What do you think?
Rate this book
Darkness Falls #3
Wilde's Meadow
Happy endings are hard to find, and even though Katriona is in the middle of a war with someone who’s already stolen more than she can replace, she aches for a positive future with her Draíochtans.
Armed with hope, confidence in her abilities, and a strange new gift from her mother, Kate ventures into the Darkness to defeat a fallen god.
Losses add up, and new obstacles rise to stand in the way. Is the one determined to bring Encardia light strong enough to keep fighting, or will all the sacrifices to stop those who seek domination be for nothing?
Armed with hope, confidence in her abilities, and a strange new gift from her mother, Kate ventures into the Darkness to defeat a fallen god.
Losses add up, and new obstacles rise to stand in the way. Is the one determined to bring Encardia light strong enough to keep fighting, or will all the sacrifices to stop those who seek domination be for nothing?
225 pages, Paperback
First published November 5, 2012
9 people are currently reading
421 people want to read
About the author
Krystal Wade
9 books620 followersI’m happily married to the love of my life (don’t gag) and raising three beautiful children in the gorgeous state of Virginia. We live just outside Washington, D.C., and every day I wake up to find myself stuck in traffic trying to get there.
The horrid commute gives me plenty of time to zone out and think about my characters in full, brilliant details (I’m a safe driver; don’t worry). Stories give me a way to forget about the sometimes smelly strangers sitting next to me on the fifty mile trek into town (I pick up hitchhikers every day. True story. Check out www.slug-lines.com if you don’t believe me).
I’ve been a part of organized hitchhiking for nearly fifteen years, but that’s just one small aspect of my oh-so-large life. When I’m not working, commuting, or chasing after my three children (four if you count the man), you can usually find me outside talking to my chickens like they’re the cutest things in the world (they are), or training my amazing dogs how to herd said chickens (which they love), or curled up on the sofa with a good book (why can’t that be 100% of the time?).
I hope you love my stories (or just like them a little; that would be okay, too). And I hope that one day you find your passion, because there’s nothing in life better than doing what you love while surrounded by people you love.
The horrid commute gives me plenty of time to zone out and think about my characters in full, brilliant details (I’m a safe driver; don’t worry). Stories give me a way to forget about the sometimes smelly strangers sitting next to me on the fifty mile trek into town (I pick up hitchhikers every day. True story. Check out www.slug-lines.com if you don’t believe me).
I’ve been a part of organized hitchhiking for nearly fifteen years, but that’s just one small aspect of my oh-so-large life. When I’m not working, commuting, or chasing after my three children (four if you count the man), you can usually find me outside talking to my chickens like they’re the cutest things in the world (they are), or training my amazing dogs how to herd said chickens (which they love), or curled up on the sofa with a good book (why can’t that be 100% of the time?).
I hope you love my stories (or just like them a little; that would be okay, too). And I hope that one day you find your passion, because there’s nothing in life better than doing what you love while surrounded by people you love.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 5, 2012
EDITED: 11/05/12
REVIEW:
I can't believe I'm still crying! *sob.sob.sneeze.sob.again*
It's been 4 days since I finished the final installment of the Darkness Falls series and yet, I still can't get over it! *sob.sob* Reading the Darkness Falls series is by far the best action-packed Paranormal Romance I've read in 2012!!! Oh yes. It is breathtaking, magical, astounding, jaw-dropping, tear-jerking, heart-pounding, bone-breaking, hair-falling, book-throwing (READ.IT.NOW.AND.YOU'LL.KNOW.WHY). Oh, look at that. I run out of words to describe it!
Wilde's Meadow is the best book in the series! I hardly finished the book because of the twist at the near end, but I was deceived. It was stunningly a series of twists and it was GREAT! I can't stop crying when it ended because the book was well-thought of! Every detail has a meaning or symbol or story attached to it.
I'll definitely miss Arland. *please give me more tissue.sob.sob* He's the man any girl would want to have. I know that in God's perfect time, He will give the man for me and he will be better than Arland! *AMEN!* Anyway, sorry girls you can't have Arland. He's already to married to Katriona, who indubitably deserves him. :)
Speaking of Katriona, she's the best heroine that I've encountered! She endures anything. She sacrifices for the common good. She committed herself to the greater good. She loves her family. Oh, you'll love her!
Wilde's Meadow picks right up where Wilde's Army ended. Katriona and Arland are preparing to leave for the most awaited battle in Encardia: the battle to kill Dughbal. The preparations for the battle was epic! I didn't see it coming! Sorry, I can't explain what "it" is. You'll just have to read the book, but "it" involves portals, weird spells, and vomiting. Lots of vomiting. Anyway, I just thought that the roles of the creatures from the portals were not fully emphasized. I was also surprised that killing Dughbal was...that easy. You read it right: easy. I was expecting for something different. The deaths--oh yes, death with "s"--were heartbreaking. Why did they have to die? *sob.sob*
HOWEVER, don't you worry because it didn't make the book anything less than marvelous! In fact, the deaths were nothing but ASTOUNDING. The meaning behind their deaths were so perfectly knitted. I'm not sure, but it seems like an allegory. I mean, I believe the whole series is an allegory! An allegory of the sacrifice of Christ. Because of the sacrifice of someone, the curse was broken and they were given life that will never last. It was awesome, but I'm not sure if Krystal Wade meant it to be like that. :)
I don't know how to put my emotions into words. This book blew me completely. I'll have to read it again...and again...and again.
Thank you Krystal Wade for this awesome series! Thank you Curiosity Quills Press and NetGalley for my copy! :) You guys are awesome! :)
For the complete review of Wilde's Meadow, come and visit my blog at Wilde's Meadow. Here's my review for Wilde's Fire (Darkness Falls #1) and Wilde's Army (Darkness Falls #2) ! :)
Enjoy reading! :) God bless you! :)
REVIEW:
I can't believe I'm still crying! *sob.sob.sneeze.sob.again*
It's been 4 days since I finished the final installment of the Darkness Falls series and yet, I still can't get over it! *sob.sob* Reading the Darkness Falls series is by far the best action-packed Paranormal Romance I've read in 2012!!! Oh yes. It is breathtaking, magical, astounding, jaw-dropping, tear-jerking, heart-pounding, bone-breaking, hair-falling, book-throwing (READ.IT.NOW.AND.YOU'LL.KNOW.WHY). Oh, look at that. I run out of words to describe it!
Wilde's Meadow is the best book in the series! I hardly finished the book because of the twist at the near end, but I was deceived. It was stunningly a series of twists and it was GREAT! I can't stop crying when it ended because the book was well-thought of! Every detail has a meaning or symbol or story attached to it.
I'll definitely miss Arland. *please give me more tissue.sob.sob* He's the man any girl would want to have. I know that in God's perfect time, He will give the man for me and he will be better than Arland! *AMEN!* Anyway, sorry girls you can't have Arland. He's already to married to Katriona, who indubitably deserves him. :)
Speaking of Katriona, she's the best heroine that I've encountered! She endures anything. She sacrifices for the common good. She committed herself to the greater good. She loves her family. Oh, you'll love her!
Wilde's Meadow picks right up where Wilde's Army ended. Katriona and Arland are preparing to leave for the most awaited battle in Encardia: the battle to kill Dughbal. The preparations for the battle was epic! I didn't see it coming! Sorry, I can't explain what "it" is. You'll just have to read the book, but "it" involves portals, weird spells, and vomiting. Lots of vomiting. Anyway, I just thought that the roles of the creatures from the portals were not fully emphasized. I was also surprised that killing Dughbal was...that easy. You read it right: easy. I was expecting for something different. The deaths--oh yes, death with "s"--were heartbreaking. Why did they have to die? *sob.sob*
HOWEVER, don't you worry because it didn't make the book anything less than marvelous! In fact, the deaths were nothing but ASTOUNDING. The meaning behind their deaths were so perfectly knitted. I'm not sure, but it seems like an allegory. I mean, I believe the whole series is an allegory! An allegory of the sacrifice of Christ. Because of the sacrifice of someone, the curse was broken and they were given life that will never last. It was awesome, but I'm not sure if Krystal Wade meant it to be like that. :)
I don't know how to put my emotions into words. This book blew me completely. I'll have to read it again...and again...and again.
Thank you Krystal Wade for this awesome series! Thank you Curiosity Quills Press and NetGalley for my copy! :) You guys are awesome! :)
For the complete review of Wilde's Meadow, come and visit my blog at Wilde's Meadow. Here's my review for Wilde's Fire (Darkness Falls #1) and Wilde's Army (Darkness Falls #2) ! :)
Enjoy reading! :) God bless you! :)
November 2, 2012
This review also appears on my blog at http://www.thegoldenruleof666.blogspo...
Wow. So much happened that I'm still struggling to process all of it. In a nutshell, Wilde's Meadow was an epic ending! I honestly needed a few hours after finishing the book before I was able to process everything that had happened.
I don't even know where to begin...
Let's just start with my favorite part: Kate and Arland's relationship. As always, they were the most adorable couple ever, the most perfect example of true love. It just made me smile to read about their relationship. Both characters grew so much throughout the course of the book. Kate was forced to mature quickly after seeing the brutal reality of the war and shouldering the guilt of having some of the people in her army killed. But she handles it admirably.
Arland was just as amazing as always. So sweet, determined, strong, protective, sacrificing. He's just freaking perfect. There is just no other word to describe him. And, their relationship...escalates. I'll let you puzzle out what I mean by that before I'm tempted to give away a huge spoiler.
Perth is one character that really grew on me. The first book, he was awful. The second, he got better, but I was still kind of unsure. This one, I adored him. He definitely redeemed himself and proved to everyone that he is a strong, capable leader. I ended up with him as one of my favorite characters.
There are A LOT of deaths in this book. And not just random strangers that we don't know about, but some of the characters that we all know and love. Somehow, it wasn't sad. And before you go wondering why I would think that a favorite character dying isn't sad, I can't give that away without spoiling the whole book. You'll have to read it yourself to find out :) But they did make the war feel more real. I remember JK Rowling once saying that she would kill off favorite characters so that readers could truly feel the horror of a war. And that worked with Wilde's Meadow. Having some favorite taken out made the war seem for read and tangible. And I can appreciate that. Realism is always good in a book.
The plot went at breakneck speed. It begins with the last night Kate spends in the city before she has to leave to fight for Encardia. It hits the ground running, then shoots forward, leaving absolutely no dull moments, just continuous excitement, twists, surprises. It was a whirlwind. The ending was perfect for the series. It gives an epilogue a few years after the end of the fighting. So we get to see what the future has in store for our lovely characters.
Wilde's Meadow was absolutely epic. If you liked the previous Wilde's books, you will adore this conclusion.
5/5
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy!
Wow. So much happened that I'm still struggling to process all of it. In a nutshell, Wilde's Meadow was an epic ending! I honestly needed a few hours after finishing the book before I was able to process everything that had happened.
I don't even know where to begin...
Let's just start with my favorite part: Kate and Arland's relationship. As always, they were the most adorable couple ever, the most perfect example of true love. It just made me smile to read about their relationship. Both characters grew so much throughout the course of the book. Kate was forced to mature quickly after seeing the brutal reality of the war and shouldering the guilt of having some of the people in her army killed. But she handles it admirably.
Arland was just as amazing as always. So sweet, determined, strong, protective, sacrificing. He's just freaking perfect. There is just no other word to describe him. And, their relationship...escalates. I'll let you puzzle out what I mean by that before I'm tempted to give away a huge spoiler.
Perth is one character that really grew on me. The first book, he was awful. The second, he got better, but I was still kind of unsure. This one, I adored him. He definitely redeemed himself and proved to everyone that he is a strong, capable leader. I ended up with him as one of my favorite characters.
There are A LOT of deaths in this book. And not just random strangers that we don't know about, but some of the characters that we all know and love. Somehow, it wasn't sad. And before you go wondering why I would think that a favorite character dying isn't sad, I can't give that away without spoiling the whole book. You'll have to read it yourself to find out :) But they did make the war feel more real. I remember JK Rowling once saying that she would kill off favorite characters so that readers could truly feel the horror of a war. And that worked with Wilde's Meadow. Having some favorite taken out made the war seem for read and tangible. And I can appreciate that. Realism is always good in a book.
The plot went at breakneck speed. It begins with the last night Kate spends in the city before she has to leave to fight for Encardia. It hits the ground running, then shoots forward, leaving absolutely no dull moments, just continuous excitement, twists, surprises. It was a whirlwind. The ending was perfect for the series. It gives an epilogue a few years after the end of the fighting. So we get to see what the future has in store for our lovely characters.
Wilde's Meadow was absolutely epic. If you liked the previous Wilde's books, you will adore this conclusion.
5/5
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy!
October 18, 2012
GAH! Well, it's happened folks. The last book of a fantastic series has been devoured. I'm both ecstatic to have read it, and devastated that it has ended.
But, with that said, I have only great things to say about WILDE'S MEADOW - though I imagine you knew that was coming. I obsessed over the entire series and read the first two in about two days.
Anyway, I just finished WILDE'S MEADOW, and can say that though there is an influx of tragedy and drama (which you can foresee by looking at that powerful blood-red cover), Krystal Wade manages to leave us with hope and happiness. She manages to leave the impression that though some things may finish, they never truly END. Some people may be gone to us on this earth, but they live on in the love and memories they leave behind ... And that's all I have to say about that, because I don't want to spoil anything. ;-)
WILDE'S MEADOW was fast and action-packed from the get-go. There was more Kate and Arland (Mmmm, Arland),as well as the characters you loved instantly (Flanna, Brit), and those you learned to love over time (Perth, Rhoswen). All in all, I'd say this was a wonderful wrap up to a fantastic series. I can't wait to read what Krystal writes next! *cough cough * hurry up *cough cough*
But, with that said, I have only great things to say about WILDE'S MEADOW - though I imagine you knew that was coming. I obsessed over the entire series and read the first two in about two days.
Anyway, I just finished WILDE'S MEADOW, and can say that though there is an influx of tragedy and drama (which you can foresee by looking at that powerful blood-red cover), Krystal Wade manages to leave us with hope and happiness. She manages to leave the impression that though some things may finish, they never truly END. Some people may be gone to us on this earth, but they live on in the love and memories they leave behind ... And that's all I have to say about that, because I don't want to spoil anything. ;-)
WILDE'S MEADOW was fast and action-packed from the get-go. There was more Kate and Arland (Mmmm, Arland),as well as the characters you loved instantly (Flanna, Brit), and those you learned to love over time (Perth, Rhoswen). All in all, I'd say this was a wonderful wrap up to a fantastic series. I can't wait to read what Krystal writes next! *cough cough * hurry up *cough cough*
September 25, 2012
For a more in depth review, head on over to my blog: http://susreviews.blogspot.com/2012/0...
Synopsis: Picking up where Wilde's Army (Darkness Falls Book 2) left off, Kate and Arland are setting off with their army to seek out the evil god Dugball and his hoards of daemons. They must meet the god in the Meadows, but getting there will be risky - despite fighting off daemons, they also have to fight their own fears, gain the trust of other-worldly allies and not starve in the process. And even if they beat the evil God, who is to say that the ending will be happy?
My thoughts; Once again, Wade runs you through the whole gamut of emotions. Fear, nerve-wracking anxiety, sadness, and bittersweet happiness. I loved this final installment in the trilogy. Battling through the caves was brilliant and my very favorite part. I enjoyed her battle scenes, but more than that, I loved the ending. Bittersweet and touching, I unashamedly cried like a baby. It's hard to say goodbye to such wonderful characters, but I am happy that their stories wrapped up so satisfyingly.
Synopsis: Picking up where Wilde's Army (Darkness Falls Book 2) left off, Kate and Arland are setting off with their army to seek out the evil god Dugball and his hoards of daemons. They must meet the god in the Meadows, but getting there will be risky - despite fighting off daemons, they also have to fight their own fears, gain the trust of other-worldly allies and not starve in the process. And even if they beat the evil God, who is to say that the ending will be happy?
My thoughts; Once again, Wade runs you through the whole gamut of emotions. Fear, nerve-wracking anxiety, sadness, and bittersweet happiness. I loved this final installment in the trilogy. Battling through the caves was brilliant and my very favorite part. I enjoyed her battle scenes, but more than that, I loved the ending. Bittersweet and touching, I unashamedly cried like a baby. It's hard to say goodbye to such wonderful characters, but I am happy that their stories wrapped up so satisfyingly.
November 29, 2012
OMG!!! What an ending! I won't lie to you, there were tears. Many, many tears. But somehow the ending managed to warm my heart and heal the pain. The love between Katriona & Arland is simply amazing, and they are both truly honest and good to all the people around them. They make incredible sacrifices for their people. Once the rest of Encardia's eyes are open to the truth, some of them turn out to be very brave & worthy of all the sacrifice. The bad guys are definitely bad to the bone, but its easy to keep faith when the good guys are as great as these soldiers, friends, and children. This is an amazing series and one I will absolutely read again and again.
November 3, 2012
YAY! Okay I had to start this out with a burst of excitement. Honestly, I was beyond excited when I saw Wilde’s Meadow by Krystal Wade on NetGalley.com. I was all resigned to wait until it comes out November 5, 2012 but then I was checking out the new books added like I do every single day and spilt some of my water down my top I was so excited. I saw the cover before I saw anything else and didn’t need to know anything else I just clicked and was approved. I downloaded it on Halloween night, though sadly didn’t get to read it until last night due to work. So a special thanks to NetGalley.com, Curiosity Quills Press, the amazing author Krystal Wade, and whoever else* for my ARC.
Now down to business. Like the other 2 books Wilde’s Fire and Wilde’s Army, Wilde’s Meadow has a beautiful and captivating cover. The first is still my favorite but this one is red and has our heroine sword in hand looking down at a body. Gasp! Do you wonder whose body she is looking at like I did? I agonized over it so much so even as I was reading the book.
Now we have our beloved characters. Kate has been through so much and is bound to the man she loves and has her army and a clear goal. She is still terrified that all the visions she’s had of Arland’s death, of those she loves, will come true. Still she has no choice really but to fight and trust things will be okay. We get more of Perth as well as he tries to make up for the sins of his past and be the better man Kate believes him to be. We also get to know others who are so much fun to love and hate. New creatures from different worlds and the same creepy and deadly deamons.
Visually this book is like the others with it’s vivid details that make the world so amazing. I could see everything they saw in my mind as I read. I could see the icky creatures (sorta wish I couldn’t), could see the power of Kate’s light and fire, the connections between everyone. The pain as people are lost in the war. With war also comes lots of action and fighting both magical and traditional.
Yes, I should warn everyone here have tissues on hand. I admit I’m a girlie girl sometimes especially when I get really invested in a story or characters. I was reading this book and had to stop for the night at one point because I couldn’t stop crying and well it was rather hard to keep reading as my eyes went from watery to burning (my eyes are strange and 75% of the time I cry they burn no idea why). So I went to bed and tossed and turned wanting nothing more than to know the end, to know if I would keep crying or not. This is war after all and there are bound to be causalities or it wouldn’t be believable.
I have given this book a much deserved 5 Stars. Now this is where I would normally put in any complaints with the book and past experience has been that I have to wait for the next one, however, Wilde’s Meadow is the last in the series. No more waiting. I guess that would be my only tiny complaint, yes as much as I hate waiting for more, endings are sad and final. I think this book gives a fitting end to the story and I love this series and will recommend it to anyone and everyone.
So people keep your eyes open for this trilogy. Wilde’s Fire & Wilde’s Army are already out and the conclusion of the series Wilde’s Meadow comes out in 2 short days. Check it out.
*There is an amazing interview with the author herself on Sus’s blog. Also note my excitement as she waves when answering my question hehe.
Now down to business. Like the other 2 books Wilde’s Fire and Wilde’s Army, Wilde’s Meadow has a beautiful and captivating cover. The first is still my favorite but this one is red and has our heroine sword in hand looking down at a body. Gasp! Do you wonder whose body she is looking at like I did? I agonized over it so much so even as I was reading the book.
Now we have our beloved characters. Kate has been through so much and is bound to the man she loves and has her army and a clear goal. She is still terrified that all the visions she’s had of Arland’s death, of those she loves, will come true. Still she has no choice really but to fight and trust things will be okay. We get more of Perth as well as he tries to make up for the sins of his past and be the better man Kate believes him to be. We also get to know others who are so much fun to love and hate. New creatures from different worlds and the same creepy and deadly deamons.
Visually this book is like the others with it’s vivid details that make the world so amazing. I could see everything they saw in my mind as I read. I could see the icky creatures (sorta wish I couldn’t), could see the power of Kate’s light and fire, the connections between everyone. The pain as people are lost in the war. With war also comes lots of action and fighting both magical and traditional.
Yes, I should warn everyone here have tissues on hand. I admit I’m a girlie girl sometimes especially when I get really invested in a story or characters. I was reading this book and had to stop for the night at one point because I couldn’t stop crying and well it was rather hard to keep reading as my eyes went from watery to burning (my eyes are strange and 75% of the time I cry they burn no idea why). So I went to bed and tossed and turned wanting nothing more than to know the end, to know if I would keep crying or not. This is war after all and there are bound to be causalities or it wouldn’t be believable.
I have given this book a much deserved 5 Stars. Now this is where I would normally put in any complaints with the book and past experience has been that I have to wait for the next one, however, Wilde’s Meadow is the last in the series. No more waiting. I guess that would be my only tiny complaint, yes as much as I hate waiting for more, endings are sad and final. I think this book gives a fitting end to the story and I love this series and will recommend it to anyone and everyone.
So people keep your eyes open for this trilogy. Wilde’s Fire & Wilde’s Army are already out and the conclusion of the series Wilde’s Meadow comes out in 2 short days. Check it out.
*There is an amazing interview with the author herself on Sus’s blog. Also note my excitement as she waves when answering my question hehe.
February 20, 2013
The Darkness Falls series takes a darker turn in book three. That might seem a difficult thing to pull off in a book where there is no sunlight, but Ms. Wade pulls it off with a lovely opening sequence. But first, let’s go back to Wilde’s Army for a minute.
The engagement between Kate and Perth Dufaigh became a moot point after she married Arland on the sly, which did not go over well with Perth’s father. BUT, there are higher powers in Encardia than scheming High Leaders and they don’t much care what Dufaigh thinks. Now, back to scene in progress.
Kate, Arland, and their ragtag army will head back out into darkness soon and they’re taking advantage of their time as newlyweds properly should. Then, there’s dancing. It’s a tradition in Encardia to celebrate life before sending brave souls to their deaths. Told you it was lovely, which is nice for the reader, because that’s when things turn dark.
So far, in the first two books of this series, the reader has been overwhelmed by darkness and glimpsed the dangers that lurk just beyond sight. In Wilde’s Meadow, Ms. Wade leads the way into a wasteland of putrescence, misery, and despair. Here, the beasts that Kate has learned to fight are not all that stands between her and the light of day. The blanket of darkness that shrouds this world is mirrored by the sins of its past and present. Like a hasty tower of blocks assembled by a toddler, one wrong move could bring this world down on itself.
Wilde’s Meadow plays with the stages of grief. Denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Kate’s army, each soul among them knowing he could die at any moment, works its way through them. With the focus of the story on Kate, her power, and her destiny, I found that Brit Wilde represented concerns that the reader might otherwise forget while worrying about whether Arland would live or die. Each person in this world has a prophecy. Each has a part to play in whether Kate ultimately wins or loses, and Brit shoulders a burden heavier than most everyone else.
I must say that as a whole, I enjoyed the Darkness Falls series. Krystal Wade's use of magic is very simple, and it is very consistent through all three books. Her prose is unpretentious. Her characters are honest, even the devious ones, and allowed to grow naturally within the confines of their storylines. At it's core, it is a story about love and courage in the face of impossible odds, and I would recommend it to an older teen audience.
The engagement between Kate and Perth Dufaigh became a moot point after she married Arland on the sly, which did not go over well with Perth’s father. BUT, there are higher powers in Encardia than scheming High Leaders and they don’t much care what Dufaigh thinks. Now, back to scene in progress.
Kate, Arland, and their ragtag army will head back out into darkness soon and they’re taking advantage of their time as newlyweds properly should. Then, there’s dancing. It’s a tradition in Encardia to celebrate life before sending brave souls to their deaths. Told you it was lovely, which is nice for the reader, because that’s when things turn dark.
So far, in the first two books of this series, the reader has been overwhelmed by darkness and glimpsed the dangers that lurk just beyond sight. In Wilde’s Meadow, Ms. Wade leads the way into a wasteland of putrescence, misery, and despair. Here, the beasts that Kate has learned to fight are not all that stands between her and the light of day. The blanket of darkness that shrouds this world is mirrored by the sins of its past and present. Like a hasty tower of blocks assembled by a toddler, one wrong move could bring this world down on itself.
Wilde’s Meadow plays with the stages of grief. Denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Kate’s army, each soul among them knowing he could die at any moment, works its way through them. With the focus of the story on Kate, her power, and her destiny, I found that Brit Wilde represented concerns that the reader might otherwise forget while worrying about whether Arland would live or die. Each person in this world has a prophecy. Each has a part to play in whether Kate ultimately wins or loses, and Brit shoulders a burden heavier than most everyone else.
I must say that as a whole, I enjoyed the Darkness Falls series. Krystal Wade's use of magic is very simple, and it is very consistent through all three books. Her prose is unpretentious. Her characters are honest, even the devious ones, and allowed to grow naturally within the confines of their storylines. At it's core, it is a story about love and courage in the face of impossible odds, and I would recommend it to an older teen audience.
October 3, 2012
Wow. I can't believe this trilogy is already over...it seems as if I only JUST barely started the first one. OH. And if you've read this far without realizing, THIS IS THE THIRD IN A TRILOGY...as in THE END. So if you haven't read Wilde's Fire yet, go grab it, devour it, same with the sequel then come back and see me, mmkay? ;]
I loved the first two books in this series. They were brilliant fantasies with characters that I adored, the kind of novels that I would like to write someday. Engaging, entertaining and with great romance. I didn't love Wilde's Meadow quite as much as the first two, but I still really liked it.
I wanted more time with the characters, despite the fact that I kept having to put this one down because of finals or chores or whatever else bogged down my reading time this novel still seemed to go by in the blink of an eye. AND THERE WAS SO MUCH GOING ON IN STORY. There was so much going on with the characters, so many new elements, so much to do with the various prophesies...and it was just one thing after another. I wanted more time. I needed more time. I'm definitely going to have to reread this one, probably the entire trilogy, at some point to grasp everything.
I think Kate could have benefited from some more time too. Two hundred and twenty-five pages just isn't enough time to practically bring Encardia light, you know? Then again, in NaNoWriMo you write an entire novel in a month...guess its not that crazy. Saving a world and creating one...totally the same things. Close enough anyway. xD
When everything is said and done I still really liked this one, it was a solid ending with everything that I was looking for. Albeit a bit faster then I would have thought. Definitely recommend this trilogy to fans of fantasy, particularly fantasy that is heavy on the romance.
I loved the first two books in this series. They were brilliant fantasies with characters that I adored, the kind of novels that I would like to write someday. Engaging, entertaining and with great romance. I didn't love Wilde's Meadow quite as much as the first two, but I still really liked it.
I wanted more time with the characters, despite the fact that I kept having to put this one down because of finals or chores or whatever else bogged down my reading time this novel still seemed to go by in the blink of an eye. AND THERE WAS SO MUCH GOING ON IN STORY. There was so much going on with the characters, so many new elements, so much to do with the various prophesies...and it was just one thing after another. I wanted more time. I needed more time. I'm definitely going to have to reread this one, probably the entire trilogy, at some point to grasp everything.
I think Kate could have benefited from some more time too. Two hundred and twenty-five pages just isn't enough time to practically bring Encardia light, you know? Then again, in NaNoWriMo you write an entire novel in a month...guess its not that crazy. Saving a world and creating one...totally the same things. Close enough anyway. xD
When everything is said and done I still really liked this one, it was a solid ending with everything that I was looking for. Albeit a bit faster then I would have thought. Definitely recommend this trilogy to fans of fantasy, particularly fantasy that is heavy on the romance.
September 12, 2017
Here are just a few thoughts from the first two book reviews I did for this trilogy:
"The monsters in this story were unique and creative. The author weaved a very different story that reminded me of no other story. I tore through the pages from beginning to end in haste."- Wilde's Fire
"I have a hard time saying anything negative about this book because there just wasn't anything. The story was engaging and fast paced. It was everything I look for when settling down for a good read."- Wilde's Army
Wilde's Meadow-
This was such an awesome conclusion to Katriona and Arland's story.
Why???
An epic love story like no other!
So many sacrifices were made for the good of all.
An incredibly satisfying conclusion to the trilogy.
Tears! So many darn tears!! The emotion was intense!
Sadness:
A lot of the characters died in this installment.
Only thing I didn't like??
The bad guys, VERY bad guys
My thought on this book?
"Wilde's Meadow was the epic conclusion readers have been clamoring for and the author delivered it in spades."
"The monsters in this story were unique and creative. The author weaved a very different story that reminded me of no other story. I tore through the pages from beginning to end in haste."- Wilde's Fire
"I have a hard time saying anything negative about this book because there just wasn't anything. The story was engaging and fast paced. It was everything I look for when settling down for a good read."- Wilde's Army
Wilde's Meadow-
This was such an awesome conclusion to Katriona and Arland's story.
Why???
An epic love story like no other!
So many sacrifices were made for the good of all.
An incredibly satisfying conclusion to the trilogy.
Tears! So many darn tears!! The emotion was intense!
Sadness:
A lot of the characters died in this installment.
Only thing I didn't like??
The bad guys, VERY bad guys
My thought on this book?
"Wilde's Meadow was the epic conclusion readers have been clamoring for and the author delivered it in spades."
February 12, 2014
I loved this book, I was SO sad the series was over. I can say this author did not pull any punches whatsoever, when there's a war, bad thigns happen! I really appreciated that while this is a fantasy, these didn't 'just' happen, the made sense. A definite read, but start from the beginning with Wilde's Fire or you will really not grasp the full effect of the story.
Disclaimer: I work for the publishing company that released this novel. I read this book of my own volition and in my free time, and review novels only when I am interested, actually read them, and can do so honestly.
Disclaimer: I work for the publishing company that released this novel. I read this book of my own volition and in my free time, and review novels only when I am interested, actually read them, and can do so honestly.
February 5, 2013
Wow! Great way to end the series! It was such a heartwarming read. I really found myself lost with the world of Kate and friends. You will cry at parts. It is a true tearjerker in certan parts. ( fair warning you will need tissues!)
I found myself just in awe of love Kate and Arland. Thier Strength was just so wonderful. Love Love the HEA a great way to finish!
I found myself just in awe of love Kate and Arland. Thier Strength was just so wonderful. Love Love the HEA a great way to finish!
September 2, 2015
Quite enjoyed this series. Nice take in the urban fantasy genre. Liked the main characters, the world building and the sidekicks.
May 13, 2018
Trudging
Yes trudged through this one. It moved slower than the first two. I liked the ending pretty well. It seems more of a romance novel than a magical adventure.
Yes trudged through this one. It moved slower than the first two. I liked the ending pretty well. It seems more of a romance novel than a magical adventure.
January 26, 2015
This review is also available on my blog, Bows & Bullets Reviews
It's time for war. In the previous novel, Kate built an army to go to war with a god and it's go time. Kate knows the battle will be hard and lives will be lost, but it must happen for Encardia to have light and happiness. Can she do what she was destined to or will she fail and doom her people.
I've been relatively nice in the reviews for the previous books in this series. None of them are bad, but they aren't particularly good either. That ends here. I found this novel to be boring and just plain annoying. Had I not gotten an audio copy, I would have never made it threw this. I found myself listening at every possible moment not because I needed more of the story, but because I needed it to be over. I needed to be done with this and mark it off my list.
Kate is just as bad here as she is in the previous novels. I found her to be just plain annoying and I was wholly ambivalent to her situation. Had she died, I probably wouldn't have cared. That, my friends, is saying something. We all know I hate character death. We all know that is one of my biggest pet peeves. If I can't bring myself to care if the lead character lives or dies, we have a problem, a big fucking problem. But I didn't care. I'm so sick of the special little snowflakes and their destinies. Plus, she's as dense as a box of rocks. She doesn't realize obvious things and her minor screw ups just had me rolling my eyes, instead of sympathizing with her, as I'm sure was the author's intent.
Then we have Arland, Kate's perfect love. That's just what he is, perfect.
He is too damn perfect. He's a goodie too shoes who always says the right thing and does the right thing and I just wanted to punch him. The man needs some flaws to bring him down to Earth and he just doesn't have any. He's a damned robot and I hated him.
Even though I didn't care about most of the cast, I found the fact that almost everyone dies incredibly irritating. If you like any particular character besides Kate and Arland, don't hold high hopes for their survival because there is a lot of death and "sacrificing." Kate isn't worth all this. One of my big issues with this series is that once Kate gets control of her powers, all she has to do is ask her magical god for help in fighting or protecting or healing or whatever she needs and he complies. He sends a bunch of magical sprites to help. This guys do everything from heal mortal wounds to terminate bad guys to lighting the way. Once you learn that, WHY THE FUCK DO YOU CONTINUE FIGHTING?
Why do you do anything except that? Get in the middle of the battle, ask for help, BAM. You win. Oh? The process drains her?
Give the bitch a sandwich, let her take a nap, and then proceed to the next damn battle! I had big issues with that. That is an insta-win for the battles.
Basically this novel annoyed the hell out of me and I'm glad it's over. I can't say I'll be recommending this series to anyone. The first two are mediocre and this conclusion wasn't particularly satisfying. Maybe you'll like it more than I did, but I doubt it.
****Thank you to Curiosity Quills Press for providing me with an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review****
It's time for war. In the previous novel, Kate built an army to go to war with a god and it's go time. Kate knows the battle will be hard and lives will be lost, but it must happen for Encardia to have light and happiness. Can she do what she was destined to or will she fail and doom her people.
I've been relatively nice in the reviews for the previous books in this series. None of them are bad, but they aren't particularly good either. That ends here. I found this novel to be boring and just plain annoying. Had I not gotten an audio copy, I would have never made it threw this. I found myself listening at every possible moment not because I needed more of the story, but because I needed it to be over. I needed to be done with this and mark it off my list.
Kate is just as bad here as she is in the previous novels. I found her to be just plain annoying and I was wholly ambivalent to her situation. Had she died, I probably wouldn't have cared. That, my friends, is saying something. We all know I hate character death. We all know that is one of my biggest pet peeves. If I can't bring myself to care if the lead character lives or dies, we have a problem, a big fucking problem. But I didn't care. I'm so sick of the special little snowflakes and their destinies. Plus, she's as dense as a box of rocks. She doesn't realize obvious things and her minor screw ups just had me rolling my eyes, instead of sympathizing with her, as I'm sure was the author's intent.
Then we have Arland, Kate's perfect love. That's just what he is, perfect.
He is too damn perfect. He's a goodie too shoes who always says the right thing and does the right thing and I just wanted to punch him. The man needs some flaws to bring him down to Earth and he just doesn't have any. He's a damned robot and I hated him.
Even though I didn't care about most of the cast, I found the fact that almost everyone dies incredibly irritating. If you like any particular character besides Kate and Arland, don't hold high hopes for their survival because there is a lot of death and "sacrificing." Kate isn't worth all this. One of my big issues with this series is that once Kate gets control of her powers, all she has to do is ask her magical god for help in fighting or protecting or healing or whatever she needs and he complies. He sends a bunch of magical sprites to help. This guys do everything from heal mortal wounds to terminate bad guys to lighting the way. Once you learn that, WHY THE FUCK DO YOU CONTINUE FIGHTING?
Why do you do anything except that? Get in the middle of the battle, ask for help, BAM. You win. Oh? The process drains her?
Give the bitch a sandwich, let her take a nap, and then proceed to the next damn battle! I had big issues with that. That is an insta-win for the battles.
Basically this novel annoyed the hell out of me and I'm glad it's over. I can't say I'll be recommending this series to anyone. The first two are mediocre and this conclusion wasn't particularly satisfying. Maybe you'll like it more than I did, but I doubt it.
****Thank you to Curiosity Quills Press for providing me with an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review****
December 10, 2016
Third and last in the 'Darkness Falls' fantasy series, set in the medieval, magical world of Encardia. Kate is getting armour made for her when her partner Arland arrives to warn that battle is close. They live among people who dwell underground and whose language is similar to Irish. Following a celebration the warriors male and female leave to find their horses aboveground and fight daemons.
The trouble with WILDE'S MEADOW is that if you come to it as a standalone you have no idea what is going on and the author is in no hurry to explain. I got the impression that Kate was a stranger in a strange land, perhaps because she mentioned sandwich bags, but only a quarter way in did I learn that she had travelled, somehow, from modern day Virginia to this place, and halfway through there was a partial explanation involving her Virginian parents having actually been Encardians all along. The girl has adapted well, if she still doesn't understand all the customs, and she's learned the use of magic and swords. I was surprised that she used a claymore because this very large two-handed sword is extremely heavy and requires a lot of room to swing it. Not a typical woman's weapon. A one-handed sword and buckler would be more practical.
A dark cave passage is the first test of Kate's courage as the party must traverse a narrow bridge of rock high over water, and sinister whispers entice her to flop in despair or dismount, and find the water. Later there are pitched battles with numerous daemons, from hounds to winged creatures, whose blood is poison and who are driven by an evil god. While Kate can't magic up fireballs, just summon spirits from her surroundings, she's still able to contribute, and her sister Brit is an accomplished archer. Some warriors communicate telepathically to share information among the force. Realising that they are outnumbered the party splits up and Kate and Arland travel through a portal she has summoned. The portal brings Kate to Virginia to fetch more help, and she returns with two farm people - I really failed to see the point, given she was away two months and her forces were decimated in her absence.
If you've read Krystal Wade's first instalments you'll doubtless be keen to see how the story wraps up, and whether Kate and Arland get to live happily ever after, but otherwise my advice is to hold off reading this one until you've read the earlier books, whereupon you can just enjoy the lovely descriptive writing instead of wondering what is happening and what the battles are in aid of. I'd probably have liked it a lot more if I'd any idea what was going on - a page or two would have covered the backstory.
The trouble with WILDE'S MEADOW is that if you come to it as a standalone you have no idea what is going on and the author is in no hurry to explain. I got the impression that Kate was a stranger in a strange land, perhaps because she mentioned sandwich bags, but only a quarter way in did I learn that she had travelled, somehow, from modern day Virginia to this place, and halfway through there was a partial explanation involving her Virginian parents having actually been Encardians all along. The girl has adapted well, if she still doesn't understand all the customs, and she's learned the use of magic and swords. I was surprised that she used a claymore because this very large two-handed sword is extremely heavy and requires a lot of room to swing it. Not a typical woman's weapon. A one-handed sword and buckler would be more practical.
A dark cave passage is the first test of Kate's courage as the party must traverse a narrow bridge of rock high over water, and sinister whispers entice her to flop in despair or dismount, and find the water. Later there are pitched battles with numerous daemons, from hounds to winged creatures, whose blood is poison and who are driven by an evil god. While Kate can't magic up fireballs, just summon spirits from her surroundings, she's still able to contribute, and her sister Brit is an accomplished archer. Some warriors communicate telepathically to share information among the force. Realising that they are outnumbered the party splits up and Kate and Arland travel through a portal she has summoned. The portal brings Kate to Virginia to fetch more help, and she returns with two farm people - I really failed to see the point, given she was away two months and her forces were decimated in her absence.
If you've read Krystal Wade's first instalments you'll doubtless be keen to see how the story wraps up, and whether Kate and Arland get to live happily ever after, but otherwise my advice is to hold off reading this one until you've read the earlier books, whereupon you can just enjoy the lovely descriptive writing instead of wondering what is happening and what the battles are in aid of. I'd probably have liked it a lot more if I'd any idea what was going on - a page or two would have covered the backstory.
November 30, 2012
This review originally appeared on my blog, My Life is a Notebook, HERE.
Well, this is the end. Hopefully, if you’re reading this, you’ve read my reviews of Wilde’s Fire and Wilde’s Army. If not, spoilers will abound.
I did not like Wilde’s Fire. I’m just going to put that out there. I thought Kate and Arland’s romance was absolutely ridiculous and creepy, but I finished the book anyways. Somehow, for some reason, I also requested Wilde’s Army when it came out. It wasn’t the best, but it was actually surprisingly better than the first one. Maybe it’s because Arland is absent for a long time in that one…
For better or for worse, I also requested Wilde’s Meadow, because since I’d made it through the first two, why not? Unfortunetly, I was rather disappointed.
Kate and Arland are back in full swing for this one, and syrupy sweet. The freaky intensity of their relationship brings me to think of Twilight, which is never a good thing. In multiple instances, they leave people waiting and ignore a war so they can “enjoy being newlyweds.” Honestly, I prefer it when you’re fighting demons.
Despite the war aspect, there wasn’t as much action as I was expecting. Or, rather, when it happened, Kate wasn’t always actively participating. Sure, she did her fair share, but too many huge plot points in the novel were taken out of Kate’s hands and figured out for her. The amount of times that people had to lead her around to what she needed to save the world was infuriating.
There were also far, far too many characters, once again. Worse, these characters got an attempt at depth, but then nothing ever fully did them justice. I never believed in the change of the character of Perth, for example. He was always pretty rude, and otherwise flat. The senseless deaths of other characters also made no sense.
I think the biggest things that threw me off were the plot “twists.” But they weren’t really twists. The way they were thrown into the story, they felt like plot inventions, suddenly thrown in to move things along, like a NaNo novel.
All in all, it was a fight to get to the end of the book. The characters were always defeating my attempts to like them, and the plot was really jerky. I find this to be one of the few series where the middle book was actually the best.
Well, this is the end. Hopefully, if you’re reading this, you’ve read my reviews of Wilde’s Fire and Wilde’s Army. If not, spoilers will abound.
I did not like Wilde’s Fire. I’m just going to put that out there. I thought Kate and Arland’s romance was absolutely ridiculous and creepy, but I finished the book anyways. Somehow, for some reason, I also requested Wilde’s Army when it came out. It wasn’t the best, but it was actually surprisingly better than the first one. Maybe it’s because Arland is absent for a long time in that one…
For better or for worse, I also requested Wilde’s Meadow, because since I’d made it through the first two, why not? Unfortunetly, I was rather disappointed.
Kate and Arland are back in full swing for this one, and syrupy sweet. The freaky intensity of their relationship brings me to think of Twilight, which is never a good thing. In multiple instances, they leave people waiting and ignore a war so they can “enjoy being newlyweds.” Honestly, I prefer it when you’re fighting demons.
Despite the war aspect, there wasn’t as much action as I was expecting. Or, rather, when it happened, Kate wasn’t always actively participating. Sure, she did her fair share, but too many huge plot points in the novel were taken out of Kate’s hands and figured out for her. The amount of times that people had to lead her around to what she needed to save the world was infuriating.
There were also far, far too many characters, once again. Worse, these characters got an attempt at depth, but then nothing ever fully did them justice. I never believed in the change of the character of Perth, for example. He was always pretty rude, and otherwise flat. The senseless deaths of other characters also made no sense.
I think the biggest things that threw me off were the plot “twists.” But they weren’t really twists. The way they were thrown into the story, they felt like plot inventions, suddenly thrown in to move things along, like a NaNo novel.
All in all, it was a fight to get to the end of the book. The characters were always defeating my attempts to like them, and the plot was really jerky. I find this to be one of the few series where the middle book was actually the best.
July 21, 2016
[Full disclosure: I received a free ebook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.]
Wilde’s Meadow is like an opera. Not because it’s melodramatic or the plot is ridiculously convoluted, but because it has grand themes and memorable characters. It’s reminiscent of Aida what with all the tragedy and sacrifice in the last part. But, unlike most operas, the ending is not abrupt and it is quite satisfying from a fan perspective and a critical one.
As many of my Twitter fans know, Krystal Wade has taken great pleasure in tormenting me about Wilde’s Meadow. When she told me she cried while writing the last part of the novel, I was pretty concerned. I rarely get attached to characters in a series on this level; I think the last series that I was this emotionally involved in was Harry Potter. Yes, the Darkness Falls series is that good.
By this point in the series there really aren’t that many new characters, but many of the old ones go through surprising changes, especially Perth. Out of everyone, he surprised me the most. But it was, as usual, Kate whole stole the stage (as she should). Her love for Arland, her desire to help Encardia, her friendship with Flanna…all of these actually feel real to me. Kate is three dimensional along with all of the other characters, something that a surprising number of authors can’t even manage.
Need I really say anything about the plot? It’s the last book in a trilogy; of course it’s fast paced. Krystal Wade spent a lot longer building up to the climax than I thought she would, but for whatever reason it still worked. Just when you think the book is over, she throws another plot twist at you and the suspense ratchets up another notch. This is one of the very few books where I could not predict the ending, which is a refreshing change in fantasy. I won’t tell you if it ends well for the lovers, but let me say I can see why Krystal Wade cried while writing some parts. I almost cried reading some parts and I don’t get emotional over books very often.
If you’re looking for an amazing fantasy trilogy with memorable characters and a satisfying (if not completely happy) ending, I would highly recommend the Darkness Falls trilogy.
I give this book 5/5 stars.
Wilde’s Meadow is like an opera. Not because it’s melodramatic or the plot is ridiculously convoluted, but because it has grand themes and memorable characters. It’s reminiscent of Aida what with all the tragedy and sacrifice in the last part. But, unlike most operas, the ending is not abrupt and it is quite satisfying from a fan perspective and a critical one.
As many of my Twitter fans know, Krystal Wade has taken great pleasure in tormenting me about Wilde’s Meadow. When she told me she cried while writing the last part of the novel, I was pretty concerned. I rarely get attached to characters in a series on this level; I think the last series that I was this emotionally involved in was Harry Potter. Yes, the Darkness Falls series is that good.
By this point in the series there really aren’t that many new characters, but many of the old ones go through surprising changes, especially Perth. Out of everyone, he surprised me the most. But it was, as usual, Kate whole stole the stage (as she should). Her love for Arland, her desire to help Encardia, her friendship with Flanna…all of these actually feel real to me. Kate is three dimensional along with all of the other characters, something that a surprising number of authors can’t even manage.
Need I really say anything about the plot? It’s the last book in a trilogy; of course it’s fast paced. Krystal Wade spent a lot longer building up to the climax than I thought she would, but for whatever reason it still worked. Just when you think the book is over, she throws another plot twist at you and the suspense ratchets up another notch. This is one of the very few books where I could not predict the ending, which is a refreshing change in fantasy. I won’t tell you if it ends well for the lovers, but let me say I can see why Krystal Wade cried while writing some parts. I almost cried reading some parts and I don’t get emotional over books very often.
If you’re looking for an amazing fantasy trilogy with memorable characters and a satisfying (if not completely happy) ending, I would highly recommend the Darkness Falls trilogy.
I give this book 5/5 stars.
September 21, 2013
Well, here we are, approaching the Meadow that Kate has dreamed of���and not in a good way. Encardia is still engulfed in a war with darkness, the losses continue piling up, and Kate is heading to the very place she���s watched Arland die in her dreams so many times. The characters we love���Arland, Kate, Perth, Brit, Cadman���and some surprising new allies are armed for the battle with weapons, prophesies, and most importantly secrets. Everything must be revealed in its own time.
When I think of the overall feel of the book, I remember watching Monstervision as a kid and Joe Bob Briggs��� quote ���anyone can die at anytime.��� It creates an excellent horror movie and an even better book. Krystal Wade captures that feeling with this book, you want to turn the page and find out what happens and yet you know that anyone is fair game. Add to that to the suspense created by the front cover, and you���re in for an emotional tsunami every time you turn a page.
Krystal also spared no expense depicting how difficult war can be, especially for a woman suddenly thrust into battle. We have a rotting world thanks to the darkness, people are separated from those they love, they are dying, starving, and puking. For women we have the added gift of the monthly cycle. There���s nothing glorious about this battlefield.
The prophesies were confusing, and because of that the novel also takes on more of a head game as the remaining characters try to figure out what it all means. I would have liked some more action during their discussions, but after Dughbal���s death (which in the end was fairly simple in contrast to all of the lives lost to get there) there���s a great deal of plotting and deciphering of poetic hints. By the end of the book, I though my insides would liquefy from all of the tension, waiting for that final moment that will bring Light back to Encardia.
Final verdict- Weighing out my subjective and objective takes on the book, I keep coming to a rating of 4.5, which I���ll round up for the sake of math and our whole-star system. I highly recommend the entire series.
When I think of the overall feel of the book, I remember watching Monstervision as a kid and Joe Bob Briggs��� quote ���anyone can die at anytime.��� It creates an excellent horror movie and an even better book. Krystal Wade captures that feeling with this book, you want to turn the page and find out what happens and yet you know that anyone is fair game. Add to that to the suspense created by the front cover, and you���re in for an emotional tsunami every time you turn a page.
Krystal also spared no expense depicting how difficult war can be, especially for a woman suddenly thrust into battle. We have a rotting world thanks to the darkness, people are separated from those they love, they are dying, starving, and puking. For women we have the added gift of the monthly cycle. There���s nothing glorious about this battlefield.
The prophesies were confusing, and because of that the novel also takes on more of a head game as the remaining characters try to figure out what it all means. I would have liked some more action during their discussions, but after Dughbal���s death (which in the end was fairly simple in contrast to all of the lives lost to get there) there���s a great deal of plotting and deciphering of poetic hints. By the end of the book, I though my insides would liquefy from all of the tension, waiting for that final moment that will bring Light back to Encardia.
Final verdict- Weighing out my subjective and objective takes on the book, I keep coming to a rating of 4.5, which I���ll round up for the sake of math and our whole-star system. I highly recommend the entire series.
January 19, 2013
Great ending to a great series! There may have been some tears and there may have been doubts about how this book would end, but, ultimately, the author did justice to this wonderful story! Katriona (Kate) finds herself in the war she’s been preparing for and must face the fact that this could cost her the family and friends who mean so much to her. There was so much going on in this book…even though it was shorter than I had imagined it would be.
All my favorite characters stood behind Kate to bring light back to Encardia. I was quite surprised by some the twists in this book and, in all honesty, saddened by some as well. But when all is said and done, I think the author did all the right things. We’ve all read books where wars turn into non-wars and this definitely not one of them. The action was intense and the bad guys extra creepy, keeping me glued to the book to see what would happen next. Kate had to face her foes and her own demons to try to bring light back to her world and, like any girl, had moments of doubt and exhaustion. Overall, however, she kept her focus on what was important…her family, her friends and her world.
A very compelling part of the story was learning about everyone’s prophesies and how intertwined they were. These prophesies were definitely complex and confusing but as they began to be sorted out we learned that Kate, Arland and the rest were fated to protect this world. Speaking of other characters, I once again loved most of the secondary characters and, I say most, because I had to admit that Kate’s sister Brit was on my nerves in the beginning of the book. But, even she redeemed herself in my eyes by the end! These characters have been through so much together that having them face this final battle together felt right.
This is a great series that provides the right amount of action with romance and lets you experience all the emotions. Pick it up…you won’t be sorry!
All my favorite characters stood behind Kate to bring light back to Encardia. I was quite surprised by some the twists in this book and, in all honesty, saddened by some as well. But when all is said and done, I think the author did all the right things. We’ve all read books where wars turn into non-wars and this definitely not one of them. The action was intense and the bad guys extra creepy, keeping me glued to the book to see what would happen next. Kate had to face her foes and her own demons to try to bring light back to her world and, like any girl, had moments of doubt and exhaustion. Overall, however, she kept her focus on what was important…her family, her friends and her world.
A very compelling part of the story was learning about everyone’s prophesies and how intertwined they were. These prophesies were definitely complex and confusing but as they began to be sorted out we learned that Kate, Arland and the rest were fated to protect this world. Speaking of other characters, I once again loved most of the secondary characters and, I say most, because I had to admit that Kate’s sister Brit was on my nerves in the beginning of the book. But, even she redeemed herself in my eyes by the end! These characters have been through so much together that having them face this final battle together felt right.
This is a great series that provides the right amount of action with romance and lets you experience all the emotions. Pick it up…you won’t be sorry!
January 19, 2013
Great ending to a great series! There may have been some tears and there may have been doubts about how this book would end, but, ultimately, the author did justice to this wonderful story! Katriona (Kate) finds herself in the war she’s been preparing for and must face the fact that this could cost her the family and friends who mean so much to her. There was so much going on in this book…even though it was shorter than I had imagined it would be.
All my favorite characters stood behind Kate to bring light back to Encardia. I was quite surprised by some the twists in this book and, in all honesty, saddened by some as well. But when all is said and done, I think the author did all the right things. We’ve all read books where wars turn into non-wars and this definitely not one of them. The action was intense and the bad guys extra creepy, keeping me glued to the book to see what would happen next. Kate had to face her foes and her own demons to try to bring light back to her world and, like any girl, had moments of doubt and exhaustion. Overall, however, she kept her focus on what was important…her family, her friends and her world.
A very compelling part of the story was learning about everyone’s prophesies and how intertwined they were. These prophesies were definitely complex and confusing but as they began to be sorted out we learned that Kate, Arland and the rest were fated to protect this world. Speaking of other characters, I once again loved most of the secondary characters and, I say most, because I had to admit that Kate’s sister Brit was on my nerves in the beginning of the book. But, even she redeemed herself in my eyes by the end! These characters have been through so much together that having them face this final battle together felt right.
This is a great series that provides the right amount of action with romance and lets you experience all the emotions. Pick it up…you won’t be sorry!
All my favorite characters stood behind Kate to bring light back to Encardia. I was quite surprised by some the twists in this book and, in all honesty, saddened by some as well. But when all is said and done, I think the author did all the right things. We’ve all read books where wars turn into non-wars and this definitely not one of them. The action was intense and the bad guys extra creepy, keeping me glued to the book to see what would happen next. Kate had to face her foes and her own demons to try to bring light back to her world and, like any girl, had moments of doubt and exhaustion. Overall, however, she kept her focus on what was important…her family, her friends and her world.
A very compelling part of the story was learning about everyone’s prophesies and how intertwined they were. These prophesies were definitely complex and confusing but as they began to be sorted out we learned that Kate, Arland and the rest were fated to protect this world. Speaking of other characters, I once again loved most of the secondary characters and, I say most, because I had to admit that Kate’s sister Brit was on my nerves in the beginning of the book. But, even she redeemed herself in my eyes by the end! These characters have been through so much together that having them face this final battle together felt right.
This is a great series that provides the right amount of action with romance and lets you experience all the emotions. Pick it up…you won’t be sorry!
May 13, 2013
Kate wins the battle, but the cost is large. She loses her sister and Arland (so she thinks). Perth takes her to Arland's old family home waiting for the others who have survived the battle. She is completely torn up that she has to live without her loved ones. She is angry that the Darkness is still there. She keeps getting dreams and hearing Grandior say that she needs to remember in order to take the Darkness away.
The High Leaders come to Arland's old family home to meet with Kate. She finds out that most of the leaders are actually shifters and Leader Dufaigh has put a spell on them. She escapes once she realizes that Arland is actually alive and she needs to save him.
The plan is to have Perth kill his father and Kate will save the children and get Arland. It ends up that they are successful.
This was a very good series overall. I think that it could have been settled in two books, but I was invested in the story enough that I read all three. After the battle when the bad god (I can't remember his name) was killed, I thought it would be over. It seems frustrating that there was always something else before Darkness would be over. So that was a negative. But overall, the story was good and interesting. The love of Arland and Kate was nice to read about. Just a little too many twists and turns for my tastes.
The High Leaders come to Arland's old family home to meet with Kate. She finds out that most of the leaders are actually shifters and Leader Dufaigh has put a spell on them. She escapes once she realizes that Arland is actually alive and she needs to save him.
The plan is to have Perth kill his father and Kate will save the children and get Arland. It ends up that they are successful.
This was a very good series overall. I think that it could have been settled in two books, but I was invested in the story enough that I read all three. After the battle when the bad god (I can't remember his name) was killed, I thought it would be over. It seems frustrating that there was always something else before Darkness would be over. So that was a negative. But overall, the story was good and interesting. The love of Arland and Kate was nice to read about. Just a little too many twists and turns for my tastes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2012
The Darkness Falls series was fast paced, filled with interesting characters and was rounded off with a great imaginative storyline. The world building from book 1 was attention grabbing and I loved learning everything about Encardia. Katriona started out as any girl next door, knew nothing of her true self or where she came from and grew into a great heroine that was destined to save a world. She went through many ups and downs, lost many and gained some as well.
WILDE'S MEADOW rounded off the series with action, suspense, and tears of loss and joy. Just about everyone from book 1 and book 2 had a role to play in WILDE'S MEADOW and a lot lost their lives in support of Katriona's destiny. When I say a lot of people were lost I'm not exaggerating and they were not all small role characters. I had no clue what would really happen until it happened and there were many times were I was 100 percent positive the outcome would be different than how it really turned out.
I'm happy with how things turned out for Kate and Arland and the ending of the book left me satisfied with the end of the series. I think everyone who survived found a great niche to live happily ever after in.
WILDE'S MEADOW rounded off the series with action, suspense, and tears of loss and joy. Just about everyone from book 1 and book 2 had a role to play in WILDE'S MEADOW and a lot lost their lives in support of Katriona's destiny. When I say a lot of people were lost I'm not exaggerating and they were not all small role characters. I had no clue what would really happen until it happened and there were many times were I was 100 percent positive the outcome would be different than how it really turned out.
I'm happy with how things turned out for Kate and Arland and the ending of the book left me satisfied with the end of the series. I think everyone who survived found a great niche to live happily ever after in.
November 7, 2012
Katriona has lost her home (Earth) and her best friend, but she has gained the use of magic and fallen in love. She still has to lead an army to war in order to bring Light back to Encardia and that seems to be the least of her worries. To achieve this goal she must unite the worlds to fight against Darkness and kill the fallen god that has taken over the body of her dead best friend. Will Katriona have the power and strength needed to fulfill all of these tasks? Will love be enough to fuel her magic?
Wilde’s Meadow is the third and final book in the Darkness Falls trilogy. Wade brings back the characters we love as well as the characters we hate to cumulate this story. Readers of the series will not be disappointed in the conclusion of this trilogy. The best aspect of this book is that there are many segments of the book that will make the reader wonder if the story will end with Light or Darkness winning. You will need to read the book yourself to find out. If you have not read the first two books in this series, PLEASE read them first!
Wilde’s Meadow is the third and final book in the Darkness Falls trilogy. Wade brings back the characters we love as well as the characters we hate to cumulate this story. Readers of the series will not be disappointed in the conclusion of this trilogy. The best aspect of this book is that there are many segments of the book that will make the reader wonder if the story will end with Light or Darkness winning. You will need to read the book yourself to find out. If you have not read the first two books in this series, PLEASE read them first!
April 13, 2016
If you've enjoyed the rest of this series, I am sure you will enjoy Wilde's Meadow as it has a very similar tone to the previous two. Particularly if you have a good memory for details from earlier on in the series, or have recently read the last book, as I personally had forgotten some of the details about Kate's visions which I think meant I missed the meaning of a few moments. Encardia is, as ever, a very interesting world and we get a slight hint of some of the other parallel worlds which was great. There's an awful lot of action in the second half of the book and everything's fraught with peril, it's certainly not an easy end to the war. However, there is still a lot of moping and a fair amount of convenient explaining away of things with secret prophecies. I found myself very frustrated with only ever knowing half the story and just (like Kate) having to accept that someone knew it was happening for a reason. I wasn't convinced by all the decisions characters made in the big finale, but there is a lovely happily ever after for everyone involved.
November 22, 2012
The final fight is here. Katriona must face the god inhabiting her best friend, and she must kill him and believe that Griandor will keep his word and bring him back to life. She must trust her army and has to face the facts that she will lose some of her friends.
This is the last book in the series - I feel I keep getting surprised by finale books lately. So many series that I really enjoy are coming to an end without my prior knowledge, seriously it has happened so much recently.
I have really enjoyed this series, as much as I disliked Brit and (in this book) Katriona gets a bit whiny and woe-is-me about the whole saviour thing. Yeah sure, she has to save a world she knew nothing of and has only recently found out about but she accepted it all so readily at the beginning that I find her downtrodden attitude a bit annoying.
Other than that, this was an excellent ending to a fantastic series and I recommend reading it, if you haven't already.
This is the last book in the series - I feel I keep getting surprised by finale books lately. So many series that I really enjoy are coming to an end without my prior knowledge, seriously it has happened so much recently.
I have really enjoyed this series, as much as I disliked Brit and (in this book) Katriona gets a bit whiny and woe-is-me about the whole saviour thing. Yeah sure, she has to save a world she knew nothing of and has only recently found out about but she accepted it all so readily at the beginning that I find her downtrodden attitude a bit annoying.
Other than that, this was an excellent ending to a fantastic series and I recommend reading it, if you haven't already.
March 19, 2013
This was the final book in the Darkness Falls trilogy. I did not expect so many people to die, but I guess it all worked out in the end even though everyone practically is dead. This author is not afraid to kill off her characters because she writes about an afterlife and Heaven and gods so she writes that they are living happily ever after together in Heaven while few people are alive on the planet.
I think Kate and Arland's love was a little forced and I never understood why Arland loved her to begin with. Kate only loved him because in her dreams for 6 years she was in love with him so when they met for the first time that is what she remembers. I guess I wish I believed how much they loved each other because one minute they barely know each other and then the next minute they are in love and it continues through the whole series.
And Brad just gives up his life for Arland? Yeah, I don't know if I believe that.
I think Kate and Arland's love was a little forced and I never understood why Arland loved her to begin with. Kate only loved him because in her dreams for 6 years she was in love with him so when they met for the first time that is what she remembers. I guess I wish I believed how much they loved each other because one minute they barely know each other and then the next minute they are in love and it continues through the whole series.
And Brad just gives up his life for Arland? Yeah, I don't know if I believe that.
April 13, 2017
I have enjoyed this series. The plot and world kept me interested and curious. But I couldn't like this last book as much as I wanted to.
Like the first book, I found the first half incredibly slow. Heavy internal dialogue and things that were just repetitive made me frustrated. All I wanted was to get to the battles, to see how everyone overcame their obstacles and weaknesses.
The second half things picked up with battle scenes and intrigue. Although I did feel like I went around in circles with Kate's moping, and with Perth, Cadman, and Rhoswen. I just wanted her to read the letter and get on with it.
Summing up the series though, it is a fun read, even though I did get frustrated at times. There's some great twists and turns, and of course, a happily ever after that leaves you satisfied with the outcome of everything.
Like the first book, I found the first half incredibly slow. Heavy internal dialogue and things that were just repetitive made me frustrated. All I wanted was to get to the battles, to see how everyone overcame their obstacles and weaknesses.
The second half things picked up with battle scenes and intrigue. Although I did feel like I went around in circles with Kate's moping, and with Perth, Cadman, and Rhoswen. I just wanted her to read the letter and get on with it.
Summing up the series though, it is a fun read, even though I did get frustrated at times. There's some great twists and turns, and of course, a happily ever after that leaves you satisfied with the outcome of everything.
June 11, 2015
Ok i just started this book but i've been done with the series as a whole after the second book. I usually go right though books in a few days but this one ive been having to take brakes with because i just cant get over it. The second book is so pointless about half way though i was done. Now an hour into the 3rd book i had to stop and go WTF. i mean im only an hour in and it just made the second book completely pointless.
first book she is told 'Kate you must unite the people and create and army to defeat the darkness'
Second book She tells 'I need an army to defeat the darkness'
Third book 'naw i only need the 6 people that i started the journey over here with. i don't need any other people. im cool.'
uh yeah... im done
first book she is told 'Kate you must unite the people and create and army to defeat the darkness'
Second book She tells 'I need an army to defeat the darkness'
Third book 'naw i only need the 6 people that i started the journey over here with. i don't need any other people. im cool.'
uh yeah... im done
May 18, 2014
It was a great read. I couldn't put it down. It has some great twists and turns. We see Kate's story come to an end. She is faced with some difficult challenges in this one. The decisions that she makes will not only have consequences for herself but those around her as well. Want to find out what happens and how it ends then add it along with the other two to your TBR list. I highly recommend the series to everyone. I look forward to reading more of Krystal's books.
September 29, 2013
I'm not sure why I'm just getting to this. I thought I had this one. After searching, I realized I did not. I bought it today and finished it TODAY! Couldn't put it down!
I really enjoyed this series and I didn't want it to end. This book does not disappoint.
I really enjoyed this series and I didn't want it to end. This book does not disappoint.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews