I have learned this through both isolation and sorrow. My inheritance is a legacy of lies—they flow through my family like poison. Each new morning they become harder to hide.
But now my world is in turmoil. The Second Kingdom has already fallen. Demons rise from its ashes, crossing our borders to slaughter my people. Betrayal threatens to consume all I strive to defend. The Jeweled City is on the brink of war. Only my marriage to a stranger can slow its tide.
A. Gerry developed an interest in fantasy at a young age. In middle school, she fell in love with writing short stories and was thrilled when her sister proposed creating a series of novels together. Her fondness of writing comes from many sources, but the most prominent is her avid devotion to video games. Some of her favorites include Mass Effect, The Elder Scrolls series, and anything that lets her shoot zombies. She received a Bachelor’s Degree from Southern Utah University and teaches at a local charter school.
This book was even better than the first, and perhaps even better than anything I have read all year. It is a prequel to Phoenix Angel, and shows what Maggie and Lily's lives were like before, as Margariete and Esilwen, and even explains some of the events referred to at the end of Phoenix Angel. Sadly, Kyle was not in this at all, and there was very little of Carter, but we get to learn a great deal more about Carter, as well as Raeylan and Feralblade. And what we learned was fascinating. There are so many character revelations in this books, it continually surprised me. I had so many misconceptions before starting it, and I loved the way Amanda Gerry and Christy Hall laid it out.
I have read some other YA fantasy lately, such as Grave Mercy, Bitterblue, and Throne of Glass, and they all disappointed me. They were also all very similar. But Guardian of Time was one of the most original YA fantasy I have read and I would even recommend it for adult fantasy readers. It had a highly developed magical system and amazingly complex mythology and world building. And the story was non-stop. Just when you think you may know where the story is going, another villain is introduced, another threat against Thyella, against the First Kingdom, or against a loved one. But it all flowed together perfectly and kept me reading.
Again, it focused on Margariete and Esilwen. I think this is meant to be both of their stories. Two incredible women as close as sisters, and their loves and losses, as they fight for the lives and freedoms of their world and others. And this book is not afraid to go dark, as it explores the darkest parts of a person's soul, what motivates evil, and how far someone is willing to go for what they believe in.
I cant even think of enough words to describe how amazing this was. I am completely captivated by the world of Shardwell and its stunning imagery. I cannot wait to find out what happens next, how Margariete meets Kyleren, how they end up in our world, and what Kirion will do next!
I would like to thank the authors for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review.
My head is spinning and my heart is still beating hard, hanging onto every last word written in this book. Talk about gripping and riveting; captivating and mind blowing; and non-stop adventure and suspense. Unbelievably fantastic and amazing. I am speechless and beyond words, though I will try and make some sense when writing this review.
First of all I would love to thank the authors for providing me with a copy of Guardian of Time, in exchange for my honest review. I am forever thankful for being given the opportunity to read this book, as well as their first book of this awesome series.
Guardian of Time is so different to Phoenix Angel. In fact, it's a prequel and centres around the lives of Margariete and Esilwen aka Maggie and Lily. When they met and what their lives were like in a different time and space, knows as Shards. I lost myself in their story and the fantastical world that the authors have created. A world full of mythology, magic and duty. At every turn, I was catapulted within every detail of this finally woven story, and lived and breathed it just like the characters did. And, just when you think you have figured something out, you are thrown into another direction, where your heart gets crushed, or you are angered and shouting at the many villains that keep popping up in this book. Yes, I missed Kyle (though I know he will be popping up in the series soon...he must LOL), but this didn't take away from the many layers going on in this book. And, I fell more in love with Margariete's twin brother Raeylan. Talk about stoic and dutiful. The lengths that this King would do for his Kingdom and his people, but more so for his beloved sister and younger brother. No wonder he stole Esilwen's heart...sigh!
Not only is this book fantastical and magical, but it is dark and gritty, and shows all the facets of human frailty and weakness; as well as love, honour and duty. I loved how all these themes were individual threads that, when woven together, with all the other elements and details, become this natural flowing story. You never get bogged down or feel like things and dragging or lulling. Instead, you thrust into it with fever and grip your seat. This really is a ride you all need to go on to experience for yourself. I cannot say another thing, there really is no other words that would do it justice. It really is a must read and I cannot wait for the next instalment so I can read about Margariete, Esilwen, Raeylan and Kyle's fate and how they got to our world, in our present time. I wait patiently, though I hope I don't have to wait to long. Utterly brilliant...bravo Amanda Gerry and Christy Hall!!
What a fantastic read. I have to admit I am a bit surprised. I was asked to read this book and review it for the author and I was not expecting what I got. I have had few books given to me in the past to review and they were ok...but this book was a gem. It makes me wonder what makes a publisher mass market some books and not others. I have read multiple YA fantasy books that were ho hum at best and were the current MUST READ of the literary community. The Guardian of Time was a rich and interesting story of how a young princess of the City of Jewels, Margariete, struggles to cope with who she is. Hidden away because of her differences (looks as well as hidden powers), her twin brother Raeylan, soon to be king, is her only protectorate, confidant and true friend until he agrees to a treaty to marry her off to the widowed king of the fourth Kingdom, the City of Glass. Margariete decides to flee the First Kingdom and the adventure begins. The characters and the world building are well developed and I loved the concept of the shards and the magic system. I assume the first book goes into greater detail regarding the magic system since it is set much further in the future but I guess I will have to find out for myself. This is the second book and the first I have read of the Shardwell series, and from other reviews it may have been a good move to start with book 2. I hate to compare books and authors but to give readers an idea of the caliber of this story this book had the feeling of Kristin Cashore's Graceling & Fire books from the Graceling Realm. From the looks of it, you will be following the same characters through different shards on their quest throughout this series. Thank you for the opportunity to read your story...I will be reading them all. Well Done!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review, I was also gifted book 1 and after reading it about a month ago I was very glad to get time to read this one and I was not disapionted, this book was excellent and in my opinion better than the first. When I started I was expecting something different but Iam very glad it was the way it was, weaving a beautiful story that answered a lot of questions I had after book one. I loved the old world charm in this book, Love and loyalty filled with duty and sacrifice that comes with tradition and birthright, throw in some evil kings and a plot for revenge and I loved every second of the story that unfolded. I loved the characters in this one just as much as the first maybe more. The twins Raeylan and Margariete strong is their love for each other and their younger brother, determined to save each other, the ones they love and the people of their kingdom. I was as blind sided as they were by the betrayal of a close friend and the crazy events that unfolded quickly just when I thought they were safe. I also found myself heart broken by Elsiwen`s tale, she wished to be a loyal friend to Raeylan and Margariete and so many hardships stood in her way and I see many more to come in her future. I have so many more questions as to what will happen next, how do they all end up on earth, and how will Reaylan save them. I was so skeptical of him in book one but I know have faith and I am rooting for him. I MUST CONTINUE THIS SERIES!!!!!! I love the direction it is headed and I can not wait to see it all come together. So as you can tell I absolutly loved this book and I would recommened it to anyone especially if you love action, mystery and a bit of fantasy.
The second book in the series was way better than the first one. This book clarifies a lot of glaring points that were missed/left out of the first book that had me confused.
This book takes place in an entirely different universe and I love the introduction of the new characters. This story builds a universe that readers did not get to entirely experience in the first book and develops the story complexly along the way. Although sometimes it was a bit drawn out the descriptions were more appreciated than not.
I am certainly enthralled by this book and excited to see what is coming next.
Note: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Again AWESOME!!! I love how the first in the series takes a look in the present and this book goes to a different time/era/world/space!!! It's so not FAIR!!! I need to read the 3rd book!!!! please please please???? Extremely addicting, easy to read, a little terrorifying, love. It was the "edge of your seat" kind of book!!!! I can only get my hopes flying that i can get a chance to find out where the shardwell series goes next!!! Fantastic book, again MOVIE!!!! XOXOXOXOXOXO
Admittedly, going into Guardian of Time, I was a little on the nervous side. Sure, I loved the first book, Phoenix Angel, but I was a little concerned about a certain something I, and many other readers call Second Book Syndrome. For those of you who don't know, this is typically when the second book is the worst in the trilogy and can go into a boring lull, except of course to end with a cliff-hanger. I had no reason to be scared. I thought Guardian of Time was EVEN better than the first.
I think the main reason why I prefer Guardian of Time to Phoenix Angel is because of the actual story. It had been a while since I read a fantasy book set in another time, so that helped me to fall in love with it. There felt like there was more depth to the story as well.
Also, I felt more attatched to the characters. Being able to relate them to the ones from the first book helped. I feel as if I know them more and their personlies stay the same in all the books. However, I'm pretty sure Margariete/Maggie will always be a favourite character. We need more characters like her in YA.
Speaking of characters, there were definitely some things I didn't see coming. I felt so close to the characters that I felt too betrayed in clashes. The ending was definitely the best part though.
I fairly surprised to say that I prefer this cover to the one from the first book. I just really like the white and purple/blue. Plus the guy reminds me of Josh Hutchinson.
So as you can see, I'm really excited for the third book. I have high expectations and am really looking forward to reading it.
If you love fantasy, I highly recommend that you check The Shardwell series out.
A captivating read. A perfect example of why I read fantasy.
Guardian of Time is a completely different book than Phoenix Angel and takes place in a different demotion or “Shard” as they call it. Prince Raeylan and his twin sister Margariete, are trying to defend their kingdom from demons who are crossing the border. That is just the start of things. When Margariete meets a new friend, Esilwen, who has lost her memory things really start to get interesting. Esilwen starts to fall in love with Raeylan and him with her but he must marry another in hopes to save his kingdom. Love is found & hearts are broken in this fantasy full of suspense and adventure.
One of the things I loved is how strong the characters are they really hold their own and the way you get wrapped up in the story and forget where you are. This book mostly focuses on Margariete and Esilwen and their journey, loves and losses. The detail from the mythology of their god’s to the different Shards is just amazing. I can’t wait to read what happens next in the series or where they will end up. This really is a must read for fantasy lovers and I highly recommend it!
Book 2 of the series and both ourselves and the Heroes (and Heroines ) learn more about the Shardwells, the ancient Gods, the mysterious artefacts and the strange magical powers they bestow upon their bearers. We are drawn further into the intrigue, conflict and betrayal surrounding the marvellously portrayed characters (Heroes and Villains alike!).As one has come to expect from the authors, the book is witty, entertaining, action packed and compelling! Imaginative and intelligently well written .Each episode leaves us curious with further questions to be answered (like what happens next and is Marshall Takaei's first name George?) and a longing for more! My thanks to the authors and their agent for my continuing enjoyment of the Shardwell series. Whether a sci-fi or fantasy fan or just enjoy a cracking good read, I urge anyone to discover the wonderful world of Shardwell! Now, with my newly acquired knowledge and insight I'm off to re-read book 3!
Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, the second book in the Shardwell Series has totally blown my mind! I had to adjust for a second to get used to Maggie being referred to her previous name, Margariete, but that only made this more interesting.
Guardian of Time takes you back to when Esilwen (or Lily as we know her from Phoneix Angel) and Margariete first met. It takes place in another world (shard) known as Thyella. As you follow through the story, you find out how all the characters fall into place and even how Esilwen began on this journey. I was disappointed that Kyle wasn't present in this book, but I do know that he should be arriving soon in the series!
I cannot wait until the next installment of the Shardwell Series, so please ladies, let's not keep a new fan waiting!!!
Book given in exchange for an honest and fair review.
This series just gets better with every new installment. The complexity of the story telling reminds me of J.K. Rowling's writing style. The way they connect the smallest details in these stories makes this read a deep and thought provoking one. They make the reader think thought the details instead of spelling out what has just happened. I love how they are choosing not to tell the story in chronological order. It is like putting a huge puzzle together. Trying to figure out who each character is and discovering new pieces to the story it is like being on an adventure. I love this series! It is definitely a series that you'll want to re-read and discover bits and pieces you missed the first time around. It is the best one This is the best series I have read in a long time and I can't wait for the third installment!
Another Goodreads first read. The second in the Shardwell Series, and takes place 639 years ago. Maggie, Lilly, Kyle and Carter are different people in this story. They fight demons, use magic and Princess Marggarite is different from other people in the land and has to keep her face covered. Her looks are so different that people think she is brings bad luck or is evil. She flees from an arranged marriage, meets Esilwen. who has not memory of her past. There is adventure, betryal, magic, demons, more betryal, love and heartache.
Can't wait for the next installment.
I will be passing this one one to a goodreads member.
Merged review:
Still reading this book onpage 124, I read the first book in the series in one day 5 stars. This book is longer and I have not been able ot do as much reading lately. Hope to finish it this week.
I received a free copy of this book from a Goodreads librarian in exchange for an honest review or rating.
Because I don't always read full titles, I didn't realize this was the second book in a series until after I received it. I wasn't sure I could follow along without having read the first one, but to my surprise, I had no trouble with it at all.
Unless you count putting it down. Because once I began reading it, I was hooked.
The authors have created a fantasy world that I would love to visit - Cursed Beasts and all. I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves fantasy.
I usually do not like books that are set in historical times, but this one technically is a history of an "other" world so that aspect didn't bother me so much. Actually, I really liked this story. The build-up was great. The author constantly kept you guessing as to the significance of each character. I love the twists in the "bad guys" and how the author cleverly connected them at the end. I can't wait for the next book to find out how it all ends!
This book is so awesome. I know i'm like repeating myself over and over. But his book is really awesome. I think I like the second book better, Guardian of Time than the first book, Phoenix Angel. Though both are good. So if you guys want the full review of Guardian of Time.
This was an amazing book. I really enjoyed this excellent fantasy novel. I am an educator and some of my students have been reading this series. The reports have been that the students have really been anticipating each sequel in the series. The imagery is fantastic with very interesting descriptions and action sequences.
I received this book free from a Goodreads subscriber in return for a review.
Well, this is book two in the Shardwell Series and it doesn't disappoint. I would recommend reading this after the first one so you can stay in line with the story. From the way it sounds, there may be a third and I am really hoping so. :)
This is a fast paced, exciting read. Full of action and adventure, it keeps you moving and has twists and turns that will keep you wondering what will happen next. I couldn't put it down! Highly recommended! If you like fantasy, this is a must read.
I very much enjoyed the first book, Phoenix Angel, by Gerry and Hall, so I requested to see the second book. I'm glad I did, because it clarified a lot of things-- including what the title Phoenix Angel meant, and the meaning of the picture on the cover.
Guardian of Time is a completely different book than Phoenix Angel and takes place in a different timeline/universe or "shard" if I may. We are introduced to both familiar and new characters-- but all have a new role and a new aspect of their personalities. Without giving too much away, Prince Raeylan (who I have a bit of a crush on), and his twin Margariete, try to defend their homeland from enemies who are jealous of their power. Margariete meets a new friend, Esilwen, who has lost her memory. We have a lot of universe building that helps us understand what has happened before in Phoenix Angel, and how this universe is essential to our understanding.
I love how this book was completely different from the first, and how the plot was so intricate. I loved how we got to learn more about Raeylan, Margariete, and Esilwen, all who are very briefly introduced at the end of Phoenix Angel. The book got stronger and stronger as it went along, and I am eager to see where this series is headed.
At times, the world building dragged too long, but the rest of the book was worth it. I also question a little the title and picture of the first book-- while its meaning became clear in this second installment, it may leave the reader too confused.
That said, these two sisters are talented, and these books are well worth your time to read!