What do you think?
Rate this book
The Elements of Time #1
The Elements of Time: The Winds of Change
Destiny, personal responsibility, what the future holds – common concerns for anyone graduating high school. But usually not because of a cosmic war between timeless beings where you’re the central player.
(Download the first seven chapters free at www.elementsoftime.ca) As the end of school quickly approaches, and Cooper Bailey watches his perfect world slip away, his only concern is savouring every last minute of his high school career. For his best friend, Reid Patterson, graduation is a doorway to the future, where his discipline and focus will finally allow him to meet his true potential. When a mysterious mirror-masked man begs for their help to stop a dangerous heretic, Cooper and Reid find themselves thrust into unknown worlds, wrestling with a destiny as old as time itself. As the truths about their roles in the universe unfold, and enemies disguise themselves as allies, their only hope is to trust each other - and learn fast! Far from home and in mortal peril, Cooper and Reid attempt to hone their newfound abilities and come to grips with their purpose for being.
Inspired by classic and modern science fiction and fantasy, and drawing upon timeless themes of destiny and personal responsibility, The Elements of Time is a series written for anyone who loves an escape into a rich and deep world. With references to Star Wars (the Original Trilogy), The Last Bender, Stargate SG-1, Supernatural, and much more, The Elements of The Winds of Change is fun action-adventure, with it’s own unique magic system, and themes that touch what it means to grow up and take on the challenges of life The Elements of Time - Book 1: The Winds of Change For more story information, behind the scenes details, and additional content visit www.elementsoftime.ca
(Download the first seven chapters free at www.elementsoftime.ca) As the end of school quickly approaches, and Cooper Bailey watches his perfect world slip away, his only concern is savouring every last minute of his high school career. For his best friend, Reid Patterson, graduation is a doorway to the future, where his discipline and focus will finally allow him to meet his true potential. When a mysterious mirror-masked man begs for their help to stop a dangerous heretic, Cooper and Reid find themselves thrust into unknown worlds, wrestling with a destiny as old as time itself. As the truths about their roles in the universe unfold, and enemies disguise themselves as allies, their only hope is to trust each other - and learn fast! Far from home and in mortal peril, Cooper and Reid attempt to hone their newfound abilities and come to grips with their purpose for being.
Inspired by classic and modern science fiction and fantasy, and drawing upon timeless themes of destiny and personal responsibility, The Elements of Time is a series written for anyone who loves an escape into a rich and deep world. With references to Star Wars (the Original Trilogy), The Last Bender, Stargate SG-1, Supernatural, and much more, The Elements of The Winds of Change is fun action-adventure, with it’s own unique magic system, and themes that touch what it means to grow up and take on the challenges of life The Elements of Time - Book 1: The Winds of Change For more story information, behind the scenes details, and additional content visit www.elementsoftime.ca
688 pages, Paperback
Published July 25, 2023
22 people are currently reading
670 people want to read
About the author
Sam Paisley
4 books30 followersGet a FREE copy of Paschia's Hidden Journals by signing up for my mailing list at www.elementsoftime.ca
Sam was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario Canada.
Driven by a lifelong passion for storytelling, Sam has made it his mission as an author to create worlds and stories that bring joy and escapism to others.
Having completed the first entry in his Elements of Time trilogy, he his hard at work on the final two instalments.
If you like his work, want to learn more about the series, or find additional content beyond the books, please visit www.elementsoftime.ca
Sam was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario Canada.
Driven by a lifelong passion for storytelling, Sam has made it his mission as an author to create worlds and stories that bring joy and escapism to others.
Having completed the first entry in his Elements of Time trilogy, he his hard at work on the final two instalments.
If you like his work, want to learn more about the series, or find additional content beyond the books, please visit www.elementsoftime.ca
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
March 16, 2024
Sam Paisley really woke up one morning and said, "hey, let me write one of the most fantastic debuts ever because I'm just that talented". And then, The Winds of Change was born.
Of course I know the author worked on this for a decade (I believe) and IT SHOWS!!! Like the attention to detail, the character development, the world building & lore and the writing...so much soul was put into this novel and it leaps off the page.
It's a bit of a slower paced book at first, and you don't really know what hit you when you transition from the prologue to the first chapter, but as more things are revealed, it starts to make sense.
We have two main characters, Cooper and Reid, who get thrown into a world far beyond their wildest dreams. A world filled with magic, cute little spreetas, and one where you're never sure who's truly friend or foe.
This is just the beginning of a trilogy, so while we do have battles, the majority of the book is the boys learning how to use their powers. If you've ever complained about training montages being super short, then give this a try, it really digs into the magic system and how it works.
A portion of that training is something called the Trials, so if you enjoy stuff like The Hunger Games, I have an inkling you'll have fun with this story too.
And Cooper & Reid are just so great as characters. I love their friendship and how they'd die for one another (and the universe) if need be. They each have a spreeta, which, by the way, are the most adorable things ever created. So I'm gonna need EVERYONE to support this book so that we can get spreeta plushies!!!
I AM NOT KIDDING, GO BUY THE WINDS OF CHANGE RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!!!!! DO NOT LET THE LENGTH INTIMIDATE YOU, EVERYTHING IS TOP TIER! LISTEN TO ME! OKAY? OKAY.
Oh, and did I mention how funny this is? I genuinely found myself smiling and laughing at the banter, especially at the start. It gets a bit more serious later, but don't worry, the jokes are still there.
Mr Paisley, please write faster, I need more of this series ASAP, thank you.
Of course I know the author worked on this for a decade (I believe) and IT SHOWS!!! Like the attention to detail, the character development, the world building & lore and the writing...so much soul was put into this novel and it leaps off the page.
It's a bit of a slower paced book at first, and you don't really know what hit you when you transition from the prologue to the first chapter, but as more things are revealed, it starts to make sense.
We have two main characters, Cooper and Reid, who get thrown into a world far beyond their wildest dreams. A world filled with magic, cute little spreetas, and one where you're never sure who's truly friend or foe.
This is just the beginning of a trilogy, so while we do have battles, the majority of the book is the boys learning how to use their powers. If you've ever complained about training montages being super short, then give this a try, it really digs into the magic system and how it works.
A portion of that training is something called the Trials, so if you enjoy stuff like The Hunger Games, I have an inkling you'll have fun with this story too.
And Cooper & Reid are just so great as characters. I love their friendship and how they'd die for one another (and the universe) if need be. They each have a spreeta, which, by the way, are the most adorable things ever created. So I'm gonna need EVERYONE to support this book so that we can get spreeta plushies!!!
I AM NOT KIDDING, GO BUY THE WINDS OF CHANGE RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!!!!! DO NOT LET THE LENGTH INTIMIDATE YOU, EVERYTHING IS TOP TIER! LISTEN TO ME! OKAY? OKAY.
Oh, and did I mention how funny this is? I genuinely found myself smiling and laughing at the banter, especially at the start. It gets a bit more serious later, but don't worry, the jokes are still there.
Mr Paisley, please write faster, I need more of this series ASAP, thank you.
April 1, 2024
Review originally on
JamReads
The Winds of Change is the first book in the science fantasy series The Elements of Time, written by the Canadian author Sam Paisley. A new adult coming of age story at first sight which slowly evolves into a more complex plot, following a pair of friends whose life will definitely change after their encounter with a mysterious man.
Cooper and Reid are two friends in their last year of high school, their worries don't go further than what they will do the next year; but when a mysterious masked man approaches them to ask for assistance to stop a heretic, they will start a journey that takes them to unknown worlds and put them in the middle in a timeless war between immortals. But if we learn something soon, is that appearances are deceiving, and our pair will need to learn much before really taking a side in the conflict.
A novel with an intriguing and imaginative worldbuilding, especially creative during the trials our heroes have to endure in order to prove themselves worthy; there is also a really cute animal companion you should really know. And in the center of all, our two friends that are the definition of besties; they complement each other perfectly, making a really balanced pair.
I have to say that I found the pacing the weak point of this book, as it was too slow-burn for my taste, especially taking into account the coming of age nature of this book; the writing is really competent, but I would have preferred less exposition in the first part of the book. We can find ourselves a bit confused by the given info.
Said that, if you are looking for a new adult coming of age story, with relatable characters, The Winds of Change fulfills perfectly that definition; a solid debut by Sam Paisley, who I hope to continue exploring this universe.
The Winds of Change is the first book in the science fantasy series The Elements of Time, written by the Canadian author Sam Paisley. A new adult coming of age story at first sight which slowly evolves into a more complex plot, following a pair of friends whose life will definitely change after their encounter with a mysterious man.
Cooper and Reid are two friends in their last year of high school, their worries don't go further than what they will do the next year; but when a mysterious masked man approaches them to ask for assistance to stop a heretic, they will start a journey that takes them to unknown worlds and put them in the middle in a timeless war between immortals. But if we learn something soon, is that appearances are deceiving, and our pair will need to learn much before really taking a side in the conflict.
A novel with an intriguing and imaginative worldbuilding, especially creative during the trials our heroes have to endure in order to prove themselves worthy; there is also a really cute animal companion you should really know. And in the center of all, our two friends that are the definition of besties; they complement each other perfectly, making a really balanced pair.
I have to say that I found the pacing the weak point of this book, as it was too slow-burn for my taste, especially taking into account the coming of age nature of this book; the writing is really competent, but I would have preferred less exposition in the first part of the book. We can find ourselves a bit confused by the given info.
Said that, if you are looking for a new adult coming of age story, with relatable characters, The Winds of Change fulfills perfectly that definition; a solid debut by Sam Paisley, who I hope to continue exploring this universe.
April 3, 2024
This review was originally posted on SFF Insiders
“First was the realm of eternity. From the darkness came forth light, and the realm of eternity gave birth to the realm of the living. That is how the cycle began. This is the word of Elevation.”.
Don’t settle for another predictable novel. Sam Paisley’s debut, The Winds of Change is destined to be a breakout success. Paisley takes you on a heartwarming coming-of-age story filled with emotional rollercoasters. Simply put, Paisley's debut is anything but forgettable.
Warning for readers who typically skip prologues, don't skip this one! Paisley's Prologue explodes onto the scene, leaving you shell shocked as you move on to Chapter 1. It's packed with clever foreshadowing, so make sure you pay close attention.
We kick things off in what feels like a typical small town as we get to know our two main protagonists, Cooper and Reid. These two best friends are the embodiment of opposites attract. Cooper is a star athlete and thrives in the spotlight. While Reid is the bookworm who finds solace in the library's quiet corners. If you enjoy a good bromance, then you will love the dynamic between these two. Their effortless banter resonates with the same easy familiarity I share with my own friends, drawing you into their world from the get-go.
“Ugh. You’re such a dork sometimes, you know that?” Cooper said. “Yes, but a dork with a magic stone,” Reid taunted.
But Paisley's exceptional character work doesn't stop there. This debut portal fantasy thrives with the use of multiple POVs. It's clear he meticulously planned each character arc, resulting in a story where everyone feels natural. None of the interactions feel rushed or forced, a remarkable feat considering the blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements. As a character-driven reader like myself, I can promise you'll be captivated by Paisley's interconnected cast.
Unlike most authors who are content with crafting a single world, Paisley boldly builds not only multiple worlds but also explores alternative dimensions. This opens The Elements of Time trilogy to endless possibilities, further fueling readers speculation as they eagerly await the next installment. World-building and dimension-hopping become the backdrop for Cooper and Reid as they encounter new members of the cast as they enter "The Trials". It's here that they'll embark on a journey of self-discovery, awakening to their true destiny. The need to hone their fighting skills becomes paramount for survival. To avoid spoilers, I won't reveal too much about the actual trials. However I will say, if readers look closely they will find clever foreshadowing hinting at future developments within the book and the series.
“You’re not even worthy enough to be Prolia initiates, and now your lives are in danger.”
Tropes are an aspect of fantasy that readers either love or hate, and Paisley took on a large number of them. However, for a good majority of them, I feel like he managed to put a bit of a unique twist on each, truly making them his own. I’m especially a fan of coming-of-age, found family, and mentor-apprentice tropes in general, and he tackled each of these with ease.
One of my favorite parts of the story arc is when Cooper and Reid are separated for a bit for some one-on-one training with their mentors. Growing up as a child of the 80's, this mentor-apprentice dynamic always reminds me most of Mr. Miyagi and Daniel-San from the classic film 'The Karate Kid.' I can't think of a better example of a mentor-apprentice dynamic and I felt a strong sense of it as these two spent their time training, and honestly I loved every minute of it. More importantly though, Paisley once again showcased his writing skills and took the time to slow the story down. He ensured the training aspect of the character arc had the room it needed to develop naturally. So many authors fall short here, with characters going from zero to hero in a blink. Thankfully, that wasn't the case here, and I truly appreciate his attention to detail.
If I haven’t sold you on the book yet, maybe the magic system will. Remember how I told you earlier that Paisley likes to take normal tropes and put his own twist on them? Well, his elemental magic system is a prime example of this. While it leverages the traditional elements, it does so via these adorable little creatures called “Spreeta” that require a symbiosis bond with the one who is going to wield the magic. I think I've said enough without revealing too much, as I don’t want to spoil anything, but I promise you this approach is not something you see in fantasy every day.
"The Keepers are beings of pure time, but they have an equal and opposite: beings of pure space. The Spatial Elementals, fire, air, water and earth, are the building blocks of our universe."
When it's all said and done, "The Winds of Change" by Sam Paisley is one hell of a debut novel with damn near perfect pacing between excitement and build-up, all while sprinkling in just enough foreshadowing to keep you on your toes from start to finish. Don't let the YA label fool you; this book is just as much for adults as it is for teens. Some of the deeper hidden meanings within the story, I believe, will resonate with readers and leave the truths revealed living rent-free in the reader's mind for years to come
“First was the realm of eternity. From the darkness came forth light, and the realm of eternity gave birth to the realm of the living. That is how the cycle began. This is the word of Elevation.”.
Don’t settle for another predictable novel. Sam Paisley’s debut, The Winds of Change is destined to be a breakout success. Paisley takes you on a heartwarming coming-of-age story filled with emotional rollercoasters. Simply put, Paisley's debut is anything but forgettable.
Warning for readers who typically skip prologues, don't skip this one! Paisley's Prologue explodes onto the scene, leaving you shell shocked as you move on to Chapter 1. It's packed with clever foreshadowing, so make sure you pay close attention.
We kick things off in what feels like a typical small town as we get to know our two main protagonists, Cooper and Reid. These two best friends are the embodiment of opposites attract. Cooper is a star athlete and thrives in the spotlight. While Reid is the bookworm who finds solace in the library's quiet corners. If you enjoy a good bromance, then you will love the dynamic between these two. Their effortless banter resonates with the same easy familiarity I share with my own friends, drawing you into their world from the get-go.
“Ugh. You’re such a dork sometimes, you know that?” Cooper said. “Yes, but a dork with a magic stone,” Reid taunted.
But Paisley's exceptional character work doesn't stop there. This debut portal fantasy thrives with the use of multiple POVs. It's clear he meticulously planned each character arc, resulting in a story where everyone feels natural. None of the interactions feel rushed or forced, a remarkable feat considering the blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements. As a character-driven reader like myself, I can promise you'll be captivated by Paisley's interconnected cast.
Unlike most authors who are content with crafting a single world, Paisley boldly builds not only multiple worlds but also explores alternative dimensions. This opens The Elements of Time trilogy to endless possibilities, further fueling readers speculation as they eagerly await the next installment. World-building and dimension-hopping become the backdrop for Cooper and Reid as they encounter new members of the cast as they enter "The Trials". It's here that they'll embark on a journey of self-discovery, awakening to their true destiny. The need to hone their fighting skills becomes paramount for survival. To avoid spoilers, I won't reveal too much about the actual trials. However I will say, if readers look closely they will find clever foreshadowing hinting at future developments within the book and the series.
“You’re not even worthy enough to be Prolia initiates, and now your lives are in danger.”
Tropes are an aspect of fantasy that readers either love or hate, and Paisley took on a large number of them. However, for a good majority of them, I feel like he managed to put a bit of a unique twist on each, truly making them his own. I’m especially a fan of coming-of-age, found family, and mentor-apprentice tropes in general, and he tackled each of these with ease.
One of my favorite parts of the story arc is when Cooper and Reid are separated for a bit for some one-on-one training with their mentors. Growing up as a child of the 80's, this mentor-apprentice dynamic always reminds me most of Mr. Miyagi and Daniel-San from the classic film 'The Karate Kid.' I can't think of a better example of a mentor-apprentice dynamic and I felt a strong sense of it as these two spent their time training, and honestly I loved every minute of it. More importantly though, Paisley once again showcased his writing skills and took the time to slow the story down. He ensured the training aspect of the character arc had the room it needed to develop naturally. So many authors fall short here, with characters going from zero to hero in a blink. Thankfully, that wasn't the case here, and I truly appreciate his attention to detail.
If I haven’t sold you on the book yet, maybe the magic system will. Remember how I told you earlier that Paisley likes to take normal tropes and put his own twist on them? Well, his elemental magic system is a prime example of this. While it leverages the traditional elements, it does so via these adorable little creatures called “Spreeta” that require a symbiosis bond with the one who is going to wield the magic. I think I've said enough without revealing too much, as I don’t want to spoil anything, but I promise you this approach is not something you see in fantasy every day.
"The Keepers are beings of pure time, but they have an equal and opposite: beings of pure space. The Spatial Elementals, fire, air, water and earth, are the building blocks of our universe."
When it's all said and done, "The Winds of Change" by Sam Paisley is one hell of a debut novel with damn near perfect pacing between excitement and build-up, all while sprinkling in just enough foreshadowing to keep you on your toes from start to finish. Don't let the YA label fool you; this book is just as much for adults as it is for teens. Some of the deeper hidden meanings within the story, I believe, will resonate with readers and leave the truths revealed living rent-free in the reader's mind for years to come
May 17, 2024
This book is big! And I’m not just talking about page count.
Sam Paisley has meticulously crafted a vast and vibrant coming of age portal fantasy with inventive worldbuilding and engaging characters. A brilliant debut.
Cooper and Reid are pulled away from their everyday lives and dropped into the middle of an intergalactic war between a pantheon of godlike beings and a mysterious drifter bent on destroying them.
The teens are whisked off and put through trials and training to develop their unique abilities. They discover new truths and meet new friends that help them along the way.
It’s easy to tell that every step of this journey was carefully planned and lovingly written.
Sam Paisley has meticulously crafted a vast and vibrant coming of age portal fantasy with inventive worldbuilding and engaging characters. A brilliant debut.
Cooper and Reid are pulled away from their everyday lives and dropped into the middle of an intergalactic war between a pantheon of godlike beings and a mysterious drifter bent on destroying them.
The teens are whisked off and put through trials and training to develop their unique abilities. They discover new truths and meet new friends that help them along the way.
It’s easy to tell that every step of this journey was carefully planned and lovingly written.
June 15, 2024
This review was originally posted on SFF Insiders
One of the most compelling debuts I’ve read this year comes in the form of The Winds of Change, the first book in the epic fantasy series, The Elements of Time by Sam Paisley. It pulls off an impressive array of feats. For example, on a prose level, the book reminded me of Brandon Sanderson’s neat, readable, yet surprisingly emotive writing style. Additionally, The Winds of Change toes the line between sci-fi and fantasy on an expert level, integrating the best of Star Wars, Back to the Future, and Avatar: the Last Airbender.
