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The Arcrean Conquest #3
The Isle of Arcrea
Subject to the designing rule of evil men, one island's future rests in the hands of an Arcrean.
Lady Meredith of Gilbrenor seeks help from the borders of Arcrea in a desperate attempt to rescue her son from the clutches of Lord Brock and to claim his rightful legacy. When Falconer undertakes the seemingly simple mission and travels to the isle with Meredith and her two young daughters, he is unprepared for the painful memories from his own past that wait to confront him on the distant shores.
Seth is a simple Arcrean shepherd whose worries are few and far between. When the discovery of a costly heirloom starts him on a quest of justice, it quickly becomes a journey that will test the strength of his faith and unlock the truth of his life?s purpose.
A lost parchment, a devastating secret, and an evil lord who seeks their ruin. Will the puzzle of Gilbrenor be solved and her future secured before it is too late?
Lady Meredith of Gilbrenor seeks help from the borders of Arcrea in a desperate attempt to rescue her son from the clutches of Lord Brock and to claim his rightful legacy. When Falconer undertakes the seemingly simple mission and travels to the isle with Meredith and her two young daughters, he is unprepared for the painful memories from his own past that wait to confront him on the distant shores.
Seth is a simple Arcrean shepherd whose worries are few and far between. When the discovery of a costly heirloom starts him on a quest of justice, it quickly becomes a journey that will test the strength of his faith and unlock the truth of his life?s purpose.
A lost parchment, a devastating secret, and an evil lord who seeks their ruin. Will the puzzle of Gilbrenor be solved and her future secured before it is too late?
376 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 16, 2013
2 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Sager
17 books146 followersNicole Sager is an avid reader and coffee drinker who enjoys writing Inspirational Fantasy set in a medieval-like era.
"I hope my books will encourage families to read together. If read by children, I hope the books broaden your vocabulary just a bit and introduce you to a life of endless possibilities in Christ. If read by adults, I hope you're inspired and encouraged to deepen your relationship with our Savior.
In writing each book, I pray that it will bring honor and glory to God, and that He will use it as a tool to bring at least one person to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Thanks for stopping by!"
Favorite Authors: Joanna Davidson Politano, Lori Benton, Kristy Cambron, MaryAnn Minatra.
"I hope my books will encourage families to read together. If read by children, I hope the books broaden your vocabulary just a bit and introduce you to a life of endless possibilities in Christ. If read by adults, I hope you're inspired and encouraged to deepen your relationship with our Savior.
In writing each book, I pray that it will bring honor and glory to God, and that He will use it as a tool to bring at least one person to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Thanks for stopping by!"
Favorite Authors: Joanna Davidson Politano, Lori Benton, Kristy Cambron, MaryAnn Minatra.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
February 1, 2016
I absolutely loved this book.
A must read.
A must read.
September 26, 2020
So many elements of this book were awesome, but for some reason, it just falls a bit flat after the first two. I think because it kind of pulls away from Druet and the gang. Falconer is awesome though, and I can't help but love Seth. Definitely worth a read for an Arcrean fan.
December 30, 2013
And so, with "The Isle of Arcrea," we come to the end of the Arcrean Conquest. This book is pretty different from the previous 2. The main character is the informant Falconer. He's been present in the last 2 books, but here is where he really gets to shine. He does lots of sneaking and spying and exploring, much of it in castles. I love medieval castles, so those scenes were my favorites :-D In the process, Falconer grows to learn more about God and depend on Him.
The story is about Lady Meredith who seeks help in finding the rightful heir to her island home. Many new characters are introduced, and it is quite a mystery as to who and where the rightful ruler of the island is. Coincidences and chance encounters abound, but in the end it is made clear that God orchestrates everything according to His plans and for the good of His people.
However, I didn't like this book quite as much as the first 2. First, I thought it would concern the isle of Arcrea; it doesn't. It's about a lady seeking help in figuring out the rightful rule of an island near Arcrea. Kind of low-key, especially after the previous 2 books of uniting the kingdom of Arcrea and then defending it in battle against an enemy nation. Next, our favorite characters from "the Heart" barely show up. Instead, there are a lot of new characters. I generally wouldn't mind this too much, but most of these newcomers don't get fleshed out well enough. Except Meg—she was cute ;-) Also, in addition to and partly because of all these new characters, there are many story lines running through the book, all of which gets rather confusing. So, the many story lines contribute to the new characters not getting enough "screen time." Lastly, some of the material feels like a simple repeat of the previous book ("the Fate"). Lookalikes and a past that is a lie are concepts that are recycled and presented again (Falconer even remarks as much). But, Nicole does know how to write powerful emotional scenes and sprinkle humor throughout :-)
Falconer is cool, and it was nice to see the story of this mysterious spy come to a satisfying conclusion. The message of God's sovereignty is great. But this book just didn't seem to fit so well into the Arcrea series, and especially not as as the ending to the series. It doesn't have the memorable characters and well-described fight scenes of "the Heart" nor the enigmas and epicness of "the Fate," but it is a great mystery/action read on its own. It would be great to see more stories come from the land of Arcrea!
The story is about Lady Meredith who seeks help in finding the rightful heir to her island home. Many new characters are introduced, and it is quite a mystery as to who and where the rightful ruler of the island is. Coincidences and chance encounters abound, but in the end it is made clear that God orchestrates everything according to His plans and for the good of His people.
However, I didn't like this book quite as much as the first 2. First, I thought it would concern the isle of Arcrea; it doesn't. It's about a lady seeking help in figuring out the rightful rule of an island near Arcrea. Kind of low-key, especially after the previous 2 books of uniting the kingdom of Arcrea and then defending it in battle against an enemy nation. Next, our favorite characters from "the Heart" barely show up. Instead, there are a lot of new characters. I generally wouldn't mind this too much, but most of these newcomers don't get fleshed out well enough. Except Meg—she was cute ;-) Also, in addition to and partly because of all these new characters, there are many story lines running through the book, all of which gets rather confusing. So, the many story lines contribute to the new characters not getting enough "screen time." Lastly, some of the material feels like a simple repeat of the previous book ("the Fate"). Lookalikes and a past that is a lie are concepts that are recycled and presented again (Falconer even remarks as much). But, Nicole does know how to write powerful emotional scenes and sprinkle humor throughout :-)
Falconer is cool, and it was nice to see the story of this mysterious spy come to a satisfying conclusion. The message of God's sovereignty is great. But this book just didn't seem to fit so well into the Arcrea series, and especially not as as the ending to the series. It doesn't have the memorable characters and well-described fight scenes of "the Heart" nor the enigmas and epicness of "the Fate," but it is a great mystery/action read on its own. It would be great to see more stories come from the land of Arcrea!
May 28, 2013
Age Appropriate For: Ages 12 and up for mild violence
Best for Ages: 12-18
Description: Subject to the designing rule of evil men, one island's future rests in the hands of an Arcrean. Lady Meredith of Gilbrenor seeks help from the borders of Arcrea in a desperate attempt to rescue her son from the clutches of Lord Brock and to claim his rightful legacy. When Falconer undertakes the seemingly simple mission and travels to the isle with Meredith and her two young daughters, he is unprepared for the painful memories from his own past that wait to confront him on the distant shores. Seth is a simple Arcrean shepherd whose worries are few and far between. When the discovery of a costly heirloom starts him on a quest of justice, it quickly becomes a journey that will test the strength of his faith and unlock the truth of his life?s purpose. A lost parchment, a devastating secret, and an evil lord who seeks their ruin. Will the puzzle of Gilbrenor be solved and her future secured before it is too late?
My youngest sister got through theses book much faster than I did. After she finished the second book, she begged me to buy her the last book. So, I bought her the third book, using her as my excuse to buy the book I really wanted to read.
To be honest, the prolog at threw me at first. I was ready to get right back to the characters I loved but I was being taken back in time and then, I was being introduced to a whole new cast. With that said, it didn’t take me long to get into the new story.
One of the things I love about Nicole’s style is the weaving of the threads of the story. From the very beginning you are following two or more stories that seem to have no relation but in the end are pulled together to give you a complete story.
Falconer and his interaction with Lady Meredith’s youngest daughter was by far my favorite part of the book. Who can resist a sweet little girl melting the heart of a warrior? It was so sweet to read.
As with her other books, there is lots of adventure. Since I love adventure books, this was perfect. The story keeps you turning pages until the very last one.
I highly recommend this whole series and I can’t wait for Nicole’s next book.
November 6, 2019
SO MUCH YES!!!!!
Um, so, yeah, I really enjoyed this story... :) To be honest, I was a little apprehensive at first because Falconer is probably the character I felt the least connection to in the two previous books. Even after spending quite a bit of time with him in The Fate of Arcrea, I just didn't feel like I really understood him, but for some reason I didn't feel a deep desire to fight through the mystery to discover the man inside. So knowing that he was going to be a main character in this book, I was afraid I wasn't going to care as much as I wanted to. And then...he met Meg. And my heart puddled all over my shoes. Of course, it did help that eventually we got to see some of the scars and motivations that drove him, as well as how he overcame them, but somehow, all it took for me was that one tiny little glimmer of heart, and I was GONE. So. Much. Love! <3<3<3
For the rest of the characters, I loved (almost) all of them to death, but Meg absolutely took the cake! *wants to pick her up and snuggle her and make her laugh* Such a little sweetheart! The rest of her family was lovely, and I loved the strong relationships there. Also, I adored Seth--his strength, his kindness, his simple faith--just about everything. <3 And the appearances/roles played by certain characters from previous books made me grin so hard and laugh in pure pleasure more than once. :D
Unlike the last one, I did not guess the solution to this mystery before the characters did--not that I didn't try to guess on multiple occasions or strongly suspect what the outcome was going to be for a certain character, but putting it all together so it made sense? Not even close! Though I did want to scream at one point when certain things were so close and then veered away again--I really wanted to step into the story and just certain people in certain places. But that would have messed up other things, so...I guess it was all right in the end. ;) And the messages scattered throughout were wonderful, especially Falconer's--such a tough balance to strike, but done so well!
Really, really, really enjoyed this book, although while the plot can stand alone, the characters are so much better if you've read the rest of the series. <3 Some recurring issues with word choice or punctuation conventions, but I loved the story and the characters so much that I don't care. Fangirl status achieved--and I could not be happier about it! :D
Content--mentions of cursing (no words); fighting and swordplay, including murder and attempted murder; mentions of blood, wounds, vomiting, and deaths (not graphic); mentions of stealing, cheating, and deception; mentions of drinking; mention of a girl being stopped and feeling threatened by a group of men;
Um, so, yeah, I really enjoyed this story... :) To be honest, I was a little apprehensive at first because Falconer is probably the character I felt the least connection to in the two previous books. Even after spending quite a bit of time with him in The Fate of Arcrea, I just didn't feel like I really understood him, but for some reason I didn't feel a deep desire to fight through the mystery to discover the man inside. So knowing that he was going to be a main character in this book, I was afraid I wasn't going to care as much as I wanted to. And then...he met Meg. And my heart puddled all over my shoes. Of course, it did help that eventually we got to see some of the scars and motivations that drove him, as well as how he overcame them, but somehow, all it took for me was that one tiny little glimmer of heart, and I was GONE. So. Much. Love! <3<3<3
For the rest of the characters, I loved (almost) all of them to death, but Meg absolutely took the cake! *wants to pick her up and snuggle her and make her laugh* Such a little sweetheart! The rest of her family was lovely, and I loved the strong relationships there. Also, I adored Seth--his strength, his kindness, his simple faith--just about everything. <3 And the appearances/roles played by certain characters from previous books made me grin so hard and laugh in pure pleasure more than once. :D
Unlike the last one, I did not guess the solution to this mystery before the characters did--not that I didn't try to guess on multiple occasions or strongly suspect what the outcome was going to be for a certain character, but putting it all together so it made sense? Not even close! Though I did want to scream at one point when certain things were so close and then veered away again--I really wanted to step into the story and just certain people in certain places. But that would have messed up other things, so...I guess it was all right in the end. ;) And the messages scattered throughout were wonderful, especially Falconer's--such a tough balance to strike, but done so well!
Really, really, really enjoyed this book, although while the plot can stand alone, the characters are so much better if you've read the rest of the series. <3 Some recurring issues with word choice or punctuation conventions, but I loved the story and the characters so much that I don't care. Fangirl status achieved--and I could not be happier about it! :D
Content--mentions of cursing (no words); fighting and swordplay, including murder and attempted murder; mentions of blood, wounds, vomiting, and deaths (not graphic); mentions of stealing, cheating, and deception; mentions of drinking; mention of a girl being stopped and feeling threatened by a group of men;
January 23, 2013
The Isle of Arcrea is the 3rd and currently the final book in the Arcrean Conquest Series. The story begins with a prologue that will take you back 75 years before rejoining the characters that were in place at the close of Book 2 (The Fate of Arcrea).
Join Falconer as he fights for honor; follow along as Meredith searches for justice; meet Seth as he struggles to find peace; and prepare to be reintroduced to Miji the trader!
Writing The Isle of Arcrea was quite an adventure for me, and I hope & pray that you'll share in this adventure as you read The Isle of Arcrea for yourself!
Join Falconer as he fights for honor; follow along as Meredith searches for justice; meet Seth as he struggles to find peace; and prepare to be reintroduced to Miji the trader!
Writing The Isle of Arcrea was quite an adventure for me, and I hope & pray that you'll share in this adventure as you read The Isle of Arcrea for yourself!
November 14, 2016
Nicole does a splendid job of suspense. Chapters end with a surprise that leaves you wondering until several chapters later. She weaves in foreshadowing with plot teasers.
Another thing she does well is wrapping up her plot lines. She manages many plot lines at a time, yet the endings don't feel rushed it forced.
I. LOVE. MEG!!!!! She is so adorable and easily my favorite character in all three books.
I sort of hope Nicole writes more Arcrea books because I think Seth's story needs more attention. I'd like to know more about him anyway. Nathaniel would also be fun. He had a good sense of humor. I like him too.
I thoroughly enjoyed this series. Next, the companions. Maybe they are about some of the people I want to read more about!
Another thing she does well is wrapping up her plot lines. She manages many plot lines at a time, yet the endings don't feel rushed it forced.
I. LOVE. MEG!!!!! She is so adorable and easily my favorite character in all three books.
I sort of hope Nicole writes more Arcrea books because I think Seth's story needs more attention. I'd like to know more about him anyway. Nathaniel would also be fun. He had a good sense of humor. I like him too.
I thoroughly enjoyed this series. Next, the companions. Maybe they are about some of the people I want to read more about!
July 10, 2017
I loved this books! What a great end to this great trilogy! This book focuses on, my favorite character, falconer and his quest to help an obscure noble women find her son and reclaim their kingdom. Only...not everything is how it appears. This book was great, with twists and surprises that were a great addition to the richly cultivated world that Nicole has created. I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves fantasy, especially Christian fantasy.
December 28, 2019
*Indiecember Green*
Heartwarming tale
My favorite of the trilogy! Falcon is my favorite character and this novel is mostly from his perspective. What a delightful tale with great twists!
Heartwarming tale
My favorite of the trilogy! Falcon is my favorite character and this novel is mostly from his perspective. What a delightful tale with great twists!
September 9, 2019
Loved it!
April 30, 2013
This was the third and final (for now at least?) book in the Arcrea series I've been reading this year. I don't have a lot to say because I've pretty said already how wonderful I think Nicole's stories are. This one was just as adventurous, following one of the minor characters from the first two books, Falconer - a former spy for the bad guys-turned Christ follower and spy/bodyguard for the good guys. ;) Lot's of fun new characters, strange new lands, and epic plot twists in this one!
I was 2/3rds through the book and was thinking, "Well, I guess Nicole decided not to put a salvation message in this one" and lo and behold a few pages later there it was! Where most book are pushy in this with a feeling they stuck the gospel message in there just because, Nicole beautifully weaves the entire story around it so that it becomes (as in real life) the only true conclusion. Besides this, there was a touching message of forgiveness that was so powerful.
My only reason for lowering the rating on this one was because I found that one aspect of the story concerning an event in the past of the main character could have used some help in enhancing the story more, but other than that it was wonderful as usual! :)
I'm so sad this is the last book I'll be able to read of Nicole's for awhile - she shall have a nice fan-base when her next book comes out, as I'll be waiting with anticipation!!
I was 2/3rds through the book and was thinking, "Well, I guess Nicole decided not to put a salvation message in this one" and lo and behold a few pages later there it was! Where most book are pushy in this with a feeling they stuck the gospel message in there just because, Nicole beautifully weaves the entire story around it so that it becomes (as in real life) the only true conclusion. Besides this, there was a touching message of forgiveness that was so powerful.
My only reason for lowering the rating on this one was because I found that one aspect of the story concerning an event in the past of the main character could have used some help in enhancing the story more, but other than that it was wonderful as usual! :)
I'm so sad this is the last book I'll be able to read of Nicole's for awhile - she shall have a nice fan-base when her next book comes out, as I'll be waiting with anticipation!!
December 10, 2022
Though I loved all the books, I liked this the best of the three. I've always reveled in stories involving forgotten pasts, and past secrets.
And while most of the original cast of characters from the first book only get minor roles I loved getting to know the new characters.
This action/adventure series is a must read, especially if you're looking for Christian fantasy books without the magic.
And while most of the original cast of characters from the first book only get minor roles I loved getting to know the new characters.
This action/adventure series is a must read, especially if you're looking for Christian fantasy books without the magic.
July 6, 2022
This was actually the best book in the series! The author's writing definitely grew stronger. Plot twist had me genuinely surprised. Would definitely recommend, especially to lovers of the Chronicles of Narnia.
September 9, 2022
Nice end to the series. Especially when it is about on of my favourite characters. Recommended
February 1, 2025
Last of the Arcrea Book series. I enjoyed this book more than the first two, but only slightly. Wonderful character development and attention to story detail and continuity. Very vivid descriptive narration. Very comfortable references to God and faith without being preachy. Although the target audience is teens and adults, young and older adults will get caught up in the story and appreciate the author’s storytelling prowess. I’m anxious to read more of the Arcrean companion books.
September 28, 2015
Another enjoyable read with a sound Christian theme, in which it was interesting to see a formerly minor character come into his own. In this case, it was Falconer the former spy and ‘informant’, whose background and circumstances we learn more about. His getting a chance at love was quite sweet and touching.
Some of the circumstances were rather predictable- I was able to guess Seth’s true identity a chapter or two before it was revealed, for instance. Also, some of the fight scenes left a lot to be desired (one guy beating up three or four trained soldiers- really?), and the characterization of the villain- well, it gets a bit repetitive after a while. Yet another evil Mizgalian nobleman. Finally- potatoes in the Middle Ages- even in a fictional Medieval society of that includes dragons and other made-up creatures, are a real annoyance to me. Ditch the spuds guys- they come from South America, and don't belong in the Medieval period at all. Period.
Seriously, can't people in a fantasy world with thier own culture and customs, have different flora and fauna and culinary tastes in their made up country? Why do they have to resemble Americans so closely?
I would recommend this series for families and Young Adults, who are the intended audience (and I understand the reason why they can appear rather simplistic), and those seeking a wholesome, clean, magic-free alternative to secular fantasy stories. Those who prefer their fantasy a little more complex, nuanced or realistic might like other stories better- but this series is still worth a look.
Thanks again to the person who loaned this book to me, allowing me to read the whole trilogy for free.
I would consider the author's second series, as I would be interested in seeing the stories of characters like Eliena concluded, but I'm not sure I would be prepared to pay nearly £5 apiece for the books.
Some of the circumstances were rather predictable- I was able to guess Seth’s true identity a chapter or two before it was revealed, for instance. Also, some of the fight scenes left a lot to be desired (one guy beating up three or four trained soldiers- really?), and the characterization of the villain- well, it gets a bit repetitive after a while. Yet another evil Mizgalian nobleman. Finally- potatoes in the Middle Ages- even in a fictional Medieval society of that includes dragons and other made-up creatures, are a real annoyance to me. Ditch the spuds guys- they come from South America, and don't belong in the Medieval period at all. Period.
Seriously, can't people in a fantasy world with thier own culture and customs, have different flora and fauna and culinary tastes in their made up country? Why do they have to resemble Americans so closely?
I would recommend this series for families and Young Adults, who are the intended audience (and I understand the reason why they can appear rather simplistic), and those seeking a wholesome, clean, magic-free alternative to secular fantasy stories. Those who prefer their fantasy a little more complex, nuanced or realistic might like other stories better- but this series is still worth a look.
Thanks again to the person who loaned this book to me, allowing me to read the whole trilogy for free.
I would consider the author's second series, as I would be interested in seeing the stories of characters like Eliena concluded, but I'm not sure I would be prepared to pay nearly £5 apiece for the books.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews