fire-demon and sends him across the dimensional barrier to hunt and kill the last of the Elementi.
Jake and the other heirs have immense powers but the very abilities which could restore their thrones and remove the invaders could also lead to their undoing.
This debut novel from Ceri Clark, Children of the Elementi is a new addition tothe great fantasy tradition of C. S.Lewis, Anne McCaffrey, Midori Snyder and J.K. Rowling.
186 pages, Paperback
First published October 2, 2010
669 people want to read
About the author
Ceri Clark
80 books26 followersHello, my name is Ceri Clark and I write children’s books, YA and Techie guides for everyone! I am a stay-at-home mother of an energetic 3 year old with no pets apart from the occasional spider which finds its way in. *shudders*
Would you like a free book? I’m giving away free copies of A Simpler Guide to Online Security and my Space: A Minkie Monster Coloring book!
If you would like one (or both) of these free gifts, go to:
COLORING BOOK: http://minkiemonster.com
ONLINE SECURITY: http://cericlark.com
****** Until September 1 (its launch week) I am giving away review copies of Space Puzzles: Minkie Monster and the Birthday Surprise. It is a puzzle/story book aimed at 3-5 year olds. All you have to do to get the free PDF for your little one to print out and puzzle over (and the chance to win prizes) is to register at MinkieMonster.com and choose the Launch friends membership! *******
What books have I written?
Puzzle books for up to 6 years of age:
Simpler Guides:
Secret Password Books:
YA Fantasy:
If you are interested in finding out more about me, keep reading! :)
Ceri Clark’s first book, Children of the Elementi was published in 2011. Since then she has published over 10 books, a couple of which she submitted to Readers’ Favorite and received 5 star reviews!
She lives in Wales in the UK with her husband and son. Although she has written several books, her heart lies with children's books.
She created Minkie Monster after playing around with a drawing app on her tablet. Her toddler (at the time) loved the character so much she began to tell stories about him and his naughty friend Bob. Visit http://minkiemonster.com to find out more about Minkie and Bob and the adventures they go through.
Would you like a free book? I’m giving away free copies of A Simpler Guide to Online Security and my Space: A Minkie Monster Coloring book!
If you would like one (or both) of these free gifts, go to:
COLORING BOOK: http://minkiemonster.com
ONLINE SECURITY: http://cericlark.com
****** Until September 1 (its launch week) I am giving away review copies of Space Puzzles: Minkie Monster and the Birthday Surprise. It is a puzzle/story book aimed at 3-5 year olds. All you have to do to get the free PDF for your little one to print out and puzzle over (and the chance to win prizes) is to register at MinkieMonster.com and choose the Launch friends membership! *******
What books have I written?
Puzzle books for up to 6 years of age:
Simpler Guides:
Secret Password Books:
YA Fantasy:
If you are interested in finding out more about me, keep reading! :)
Ceri Clark’s first book, Children of the Elementi was published in 2011. Since then she has published over 10 books, a couple of which she submitted to Readers’ Favorite and received 5 star reviews!
She lives in Wales in the UK with her husband and son. Although she has written several books, her heart lies with children's books.
She created Minkie Monster after playing around with a drawing app on her tablet. Her toddler (at the time) loved the character so much she began to tell stories about him and his naughty friend Bob. Visit http://minkiemonster.com to find out more about Minkie and Bob and the adventures they go through.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 19, 2011
If I had to describe this book in two words, I think I'd say: "Densely Packed". There's a little bit of everything in this book: Alternate worlds, mythical themes, magical creatures, exotic abilities etc. etc. etc. A huge, epic tale with high stakes.
But while there's much to see and learn, things are explained and demonstrated clearly and logically by the characters so the reader never feels overwhelmed. Also, the use of settings and characters from our world ease the transition to the richly imagined world of Eleria. By the end of the first act, so many characters and conflicts had been introduced that the reader has no choice but to wonder where it's all going and how it will all tie together, but from there it charges like a freight train until everything does come together nicely.
One of the highlights to me was the attention to detail that the author exhibited. Abilities (and perhaps more importantly restrictions) are clearly defined and explained throughout the narrative and there were many moments that I found myself loving the small anecdotes and incidents that were very clever and made complete sense in the context of the story.
Overall a lot of great elements all coming together but in a relatively short book. My only disappointment was that wanted to keep reading after I had reached the end.
But while there's much to see and learn, things are explained and demonstrated clearly and logically by the characters so the reader never feels overwhelmed. Also, the use of settings and characters from our world ease the transition to the richly imagined world of Eleria. By the end of the first act, so many characters and conflicts had been introduced that the reader has no choice but to wonder where it's all going and how it will all tie together, but from there it charges like a freight train until everything does come together nicely.
One of the highlights to me was the attention to detail that the author exhibited. Abilities (and perhaps more importantly restrictions) are clearly defined and explained throughout the narrative and there were many moments that I found myself loving the small anecdotes and incidents that were very clever and made complete sense in the context of the story.
Overall a lot of great elements all coming together but in a relatively short book. My only disappointment was that wanted to keep reading after I had reached the end.
June 18, 2011
Children of the Elementi (Elerian Chronicles), by Ceri Clark
The Blurb:
From the ashes of an ancient empire, five must save the future.
Jake: Last in line to the Elementi High King throne, sent through time and space to be brought up in an alien world, he has no knowledge of his past.
Mirim: As the caretaker of the mysterious Citadel which hosts the dying crystal mind of the Matrix, her air power is the only link to the old world.
Kiera: A Romani foundling with growing powers over nature, she is searching for a better life away from her criminal past.
They must find the other two heirs and reunite all their elemental powers over earth, air, fire, and water together with the Matrix to defeat the Empire that conquered their parents.
With a fire demon on his trail, can Jake bring together the last of the Elementi in time?
My Review:
In Children of the Elementi, UK author Ceri Clark has written a modern fantasy that manages to create a place in today's world for magic.
This story starts out with action-packed adventure and does not quit until the end. The twists and turns are quite unexpected, but all are well written and make complete sense. The powers and abilities that the characters have are not unlimited. There are rules and consequences for using that power and using it draws the notice of the Magi. This creates the tension and keeps the plot moving at a fast gallop.
Jake’s parents passed away, and he is living with his aunt and uncle; a situation that is less than ideal as his uncle is not a nice man. Jake knows that he can do some things that are akin to magic, but he keeps his knowledge close to himself. His ability to read minds has been both a blessing and a curse; and he has some control over fire. One day he reads in his Aunt’s mind that he was actually adopted. When he searches their home for the papers that prove this, he also finds a crystal on a chain that is from his birth parents.
He has excellent skills with the internet, but when he puts the crystal around his neck his ability to use the internet is transformed exponentially. An incident occurs at school during which he inadvertently uses his powers. This alerts Mirrim, who has been looking for him, to get him to safety. With Mirrim, Jake embarks on a series of adventures that will eventually reunite him with all four of the other Children of the Elementi.
I love the basis of Clark’s universe, and the logic that went into creating it. The Elementi originally gained their powers through a close association with an immense, crystalline power source called the Matrix. This is a creation of an even older society and is, among other things, an uber-internet created from living crystal. The Matrix has access to an immense knowledge base and gains knowledge at every opportunity. It is linked to certain crystals that each of the hidden children can use. Members of the Elementi can tap into the Matrix with their minds and have other unique powers related to their family’s particular element that they can use IF they know how.
This melding of science fiction with magic is both intriguing and original.
The Blurb:
From the ashes of an ancient empire, five must save the future.
Jake: Last in line to the Elementi High King throne, sent through time and space to be brought up in an alien world, he has no knowledge of his past.
Mirim: As the caretaker of the mysterious Citadel which hosts the dying crystal mind of the Matrix, her air power is the only link to the old world.
Kiera: A Romani foundling with growing powers over nature, she is searching for a better life away from her criminal past.
They must find the other two heirs and reunite all their elemental powers over earth, air, fire, and water together with the Matrix to defeat the Empire that conquered their parents.
With a fire demon on his trail, can Jake bring together the last of the Elementi in time?
My Review:
In Children of the Elementi, UK author Ceri Clark has written a modern fantasy that manages to create a place in today's world for magic.
This story starts out with action-packed adventure and does not quit until the end. The twists and turns are quite unexpected, but all are well written and make complete sense. The powers and abilities that the characters have are not unlimited. There are rules and consequences for using that power and using it draws the notice of the Magi. This creates the tension and keeps the plot moving at a fast gallop.
Jake’s parents passed away, and he is living with his aunt and uncle; a situation that is less than ideal as his uncle is not a nice man. Jake knows that he can do some things that are akin to magic, but he keeps his knowledge close to himself. His ability to read minds has been both a blessing and a curse; and he has some control over fire. One day he reads in his Aunt’s mind that he was actually adopted. When he searches their home for the papers that prove this, he also finds a crystal on a chain that is from his birth parents.
He has excellent skills with the internet, but when he puts the crystal around his neck his ability to use the internet is transformed exponentially. An incident occurs at school during which he inadvertently uses his powers. This alerts Mirrim, who has been looking for him, to get him to safety. With Mirrim, Jake embarks on a series of adventures that will eventually reunite him with all four of the other Children of the Elementi.
I love the basis of Clark’s universe, and the logic that went into creating it. The Elementi originally gained their powers through a close association with an immense, crystalline power source called the Matrix. This is a creation of an even older society and is, among other things, an uber-internet created from living crystal. The Matrix has access to an immense knowledge base and gains knowledge at every opportunity. It is linked to certain crystals that each of the hidden children can use. Members of the Elementi can tap into the Matrix with their minds and have other unique powers related to their family’s particular element that they can use IF they know how.
This melding of science fiction with magic is both intriguing and original.
September 4, 2011
I got this book free of charge from the LibraryThing Early Reviewer's program for my honest review.
From Goodreads: "When Jake discovers he is adopted it is the least of his worries. Now he has to learn how to control his growing powers over the elements of air, earth, fire and water. Not only that but the fate of Eleria rests in his hands. Without the other lost children he will stand no chance against the Elerian Emperor, who must find and kill Jake, or die himself."
I can honestly say that this book starts off with a bang and never slows down! The action is constant and it definitely keeps you turning the pages! There are five Children of the Elementi, who represent air, fire, water, earth, and spirit. They were sent away from the kingdom of Eleri when they were very young to save their lives. Most of them were sent to Earth 100 years in the future. One of them, Jake, is the High King now, and as soon as he realizes his power with the help of his crystal (which all 5 of them have), all of the other Children are linked together through the Matrix, and called upon to help protect Eleri from the evil Magi. This is a very simplified synopsis, of course! Ceri Clark gives a little back story on all five of the Children of the Elementi so you can understand each one's part in the whole.
This book is a very easy read - seriously, I read it in less than one day! Pick a time when you can read the entire book because trust me, you will not want to put it down once you start it! Even with all the background given, the story never slows down, and you never get bored. If I had one complaint it would be that the book should have been a little bit longer so we might have had a little bit more time to feel invested in each character. Some characters felt like they were more sympathetic than others, because I think they were given a better set up. One character was well fleshed out, and then pretty much dropped when the five children come together. And the book ended very abruptly, which I guess was to set up the next book, but I would have preferred that the ending was a bit more drawn out to give you time to breathe after the big climax, instead of just stopping. But these are minor concerns in the big picture. The book was great!
In summary - great story, great characters, and awesome flow! An abrupt ending, maybe, but it definitely leaves you wanting more, and soon, please!!
I recommend this book to anyone who loves YA fantasy :D
From Goodreads: "When Jake discovers he is adopted it is the least of his worries. Now he has to learn how to control his growing powers over the elements of air, earth, fire and water. Not only that but the fate of Eleria rests in his hands. Without the other lost children he will stand no chance against the Elerian Emperor, who must find and kill Jake, or die himself."
I can honestly say that this book starts off with a bang and never slows down! The action is constant and it definitely keeps you turning the pages! There are five Children of the Elementi, who represent air, fire, water, earth, and spirit. They were sent away from the kingdom of Eleri when they were very young to save their lives. Most of them were sent to Earth 100 years in the future. One of them, Jake, is the High King now, and as soon as he realizes his power with the help of his crystal (which all 5 of them have), all of the other Children are linked together through the Matrix, and called upon to help protect Eleri from the evil Magi. This is a very simplified synopsis, of course! Ceri Clark gives a little back story on all five of the Children of the Elementi so you can understand each one's part in the whole.
This book is a very easy read - seriously, I read it in less than one day! Pick a time when you can read the entire book because trust me, you will not want to put it down once you start it! Even with all the background given, the story never slows down, and you never get bored. If I had one complaint it would be that the book should have been a little bit longer so we might have had a little bit more time to feel invested in each character. Some characters felt like they were more sympathetic than others, because I think they were given a better set up. One character was well fleshed out, and then pretty much dropped when the five children come together. And the book ended very abruptly, which I guess was to set up the next book, but I would have preferred that the ending was a bit more drawn out to give you time to breathe after the big climax, instead of just stopping. But these are minor concerns in the big picture. The book was great!
In summary - great story, great characters, and awesome flow! An abrupt ending, maybe, but it definitely leaves you wanting more, and soon, please!!
I recommend this book to anyone who loves YA fantasy :D
March 25, 2011
The premise of this story reminded me a lot of an old WB-11 television show called Roswell: a developed nation is brutally taken over, and children with superpowers are sent to Earth for their own protection. The catch here, however, is that instead of crossing through outer space, the Elementi children pass through dimensions and time.
The book primarily focuses on the High King's discovery of his powers and his search for the rulers of air, water, fire, and earth. Background stories are given for each Elementi, however, and I found that I actually enjoyed those the most. Shenella's history was particularly touching, and it showed both her tender heart and strong will. In fact she, not Jake or Aras, was the most well-developed character in the book, with nuances and contradictions that were not present in the others.
Kiera's past was equally engrossing, but her personality all but vanished after she joined up with Mirim and Jake. The light hand with which the author delicately drew Shenella was absent with the other characters, particularly Mirim, whose harsh outline was formed with all the subtlety of a sledgehammer crashing through the floor. She and Jake were one-dimensional, and the one-line descriptions that Kiera made to resolve their argument effectively summed them up. The resolution of the conflict between them was simplistic, the stilted dialogue something I would expect to see in a book geared towards early readers and not middle grade.
Perhaps there would have been more room for character development had the story moved at a slower pace. Most of the book was rushed, and the text itself was often repetitively worded (and poorly punctuated). There was no time for me to absorb all of the revelations being made about the crystals and the Elementi, which makes me wonder how the heroes picked up on the proper use of the Matrix — yes, the Matrix — so easily. Personally, I felt a bit lost.
Children of the Elementi tries very hard to tell a fantastical coming-of-age tale. The delivery, however, left me wanting.
Stimulated Outlet Book Reviews
(Review copy provided by the author)
The book primarily focuses on the High King's discovery of his powers and his search for the rulers of air, water, fire, and earth. Background stories are given for each Elementi, however, and I found that I actually enjoyed those the most. Shenella's history was particularly touching, and it showed both her tender heart and strong will. In fact she, not Jake or Aras, was the most well-developed character in the book, with nuances and contradictions that were not present in the others.
Kiera's past was equally engrossing, but her personality all but vanished after she joined up with Mirim and Jake. The light hand with which the author delicately drew Shenella was absent with the other characters, particularly Mirim, whose harsh outline was formed with all the subtlety of a sledgehammer crashing through the floor. She and Jake were one-dimensional, and the one-line descriptions that Kiera made to resolve their argument effectively summed them up. The resolution of the conflict between them was simplistic, the stilted dialogue something I would expect to see in a book geared towards early readers and not middle grade.
Perhaps there would have been more room for character development had the story moved at a slower pace. Most of the book was rushed, and the text itself was often repetitively worded (and poorly punctuated). There was no time for me to absorb all of the revelations being made about the crystals and the Elementi, which makes me wonder how the heroes picked up on the proper use of the Matrix — yes, the Matrix — so easily. Personally, I felt a bit lost.
Children of the Elementi tries very hard to tell a fantastical coming-of-age tale. The delivery, however, left me wanting.
Stimulated Outlet Book Reviews
(Review copy provided by the author)
February 10, 2012
originally appeared on:Bookshelf Confessions
*I won a free copy of this e-book in a LibraryThing Member Giveaway*
a great fantasy sci-fi read of which the writing of the author are greatly crafted with passion and intelligence.
The story is somewhat common(well, for me, teenagers saving the world, though in this one its another world), but still the author manages to make the story interesting and compelling.
The plot and situations are super intense that you would turn pages by pages of the book (or in my case an ebook). the characters are well-developed, intertwined and with outstanding-characteristics.Ceri Clark wonderful tells us the story of young adults and then takes us to a breathtaking new world which would capture our sympathy and passion..
Great book!
Smouldering in the circle the Deoc glared malevolently at Aras. Its body was made entirely of fire but as Aras watched, the flames rescinded. Skin formed over the creature's body. First its arms and legs, then its face before it was covered completely in skin. Over this, a robe formed until a man stood before him with red and gold-flecked eyes.
'What do you want?'
'I need you to kill a boy.'
'Why would I do that?' The creature smiled, confident in its power.
'You have no choice.'
The powerful Elementi Empire spanned over a thousand years, its kings and queens loved and revered by their people and their elemental powers feared by their enemies. One fateful night almost a century ago, the Empire was destroyed by treachery and Magi illusion. All five heirs were thought to be lost... until now.
On present day Earth, Jake has an ordinary life, school, bullies, parties... until he stumbles on an ancient crystal and discovers his adoption and a royal past.
As Jake touches the pendant, the Magi Emperor in Eleria is alerted that not all the Elementi were killed all those years ago. The Emperor summons an evil fire demon and sends him across the dimensional barrier to hunt and kill the last of the Elementi.
Can Jake learn to control his growing elemental powers and reunite the other lost children in time?
*I won a free copy of this e-book in a LibraryThing Member Giveaway*
a great fantasy sci-fi read of which the writing of the author are greatly crafted with passion and intelligence.
The story is somewhat common(well, for me, teenagers saving the world, though in this one its another world), but still the author manages to make the story interesting and compelling.
The plot and situations are super intense that you would turn pages by pages of the book (or in my case an ebook). the characters are well-developed, intertwined and with outstanding-characteristics.Ceri Clark wonderful tells us the story of young adults and then takes us to a breathtaking new world which would capture our sympathy and passion..
Great book!
Smouldering in the circle the Deoc glared malevolently at Aras. Its body was made entirely of fire but as Aras watched, the flames rescinded. Skin formed over the creature's body. First its arms and legs, then its face before it was covered completely in skin. Over this, a robe formed until a man stood before him with red and gold-flecked eyes.
'What do you want?'
'I need you to kill a boy.'
'Why would I do that?' The creature smiled, confident in its power.
'You have no choice.'
The powerful Elementi Empire spanned over a thousand years, its kings and queens loved and revered by their people and their elemental powers feared by their enemies. One fateful night almost a century ago, the Empire was destroyed by treachery and Magi illusion. All five heirs were thought to be lost... until now.
On present day Earth, Jake has an ordinary life, school, bullies, parties... until he stumbles on an ancient crystal and discovers his adoption and a royal past.
As Jake touches the pendant, the Magi Emperor in Eleria is alerted that not all the Elementi were killed all those years ago. The Emperor summons an evil fire demon and sends him across the dimensional barrier to hunt and kill the last of the Elementi.
Can Jake learn to control his growing elemental powers and reunite the other lost children in time?
March 18, 2011
It’s difficult enough to just be a teenager anymore, but what if you’re told that you are a king/queen from another world?
This fantasy/sci-fi story follows the quest to overthrow the evil Magi and restore the Elementi to power by reuniting the children of the Elementi, teenagers who have control over the elements: fire, air, water, earth, and in this book, spirit.
Most of the kids are residents of our world, hidden here when they were very young. Some were still living on Eleria, oblivious of their heritage. When the one of the kids determines the other heirs are coming of age and starting to tap into their powers, she takes it upon herself to search them out. One by one they are found and drawn together to complete their destiny.
I liked this book, and would recommend it to anyone that likes a good fantasy story with a lot of sci-fi thrown in. However, I would make a recommendation to future readers. Dedicate some time to read this. Try not to put it down too much. Speaking from experience, I would pick this book up, read a chapter or two, then put it down later, and not come back to it for a day or two. Then, when I started to read it again, I found that I had to backtrack quite a bit so that I could follow along again. The longer I read at one outing, the easier it was.
I found it a little odd that kids that were raised as normal teenagers could accept and master their new powers that fast. I would have liked to see more detail as how the Matrix worked and how the new heirs were able to interact with it that easily. One explanation could be, maybe, that more time had elapsed than I thought.
Either way, I always appreciate a good book where I can easily picture the scene in my head, which I was able to do. I’ve been reading so many fantasy stories that it was nice to see some sci-fi thrown in. Makes me realize how much I love this genre.
This fantasy/sci-fi story follows the quest to overthrow the evil Magi and restore the Elementi to power by reuniting the children of the Elementi, teenagers who have control over the elements: fire, air, water, earth, and in this book, spirit.
Most of the kids are residents of our world, hidden here when they were very young. Some were still living on Eleria, oblivious of their heritage. When the one of the kids determines the other heirs are coming of age and starting to tap into their powers, she takes it upon herself to search them out. One by one they are found and drawn together to complete their destiny.
I liked this book, and would recommend it to anyone that likes a good fantasy story with a lot of sci-fi thrown in. However, I would make a recommendation to future readers. Dedicate some time to read this. Try not to put it down too much. Speaking from experience, I would pick this book up, read a chapter or two, then put it down later, and not come back to it for a day or two. Then, when I started to read it again, I found that I had to backtrack quite a bit so that I could follow along again. The longer I read at one outing, the easier it was.
I found it a little odd that kids that were raised as normal teenagers could accept and master their new powers that fast. I would have liked to see more detail as how the Matrix worked and how the new heirs were able to interact with it that easily. One explanation could be, maybe, that more time had elapsed than I thought.
Either way, I always appreciate a good book where I can easily picture the scene in my head, which I was able to do. I’ve been reading so many fantasy stories that it was nice to see some sci-fi thrown in. Makes me realize how much I love this genre.
April 7, 2017
The Elementi Empire is destroyed and five young children are escorted to safety and hidden away so that they can never be found. The children are descendents from the families of Firellis, Ariels, Aquels, Terills, and Omnax. Each family has a power; Fire, Air, Water, Earth and Spirit.
When fourteen year old Jake discovers the white crystal and a letter from his parents, he is shocked to learn of his heritage. The moment he uses the power of the crystal it alerts Mirim, the Air Queen and caretaker of the Citadel, as well as the pretend Emperor, Aras, of his existence. Aras is half Elementi and half Magi, and the more powerful Jake becomes, the weaker Aras becomes, so needless to say, Aras wants Jake dead.
This leads to Mirim travelling inter-dimensionally to find Jake and then together they find the other children of the Elementi. (I could mention their names here, but the last one is a shocker, and I do not want to spoil your reading pleasure).
I found this story so absorbing and well-written that I read it in one sitting - I could not tear myself away from the screen! The story is action packed, and explains everything in such brilliant detail that I actually felt included, as if I was looking in onto their world.
I bought this e-book month's ago, and I remember that I initially bought it, because I liked the cover. Somehow it got `mislaid' on my Kindle for PC and in an effort to tidy up, I found it again. I am so glad I did!
When fourteen year old Jake discovers the white crystal and a letter from his parents, he is shocked to learn of his heritage. The moment he uses the power of the crystal it alerts Mirim, the Air Queen and caretaker of the Citadel, as well as the pretend Emperor, Aras, of his existence. Aras is half Elementi and half Magi, and the more powerful Jake becomes, the weaker Aras becomes, so needless to say, Aras wants Jake dead.
This leads to Mirim travelling inter-dimensionally to find Jake and then together they find the other children of the Elementi. (I could mention their names here, but the last one is a shocker, and I do not want to spoil your reading pleasure).
I found this story so absorbing and well-written that I read it in one sitting - I could not tear myself away from the screen! The story is action packed, and explains everything in such brilliant detail that I actually felt included, as if I was looking in onto their world.
I bought this e-book month's ago, and I remember that I initially bought it, because I liked the cover. Somehow it got `mislaid' on my Kindle for PC and in an effort to tidy up, I found it again. I am so glad I did!
February 1, 2017
Earth, Air, Fire, Water, Heart! Yes, you could hear me singing the Captain Planet theme each time Miriam so much as mentioned the elements. (Not to mention the crystals that each of the kids had to focus their powers were very akin to the rings that the kids in Captain Planet used to focus their element powers, too). It also reminded me of the anime Avatar: The Last Airbender. But then commanding the elements seems to be a common theme nowadays. The story itself was a fun read, solid adventure, and would appeal to both boys as well as girls (if not more to boys since the strongest female character was bossy and irritating). I did adore the imagination that went into creating the underwater dwelling of the Mer-people. The largest issue I had with this was the constant explaining of things and over-complicated rules of the magic of the fantasy world and the fact that the characters were either good or bad. There was no middle ground or having a character grow and change sides or crumble under pressure and turn to a different side. There was also really no wondering if a character was going to go good since the evil people were all obviously evil -but then I suppose that might be expected of the intended young audience, but who would most likely bore fast with the over technical explanations, but they’d definitely have gotten a kick out of the scene of Jake just discovering his power, and most certainly the fighting near the end).
October 28, 2011
I really enjoyed this book and would't hesitate giving it to any young adults to read. One of the things I found after I completed the book was that it stuck with me, I wondered what was happening while I was away.
The ending seemed very abrupt and I would like to see that smoothed out. I think the characters will be further developed as the series continues. I do see this as a series, because we have been introduced to a new world, fully developed and new characters that should be slowly developed as the saga continues. If this is meant as a stand alone, I have to say I will be disappointed.
All in all a enjoyable read, with characters to care about.
The ending seemed very abrupt and I would like to see that smoothed out. I think the characters will be further developed as the series continues. I do see this as a series, because we have been introduced to a new world, fully developed and new characters that should be slowly developed as the saga continues. If this is meant as a stand alone, I have to say I will be disappointed.
All in all a enjoyable read, with characters to care about.
November 9, 2011
Great story of good versus evil, but with a different twist.
Taking their strengths from nature, fire, wind, water and earth, plus one unifying force, 5 people from different dimenstions join together to combat another power looking to take control. These 5 have never met before, seeing as how their homeworld was destroyed many years earlier. These 5 are direct descendants of the original owners of the crystals, each with it’s own ability. They were scattered in the hope of reuniting to join their forces to bring the Elementi back in control, away from the Magi.
Taking their strengths from nature, fire, wind, water and earth, plus one unifying force, 5 people from different dimenstions join together to combat another power looking to take control. These 5 have never met before, seeing as how their homeworld was destroyed many years earlier. These 5 are direct descendants of the original owners of the crystals, each with it’s own ability. They were scattered in the hope of reuniting to join their forces to bring the Elementi back in control, away from the Magi.
November 16, 2012
Interesting concept, but it was not executed well. The abrupt writing and uneven pacing made the story difficult to read. Things moved way too fast with no explanation for example - The kids were raised as regular earth teenagers and then one day an alien appears and tells them they are from another dimension. And as if that is not enough they are royalty with special powers and are needed to save the alternate world they are from. The kids just say okay and accept it as if things like that happen every day. Unbelievable!!! I needed more details and character development.
April 24, 2015
Children of the Elementi starts as an alternate universe story and combines it with coming of age themes. The mix works well, as do the characters and the Elementi/Magi clash. I enjoyed the settings the kids found themselves in, and wouldn't mind learning more about them. The ending refreshingly actually is an ending, although it leaves open the possibility of a sequel. I would definitely recommend this to my 11 year old grandson.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in order to review it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in order to review it.
October 7, 2011
Children of the Elementi has a lot of promise. The premise is excellent. This is a great fantasy for YA readers. I love that Ceri Clark was able to write a story for youth that is appropriate for the age. The only thing that I wish I could have seen more of in this book is character development. I enjoyed the story and would love to continue on with this group of characters, I would just like to learn more about them and empathize with them.
July 3, 2016
With a mixture of science fiction and fantasy, children with special power that are enhanced through contact with specific crystals must face several challenges to save children lost between two worlds. The plot is a bit rushed as they move from crisis to crisis. This limited how well the characters develop and opened the story to skepticisms. Youth looking for a quick read and a little adventure will enjoy the ingenuous characters.
April 24, 2013
It was an okay book. It has a great plot and great characters. The problem is you don't get to dwell on that great plot, you don't get to fully know the characters. I felt that it was a bit rushed to the point that things are not well explained. But I would love to read a sequel. It ended in a cliff-hanger, not knowing what will happen to Eleria.
April 28, 2012
Not a bad start but the story needs more character development.Interesting premis just didn't get enough time to give a hoot about any of the characters. I do like the idea of the elements and look forward to reading any books that may follow. All in all, not a bad way to spend an afternoon in the sun.
January 8, 2014
When I 1st started reading this (my 1st goodreads book) it reminded me of a movie I saw a couple of years ago. I think it was called "I am # 4". I enjoy reading before bed and this is definitely one not to do that with because it is a..... just one more page.... This is one book that I will pass on to my other fantasy readers. Good job Ceri.
January 15, 2014
Being from the Black Continent myself I found Children of the Elementi by Ceri Clark to be quite an addicting read. The characters are very well developed and you feel a connection with them. The plot is faced paced and full of twists and it easy to read. I totally recommend this book and look forward to reading more from Clark. Received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
August 27, 2011
Great book. Be warned though, it gets going quickly.
Go to my blog to see more.
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Go to my blog to see more.
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