The first thing I should note about this book is its heft. Weighing in at around 600 pages and 220k words, this is a tome, and yet it reads surprisingly fast. In terms of story pacing, it is reflective of the incredibly intricate worldbuilding that sets up the end of the book to expand far past the boundaries that are imposed upon it. While the world itself is utterly fascinating and feels planned out with the same kind of finesse you might expect from the Cosmere, it does come at the expense of the story taking a little while to really get going. Despite this, the first fifty pages or so are unputdownable–I was completely enamoured in a way I haven’t experienced since first reading The Way of Kings many years ago.
The comparisons to books such as these are interesting too. This book focuses on the theme of friendship and is primarily about two high-school friends as they navigate the chaos of exiting their normal lives and becoming the people they want to be. These characters aren’t exactly the bravado, fantasy hero types you might read elsewhere, but they are arguably more relatable. I found myself rooting for Cooper and Reid’s wants and needs throughout the whole novel, and felt especially close to them when I finished reading.
Despite how the story presents itself, it shares much more in common with a lot epic fantasy’s best than a YA novel. Having said that, it certainly offers itself to a wide audience, and I think this book will find itself at home on a teenager’s shelf as much as it will an adult’s, albeit, offering slightly different levels of storytelling and references to boot.
The highlight of The Winds of Change on a plot level was absolutely the ending. The very Sanderlanche-esque climax had me locked in way past my bedtime (I’m an old codger these days), and included a twist I could not see coming. A lot of the fun was going through the book to find easter eggs after I finished it, and seriously: Sam Paisley is a wizard. The way he drives the story towards this ultimate revelation is incredibly subtle while also being very intentional.
All in all, The Winds of Change will no doubt kick off what promises to be one of the modern greats in indie, in my opinion. I haven’t read anything recently that rivals this book in terms of lore, worldbuilding, and writing style. Despite the relatively slow pacing in the first couple hundred pages or so, the book really finds its feet thereafter, and has an awful lot to offer to readers. I’m excited to see how this world opens up in the sequel, when the time comes.
One of the most compelling debuts I’ve read this year comes in the form of The Winds of Change, the first book in the epic fantasy series, The Elements of Time by Sam Paisley. It pulls off an impressive array of feats. For example, on a prose level, the book reminded me of Brandon Sanderson’s neat, readable, yet surprisingly emotive writing style. Additionally, The Winds of Change toes the line between sci-fi and fantasy on an expert level, integrating the best of Star Wars, Back to the Future, and Avatar: the Last Airbender.
The first thing I should note about this book is its heft. Weighing in at around 600 pages and 220k words, this is a tome, and yet it reads surprisingly fast. In terms of story pacing, it is reflective of the incredibly intricate worldbuilding that sets up the end of the book to expand far past the boundaries that are imposed upon it. While the world itself is utterly fascinating and feels planned out with the same kind of finesse you might expect from the Cosmere, it does come at the expense of the story taking a little while to really get going. Despite this, the first fifty pages or so are unputdownable–I was completely enamoured in a way I haven’t experienced since first reading The Way of Kings many years ago.
The comparisons to books such as these are interesting too. This book focuses on the theme of friendship and is primarily about two high-school friends as they navigate the chaos of exiting their normal lives and becoming the people they want to be. These characters aren’t exactly the bravado, fantasy hero types you might read elsewhere, but they are arguably more relatable. I found myself rooting for Cooper and Reid’s wants and needs throughout the whole novel, and felt especially close to them when I finished reading.
Despite how the story presents itself, it shares much more in common with a lot epic fantasy’s best than a YA novel. Having said that, it certainly offers itself to a wide audience, and I think this book will find itself at home on a teenager’s shelf as much as it will an adult’s, albeit, offering slightly different levels of storytelling and references to boot.
The highlight of The Winds of Change on a plot level was absolutely the ending. The very Sanderlanche-esque climax had me locked in way past my bedtime (I’m an old codger these days), and included a twist I could not see coming. A lot of the fun was going through the book to find easter eggs after I finished it, and seriously: Sam Paisley is a wizard. The way he drives the story towards this ultimate revelation is incredibly subtle while also being very intentional.
All in all, The Winds of Change will no doubt kick off what promises to be one of the modern greats in indie, in my opinion. I haven’t read anything recently that rivals this book in terms of lore, worldbuilding, and writing style. Despite the relatively slow pacing in the first couple hundred pages or so, the book really finds its feet thereafter, and has an awful lot to offer to readers. I’m excited to see how this world opens up in the sequel, when the time comes.
December 9, 2024
A very enjoyable read. Loved the audiobook. Full rtc to come, but this is certainly a crazy ride. Don’t judge it off the first two hours, which were lots of fun but set on earth with baseball-playing teens and people being shoved into lockers. This is definitely an EPIC fantasy! Love the animals companions too!
January 9, 2024
First off, thank you to Sam Paisley for sending me a copy to review. This of course in no way affects my thoughts and opinions.
I first started seeing seeing posts about The Winds of Change on social media and the cover really caught my eye. A few people had also recommended it, so it was already on my radar by the time Sam contacted me. Turns out the plot has one of my favourite fantasy elements – portal fantasy, a type of fantasy I actually haven’t come across in years. Safe to say, I was excited to pick it up and try it out.
The story opens up in our world and revolves around two teenage boys – Cooper and Reid, just weeks away from graduating and heading to university. The two friends lead a very normal life, until they come across Paks, who tricks them into helping him. Within moments, the two are thrown into a completely new fantasy/sci-fi realm, facing a trial that could mean their deaths, while powers far larger than them are at play. What no one bargained for is that these two have some tricks up their sleeves.
The scope of the world Paisley has created is huge and was a bit daunting at first with all the lore thrown at me. I do think Paisley handled the lore really well so as to not overwhelm the reader. I also really enjoyed nods at different popular fantasy and sci-fi fiction. The breadth of the world is amazing and opens the series up for lots of exploration and multi-verse situations.
The elemental magic system was excellent in this book, taking some ideas from other popular fiction, whilst giving it a unique twist. It was also done so well that it didn’t feel cheesy when both main characters gained their own power.
The characters were a definite strong suit in this book. Both main characters, Reid and Cooper were likeable and had an interesting companionship, filled with funny and teasing moments. In other words they were believable best friends, who cared for each other. If you enjoy a good male comradeship then I would say this alone makes it worth reading. Side characters were also excellent and quite unique. I especially liked Stinger, who started off a bit rocky with Cooper and Reid, eventually forming a strong friendship with them. One character also really shone and that is Sofyross, who has a strong character development. I won’t go into too much detail about him though!
This is quite a long book, but I never got bored as the writing was paced really well. There was a nice amount of lore, mixed in with a witty and enjoyable dialogue. That especially goes for the dialogue between Cooper and Reid, a nice mix of witty, banter, genuine affection and brotherhood.
All in all, this was a fantastic debut novel from Sam Paisley, that mixes sci-fi and fantasy perfectly. It’s a whooper of a book, that managed to keep me interested the entire way through. If you love a good male friendship, filled with danger, wit and some good old portal fantasy, then this is definitely the novel for you.
I first started seeing seeing posts about The Winds of Change on social media and the cover really caught my eye. A few people had also recommended it, so it was already on my radar by the time Sam contacted me. Turns out the plot has one of my favourite fantasy elements – portal fantasy, a type of fantasy I actually haven’t come across in years. Safe to say, I was excited to pick it up and try it out.
The story opens up in our world and revolves around two teenage boys – Cooper and Reid, just weeks away from graduating and heading to university. The two friends lead a very normal life, until they come across Paks, who tricks them into helping him. Within moments, the two are thrown into a completely new fantasy/sci-fi realm, facing a trial that could mean their deaths, while powers far larger than them are at play. What no one bargained for is that these two have some tricks up their sleeves.
The scope of the world Paisley has created is huge and was a bit daunting at first with all the lore thrown at me. I do think Paisley handled the lore really well so as to not overwhelm the reader. I also really enjoyed nods at different popular fantasy and sci-fi fiction. The breadth of the world is amazing and opens the series up for lots of exploration and multi-verse situations.
The elemental magic system was excellent in this book, taking some ideas from other popular fiction, whilst giving it a unique twist. It was also done so well that it didn’t feel cheesy when both main characters gained their own power.
The characters were a definite strong suit in this book. Both main characters, Reid and Cooper were likeable and had an interesting companionship, filled with funny and teasing moments. In other words they were believable best friends, who cared for each other. If you enjoy a good male comradeship then I would say this alone makes it worth reading. Side characters were also excellent and quite unique. I especially liked Stinger, who started off a bit rocky with Cooper and Reid, eventually forming a strong friendship with them. One character also really shone and that is Sofyross, who has a strong character development. I won’t go into too much detail about him though!
This is quite a long book, but I never got bored as the writing was paced really well. There was a nice amount of lore, mixed in with a witty and enjoyable dialogue. That especially goes for the dialogue between Cooper and Reid, a nice mix of witty, banter, genuine affection and brotherhood.
All in all, this was a fantastic debut novel from Sam Paisley, that mixes sci-fi and fantasy perfectly. It’s a whooper of a book, that managed to keep me interested the entire way through. If you love a good male friendship, filled with danger, wit and some good old portal fantasy, then this is definitely the novel for you.
February 12, 2025
This review was originally posted on SFF Insiders.
3.5 stars, rounded up
High schoolers chosen by destiny who are gonna be trained in magic to potentially punch gods in the face? Hell yeah I’m on board for an anime-esque adventure! A solid foundation is built for this in Sam Paisley’s The Winds of Change, and it’s carried by a unique, expansive world and rich characters, even with some plot missteps along the way.
Cooper Bailey and Reid Patterson are getting ready to graduate high school when a celebration gone wrong costs Cooper his freedom and Reid his future. When their world seems at its bleakest, a mysterious mirror-masked man appears before them to enlist their help to stop a dangerous heretic. Thrust into a series of dangerous trials, Cooper and Reid awaken to newfound powers and discover secrets and wars as ancient as time itself—but even in these tales as old as time, nothing remains clear, and nothing is as it seems.
While The Winds of Change begins as a simple high school story, it evolves into something much more than that in the typical isekai vein. The world Sam Paisley has created is inventive and unique, with a rich tapestry of lore drawn from franchises like The Last Airbender and Stargate SG-1 that help it stand out amongst its peers. In depicting this world through the eyes of two regular teenagers from Earth, it really helps amplify the universe-wide scale of Paisley’s world, that the odds are stacked against them when they are mere humans to be challenging all-powerful entities.
This is all helped by a solid cast of characters from a wide array of universal backgrounds, all of which does a tremendous amount of legwork in establishing the worldbuilding of the series. As the world unfolds around the warrior order of Prolia, the mysterious and watchful Guise, and the immortal Keepers, Paisley slowly pulls back the curtain on a living, breathing universe that promises even more intrigue as the series progresses.
It works just as well due to the dynamics Cooper and Reid have both with each other and with the characters around them. The two are polar opposites of one another—Cooper being reckless and impulsive, and Reid being bookish and withdrawn—but they balance each other extremely well, and Paisley’s character work with them particularly shines when the two leads are thrust into the universe-wide conflict and forced to adapt to the biggest culture shock of their lives. Seeing their interactions with the powerful beings from beyond Earth—and having to be the smallest fish in the largest pond—was certainly a highlight of the book.
In terms of the overall plot, though, that’s where things get tricky with The Winds of Change. Paisley does a great job of planting seeds for later twists, and the subplots directly pertaining to the characters other than Cooper and Reid are done quite well. However, the pacing for the main plot of the book felt very off to me, in that the first 85% of the book or so is largely a training montage for Cooper and Reid. I don’t mind a slow burn plot—Brandon Sanderson is one of my favorite authors, after all—and there is good payoff in the back end of the book. But while you know that there is an ever-looming threat, rarely does the first 85% of the book feel like there are high stakes because there are only a few moments along that way where Cooper and Reid actually feel like they’re in danger. It functions well as character building, but after a certain point in this 700-page book, it felt like too much, and I felt I was waiting too long for the payoff.
The beginning of the book—when Cooper and Reid are still living their high school lives—also feels a little like an afterthought. Once Cooper and Reid go into the Trials and are whisked away to other worlds, their previous lives are just forgotten for the most part, and any consequences of them suddenly disappearing are literally magicked away off-handedly. It’s safe to assume Earth will play a part in a future book, but it still felt like a plot convenience to just forget about it.
Overall, though, The Winds of Change is a solid first entry in a new series. There’s an inventive world and deep, well-developed characters that ultimately do help pick up the shaky plot. Paisley has laid a good foundation for this series, and I’m intrigued to see where it will end up.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m gonna go follow the nearest stranger into a cave because he threw a space rock at me. It worked for them, so why can’t it work for me?!
3.5 stars, rounded up
High schoolers chosen by destiny who are gonna be trained in magic to potentially punch gods in the face? Hell yeah I’m on board for an anime-esque adventure! A solid foundation is built for this in Sam Paisley’s The Winds of Change, and it’s carried by a unique, expansive world and rich characters, even with some plot missteps along the way.
Cooper Bailey and Reid Patterson are getting ready to graduate high school when a celebration gone wrong costs Cooper his freedom and Reid his future. When their world seems at its bleakest, a mysterious mirror-masked man appears before them to enlist their help to stop a dangerous heretic. Thrust into a series of dangerous trials, Cooper and Reid awaken to newfound powers and discover secrets and wars as ancient as time itself—but even in these tales as old as time, nothing remains clear, and nothing is as it seems.
While The Winds of Change begins as a simple high school story, it evolves into something much more than that in the typical isekai vein. The world Sam Paisley has created is inventive and unique, with a rich tapestry of lore drawn from franchises like The Last Airbender and Stargate SG-1 that help it stand out amongst its peers. In depicting this world through the eyes of two regular teenagers from Earth, it really helps amplify the universe-wide scale of Paisley’s world, that the odds are stacked against them when they are mere humans to be challenging all-powerful entities.
This is all helped by a solid cast of characters from a wide array of universal backgrounds, all of which does a tremendous amount of legwork in establishing the worldbuilding of the series. As the world unfolds around the warrior order of Prolia, the mysterious and watchful Guise, and the immortal Keepers, Paisley slowly pulls back the curtain on a living, breathing universe that promises even more intrigue as the series progresses.
It works just as well due to the dynamics Cooper and Reid have both with each other and with the characters around them. The two are polar opposites of one another—Cooper being reckless and impulsive, and Reid being bookish and withdrawn—but they balance each other extremely well, and Paisley’s character work with them particularly shines when the two leads are thrust into the universe-wide conflict and forced to adapt to the biggest culture shock of their lives. Seeing their interactions with the powerful beings from beyond Earth—and having to be the smallest fish in the largest pond—was certainly a highlight of the book.
In terms of the overall plot, though, that’s where things get tricky with The Winds of Change. Paisley does a great job of planting seeds for later twists, and the subplots directly pertaining to the characters other than Cooper and Reid are done quite well. However, the pacing for the main plot of the book felt very off to me, in that the first 85% of the book or so is largely a training montage for Cooper and Reid. I don’t mind a slow burn plot—Brandon Sanderson is one of my favorite authors, after all—and there is good payoff in the back end of the book. But while you know that there is an ever-looming threat, rarely does the first 85% of the book feel like there are high stakes because there are only a few moments along that way where Cooper and Reid actually feel like they’re in danger. It functions well as character building, but after a certain point in this 700-page book, it felt like too much, and I felt I was waiting too long for the payoff.
The beginning of the book—when Cooper and Reid are still living their high school lives—also feels a little like an afterthought. Once Cooper and Reid go into the Trials and are whisked away to other worlds, their previous lives are just forgotten for the most part, and any consequences of them suddenly disappearing are literally magicked away off-handedly. It’s safe to assume Earth will play a part in a future book, but it still felt like a plot convenience to just forget about it.
Overall, though, The Winds of Change is a solid first entry in a new series. There’s an inventive world and deep, well-developed characters that ultimately do help pick up the shaky plot. Paisley has laid a good foundation for this series, and I’m intrigued to see where it will end up.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m gonna go follow the nearest stranger into a cave because he threw a space rock at me. It worked for them, so why can’t it work for me?!
February 14, 2024
Did I really just read a debut?
The Winds of Change is a phenomenal start to what is going to be a top-tier adventure. The careful detail of the plot and worldbuilding was on a level I have rarely seen in the first book of a series. Packed with mystery, intrigue, edge-of-your-seat action, and heartfelt emotional moments, I’m struggling to find what this book didn’t have.
Admittedly, it was a slow start for me. I don’t know if it was the YA vibe of the early portions throwing me off, as that’s not my typical reading material, or if it was just too much at the start with too few answers being offered regarding what was happening, but I did have to push through the early segments for a bit. However, once it changed, it really changed!
The set pieces of gods, master senseis, Padawan-like soldiers, one badass antihero, and two kids from Earth in way over their heads; once it all started coming together, it fit beautifully, and the story flowed like no other. The ending was terrific, one of the best I’ve ever read. The author clearly put a lot of time and detail into the backdrops of his worlds and mythology, and while by the end, I feel fulfilled in what I was given, I’m now craving to learn so much more.
This book is perfect for fans of The Last Airbender, Stargate, Star Wars, or any sci-fi story of a similar ilk. While I think it will thrive with a YA audience, it should also do just fine with adult readers. I cannot recommend this one enough. Go and give it a chance. You won’t be disappointed!
The Winds of Change is a phenomenal start to what is going to be a top-tier adventure. The careful detail of the plot and worldbuilding was on a level I have rarely seen in the first book of a series. Packed with mystery, intrigue, edge-of-your-seat action, and heartfelt emotional moments, I’m struggling to find what this book didn’t have.
Admittedly, it was a slow start for me. I don’t know if it was the YA vibe of the early portions throwing me off, as that’s not my typical reading material, or if it was just too much at the start with too few answers being offered regarding what was happening, but I did have to push through the early segments for a bit. However, once it changed, it really changed!
The set pieces of gods, master senseis, Padawan-like soldiers, one badass antihero, and two kids from Earth in way over their heads; once it all started coming together, it fit beautifully, and the story flowed like no other. The ending was terrific, one of the best I’ve ever read. The author clearly put a lot of time and detail into the backdrops of his worlds and mythology, and while by the end, I feel fulfilled in what I was given, I’m now craving to learn so much more.
This book is perfect for fans of The Last Airbender, Stargate, Star Wars, or any sci-fi story of a similar ilk. While I think it will thrive with a YA audience, it should also do just fine with adult readers. I cannot recommend this one enough. Go and give it a chance. You won’t be disappointed!
July 18, 2025
The author very kindly offered me a physical copy for review, and I’m very sorry I’m late. With my last year being what it turned out to be (a dumpster fire) I have been racing to catch up and realized I have no idea where the book was in my storage unit. So I decided to buy the audio to ensure I got to it. Scott Fleming was a great choice for narration, but did an almost Massachusetts/Boston accent (wah-rrior, dah-ughter, Coop-uh). Not at all an issue for me, I just noticed! Or imagined it…?
This one is really unique. It’s an urban/portal fantasy that at times feels wholly scifi, then it turns and feels wholly fantasy, with zero urban. The kind of story that makes you forget all about earth and high school. It blends entire galaxies away from earth, with some advanced technology that surpasses human knowledge. It features gods that make it feel ancient, but somehow it still feels rooted in the now. Through Cooper and Reed, it’s a coming of age story, an underdog story, and certainly a reluctant hero story. It blends so many things in its own original way that I feel like I can’t even summarize it.
The best friends of Cooper and Reed were spectacular. One is book smart, less confident, but certainly not without strength. The other is an athlete, confident and although bright, less focused on the future. While in some schools or circled this would be an unlikely match, their friendship formed at a young age and they didn’t let it stop them. They are opposites, like two sides of the same coin. They need each other, balance each other, and propel each other. I loved the healthy male friendship on display, and getting both of them focused on as POVs showed the reader how little jealously was there between them. Then they both succeed in unlocking/befriending the elements of air and fire called Spreeta. Little white and red creatures that I thought of as almost angry bird style little things. I imagined them as cute, but they controlled immense power. And they unlocked that power in both of the boys, as well as functionally offering a new responsibility for them, forcing maturing.
The magic system feels old and full and yet it left some things up for interpretation. Empathic objects can be bestowed to those with certain specifically strong traits. These can be any object, including weapons. But these empathic objects are just a scrape off the surface. There’s ways to learn a multitude of powers and strengths, as well as utilizing unimaginable tech. The strength unlocked by the Spreeta help the boys to find their inner power and unleash it. Their displays of strength kind of felt almost superhero to me, kind of a la Wistful Ascending by J.C.M. Berne, but with a completely different foundation. Then you throw in a twist almost a la Terminator…this one truly has it all.
I loved the mentor figures so much. One, a misunderstood, centuries-old protector, a man that fits the trope perfectly. The other, another old character, but this one stuck inside the body of a child. The two played off each other even when they weren’t together, one the wise and understanding, the other quicker to action. It was great to see the senior-year teen Cooper go toe to toe with a kid and be forced to back down over and over. The author does a great job of twisting tropes in ways that feel fresh and familiar at the same time.
For the first time in a long time honestly, I had zero idea where a book was going to go. It was an awfully nice change.
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-the-wi...
This one is really unique. It’s an urban/portal fantasy that at times feels wholly scifi, then it turns and feels wholly fantasy, with zero urban. The kind of story that makes you forget all about earth and high school. It blends entire galaxies away from earth, with some advanced technology that surpasses human knowledge. It features gods that make it feel ancient, but somehow it still feels rooted in the now. Through Cooper and Reed, it’s a coming of age story, an underdog story, and certainly a reluctant hero story. It blends so many things in its own original way that I feel like I can’t even summarize it.
The best friends of Cooper and Reed were spectacular. One is book smart, less confident, but certainly not without strength. The other is an athlete, confident and although bright, less focused on the future. While in some schools or circled this would be an unlikely match, their friendship formed at a young age and they didn’t let it stop them. They are opposites, like two sides of the same coin. They need each other, balance each other, and propel each other. I loved the healthy male friendship on display, and getting both of them focused on as POVs showed the reader how little jealously was there between them. Then they both succeed in unlocking/befriending the elements of air and fire called Spreeta. Little white and red creatures that I thought of as almost angry bird style little things. I imagined them as cute, but they controlled immense power. And they unlocked that power in both of the boys, as well as functionally offering a new responsibility for them, forcing maturing.
The magic system feels old and full and yet it left some things up for interpretation. Empathic objects can be bestowed to those with certain specifically strong traits. These can be any object, including weapons. But these empathic objects are just a scrape off the surface. There’s ways to learn a multitude of powers and strengths, as well as utilizing unimaginable tech. The strength unlocked by the Spreeta help the boys to find their inner power and unleash it. Their displays of strength kind of felt almost superhero to me, kind of a la Wistful Ascending by J.C.M. Berne, but with a completely different foundation. Then you throw in a twist almost a la Terminator…this one truly has it all.
I loved the mentor figures so much. One, a misunderstood, centuries-old protector, a man that fits the trope perfectly. The other, another old character, but this one stuck inside the body of a child. The two played off each other even when they weren’t together, one the wise and understanding, the other quicker to action. It was great to see the senior-year teen Cooper go toe to toe with a kid and be forced to back down over and over. The author does a great job of twisting tropes in ways that feel fresh and familiar at the same time.
For the first time in a long time honestly, I had zero idea where a book was going to go. It was an awfully nice change.
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-the-wi...
January 31, 2025
This book swept me away like a feather in the wind! I am blown away by the world building and intricacy of the plot, whilst being at the same time so damn entertaining and gripping!
This is a science fiction/fantasy novel and it’s the first installment in The Elements Of Tim. I am really excited to see what will happen in the next books! I listened to the audiobook and Scott Fleming, the narrator, did an amazing job, given all the different characters and their different ages.
The characters are fantastic and not only are they well characterised and developed, they feel real in every possible way! Their developmental arc is deeply emotional, and you can’t not root for them in every step of the story. Even the minor characters and the antagonists are multidimensional, which is proof of the amount of work that went into this book. I particularly loved the strong relationship between Cooper and Reid, but also how the author mixed up the depiction of the “nerd” and “sporty” stereotypes.
The story itself has a mix of adventure, time travel, elementals, a gripping mystery and it is also a coming of age. Although the main characters are teenagers, I didn’t feel at all that the audience target would be YA as I believe the themes explored in this book are universal and not bound to any age range.
If you are in need of a fantastic adventure with beautiful characters and important themes like destiny, responsibility and purpose in life, then this is a series you’ll love!
Thanks to the author for the audiobook and this is my honest opinion.
This is a science fiction/fantasy novel and it’s the first installment in The Elements Of Tim. I am really excited to see what will happen in the next books! I listened to the audiobook and Scott Fleming, the narrator, did an amazing job, given all the different characters and their different ages.
The characters are fantastic and not only are they well characterised and developed, they feel real in every possible way! Their developmental arc is deeply emotional, and you can’t not root for them in every step of the story. Even the minor characters and the antagonists are multidimensional, which is proof of the amount of work that went into this book. I particularly loved the strong relationship between Cooper and Reid, but also how the author mixed up the depiction of the “nerd” and “sporty” stereotypes.
The story itself has a mix of adventure, time travel, elementals, a gripping mystery and it is also a coming of age. Although the main characters are teenagers, I didn’t feel at all that the audience target would be YA as I believe the themes explored in this book are universal and not bound to any age range.
If you are in need of a fantastic adventure with beautiful characters and important themes like destiny, responsibility and purpose in life, then this is a series you’ll love!
Thanks to the author for the audiobook and this is my honest opinion.
May 2, 2024
Amazing!
At the start of this book it felt a tad slow, following the lives of two teenage boys in school. But then it erupted, forcing you into a world of breathtaking magic, otherworldly technology and unknown gods. Every page seemed to teach you more about the universes lore, introducing in depth characters that all have their own ulterior motives, and their own dark past. Sam is a world builder for the ages, and I can't wait to see what he does next.
At the start of this book it felt a tad slow, following the lives of two teenage boys in school. But then it erupted, forcing you into a world of breathtaking magic, otherworldly technology and unknown gods. Every page seemed to teach you more about the universes lore, introducing in depth characters that all have their own ulterior motives, and their own dark past. Sam is a world builder for the ages, and I can't wait to see what he does next.
October 9, 2023
The author kindly provided me with a copy of his debut 'The Winds of Change', first book in his planned 'Elements of Time' trilogy.
I didn't know what I was getting myself into because I had never read an indie debut novel before. I was pleasantly surprised to find a thoroughly well-crafted book that features a refreshing world and an interesting plot in a mix of sci-fi and fantasy.
The defining themes are friendship and destiny, and the book quickly loses its "young adult highschool bros" vibe, which I admittedly was skeptical about, for an ambitious, mature plot in a unique universe with a great magic system.
A strong debut from a capable writer we should be watching out for in the future.
I didn't know what I was getting myself into because I had never read an indie debut novel before. I was pleasantly surprised to find a thoroughly well-crafted book that features a refreshing world and an interesting plot in a mix of sci-fi and fantasy.
The defining themes are friendship and destiny, and the book quickly loses its "young adult highschool bros" vibe, which I admittedly was skeptical about, for an ambitious, mature plot in a unique universe with a great magic system.
A strong debut from a capable writer we should be watching out for in the future.
December 14, 2023
This book was a fun ride. It reminded me of Percy Jackson, Pendragon, and His Dark Materials (The Golden Compass series). The spreeta are really cute nonhuman characters. Reid and Cooper have such a beautiful friendship, and it was fun seeing them both grow. The master/apprentice relationships were well done. I loved that they both had good adult influences in their lives to help and guide them on their way. Truthfully, I can't think of a single character or nonhuman character that I didn't like. They were all well written.
This book is especially fantastic for a debut novel. The depth and layers of the plot were well written. Honestly, I think any adult would enjoy this book as much as any high school aged reader. Highly recommend checking this book out if you loved Percy Jackson, Pendragon, The Golden Compass, or Fablehaven.
This book contains:
Elemental Magic
Children of Time (think more evil/manipulative Gallifreyan than Doctor Who)
Magical nonhuman characters
Master/Apprentice
Best friends
Multiple third person PoVs
Just honest to goodness fun
Bullying (and standing up to bullies!)
Content Warning: one innuendo joke about m*sterbation, violence, death, manipulation, religion used as means of manipulation by higher beings
I would say this book is appropriate for children ages 14 and up. This would make a fantastic addition to any high school library and would make a great classroom or book club read as well.
Thank you to the author for the physical copy of this book. This review is voluntarily written and the thoughts and opinions contained in this review are my own.
This book is especially fantastic for a debut novel. The depth and layers of the plot were well written. Honestly, I think any adult would enjoy this book as much as any high school aged reader. Highly recommend checking this book out if you loved Percy Jackson, Pendragon, The Golden Compass, or Fablehaven.
This book contains:
Elemental Magic
Children of Time (think more evil/manipulative Gallifreyan than Doctor Who)
Magical nonhuman characters
Master/Apprentice
Best friends
Multiple third person PoVs
Just honest to goodness fun
Bullying (and standing up to bullies!)
Content Warning: one innuendo joke about m*sterbation, violence, death, manipulation, religion used as means of manipulation by higher beings
I would say this book is appropriate for children ages 14 and up. This would make a fantastic addition to any high school library and would make a great classroom or book club read as well.
Thank you to the author for the physical copy of this book. This review is voluntarily written and the thoughts and opinions contained in this review are my own.
April 10, 2025
3,5 stars
In this new and old classic epic fantasy/ sci-fi you follow Cooper, the sporty guy and Reid the nerdy bestfried, in their last few months of school. And oboy are they nervous and excited. But that is quickly dragged away as they get pushed into another world by a masked stranger.
This has a big and fantastic worlds, that is just the tip of the iceberg. Where you get trowed into an epic fantasy/ sci-fi magic system.
I really liked the world-building, animal companions, and magic system.
And not to mention a fantastic friendship between 2 bestfried, that is to die for!
However, for me, I did not connect with Cooper and Reid, and I'm not sure why. I think it's because it's set in our modern time, and I have read mostly books set in the older time, so being in a world where it's new modern technology and talk. just didn't click with me.
But I still recommend this to sci-fi and fantasy fans, its a great world filled with adventures and trials where they have to navigate through a new dangerous world while learning their newly found powers.
Also recommend reading Paschia's Hidden Journals first as you would benefit from this amazing novella's small details that will open up the understanding about this world and the side character.
In this new and old classic epic fantasy/ sci-fi you follow Cooper, the sporty guy and Reid the nerdy bestfried, in their last few months of school. And oboy are they nervous and excited. But that is quickly dragged away as they get pushed into another world by a masked stranger.
This has a big and fantastic worlds, that is just the tip of the iceberg. Where you get trowed into an epic fantasy/ sci-fi magic system.
I really liked the world-building, animal companions, and magic system.
And not to mention a fantastic friendship between 2 bestfried, that is to die for!
However, for me, I did not connect with Cooper and Reid, and I'm not sure why. I think it's because it's set in our modern time, and I have read mostly books set in the older time, so being in a world where it's new modern technology and talk. just didn't click with me.
But I still recommend this to sci-fi and fantasy fans, its a great world filled with adventures and trials where they have to navigate through a new dangerous world while learning their newly found powers.
Also recommend reading Paschia's Hidden Journals first as you would benefit from this amazing novella's small details that will open up the understanding about this world and the side character.
January 9, 2024
What an awesome debut!! A slow start, yes, but one well worth pushing through to get to the meat of this book. The world-building alone kept me enraptured and I always love a multi-PoV book.
Ok so let’s get into it:
Characters: 8/10
Atmosphere: 8/10
Writing Style: 10/10
I think this was an ambitious debut, and the writing made it easy to fall into the pages and get lost in the story.
Plot: 8/10
The tropes, oh my. I can’t say I don’t love a trope-heavy book, but it made for a slower-paced start. (I want to say: that being slow-paced is not necessarily a bad thing: a lot of detail important to the world comes in these pages.)
Intrigue: 10/10
It is a page-turner! And I am eager for the sequels.
Logic/Relationships: 8/10
This is where I can explain the characters a bit more because there are master/apprentice, best friends (Frodo + Sam style), and some villains -- it's for sure character-full. This does contain some manipulation, so those relationships can become more violent (making it a YA-Restricted, or 15+, rec for me)
Excitement/Vibes: 10/10
This was fun and well-written. I liked the detail. Recommend!
CAWPILE Total: 62/70
Star Rating: 4
Ok so let’s get into it:
Characters: 8/10
Atmosphere: 8/10
Writing Style: 10/10
I think this was an ambitious debut, and the writing made it easy to fall into the pages and get lost in the story.
Plot: 8/10
The tropes, oh my. I can’t say I don’t love a trope-heavy book, but it made for a slower-paced start. (I want to say: that being slow-paced is not necessarily a bad thing: a lot of detail important to the world comes in these pages.)
Intrigue: 10/10
It is a page-turner! And I am eager for the sequels.
Logic/Relationships: 8/10
This is where I can explain the characters a bit more because there are master/apprentice, best friends (Frodo + Sam style), and some villains -- it's for sure character-full. This does contain some manipulation, so those relationships can become more violent (making it a YA-Restricted, or 15+, rec for me)
Excitement/Vibes: 10/10
This was fun and well-written. I liked the detail. Recommend!
CAWPILE Total: 62/70
Star Rating: 4
July 25, 2024
You grew up with a best friend with whom you would play Pokemon, watch movies, etc. You miss that magic. Well, Sam Paisley has a book to return it to you in the form of a brilliant portal fantasy series with nostalgia, humor, training montages , and fantastic world building.
June 4, 2025
If you like Epic Fantasy, YA coming of age stories, the chosen one with some interesting rumination on time, the universe and the beings that might control it all I think you will enjoy this one.
4.5 rounded up
4.5 rounded up
May 6, 2024
This review was originally posted on SFF Insiders
Full video review on YOUTUBE
Strap in, folks, because we're about to go on a whirlwind adventure with 'The Winds of Change' by Sam Paisley. Picture this: you're settling in with a new book, expecting a casual read, when suddenly, you're swept up in a rollercoaster of emotions you never saw coming. That's the magic of Paisley's storytelling, and trust me, it's a journey you won't soon forget.
Let's cut to the chase. Paisley's storytelling is like a magic trick—you think you know where it's headed, but then bam! It takes a sharp turn and leaves you breathless. The cover gives off epic vibes, but trust me, it's just the tip of the iceberg.
At the heart of this tale are Reid and Cooper, two buddies who steal the show. Their friendship is the glue that holds everything together, and boy, does it tug at your heartstrings. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll feel like you're right there with them.
They are excellently characterized. At first they fall into specific canons, bordering on stereotypical, and they counterbalance each other.
Reed is introverted, thoughtful, grew up with little resources, and tries to prevent any incident that might prevent him from studying and creating a better future for himself.
Cooper is impulsive, carefree, his family adores him and seems to live each day in the absolute belief that it is his last.
But there is much more beneath the surface of these characterizations. Trauma, fears, hopes, and cynicism.
In Reid and Cooper I saw absolutely phenomenal character work, which little by little overturns certain genre customs and delivers three-dimensional, profound, believable characters.
I really appreciated the fact that the two protagonists go through a series of trials, and then intense training regimens to face the battles to which they seem predestined.
There is a kind of natural predisposition in them, a talent for some specific extraordinary abilities, but they have to struggle to keep them in check and learn how to use them.
I have seen far too many adventure novels loaded with characters who suddenly become great fighters without earning their skills.
In this novel, however, Cooper and Reid must spill blood, often literally, during training.
But fair warning: this isn't your average breezy read. Paisley takes his time setting the stage, delving deep into the lives of our protagonists.
There is one specific scene, set during a baseball game, that is told with an epicness that makes it more like a Lord of the Rings battle. Every time I think back on it, I get chills.
It serves to showcase Reed and Copper's strengths and weaknesses, a most elegant pretext for stripping them of their social superstructures. A master move on Paisley's part.
The first chapters are a slow burn, but oh-so-worth it. And let me tell you, this book is a chunkster. My arms got a workout lugging around the paperback, but hey, it's a small price to pay for such a gripping read.
Now, let's talk about those curveballs. Just when you think you've got it all figured out, Paisley throws in some intergalactic drama that'll leave your head spinning. It's like stepping into a whole new universe, one filled with gods, politics, and mind-bending twists.
I must admit that every time the focus shifted from the protagonists to give space to the political machinations, and introduce the rest of the cast, my attention waned. These are well-told scenes, with well-defined characters, yet they absolutely do not hold a candle to the emotional power of what happens when we are in the company of Cooper and Reid.
And while these cosmic detours might throw you for a loop, fear not—our boys Reid and Cooper are never far behind.
Here's the kicker: for all its grandeur and spectacle, the beating heart of this story lies in its emotional core. The bond between Reid and Cooper is what kept me turning the pages, rooting for them every step of the way.
And don't even get me started on that ending. Talk about a gut-punch! I'm talking tears, goosebumps—the whole nine yards. It's the kind of finale that'll stick with you long after you've turned the last page.
So, should you give "The Winds of Change" a whirl? Absolutely. It's big, it's bold, and it's brimming with heart. Trust me, you won't regret it. And as for me, I'll be counting down the days until book two hits the shelves.
Full video review on YOUTUBE
Strap in, folks, because we're about to go on a whirlwind adventure with 'The Winds of Change' by Sam Paisley. Picture this: you're settling in with a new book, expecting a casual read, when suddenly, you're swept up in a rollercoaster of emotions you never saw coming. That's the magic of Paisley's storytelling, and trust me, it's a journey you won't soon forget.
Let's cut to the chase. Paisley's storytelling is like a magic trick—you think you know where it's headed, but then bam! It takes a sharp turn and leaves you breathless. The cover gives off epic vibes, but trust me, it's just the tip of the iceberg.
At the heart of this tale are Reid and Cooper, two buddies who steal the show. Their friendship is the glue that holds everything together, and boy, does it tug at your heartstrings. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll feel like you're right there with them.
They are excellently characterized. At first they fall into specific canons, bordering on stereotypical, and they counterbalance each other.
Reed is introverted, thoughtful, grew up with little resources, and tries to prevent any incident that might prevent him from studying and creating a better future for himself.
Cooper is impulsive, carefree, his family adores him and seems to live each day in the absolute belief that it is his last.
But there is much more beneath the surface of these characterizations. Trauma, fears, hopes, and cynicism.
In Reid and Cooper I saw absolutely phenomenal character work, which little by little overturns certain genre customs and delivers three-dimensional, profound, believable characters.
I really appreciated the fact that the two protagonists go through a series of trials, and then intense training regimens to face the battles to which they seem predestined.
There is a kind of natural predisposition in them, a talent for some specific extraordinary abilities, but they have to struggle to keep them in check and learn how to use them.
I have seen far too many adventure novels loaded with characters who suddenly become great fighters without earning their skills.
In this novel, however, Cooper and Reid must spill blood, often literally, during training.
But fair warning: this isn't your average breezy read. Paisley takes his time setting the stage, delving deep into the lives of our protagonists.
There is one specific scene, set during a baseball game, that is told with an epicness that makes it more like a Lord of the Rings battle. Every time I think back on it, I get chills.
It serves to showcase Reed and Copper's strengths and weaknesses, a most elegant pretext for stripping them of their social superstructures. A master move on Paisley's part.
The first chapters are a slow burn, but oh-so-worth it. And let me tell you, this book is a chunkster. My arms got a workout lugging around the paperback, but hey, it's a small price to pay for such a gripping read.
Now, let's talk about those curveballs. Just when you think you've got it all figured out, Paisley throws in some intergalactic drama that'll leave your head spinning. It's like stepping into a whole new universe, one filled with gods, politics, and mind-bending twists.
I must admit that every time the focus shifted from the protagonists to give space to the political machinations, and introduce the rest of the cast, my attention waned. These are well-told scenes, with well-defined characters, yet they absolutely do not hold a candle to the emotional power of what happens when we are in the company of Cooper and Reid.
And while these cosmic detours might throw you for a loop, fear not—our boys Reid and Cooper are never far behind.
Here's the kicker: for all its grandeur and spectacle, the beating heart of this story lies in its emotional core. The bond between Reid and Cooper is what kept me turning the pages, rooting for them every step of the way.
And don't even get me started on that ending. Talk about a gut-punch! I'm talking tears, goosebumps—the whole nine yards. It's the kind of finale that'll stick with you long after you've turned the last page.
So, should you give "The Winds of Change" a whirl? Absolutely. It's big, it's bold, and it's brimming with heart. Trust me, you won't regret it. And as for me, I'll be counting down the days until book two hits the shelves.
October 26, 2025
The bones of this book are great and the concept is good I just didn’t fall in love with the characters like I do in other series. The dialogue is fun but can feel like classic indie writing sometimes.
I enjoyed it enough to continue the series in the future and see where the plot goes as the foundation is set it can really open up into an epic sci fi series.
I enjoyed it enough to continue the series in the future and see where the plot goes as the foundation is set it can really open up into an epic sci fi series.
Want to read
October 9, 2024This is not a full review. I read through the beginning of all 300 SPFBOX contest entries. This was a book I wanted to read more of.
Ordinary high school life kicks off this Isekai YA after a religiously tinged fantasy prologue.
This opening is a tale of two styles. Ch 1 starts grounded in character, with revealing dialogue that sounds like people talking. It’s a slow start (a bit too slow for me), but everything is clear, and I like the characters.
The prologue is like something by a different author altogether. It’s vague and ungrounded. I barely know what’s going on, and then a god-thing happens and it’s over.
The effect of this juxtapositions creates a promise of something otherworldly as we churn through our completely ordinary school days chapter 1. This promise would have been more effective if the prologue was more engaging.
If I had only read the prologue, I would not have recommended this opening. However, ch1 has been totally competent. It isn’t without tension, tho there’s no big conflict yet, and I don’t expect there will be.
The MC seems charming enough to me, tho, and his relationships feel authentic. I think this authenticity would be appealing to YA aged readers, especially as our MC goes from a life they very much relate to, to one that is fantastical.
Our MC is on a collision course with a different world. The collision hasn’t happened yet, but I’m interested enough to find out how it’s going to happen. This is just well written enough once it properly starts, so, for now, I’m in.
Ordinary high school life kicks off this Isekai YA after a religiously tinged fantasy prologue.
This opening is a tale of two styles. Ch 1 starts grounded in character, with revealing dialogue that sounds like people talking. It’s a slow start (a bit too slow for me), but everything is clear, and I like the characters.
The prologue is like something by a different author altogether. It’s vague and ungrounded. I barely know what’s going on, and then a god-thing happens and it’s over.
The effect of this juxtapositions creates a promise of something otherworldly as we churn through our completely ordinary school days chapter 1. This promise would have been more effective if the prologue was more engaging.
If I had only read the prologue, I would not have recommended this opening. However, ch1 has been totally competent. It isn’t without tension, tho there’s no big conflict yet, and I don’t expect there will be.
The MC seems charming enough to me, tho, and his relationships feel authentic. I think this authenticity would be appealing to YA aged readers, especially as our MC goes from a life they very much relate to, to one that is fantastical.
Our MC is on a collision course with a different world. The collision hasn’t happened yet, but I’m interested enough to find out how it’s going to happen. This is just well written enough once it properly starts, so, for now, I’m in.
July 30, 2025
Wow. This is a story of layers. Layers within layers, twists within twists, heartfelt emotion within philosophical musings, wisdom and nuance within a coming-of-age story.
Within the truly epic scope and scale of this story there is a simple tale of becoming, fulfilling potential, and navigating the fear of losing oneself to said potential.
While The Elements of Time is slow in its build up, it is meticulous in its detail and the ending delivers on every promise, leaving no stone unturned. In an age of bloated epic fantasy or “epic fantasy-lite” stories that lack ambition or vision, this debut novel packs a punch.
This is a no-doubt-about-it top book of the year candidate. I will read anything Sam Paisley writes!
Within the truly epic scope and scale of this story there is a simple tale of becoming, fulfilling potential, and navigating the fear of losing oneself to said potential.
While The Elements of Time is slow in its build up, it is meticulous in its detail and the ending delivers on every promise, leaving no stone unturned. In an age of bloated epic fantasy or “epic fantasy-lite” stories that lack ambition or vision, this debut novel packs a punch.
This is a no-doubt-about-it top book of the year candidate. I will read anything Sam Paisley writes!
July 17, 2025
Twisted powers, time travel, and a war-torn universe—this fantasy adventure throws you into a wild, high-stakes ride with elemental mayhem and big reveals.
The characters were solid, the pacing was a little uneven early but took off in the second half! The emotional impact didn’t always land—but the layered themes and intriguing magic system made this a worthwhile read. Definitely excited to see where this series goes! I’m landing at an 8/10 RSQ Score, and eagerly anticipating book 2!
Full Spoiler Review Below!
The characters were solid, the pacing was a little uneven early but took off in the second half! The emotional impact didn’t always land—but the layered themes and intriguing magic system made this a worthwhile read. Definitely excited to see where this series goes! I’m landing at an 8/10 RSQ Score, and eagerly anticipating book 2!
Full Spoiler Review Below!
September 30, 2023
Blown away by this book! This debut novel from Sam Paisley is truly impressive. This is the first book in a planned trilogy that Paisley already has mapped out. Honestly, you're wasting your time reading this review, just go and buy the book already!
When I first started reading this book, I'll be honest, I had my doubts. I go back and forth with portal fantasy and teenage protagonists. But I'm so, so glad I stuck with it. This is an EXTREMELY ambitious first novel and I think Sam has the skills to pull it off. His world building is beautiful and interesting and intricate. He strings the reader along, handing out pieces of information, often contradictory in nature. His use of multiple POVs is exceptionally effective at dragging the reader deeper into his complex universe while almost constantly casting doubt on things we've learned from different characters.
Sam manages to handle the development of God like Keepers who are near omnipotent watchers over the Universe while introducing us to teenagers from Earth. There are so many fun and interesting characters and they all feel important to the story.
Much of this story deals with the development of Reid and Cooper (our two main protagonists). I really appreciate Sam's ability to help us, as readers, really feel the training they go through. I think it's common in a less confident author to worry they're going to lose the readers in a prolonged training montage, so they skip ahead and as a reader, we're left with characters going from normal to extraordinary in a few pages. But Paisley has the confidence of a seasoned author and takes us through the nitty-gritty development which allows for a wonderful emotional payoff in the concluding scenes of this book.
The simple message is: this is a story to pick up and read. I'm already planning on buying and reading the second one (hoping you're already working on that, Sam 😉). Sam Paisley is a name to watch moving forward. He obviously has a very bright future ahead in fantasy!
When I first started reading this book, I'll be honest, I had my doubts. I go back and forth with portal fantasy and teenage protagonists. But I'm so, so glad I stuck with it. This is an EXTREMELY ambitious first novel and I think Sam has the skills to pull it off. His world building is beautiful and interesting and intricate. He strings the reader along, handing out pieces of information, often contradictory in nature. His use of multiple POVs is exceptionally effective at dragging the reader deeper into his complex universe while almost constantly casting doubt on things we've learned from different characters.
Sam manages to handle the development of God like Keepers who are near omnipotent watchers over the Universe while introducing us to teenagers from Earth. There are so many fun and interesting characters and they all feel important to the story.
Much of this story deals with the development of Reid and Cooper (our two main protagonists). I really appreciate Sam's ability to help us, as readers, really feel the training they go through. I think it's common in a less confident author to worry they're going to lose the readers in a prolonged training montage, so they skip ahead and as a reader, we're left with characters going from normal to extraordinary in a few pages. But Paisley has the confidence of a seasoned author and takes us through the nitty-gritty development which allows for a wonderful emotional payoff in the concluding scenes of this book.
The simple message is: this is a story to pick up and read. I'm already planning on buying and reading the second one (hoping you're already working on that, Sam 😉). Sam Paisley is a name to watch moving forward. He obviously has a very bright future ahead in fantasy!
May 31, 2024
The Winds of Change is an excellent debut by author Sam Paisley, showcasing exhilarating action, a complex and engaging world, beautifully written characters, and a sprawling story that keeps you hooked throughout.
At the very beginning of the book, we are introduced to Cooper and Reid, best friends who have a lot of growing up to do in their own distinct ways. I was continually impressed with Paisley's characterization of these two main characters and how their relationship, their similarities, and their differences influenced their decisions. Many books can fall into the trap of telling rather than showing a friendship between two characters, and I'm happy to say that I never doubted for a second that these two had been best friends since they were kids. It's that core friendship that is the heart of the book and what makes it so endearing.
I also have to commend the author on the worldbuilding. This world feels ancient, lived-in, and chock-full of beings that vary from regular humans to godlike beings beyond mortal comprehension. These beings all coexisting within this universe is extremely well blended and well done. I can't wait to see more of this universe in future entries to this series. The magic system was also very well done, and was the perfect blend between an intricate hard magic system and a mysterious soft magic system.
Destiny, personal responsibility, and prophecy all collide in this story. It creates a whirlwind of an adventure that I could not put down, and the conflicting goals of the main cast made me genuinely anxious if the main antagonist could be defeated. And let me tell you, the main villain of this story is so nuanced and so terrifying when they want to be.
This book is worth every penny, and I am eagerly awaiting the second entry to the Elements of Time.
At the very beginning of the book, we are introduced to Cooper and Reid, best friends who have a lot of growing up to do in their own distinct ways. I was continually impressed with Paisley's characterization of these two main characters and how their relationship, their similarities, and their differences influenced their decisions. Many books can fall into the trap of telling rather than showing a friendship between two characters, and I'm happy to say that I never doubted for a second that these two had been best friends since they were kids. It's that core friendship that is the heart of the book and what makes it so endearing.
I also have to commend the author on the worldbuilding. This world feels ancient, lived-in, and chock-full of beings that vary from regular humans to godlike beings beyond mortal comprehension. These beings all coexisting within this universe is extremely well blended and well done. I can't wait to see more of this universe in future entries to this series. The magic system was also very well done, and was the perfect blend between an intricate hard magic system and a mysterious soft magic system.
Destiny, personal responsibility, and prophecy all collide in this story. It creates a whirlwind of an adventure that I could not put down, and the conflicting goals of the main cast made me genuinely anxious if the main antagonist could be defeated. And let me tell you, the main villain of this story is so nuanced and so terrifying when they want to be.
This book is worth every penny, and I am eagerly awaiting the second entry to the Elements of Time.
January 2, 2024
As high school draws to a close, Cooper Bailey cherishes the fleeting moments of his perfect world while his best friend, Reid Patterson, eagerly anticipates using his focus and determination to achieve his full potential in the future.
Their lives take an unexpected turn when a mysterious figure wearing a mirror mask urgently seeks their help to thwart a dangerous heretic. Suddenly thrust into unfamiliar realms and faced with an ancient cosmic conflict, Cooper and Reid must grapple with their destinies. Amidst deceptive allies and looming threats, they must quickly learn to trust each other and adapt to their newfound abilities while navigating perilous situations far from home.
As truths about their pivotal roles in the universe surface, the duo races against time, striving to comprehend their purpose and master their powers while evading mortal dangers.
Their lives take an unexpected turn when a mysterious figure wearing a mirror mask urgently seeks their help to thwart a dangerous heretic. Suddenly thrust into unfamiliar realms and faced with an ancient cosmic conflict, Cooper and Reid must grapple with their destinies. Amidst deceptive allies and looming threats, they must quickly learn to trust each other and adapt to their newfound abilities while navigating perilous situations far from home.
As truths about their pivotal roles in the universe surface, the duo races against time, striving to comprehend their purpose and master their powers while evading mortal dangers.
September 16, 2023
Note: The author contacted and provided me with the book for this review, but all opinions stated are my own honest thoughts.
Summary:
The Winds of Change is Sam Paisley’s debut novel and the first in an ambitious, epic fantasy trilogy. He has stated that he has been inspired by the likes of Star Wars, Supernatural, Stargate SG-1, as well as Avatar the Last Airbender. It primarily revolves around high school-aged best friends Reid and Cooper, who are deciding the paths of their future. After an accident in a victory celebration, a violent outburst and the discovery of a strange object, the boys’ lives are indisputably changed. It led them to an encounter with a mysterious, masked man, who thrusts them head first into their true destinies across the cosmos. Joined by new friends, they are forced around the universe, unlocking their powers along the way, all the while grappling with who can be trusted amongst those who would see them killed.
An official plot synopsis can be found on The Elements of Time webpage.
The Specifics of the Edition:
I read the ebook (848 pages) and then received the paperback, courtesy of the author. Both options are available on Amazon (linked below). It is split into a prologue, a part one and part two, with crucial symbols included below these headings. The paperback is beautiful in itself, with the cover being a wrap-around artwork created by Jeff Brown. I particularly appreciate the overall series name being larger than the title, alongside the number one on the front and spine.
My thoughts:
The Winds of Change was nothing short of captivating, weaving together complex lore, characters and a welcome touch of humour, that came together in a way that solidifies my trust in the storytelling abilities of the author. Despite the e-book having over 800 pages, I was easily able to become lost in it – to the point I was motivated to wake up early purely to know what would happen next! Though I have been left with questions by the end, they are expected for the first book of a series, but, equally, the author has succeeded in giving the impression that he knows precisely how everything will be expanded on later. There were events at the very start of the novel that seemed out of place, but on further reading and reflection were examples of Paisley’s mastery in foreshadowing – I would go far as to predict there will be small things from this book that will bare greater significance for book two than it seems. I will be brief to prevent unnecessary spoilers, but I must mention how the twists were plentiful and rewarding, with one I was expecting towards the ends subverting my expectations entirely.
See the rest of the review here: https://thesilentreviewerblog.wordpre...
Summary:
The Winds of Change is Sam Paisley’s debut novel and the first in an ambitious, epic fantasy trilogy. He has stated that he has been inspired by the likes of Star Wars, Supernatural, Stargate SG-1, as well as Avatar the Last Airbender. It primarily revolves around high school-aged best friends Reid and Cooper, who are deciding the paths of their future. After an accident in a victory celebration, a violent outburst and the discovery of a strange object, the boys’ lives are indisputably changed. It led them to an encounter with a mysterious, masked man, who thrusts them head first into their true destinies across the cosmos. Joined by new friends, they are forced around the universe, unlocking their powers along the way, all the while grappling with who can be trusted amongst those who would see them killed.
An official plot synopsis can be found on The Elements of Time webpage.
The Specifics of the Edition:
I read the ebook (848 pages) and then received the paperback, courtesy of the author. Both options are available on Amazon (linked below). It is split into a prologue, a part one and part two, with crucial symbols included below these headings. The paperback is beautiful in itself, with the cover being a wrap-around artwork created by Jeff Brown. I particularly appreciate the overall series name being larger than the title, alongside the number one on the front and spine.
My thoughts:
The Winds of Change was nothing short of captivating, weaving together complex lore, characters and a welcome touch of humour, that came together in a way that solidifies my trust in the storytelling abilities of the author. Despite the e-book having over 800 pages, I was easily able to become lost in it – to the point I was motivated to wake up early purely to know what would happen next! Though I have been left with questions by the end, they are expected for the first book of a series, but, equally, the author has succeeded in giving the impression that he knows precisely how everything will be expanded on later. There were events at the very start of the novel that seemed out of place, but on further reading and reflection were examples of Paisley’s mastery in foreshadowing – I would go far as to predict there will be small things from this book that will bare greater significance for book two than it seems. I will be brief to prevent unnecessary spoilers, but I must mention how the twists were plentiful and rewarding, with one I was expecting towards the ends subverting my expectations entirely.
See the rest of the review here: https://thesilentreviewerblog.wordpre...
February 4, 2024
First off, be prepared for five dimensional chess throughout the entire book. Secondly, this book kept me hooked throughout the entire story. It’s hard to exactly put into words my feelings, so I’ll keep it to this:
- magic system is interesting as hell
- your brain will try fabricating an answer to questions within the book
- reality… what is reality but a figment of the keepers imagination?
- cute spreetas
- do not trust anything
Aside from that, if you’re into epic fantasy with teenagers getting manipulated into following the great tapestry of fate, this book is for you
- magic system is interesting as hell
- your brain will try fabricating an answer to questions within the book
- reality… what is reality but a figment of the keepers imagination?
- cute spreetas
- do not trust anything
Aside from that, if you’re into epic fantasy with teenagers getting manipulated into following the great tapestry of fate, this book is for you
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2024
Book review: the elements of time ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✔️ portal magic
✔️ magical companion
✔️ mentor student
✔️ crazy plot twist
✔️ found family
The elements of time is honestly like nothing you'll ever read
it combines a lot of kinds of magic even ones that has never existed before the magic system is unique and
the plot is G.R.R Martin completed in the best way possible
the master student and the friendships are so well written as well as the vast set of characters
the plot is always moving in such a fast pace
I can't wait for the next book in the series the way the book ended it looks like there's much more to look for greater battles evolved magic and much more powerful enemies
✔️ portal magic
✔️ magical companion
✔️ mentor student
✔️ crazy plot twist
✔️ found family
The elements of time is honestly like nothing you'll ever read
it combines a lot of kinds of magic even ones that has never existed before the magic system is unique and
the plot is G.R.R Martin completed in the best way possible
the master student and the friendships are so well written as well as the vast set of characters
the plot is always moving in such a fast pace
I can't wait for the next book in the series the way the book ended it looks like there's much more to look for greater battles evolved magic and much more powerful enemies
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews