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Elements: The Beginning
Destiny brought them into this world to save mankind and malevolent forces will stop at nothing in order to annihilate them. Born with extraordinary powers, fraternal twins Gage and Talon Thorn learn how to control their mystical abilities. Tragedy strikes the family and their ordinary father Gable is forced to raise them on his own. Pain and loss encompass the Thorns as they persevere to live a normal life in a place determined to destroy their happiness. Soon their incredible gifts need proper nurturing and Gable recruits a special group of people to help in their upbringing. A sassy, tenacious nanny named Leia and an eccentric unorthodox warrior named Maui complete the dream team of mentors to aid in the complexity of their lives. The brothers are determined to protect the family that has sacrificed so much for their sake. Evil, wicked forces lurk in the shadows and the boys are in danger if they don't learn how to control their unique talents. Humanity rests in the hands of the young brothers as they embark on an epic adventure to save mankind from the dark Emperor.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published April 18, 2011
1 person is currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Kate Fuentes
2 books15 followersWriting is my passion and having the opportunity to follow my dream of creating a YA fantasy series is phenomenal! I love to write from deep within my imagination and cross the lines of fantasy and reality more times than an adult should be able to do without getting into trouble.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
March 31, 2013
Review Posted on Reading Lark 3/1/13:
http://readinglark.blogspot.com/2013/...
Elements has many intriguing elements: connections to the Maori and Irish, powerful twins who have a strong connection to fire and water, a mother's love that transcends rational thought, and a bond between brothers that can never be broken. This should have been a phenomenal read. It has so much potential! Sadly, that potential was plagued by simplistic writing, grammar issues, and mechanics mistakes. A good editor could have fixed a large majority of these issues. I tried really hard to overlook them, but within the first few chapters "your" had been used instead of "you're" and an apostrophe was notably absent for a possessive noun. These are simple mistakes that I do not expect to see in a published book. Many readers will be able to overlook these elements and still enjoy the book, but I was not one of those sorts. Poor editing is a pet peeve of mine.
I also struggled reading this one from time to time because of the abrupt time shifts. They happened with no warning and no transitions. One moment we were celebrating the twins birthday and the next they were training. I had to do some rereading to figure out the scene had shifted and just forgot to clue me in. It happened repeatedly throughout this read. Eventually, I knew to expect it and the experience became less disorienting but was still a barrier to my enjoyment. Reading is an escape for me, but this novel felt like work.
One thing I did enjoy about this novel was the setting. The story begins in Montana, but that is just a brief blip. The majority of the story takes place in the gorgeous countryside of New Zealand. I enjoyed watching the action unfold in this rugged terrain and truly loved the connection to the Maori culture. These elements were certainly highlights of this novel for me.
In addition, I really loved the preface. I wish the entire novel had been more like the opening pages.
All in all, if you're a fan of fantasy novels, I'd recommend this one if you can ignore some of the writing issues. It's an easy, fast read with some interesting lore and a wicked villain.
One Last Gripe: I never formed a connection with any of the characters.
My Favorite Thing About This Book: I loved the Irish connection.
First Sentence: The morning began as any other day, breakfast to be made, chores to be done, and livestock to feed.
Favorite Character: Jacquelyn
Least Favorite Character: Leia - something about her annoyed me
http://readinglark.blogspot.com/2013/...
Elements has many intriguing elements: connections to the Maori and Irish, powerful twins who have a strong connection to fire and water, a mother's love that transcends rational thought, and a bond between brothers that can never be broken. This should have been a phenomenal read. It has so much potential! Sadly, that potential was plagued by simplistic writing, grammar issues, and mechanics mistakes. A good editor could have fixed a large majority of these issues. I tried really hard to overlook them, but within the first few chapters "your" had been used instead of "you're" and an apostrophe was notably absent for a possessive noun. These are simple mistakes that I do not expect to see in a published book. Many readers will be able to overlook these elements and still enjoy the book, but I was not one of those sorts. Poor editing is a pet peeve of mine.
I also struggled reading this one from time to time because of the abrupt time shifts. They happened with no warning and no transitions. One moment we were celebrating the twins birthday and the next they were training. I had to do some rereading to figure out the scene had shifted and just forgot to clue me in. It happened repeatedly throughout this read. Eventually, I knew to expect it and the experience became less disorienting but was still a barrier to my enjoyment. Reading is an escape for me, but this novel felt like work.
One thing I did enjoy about this novel was the setting. The story begins in Montana, but that is just a brief blip. The majority of the story takes place in the gorgeous countryside of New Zealand. I enjoyed watching the action unfold in this rugged terrain and truly loved the connection to the Maori culture. These elements were certainly highlights of this novel for me.
In addition, I really loved the preface. I wish the entire novel had been more like the opening pages.
All in all, if you're a fan of fantasy novels, I'd recommend this one if you can ignore some of the writing issues. It's an easy, fast read with some interesting lore and a wicked villain.
One Last Gripe: I never formed a connection with any of the characters.
My Favorite Thing About This Book: I loved the Irish connection.
First Sentence: The morning began as any other day, breakfast to be made, chores to be done, and livestock to feed.
Favorite Character: Jacquelyn
Least Favorite Character: Leia - something about her annoyed me
May 22, 2012
Title: Elements: The Beginning
Author: Kate Fuentes
Publisher: Dreampath Books
Number of Pages: 240
Date of Release: April, 18th 2011
Summary From Goodreads:
Destiny brought them into this world to save mankind and malevolent forces will stop at nothing in order to annihilate them.
Born with extraordinary powers, fraternal twins Gage and Talon Thorn learn how to control their mystical abilities. Tragedy strikes the family and their ordinary father Gable is forced to raise them on his own. Pain and loss encompass the Thorns as they persevere to live a normal life in a place determined to destroy their happiness.
Soon their incredible gifts need proper nurturing and Gable recruits a special group of people to help in their upbringing. A sassy, tenacious nanny named Leia and an eccentric unorthodox warrior named Maui complete the dream team of mentors to aid in the complexity of their lives.
Evil, wicked forces lurk in the shadows and the boys are in danger if they don't learn how to control their unique talents and harness their elemental powers. Humanity rests in the hands of the young brothers as they embark on an epic adventure to save mankind from the dark emperor.
Review: It’s easy to get lost in the world building involved in fantasy novels. I am pleased to say though that I never, not once, was confused or board with the setting Kate Fuentes has created.
The only kind of issue I had with the novel was the prologue. Which I loved, but the birth scene wasn’t totally accurate. I mean there was no cutting of umbilical cords mentioned. I don’t know why it bothers me, it seems really picky.
Gage and Talon were born with incredible powers. They are raised in their fathers ever present heart ache over their mothers loss. It was interesting reading their story and then trying to figure out before them which choices they would make. Their ever present sense of love, loss and hope was something I loved reading about.
While at times, the action was tense and fast. There were other times where it slowed down and it kept the novel from becoming too predictable. Kate Fuentes, from the very beginning was able to write into her words a sense of love and warmth, and I haven’t read anything like it before. Truly original, definitely a novel and author to keep your eye on!
Author: Kate Fuentes
Publisher: Dreampath Books
Number of Pages: 240
Date of Release: April, 18th 2011
Summary From Goodreads:
Destiny brought them into this world to save mankind and malevolent forces will stop at nothing in order to annihilate them.
Born with extraordinary powers, fraternal twins Gage and Talon Thorn learn how to control their mystical abilities. Tragedy strikes the family and their ordinary father Gable is forced to raise them on his own. Pain and loss encompass the Thorns as they persevere to live a normal life in a place determined to destroy their happiness.
Soon their incredible gifts need proper nurturing and Gable recruits a special group of people to help in their upbringing. A sassy, tenacious nanny named Leia and an eccentric unorthodox warrior named Maui complete the dream team of mentors to aid in the complexity of their lives.
Evil, wicked forces lurk in the shadows and the boys are in danger if they don't learn how to control their unique talents and harness their elemental powers. Humanity rests in the hands of the young brothers as they embark on an epic adventure to save mankind from the dark emperor.
Review: It’s easy to get lost in the world building involved in fantasy novels. I am pleased to say though that I never, not once, was confused or board with the setting Kate Fuentes has created.
The only kind of issue I had with the novel was the prologue. Which I loved, but the birth scene wasn’t totally accurate. I mean there was no cutting of umbilical cords mentioned. I don’t know why it bothers me, it seems really picky.
Gage and Talon were born with incredible powers. They are raised in their fathers ever present heart ache over their mothers loss. It was interesting reading their story and then trying to figure out before them which choices they would make. Their ever present sense of love, loss and hope was something I loved reading about.
While at times, the action was tense and fast. There were other times where it slowed down and it kept the novel from becoming too predictable. Kate Fuentes, from the very beginning was able to write into her words a sense of love and warmth, and I haven’t read anything like it before. Truly original, definitely a novel and author to keep your eye on!
January 2, 2012
Elements is the story of fraternal twin brothers, Gage and Talon Thorn, who each possess some seriously extraordinary powers, some of which include: controlling the elements, shape shifting and mind control. I felt what made this story unique is that, unlike most of the books I’ve read, where the reader is introduced early on to the gorgeous, swoon-worthy male lead who is fully adept at whatever talents he holds, Kate Fuentes begins her story with the twins being born. I know, I know..... it’s in the title - “The Beginning,” but I didn’t know she literally meant the beginning. I loved watching these two boys grow up. Kate takes us from right before their birth to into their teens. Not only do we see them mature, but we get to watch them grow into their powers. We see them through the eyes of their family and those who love them. My favorite parts, though, are the interactions between the boys themselves:
“Gage stood back and shook his head. ‘Impressive! Your skills in the art of problem-solving are positively medieval, but clearly, the results are a success. You managed to destroy a timeless piece of history in one fell swoop.’
‘Thank you. Your envy of my superiority is making me blush,’ retorted Talon.”
I enjoyed that the majority of the book’s setting is in New Zealand. I was so impressed with Kate’s descriptive details of the picturesque countryside, that I truly feel as if I have been there myself. What a picture she paints! All of the characters are quite interesting, with my favorites being: Maui, Gable, Jacquelyn, and Lucian. Then there is the underworld and its evil ruler, Maradati, whose main goal threatens the existence of the boys and their world.
The ending was quite a cliffhanger, and I look forward to finding out what will happen to Gage, Talon, and their loved ones in book 2 of the Elements series, Veil of Darkness.
Thank you to the author for sending me her book in exchange for my honest review.
Originally posted at: A Belle's Tales
“Gage stood back and shook his head. ‘Impressive! Your skills in the art of problem-solving are positively medieval, but clearly, the results are a success. You managed to destroy a timeless piece of history in one fell swoop.’
‘Thank you. Your envy of my superiority is making me blush,’ retorted Talon.”
I enjoyed that the majority of the book’s setting is in New Zealand. I was so impressed with Kate’s descriptive details of the picturesque countryside, that I truly feel as if I have been there myself. What a picture she paints! All of the characters are quite interesting, with my favorites being: Maui, Gable, Jacquelyn, and Lucian. Then there is the underworld and its evil ruler, Maradati, whose main goal threatens the existence of the boys and their world.
The ending was quite a cliffhanger, and I look forward to finding out what will happen to Gage, Talon, and their loved ones in book 2 of the Elements series, Veil of Darkness.
Thank you to the author for sending me her book in exchange for my honest review.
Originally posted at: A Belle's Tales
October 16, 2011
Elements: The Beginning presents a very refreshing and different fantasy world for readers to enjoy. I met the author on Twitter and was intrigued by the book description and trailer, so decided to check it out. I'm glad I did!
The story follows the birth and development of twin brothers Gage and Talon Thorn. The brothers possess elementally-based powers, a result of their maternal family line. They balance each other in essential ways, something that becomes more apparent as the story progresses.
Their training takes place in New Zealand under the watchful eye of Maori relatives. It was the introduction of the Maori people that really captured my attention. The mythology touched on in the book was new to me and quite fascinating. Fuentes does a great job of creating her fantasy world while making the reader feel as though they are in a New Zealand wonderland.
Adding intrigue is the introduction of a different world (the underworld) ruled by a dark and evil being named Maradati. His goal is to conquer/destroy the twins and the world they live in, but he requires a human vessel in order to do so. In the course of visiting with the characters in this other world, the author throws a curve ball that caught me delightfully off-guard.
My rating is reduced (3.5 rounded up to 4) due to editing issues. I understand that the author is aware of existing issues and taking steps to remedy those as the second book nears publication. That said, I'm definitely looking forward to the release of the second book in the series!
The story follows the birth and development of twin brothers Gage and Talon Thorn. The brothers possess elementally-based powers, a result of their maternal family line. They balance each other in essential ways, something that becomes more apparent as the story progresses.
Their training takes place in New Zealand under the watchful eye of Maori relatives. It was the introduction of the Maori people that really captured my attention. The mythology touched on in the book was new to me and quite fascinating. Fuentes does a great job of creating her fantasy world while making the reader feel as though they are in a New Zealand wonderland.
Adding intrigue is the introduction of a different world (the underworld) ruled by a dark and evil being named Maradati. His goal is to conquer/destroy the twins and the world they live in, but he requires a human vessel in order to do so. In the course of visiting with the characters in this other world, the author throws a curve ball that caught me delightfully off-guard.
My rating is reduced (3.5 rounded up to 4) due to editing issues. I understand that the author is aware of existing issues and taking steps to remedy those as the second book nears publication. That said, I'm definitely looking forward to the release of the second book in the series!
August 11, 2012
Twin boys with amazing abilities, a mom with strength and courage who can’t be there for now, and a dedicated father doing the best he can. Elements: The Beginning takes the reader on a journey of prophecy and legend.
Gable knew the love of his life, Jacquelyn, had special powers, but he had no idea just how powerful his twin sons, Gage and Talon, would be. And he certainly couldn’t guess their destiny as the saving grace for mankind. A powerful mentor, Uncle Maui, enters the boys’ lives, and Gable supports their new training.
The boys only begin to come into their powers when an evil force, Maradati, finds them. Realizing the boys’ power, he sets out to kill them before they can destroy him. The book ends on a tantalizing cliffhanger, one bound to make readers grab Book Two right away.
Both boys, although very different, are enchanting. Gage can control water and is a mind reader/manipulator while Talon can shape shift into animals and control fire as well as reading minds. I was rooting for both boys, although I’m probably Team Gage if I had to pick. I think readers from 10(ish) up will enjoy the brothers’ story. It’s a quick, fun read and definitely one that will leave you wanting to know more about Gage and Talon.
If you enjoy fantasy elements and interesting characters, you’ll enjoy this fast-paced ride. Just be prepared for an abrupt ending.
Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.
Gable knew the love of his life, Jacquelyn, had special powers, but he had no idea just how powerful his twin sons, Gage and Talon, would be. And he certainly couldn’t guess their destiny as the saving grace for mankind. A powerful mentor, Uncle Maui, enters the boys’ lives, and Gable supports their new training.
The boys only begin to come into their powers when an evil force, Maradati, finds them. Realizing the boys’ power, he sets out to kill them before they can destroy him. The book ends on a tantalizing cliffhanger, one bound to make readers grab Book Two right away.
Both boys, although very different, are enchanting. Gage can control water and is a mind reader/manipulator while Talon can shape shift into animals and control fire as well as reading minds. I was rooting for both boys, although I’m probably Team Gage if I had to pick. I think readers from 10(ish) up will enjoy the brothers’ story. It’s a quick, fun read and definitely one that will leave you wanting to know more about Gage and Talon.
If you enjoy fantasy elements and interesting characters, you’ll enjoy this fast-paced ride. Just be prepared for an abrupt ending.
Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.
April 15, 2012
It was obvious from the day that Gage and Talon were born that they were special. Their mother had had special abilities but nothing compared to these two. As they matured and they gained control over their element based talents, the extent of that power became much clearer. Each of the boys was a powerful force on his own, together they were virtually indestructible.
Their father Gable had always felt the need to keep his boys safe. Perhaps he felt that others wouldn’t understand the gifts and the boys would be shunned. Or maybe this need came from a deeper place, his paternal instincts telling him that the boys were in real danger. That an evil force could feel their power and wanted to extinguish the only ones who had the potential to confront him. In any case, these young boys have a destiny that they have only begun to explore.
Elements: The Beginning introduces us to Gage and Talon as they begin to learn about and grow into their power. Guided by Maori mentors, these powerful but otherwise pretty normal boys learn the ways and feel the pull of something more. However, it’s not until they are teenagers that they get a taste for what’s really at stake. It’s a fantastic ride.
Their father Gable had always felt the need to keep his boys safe. Perhaps he felt that others wouldn’t understand the gifts and the boys would be shunned. Or maybe this need came from a deeper place, his paternal instincts telling him that the boys were in real danger. That an evil force could feel their power and wanted to extinguish the only ones who had the potential to confront him. In any case, these young boys have a destiny that they have only begun to explore.
Elements: The Beginning introduces us to Gage and Talon as they begin to learn about and grow into their power. Guided by Maori mentors, these powerful but otherwise pretty normal boys learn the ways and feel the pull of something more. However, it’s not until they are teenagers that they get a taste for what’s really at stake. It’s a fantastic ride.
August 5, 2011
Fuentes has created an epic tale of adventure in her debut novel, Elements: The Beginning. Born to a “gifted” mother and human father, Gage and Talon must learn to tailor their powers as an age old war between humanity and the underworld begins to threaten their very existence. I found this novel very interesting and really enjoyed the many different characters Fuentes brings to the novel. Watching Gage and Talon grow throughout the story was exceptionally interesting, especially as most novels gloss over these developmental stages, yet Fuentes follows the young boys from childhood all the way to their teens as they find new abilities and learn to overcome new challenges. I really enjoyed this first book in the series...
To read my full review (9/14):
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
To read my full review (9/14):
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
July 12, 2011
This is the first installment of the Elements series and the first book for author Kate Fuentes. It follows a family's journey through loss and heartache, and how they can ultimately overcome it with love.
I think this would be a good introduction to fantasy for young readers. It has light-hearted and fantastical elements without glossing over the sadness we all feel sometimes. The classic 'good versus evil' theme is plainly seen throughout the book. It could easily be read together as a family and it presents opportunities to talk about some of those 'what would you do' or 'how would you react' situations.
At the end of the book, the reader is left guessing what will happen in the next one. I look forward to seeing how Kate's characters evolve as this series progresses.
I think this would be a good introduction to fantasy for young readers. It has light-hearted and fantastical elements without glossing over the sadness we all feel sometimes. The classic 'good versus evil' theme is plainly seen throughout the book. It could easily be read together as a family and it presents opportunities to talk about some of those 'what would you do' or 'how would you react' situations.
At the end of the book, the reader is left guessing what will happen in the next one. I look forward to seeing how Kate's characters evolve as this series progresses.
July 6, 2012
Elements was a very different story for me. It was unlike anything I have ever read. It was a little hard for me to get into, because it is a fantasy (which I don't usually read) and the main characters who were twins were only 12. I did enjoy the story, though, because it has a really great creepy concept to it where dark forces can take over your body and steal your soul, and I did enjoy how well the character development was. I will be reading the next installment in this series for sure.
Rating: 3.5/4
Rating: 3.5/4
July 23, 2011
When I was given this book for review, I checked for online summaries, goodreads, reviews, etc...to get a hint for what i was up for. Well i must say all that research combined together can not summarize how great this book is.
In the Begging you are hit with BOOM and BAM, the story begins. Not too much extra cherries or toppings on .......
The rest is on the blog:
http://omgitsfishy.blogspot.com/2011/...
In the Begging you are hit with BOOM and BAM, the story begins. Not too much extra cherries or toppings on .......
The rest is on the blog:
http://omgitsfishy.blogspot.com/2011/...
Want to read
September 30, 2011**I won this book from Goodreads as a First Reads giveaway**
Thank you to the Goodreads author for sending me a free copy of this book. Review to follow upon completion.
Thank you to the Goodreads author for sending me a free copy of this book. Review to follow upon completion.
February 4, 2012
Elements (The Beginning) was a thrilling read, that incorporated many twist and turns!:)
Top Pick!:)
Top Pick!:)
June 2, 2012
4*s
review posted here
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot....
review posted here
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot....
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews