Let the Storm Break

Sky Fall #2

by Shannon Messenger

Vane Weston is haunted. By the searing pull of his bond to Audra. By the lies he’s told to cover for her disappearance. By the treacherous winds that slip into his mind, trying to trap him in his worst nightmares. And as his enemies grow stronger, Vane doesn't know how much longer he can last on his own.

But Audra’s still running. From her past. From the Gales. Even from Vane, who she doesn't believe she deserves. And the farther she flees, the more danger she finds. She possesses the secret power her enemy craves, and protecting it might be more than she can handle—especially when she discovers Raiden’s newest weapon.

With the Gale Force weakened by recent attacks, and the power of four collapsing, Vane and Audra are forced to make a choice: keep trusting the failing winds, or turn to the people who've betrayed them before. But even if they survive the storms sent to destroy them, will they have anything left to hold on to?

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Romance, Paranormal, Fiction, Supernatural, Young Adult Fantasy

381 pages, Hardcover

First published March 4, 2014

About the author

Hi! I'm the NYT and USA today bestselling author of the KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES series and the SKY FALL series! And yes, I DO accept friend requests here--BUT! Please note: I *never* check my private messages here, so if you send me one, you won't get a reply. My real contact information is on my website: shannonmessenger.com

Reviews

[Shannon Messenger]

This is probably where I should say something deep and meaningful about how proud I am of this book--or at least make another wind pun for you guys. But really, all you need to know is: this time, there's a haboob!*

*it's a real storm, I promise

[Neil Franz · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A haboob. It's a massive dust storm that swallows everything in its path."
"Okay, I'm trying to think how that would work, but all I'm hearing is 'boob'."

I still can't move on with the cover change of this trilogy so I decided to finally read this sequel, Let the Storm Break, and I realized I should do this a long time ago because IT. WAS. AMAZING.

Let the Storm Break is a wind that flowed freely to my body. A wind that carried the things I love about a good story. Things that pique my interest and make me happy to read about.

So let me list these things I am talking about:

+the main characters Vane and Audra.

I think these two characters has grown into me. I like the toughness and dedication of Audra. Her, being badass at all. But even she's a tough one, she has a heart and affection that is contagious. Vane, however, is a funny guy. His humor gave me a good laugh but besides that, he is a friend you can trust. He may have second thoughts about his role but he is a determined hero that do what he needs to do beyond his will or not.

Nevertheless, this is one of the rare chances that I liked or even loved the romance aspect of the book. Vane and Audra is OTP. You hear that? O T P. They have the chemistry and connection and I ship it hard.

+the winds

Because like human beings and other things, they have feelings and maybe in the near future Pixar will make a movie about them. Kidding. But seriously, I found it captivating that these winds have their feelings of their own.

+utilization of the power or should I say, unleash-these-amazing-powers-properly-or-at-least-do-not-waste-it kind of way

There are some paranormal/supernatural books that the characters' powers hasn't been utilized well. What's the point of these powers if they aren't unleashed in the story? In Let the Storm Break, all I can say is it was amazing imagining the characters wielding and unleashing their powers. It was breathtaking and very cool for me like OMG YES!!!!1!

+love triangle
I must be sick because I like the love triangle in this book. It is a rare case for me. Or maybe, I just like Solana (the other love interest) since she was an important and intriguing character and the conflicts occurred because of her is making the plot/story more engaging to read.

+the plot
The shit just got real!! Enough said. Though, it is a cliffhanger, I am not annoyed but somehow be more excited to read the 3rd book.

+the writing
It was straight-forward and enthralling. It was quite a struggle to read Let the Sky Fall but Let the Storm Break is definitely, not. I'm storming through the pages like a super typhoon because it was hella good.

Finally, there is so much to tell about this freakin' book but I am running out of words and can't think of good adjectives to describe what is there to describe. Needless to say, I am so EXCITED for the last book! (even there is a cover change) *sobs*

[✨ jami ✨ · Rating 3 out of 5]

you may (or may not honestly idrk how much attention you guys pay to me) remember me making a little review for a little book called Let the Sky Fall 

In said review, I bitched ALOT about the characters in the book and how they are ridiculous and how the love is stupid and how the relatively good plot could not save the stupidity of these characters and their stupid, stupid juvenile romance

so when I made the decision to actually read the sequel - Let the Storm Break, despite hearing it involves even MORE romance then book 1 honestly I was shocked. @ me, wyd !!!

i fully expected not to like this. BUT I HAD TO READ IT BC I HAVE A STUPID NEED TO FINISH SERIES UNLESS I LOATHE THEM

and then at 7.43am on a sunday morning I made an iconic post 

I KNOW !!!!!! i know !!!! if u are shocked, i guarantee i was 100% MORE shocked. 

I mean lets not get ahead of ourselves here this isn’t like a 5 star, life changing book but I actually .... I actually,,, liked it. i actually,       thought this was good 

ROMANCE

lmfao it’s still ridiculous !!!! these kids are so lame they have known eachother for fucking 5 days and they’re like “ilu so much i cannot live without u my love kISS ME”

but .... in some ways it also matured alot. I LOVE that Audra went away to sort her shit out and came back as a more mature person. I loved that she was willing to break her bond to protect Westerly culture even if it hurts

ACTUALLY, overrall this was just a much more mature story then Let the Sky Fall was. It delves more into the world, the Gales, right and wrong. I loved that it further emphasised the ambiguousness of the Gales, and introduced some great grey characters like Os and Feng. 

Over and over this book just kept pleasantly surprising me. First, Audra leaves to sort out her own issues and be with herself - a move Vane supports. Then, we’re given a super interesting character in Solana - who’s powerful, ambitious and NOT demonised by the other girls ! yas queen didn’t get torn down for being the other girl. 

THEN, THEN WE HAD COME GOOD DISCUSSIONS ON JUST FUCKING THE ENTIRE IDEA OF HAVING A WIND KING AND JUST HAVING A WIND QUEEN AND NOT BOTHERING WITH THE WIND KING AT ALL 100/10

TBH TO SUM UP THE SCENE LMAO

i mean there was some stupid stuff. like the stupid miscommunication trope which i hate, and the two characters constantly pining over eachother but it became bearable with the introduction of ....

the plot and action in this book was sooo much better then the first. I was genuinely interested in the outcome of the events and what would happen next and I even actually started to .... to care. About Audra AND vane. Before this book I wanted Vane 2 burn and after this book I might .. I might actually care about him. I CARE ABOUT AUDRA ALOT NOW

OTHER GOOD THINGS IN THIS BOOK

I can’t believe they subverted the “tears off clothes to bind wound” trope i am alive

i cant believe vane has 2 sit out every fucking battle bc he’s too peaceful AMAZING

i can’t believe THERE IS A FUCKING WIND CHARACTER CALLED GUSTY (I mean I shouldn’t be surprised since we have VANE. but still !!! gusty ... fucking GUSTY )

i can’t believe Solana is the queen of the world

I MEAN IT IS STILL ANNOYING SOMETIMES. 

For example, everytime Vane said something sexual about Audra my eyes rolled so far back into my head I saw the inner workings of my own brain

OH, and Os being so anti woman was a MASSIVE DRAG though I suspect this is gonna work out in book 3 so I will see

oh and Aston was the stupidest plot point ever I captured you !!! um, can I please go? Yeah ok bye kid what the hell

oh and there's like, no fucking diversity at all which is really quite annoying and lame and at first I thought Feng and Gus were TOGETHER but .. haha nooooooo. Anyway. No diversity ? lame.


But I actually .... I actually am excited for book 3. I GOT TO SEE SO MANY CHARACTERS RISE AND GET BETTER AND THE PLOT WAS BETTER TOO AND ?!?! I don’t know I just ended up liking this sooo much more !

GOD I can't believe it but I'm giving it a 3.5* what a pleasant fucking surprise

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am speechless and in complete shock. That ending crushed me and for the people who waiting for this and haven’t read this yet, you have no idea how lucky you guys are. You get to wait a year for the 3rd book WHILE I HAVE TO WAIT 2 YEARS!!!

As always, it’s still dual point of views. We got Vane, Audra, and the all evil and strengthening Raiden. Vane is still adjusting that he’s not really a human and the next king. I’m just gonna leave it at that. There’s way too many things that happen in this book which I can’t talk about since it goes really into depth about it.

I will talk about one of the newest characters. Solana. UGH!!! I hate her so freaking much! She is totally in love with Vane and is like in her mind, “WHY WON’T YOU LOVE ME?” She’s up all in Vane’s face and gets jealous over Audra. It’s just why. Why can’t you leave? This might sound like a love triangle, BUT it is NOT a love triangle. Vane loves Audra and that’s that.

This had more things going on. There’s definitely more action in this sequel –especially near the end of the book.

The ending was insane! Insane! That cliffhanger will eat you alive and you’ll start screaming, crying, or just blanking out. Again, no spoilers but IT’S INSANE!!

Now I’m gonna go wait patiently for the 3rd book.

More reviews at: http://www.bookyareviews.blogspot.com

ARC provided by Edelweiss and Simon Pulse

[Alaina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Eh the beginning was slow for me.

Let the Storm Break is the second addition to the Sky Fall series. In it, Vane is now officially the king. He is dealing with a lot on his place - which most king's do. Then there's Audra, who is also dealing with a lot. She's finding more information about Raiden which were intriguing. At this point, I was getting a smidge more invested.

At one point, they are reunited which made me happy. Unfortunately, the happy moment didn't last long because they had to kick some ass. Ugh, these two are something. I liked this book, even though the beginning was kind of meh. I'm also slightly hesitant to dive into the next book because I don't want to end up disappointed.

Overall, it wasn't completely predictable which worked in it's favor. Will definitely see if I can get a hold of the next book just so I don't have to wait to see what's going to happen next!

[Debbie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Shannon Messenger chooses the prettiest titles and has some amazing covers that go well with her Let the Sky Fall series. And as a reviewer, I try my best (and mostly fail) to never judge a book by its cover and with Let the Storm Break I completely disregarded just how lovey dovey the cover is and hoped for a shit ton of action and great main characters unlike what happened in the first book. Did I get the kick-ass main characters I was hoping for?



When a book is four hundred pages, I expect a lot to happen. I expect a shit ton of action and character development and some romance. Let the Storm Break could have been cut down at least by a quarter because most of the book is just romance and nothing more. I was expecting a lot more character development and a LOT less Romance. Everything just focuses on the relationship between Audra and Vane and how much they love each other and need each other. I've never read such a love-sick guy in my life. Honestly, Vane, grow a pair before I slap you. His humour is also very contrived, I had a hard time believing a word that he said with his crappy sarcasm. Everything is still predictable, I knew what would happen in the end after only reading about a quarter of the novel which is sad because I was hoping that Messenger would still have a few tricks up her sleeve.

This series has very short chapters as well as smooth writing that helps makes the characters more bearable to read about. I enjoyed reading about the new characters that Messenger brings into Let the Storm Break especially Gus, who's good-natured humour. There isn't very much information on the different winds except for what we were told in the first book but I stilled loved this aspect of it. The Westerly language is amazing, their hope and faith and just heritage is so lovely and I felt whenever a westerly wind helps out Vane or Audra, that I was really excited.

Overall, Let the Storm Break is a disappointment. Rarely does a second novel beat out the first one for me, but I had really low expectations for this one. Honestly, all I wanted was less romance not more of it. However if you're a fan of the romance taking over the plot then you will really like this novel. The idea of it is so captivating with the winds and how they're all different yet so connected is the only reason why I'll read the next book. Honestly.

[Mizuki · Rating 2 out of 5]

I started skimming after page 100, it isn't so awful but it isn't very good nor interesting neither. If you have no stomach for love triangle, romantic angst and half-baked battle scenes, do yourself a favor by avoiding this book.

My review for Let the Sky Fall: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

[Mitchii · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though I thought that Let the Sky Fall was good, I wasn’t overly eager to continue the story. I liked the ideas and the romance was tasteful and did not overpower the story, but I wasn’t completely hooked. It was one of the reasons that I kept putting it on-hold despite having an access to an early copy. But Vane and Audra’s story is something else for me; something that I’m still interested and once I picked it up and gained the much needed drive to read, there was no turning back.

I was greeted with Vane’s whining on how terrible it was to be a king, and the add-ons (responsibilities) of being one. And one of them is that he was supposed to marry this girl to continue the line. Yes, there’s a new girl but he dismissed that idea flat-out.Vane still has Audra in his mind and he was giving her the time she needs. While Audra still sorting her issues out.

It’s a wonder for me why I didn’t instantly like Vane in the first book. Oh no, don’t give me that look, I do like him…just fine. I just don’t like him enough to make him memorable to me. I think he was almost going to the boring territory, with all the gaps he didn’t know at that time. But with all these things people are putting him in; his whiny side, which barely registered before (to me) kinda gave his character a little bit of personality. I know that it should give me the opposite effect, but nope, I actually like this side of his. His sarcastic attitude actually gave much needed zest to the situation (although he was sometimes (unintentionally) hurtful). I also came to like other characters which I didn’t get to do in the first book.

If my view on Vane positively changed (even for a bit) Audra was still the same for me, which I think is still good, meaning that she is consistent to her character. Although she got herself in a difficult situation so that kept me interested on her side of the story (thanks to the betrayal of this person again). I was also one time worried about their bond. And after learning that there was way to break it kind of build up the moment to me. For Vane, I laud him when people doubted his feeling for her, he firmly stood his ground about their relationship; that said a lot about him and his feelings for her. So while I may not be swooning, waving banners, or cheering them on like a cheerleader, I still like them to be together.

I think the great part of this book for me is that it tried to enlighten about their history, particularly with Raiden. I also learned more about him, what drives him to do these things to them. The events were also more intense compare to the previous book, especially the later parts when Raiden has Audra and Vane was trying to get her back. It was the height of the story for me. So I was totally surprised with how it ended. Oh man, you know how to lure readers in. I’m so excited, and Vane you better to do it, man (and succeed). You need to!

This review appeared first on Aeropapers.

3.5/5

[Z. · Rating 1 out of 5]

2.5? rounded up because I feel generous

Honestly, I heard that it gets better and I wanted it to get better but I like this one less. If I judged it based on only the first half I might have rated it higher.

The fight scenes were just as amazing as the ones in the first. Wind fights! They were epic! Sure I rolled my eyes when Vane and Adura stopped to make out every five minutes but still. And the other plot parts were great. But the reason I didn't like this is that the sequel has more of a focus on their relationship and I...hate their relationship.

I liked all the new characters like Gus and Feng and Solana. They added a cool touch to the story and were a great distraction from Vane and Audra's wuv story.

The 2 main characters were slightly more tolerable in the sequel. Actually no, Audra was great. Her chapters were the only ones I cared about, at least for the first half of the book. She left to sort her shit out at the end of the last book after everything that happened. After babysitting VAne for years the girl needs it. But now she spends more thinking about Vane and less about the war and everything else which was just annoying. She's still a really tough and badass character. She's better than Vane because she's willing to sacrifice anything, even their bond, to get defeat Raiden.

Vane matured a little since the last book. Emphasis on a little. The book starts off with him whining about being King even though...he wasn't actually doing anything useful. He spends all his time lusting over Audra, even in the middle of the battle. Even when she's injured and bleeding.

The whole romance was still very annoying. It relies heavily on the whole miscommunication trope and all their problems were literally solved in a page. There's a new girl, Solana, and Audra is jealous because Vane is supposed to marry her to save the Sylphs blah blah blah. It was also very annoying how they kept thinking about each other even in high-risk situations. Maybe it's because I still don't care for either of the characters. But honestly, I wishing that Audra and Solana would both drop Vane and just date each other. There was a lot of girl on girl hate between Vane and Solana and like, he's not worth it sis.

A note: Is it just me or does Vane spend more time thirsting over Audra than Audra does with Vane. Vane also thirsts over Solana because, for some reason, Solana has to wear super revealing clothes in order to absorb the wind. *cough*ortogiveVaneachancetooggleatherandseducehim*cough* Audra wears those at some point too because her clothes got ruined. They go fight Raiden in those which feels really impractical to me but whatever. The male characters don't have to do this because well...Vane is straight? However, they do sometimes have to fight shirtless because...I don't know.

And by the way, there's absolutely no diversity in the whole book except for that one Mexican character who shows up for about one chapter. It's even worse than Keeper. Another reason for Solana and Audra to become canon.

Overall, characters are whiny, romance is stupid, Audra and Solana should date instead, Vane sucks.

[Anna (Enchanted by YA) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written and told <3

[★MC's Corner★]

SKY FALL SERIES GOT ONE OF THE BEST COVER EVER!!!
I LOVE EM!!!

GIVE THIS THING TO ME!!! NOW!!!

[Seeing Double in Neverland · Rating 5 out of 5]

For full review go to http://seeingdoubleinneverland.blogsp...

5 out of 5 stars

I loved this book and am dying that I have to wait for book 3!

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

The middle got a little slow at points, but other then that this book blew me away!

See the affect you're having on me Shannon? I'm using wind puns now too...

[nick (the infinite limits of love) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let the Storm Break was a terrific sequel, even better than the first book in the series and most definitely doesn't suffer from any form of middle-book syndrome. It's intense, romantic, action-packed and has a rich and complex world-building.

The characters in this series have grown tremendously from the Let the Sky Fall. Vane, especially, came as a surprise to me in this book. He is no longer that whiny and slightly annoying kid that he was in the first book, but instead, he has grown to accept his heritage and has learned to accept that he has an essential part in saving the world. Audra was as wonderful as she was in the first book. She's still suffering from the big deception that she faced in the first book, but she has also learned to overcome it. Audra is badass in every sense of the word and I loved all the scenes that were in her POV. We also get more insight into the character of Raiden, the main villain, in this series and like most villains, I found him absolutely fascinating. He is a truly sick guy who gets off on torturing people, but his intensity and utter evilness is what makes him such an alluring villain. There are also much more secondary characters in this book who play a more important role in the book and I thought they were all very well-developed. I especially grew very fond of Gus who provided some lovely scenes throughout the book.

Shannon Messenger went deeper into the history and background of the Sylphs, making the world-building in Let the Storms Break absolutely breath-taking. It was rich and so well-developed. I felt like I learned so much more than in the first book and most of all, I was fascinated with this unique and entertaining world. I found myself being completely immersed in the book for this reason. Another aspect I thoroughly enjoyed about Let the Storm Break was the plot. It was action-packed from start to finish, which made for a book that had me on the edge of my seat dying to know what happens. Because I enjoyed the book so much, I was thoroughly frustrated when it ended in a mild cliffhanger. The romance in this book has always been really intense. I'll admit that in book 1 I was slightly uncomfortable by the amount of romance this series, but I quite liked it in this book. For a moment, I worried that there would be a love triangle with the arrival of Solana, Vane's betrothed, but I was glad with the way the author tackled her presence in the book. Rest assured, there's no love triangle. Vane and Audra's love for each other is way too intense for the presence of a third person to cause any sort of kink in their relationship.

I'm in awe with what Shannon Messenger crafted with this sequel and I'm itching for the next book already. If you're a fan of mythology, romance and action, this is the series for you!

[Connie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I own an ebook of this.

It's been a while since I read the first book in this series, and I'm not going to lie, I've completely forgotten everything about it. That being said though, this was fairly easy to slip back into. Audra is gone, Vane is training to be King but he also can't sleep. Raiden, the villain in this story, is sending visions to keep him awake at night. The Gales need Vane to be at his peak but Vane is struggling to keep his mind off anything but Audra who is running from herself, her past, her future and everything in between. You know what, I didn't mind reading this having literally no idea what was going on at points. I think the author really balanced adding new details but recapping the story well. I do think the characters were fun and it was overall a good book. I should probably read the third book sooner than I read this one though.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Vane is officially King now. He is dealing with the Gales, training, and covering for Audra's absence. While trying to return to Vane, Audra learns more about Raiden and his twisted abilities. Vane and Audra are reunited when they face off against Raiden's latest horrific weapon.

I was very skeptical at the beginning of this book. The way the first quarter of the book was set up, I was sure I could see the plot coming from a mile away and it wasn't something I was interested in. However, it turned out not as predictable as I thought and I actually ended up enjoying the book more than I expected. It still gets an average rating from me as there are things that I liked as well as things that bothered me. There is only one more book in the series. I think I will put it on my TBR for now and see if I can get to it.

[Jon · Rating 2 out of 5]

Check out Scott Reads It for reviews, giveaways, & more!
Let The Sky Fall was one of the most unique paranormal books that I read last year and I was so excited to read Let The Storm Break. I think that Let The Storm Break suffers from "middle-book syndrome" and most of the book feels like a bridge to the 3rd book in this series. The plot of Let The Storm Break is unbearably slow-paced at times and it feels as though this book's plot should have been polished better.

I really hoped that Let The Storm Break wouldn't suffer from the same pacing issues that it's predecessor, Let The Sky Fall, suffered from. Much to my dismay, I felt as if Let The Storm Break had an even slower pace and I wasn't very engaged for the majority of the book. Both Let The Sky Fall and Let The Storm Break are written to have incredible, action-packed conclusions that leave readers on a cliffhanger and that's fine, but it really messes up the pacing of the novels. Much of Let The Storm Break is a build-up towards the cliffhanger and I feel like this led to an inattention to other vital plot points.

There is too much talk and not enough action in Let The Storm Break, the characters spend way too much time pondering their decisions and are way too hesitant in actually making any progress. Vane keeps on trying to cover for Audra, even though he doesn't truly understand the magnitude of her decision. He keeps on yearning for Audra and thinks of her so often, but he doesn't actually make any attempt to find her. Vane easily could have sought her out, but he decides instead to keep on debating whether he should attempt to find her. If Audra and Vane actually communicated with each other, this whole cat and mouse game where both characters are afraid to make the first move could have been averted. It's good not to rush into anything, but I felt that Vane and Audra's extreme hesitation only exacerbated their situation. LTSB's plot hits a stalemate a few times throughout the novel and if the characters had just trusted their instincts and communicated with each other, so much of LTSB's plot could have been edited out.

One of my favorite aspects of Let The Sky Fall was the romance between Audra and Vane, but the romance in LTSB is set aside. The romance in Let The Storm Break is seriously lacking and I think the plot really could have some romance to liven it up. Audra and Vane have so much chemistry with each other and their bond is truly something special, so the fact that it was set aside for the majority of the book bothered me. The minimal romantic moments in Let The Storm Break are so touching and sweet, the fact that Messenger decided not to linger on Vane and Audra's relationship bothered me so much.

I really loved both Audra and Vane in LTSF, but I feel in LTSB they morphed into completely different characters. The humor and snark that Vane thrived on previously is a thing of the past and readers will no longer find themselves laughing at his wit. I remember how I loved Audra's fierce determination and cleverness in book one, but now I feel as though Audra lacks common sense. There were so many situations that if she had just consulted Vane and not assumed things, the outcome would have been more auspicious for the Gales. Both Audra and Vane weren't quite as likable in this book and I was annoyed with this duo several times throughout the book.

The action scenes in LTSB are extremely well-written and I really felt that the action scenes should have been more strategically planned instead of clumping a majority of them near the end. I loved reading the sections in which the Gales used their sylph abilities to fight off Raiden, but I just wish that someone actually tried to train Vane. Os, the leader of the Gales kept on complaining about Vane's lack of fighting skills during pivotal action scenes, but barely any time was actually devoted to training Vane in LTSB.

The ending of LTSB isn't exactly surprising, but it is executed in an ingenious way. Messenger creates such an epic ending that ends on an excruciating cliffhanger that will have readers yearn for the sequel. I may not have enjoyed LTSB as much I had hoped, but I really appreciated the ending and I'm highly anticipating the sequel.

Let The Storm Break suffers from a slow pace, an insufficient amount of romance and the fact that the main characters feel foreign and unrecognizable. I think that many of LTSB's issues stem from the fact that Messenger spend so much time trying to set up the cliffhanger and didn't focus on other vital areas. No matter, I really just hope that LTSB's issues are just a case of middle-book syndrome and that book #3 will be just as amazing as Let The Sky Fall was.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was really excited to read Let the Sky Fall when it released last year, and while I thought the concept and mythology was unique and interesting, the story never grabbed me like I'd hoped. I actually wasn't sure if I'd continue the series or not. But then I read a post Shannon Messenger wrote on her blog about love triangles, and whether there would be one in book two, Let the Storm Break. In the post, Messenger said that she is not a fan of love triangles, but does believe in both tension and testing of a relationship.

As someone who thinks about love triangles a lot more than should be recommended, I was very curious about how Vane and Audra's relationship would play out in book two, and immediately decided to read it. That was a great decision, because Let the Storm Break blew my expectations out of the water, and completely changed my perspective on this series.

To see my comparison of the first and second books in the series, click HERE to read it on my blog Love is not a triangle.

While Let the Sky Fall was just an ok read for me, I ended up really, really liking the sequel Let the Storm Break. The action, excitement and danger picks up, and we learn a lot more about the four winds that Vane and Audra's sylph culture can manipulate and shockingly even break. I connected a lot better to Audra and Vane's relationship, and I think it helped to have a little tension from the outside (though no love triangles). It is still so much fun to be inside Vane's head, and I have grown quite attached to Audra as well, even though she worried me for a minute in the beginning of this book. I admire their determination to support and protect each other and their heritage no matter the cost.

Let the Storm Break also asks some good questions about whether you have to be cruel to be strong, and whether we really have a choice when the bad option seems like the only right one. The one major downfall of this book is that it ends on a pretty major cliffhanger, but I am fully invested and already desperate to get my hands on the final installment.

Love Triangle Factor: None
Cliffhanger Scale: HIGH

[Jilly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Second book syndrome - check. In other words, if the characters got together in the first book, we must separate them somehow in the second in order to bring them back together in the third.

So, Audra isn't here in this book. By choice. Yeah, that makes sense. They are bonded. This supposedly most powerful and meaningful magnetic bond that makes them part of each other. And, they had previously spent every day of their lives together (although unknown to him) since childhood. But, now, yes NOW, she decides it's time for her to take a break and disappear.

Perfect timing for the kingdom guys to introduce Vane to the hottie that he was meant to marry. Oh, and by the way, she HAS to dress in skimpy dresses to store the wind in her body. Conveniently, she can help him with his nightmares too, as long as she sleeps in his bed. (We were on a break!)

The best part of this book is Vane's sarcastic sense of humor. Although, I was ready for him to step up and start caring about his people more than Audra after a bit, I understood that all of this was thrown at him very quickly and he needed time to adjust.

I didn't like Audra as much in this one. I'm on Vane's mother's side. She is a little too bitchy for my taste. Plus, I did start to see the point that she should have trained Vane a lot sooner, been more careful not to leave that trace, and definitely should not have had a romance with him. I understand why she did, but she should have had herself reassigned if she couldn't handle it.

This book, like the last, moved slowly. Not enough action, too much brooding and arguing. But, maybe the third one will bring it on home.

[Jonababez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how unique the concept of this series. Sylphs are definitely awesome creatures!

I also love Vane and Audra's alternating POV! Vane is so funny, his sense of humor is hilarious, especially with his situation. He's supposed to be the King because he's the last Westerly. He's also betrothed to Solana, a sylph with little dresses because her gift is capturing winds. I think it's because of exposing some skin or the lesser cloth makes her capture more winds. I'm not really a fan of her, I don't hate her but I don't like her either. She's too nice and too clingy. Of course she doesn't have a chance to Vane because he loves Audra. And I'm a huge fan of Audra! She's definitely a different heroine, a very likable one. She does everything to protect him and she's ready to sacrifice everything.

[LW · Rating 4 out of 5]

So...the first time I read this book it was a five star read, and this time it was a three star read, so I'm just going to give it four.

My biggest issue was the romance. I've never been a fan of "I've found my soul mate at age seventeen," or "I've fallen in love in less than a week." At one point, Vane and Audra kiss five times during a battle. FIVE TIMES. And apparently the villain was just waiting for them to finish kissing before he attacked.

There were just a lot of little things that annoyed me with this reread. Maybe I'm just cranky today, or maybe I was in a really good mood when I gave it five stars the first time.

Anyway, my overall conclusion is that it's a good book, not a great one. Four stars.

[Sarah Elizabeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ugh. This book was frustrating, it was disappointing, and I really didn't enjoy it.
I can't say I liked any of the characters in this book, I was so bored I wanted to strangle them all. Some things were predictable like the girl vane was betrothed to turning up , but mainly I was just bored out of my mind. Most definitely not reading the next book. No way.

[Mariam · Rating 2 out of 5]

"There's much more power in pain."

Vane has gone from funny and Percy Jackson-like to annoying and immature. Audra has gone from being cool and independent to whiny, and obsessed with Vane. Seriously, they both are extremely clingy.

And also.
Shannon Messenger.
Tends to write like this.
In Audra's.
Point of view.
It's very annoying.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read the first one but got this one on audio since it has my favorite male narrator. I like that the story contains a unique paranormal aspect but I just didn't get that excited or drawn into the story.

[Vivian Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Shelley · Rating 3 out of 5]

*Genre* YA Science Fiction
*Rating* 3.5

*My Thoughts*

Let the Storms Break picks up almost a month after the end of Let the Sky Fall. Since that story ended things have progressed in an interesting direction. Vane Weston is the last known westerly air elemental (sylph) and now he is the presumed leader of the Gale Force who are desperately trying hard to find a way to defeat the megalomaniac Raiden and his stormers before they destroy humanity. As Vane trains on how to be a guardian, he is also left wondering if Audra will ever come back.

In the meantime, Audra Eastend is still bonded to Vane, but she's trying to sort through her life and the lies, and mistakes that left her questioning her ability to continue being a guardian. After giving up 10 years of her life in order to protect Vane, she still has to live with the taint of being the daughter of a murderer (Arella) and running away from her own responsibilities. Audra's new ability to call the westerlies is also moving in an exciting direction with some interesting possibilities. Audra's journey, including facing Raiden face to face, and meeting a mysterious character presumed long dead, was perhaps the more interesting of the couple in my humble opinion.

Add Let the Storm Break to novels that leave readers hanging by a thread, wondering what in the hell is going to happen next. Although I must say, I did actually see, and predict that ending coming from a mile away. It had to happen exactly as it did or I would have truly believed I was losing my mind since certain events were being played out right before our eyes. Why else would a certain unnamed and mysterious character be introduced to the storyline and tell Audra an interesting revelation?

Of course, I still maintain that something just doesn't smell right. The whole addition of several new characters like Captain Osmund of the Gales, and Princess Solana the heir to the throne, and Vane's former betrothed, has me itching a spot that I can't quite reach yet. I am not a huge fan of love triangles, and truly don't believe this is the true meaning of one. However, it sure sent things into pandemonium when the 3 are in the same room together and feelings of betrayal and loss are felt through the pages.

Once again, Messenger writes alternating POV chapters between Audra and Vane and the chapters are fairly short in length. In fact, had it not been for the whole sleep issue, I would have finished this book in less than 4 hours. The story is not all that complex that you can't follow along with what Messenger is trying to put forward. The first appearance by Raiden was exactly what I was hoping for. If you are looking or a weak villain, look elsewhere. Raiden is by far the most evil and strongest character in this book, and he knows exactly what he wants unlike Vane who hesitates and jokes his way through life. Raiden's weapon are scary and devastating, and should make for an interesting plot for the next book.

Let the Storm Break is a mixture of science fiction, romance, action, and mystery and should keep readers of Let the Sky Fall happy right until the last chapters of the book.

*Recvd 09/11/2013 via Edelweiss* Published March 4th 2014 by Simon Pulse

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review has also been posted on my blog, Where's My Bookmark?

Rating: ★★★★☆

Audra has run off and Vane is left at the hands of the Gale Force and his bond with Audra, that keeps tugging and leaving him restless. The enemy and the Gale Force are coming at them both with powerful weapons and clear and somewhat aggressive aspirations, respectively.

Let The Storm Break is packed with action and has left me wanting me. I can’t wait for the release of the final book this April!

Roughly a month has past since the conclusion in Let The Sky Fall and both Audra and Vane are at ends with what is expected of themselves and how they feel about their own commitments.

I found myself once again rooting for Audra and her conflicting emotions and resoluteness. I did find myself looking forward to her parts more than I did Vane’s, though.

There was a lot of stuff happening in this installment and it felt like the ‘action’ was a little uneven. Since the narrative is divided by point of view, Audra’s and Vane’s, we get to see two sides of the action, but personally it felt like Audra’s was just more exciting than Vane’s this time around.

I really enjoyed the new cast of characters and the look into the Gale Force that hopefully will be continued to be expanded upon in the final book. The world of the sylphs is so interesting and I’m eager to learn more.

The second book also didn’t feel as if it snagged or was bogged down. The story continues to build up. And again, this book was so easy and quick to read. It was easy to just immerse myself in the storytelling and dialogue. It was a lot of fun.

And, I continue to be in love with the setting. Shannon Messenger knows how to appeal to my desert-loving heart, the mere mention of wind turbines and haboob’s makes me feel at home.

[Bèbè ✦ RANT ✦ · Rating 2 out of 5]

After reading Let the Sky Fall, I could not have been more happier to get a copy of the next book in the series. I loved Vane and his corny attitude and puppy love for Audra. But after started reading this book, I could not get into it. With four hundred pages, I expected way more and felt really disappointed. And you know what's annoying to hear about a thousand times?

Talk about wind. Literally.

Wind this, Wind that, I can do this with wind, and wind is telling me this. BLAH BLAH BLAH.

And the characters!!! What happened to awesome Vane? I swear, since Audra left, he became like a lost puppy who would not stop obsessing over her. Yes, we know you're bonded. Get over it. And he could not stop wining about being a King! Way to screw up a bunch of people just because you're love-sick my friend.

Audra... *sigh* Where did the amazing warrior went? With running away from her problems, she left that part behind and no longer as my favorite. I really enjoyed reading about new characters (like super-awesome Gus!) but was really disappointed with those that I fell in love with in the first book.. Hopefully next one will be better and it will make me a little happier :(

[Saoirse · Rating 2 out of 5]

WTF was that? That wasn't the Vane I was expecting! That wasn't the Audra I know either! Hell, none of these characters made any sense at all! What happened? What the fuck happened? (Excuse the language but I am incredibly pissed right now).

Oh, Ms. Shannon. How you've deceived me with the first book, Let the Sky Fall. From the cover to the synopsis, you had me ache for this second book. So when I took the chance to grab it a bit earlier than the release date, I was totally excited! But poof! Oh dude, after finishing it, I felt deflated and wounded. What happened to the characters I love?

Vane was becoming a perv by the minute, always thinking about senseless stuff--Audra in skimpy clothes, kissing Audra, Audra with no clothes, sex with Audra. Oh my gosh! Just stop, will you!? Just get on with the plot and screw Audra later.

Audra, oh my dear golly, Audra. I can't say anything more. I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings so. :( It's just a shame. I would've totally love this series a bit better if it weren't for the useless info dumps on each chapter.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let the Storms Break was absolutely totally completely amazing! It was just as fast paced and action filled as the first. One of my favorite things about the book however is the love story element. I love that there isn't the standard love triangle that we've all come to expect** and the way all the characters interact with one another. I will warn you though to be prepared for a cliff-hanger ending!! It's killer... but I will admit I absolutely loved every second of the book and can't wait for the third!!!

**Not to say that characters stay together/ don't stay together or anything spoilery just that the different ways relationships are brought into the story line is not the typical easy to predict relationship that has become common.