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Telesa #3
The Bone Bearer
The thrilling, breathlessly anticipated conclusion to The Telesa Series.
Leila's selfless act at the closing of 'When Water Burns,' unleashed the demonic fury of Pele the Fire Goddess and now Daniel must fight an epic battle to free the one he loves. Unlikely allies come to his aid as a group of troubled elementals try to overcome their differences and work as a team to save their friend. But Pele's awakening has caused cataclysmic fear throughout the Telesa guardians of the Pacific and they are gathering their forces, preparing to defend the Blue Continent from the devastating threat of the Fire Goddess. Only one thing can destroy her - the Tangaloa Bone. The race is on to recover the three pieces of this ancient weapon and the question remains: who will wield the power of the Bone Bearer? And can Leila survive its apocalyptic fury?
Leila's selfless act at the closing of 'When Water Burns,' unleashed the demonic fury of Pele the Fire Goddess and now Daniel must fight an epic battle to free the one he loves. Unlikely allies come to his aid as a group of troubled elementals try to overcome their differences and work as a team to save their friend. But Pele's awakening has caused cataclysmic fear throughout the Telesa guardians of the Pacific and they are gathering their forces, preparing to defend the Blue Continent from the devastating threat of the Fire Goddess. Only one thing can destroy her - the Tangaloa Bone. The race is on to recover the three pieces of this ancient weapon and the question remains: who will wield the power of the Bone Bearer? And can Leila survive its apocalyptic fury?
442 pages, Paperback
First published June 24, 2013
47 people are currently reading
785 people want to read
About the author
Lani Wendt Young
27 books434 followersLani Young is an international bestselling author of YA fantasy, contemporary romance and literary fiction. The 2018 Pacific Laureate, her work is inspired by the diverse mythology of Oceania and the richness of her cultural heritage as a Samoan and Maori woman.
When she's not writing (or reading), she's baking cookies, talking to dogs, and trying to do triathlons.
She lives in Samoa and New Zealand with her Ironman husband and four children.
When she's not writing (or reading), she's baking cookies, talking to dogs, and trying to do triathlons.
She lives in Samoa and New Zealand with her Ironman husband and four children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 30, 2017
***SPOILER ALERT***
First off I have to admit that I purposely held off on finishing this book for selfish reasons...I didn't want it to end! Then I had to take a few days or so to gather my thoughts because there is so much I want to say about this book.
This book was definitely an eye-opener!! Definitely darker than the other books because Pele is one crazy ass bitch! LOL! Super glad you gave us the prequel on Pele because I felt it was relevant to the story as a whole and it gave us a good inside look into her psyche. I loved how you kept us abreast on all the other characters and it didn't just stay focused on any one person for too long. The story was a good steady and at times fast paced read to where you can't help but want to keep reading to find out what happens next. I'm so that "and then..and then" type person lol!
I LOVE Talei and her free spirited, no lekea attitude and how she was comfortable in her own skin. I thought it was super cool that you added a Shifter to this book. Would love to see her with her own novella hehe!
Love how descriptive you were when the Keawe & Olohe arrived for the meeting. I don't know where or how you come up with some of these names for your characters, but I love it!
I loved how the group decides to ban together and form their very own X-Men group. That was pretty cool because they definitely needed to learn how to work together.
Ohhwee when Pele & Keahi start to make out and they both flame up slowly and even the lava around them starts to burn...That was HOT! It's a sensual scene but kind of a sad one too. As convincing as Pele was, Keahi glimpsed Leila's taulima and that was enough of a reminder to him that her love belonged to another and that Pele was in control of Leila's body. Kalofae as I almost feel sorry for Pele.
Simone Simone Simone *sighs* he will always be an All-Time fave of mine! I was LMAO when she would go off on Daniel or be hella sarcastic, just LOVE it!!
I really LOVED the ifoga piece and the reference of it during the final battle scene where Daniel sacrifices his Love for Leila to beat Pele. It was very symbolic and one you can't miss!
I love how everything came to pass so to speak and came to a complete circle. For example the vision that Talei's mother shared with her how she would help Daniel and soar to the heavens. How Noa fulfilled her oath to her Keawe to protect Daniel and I was super glad she shanked that beezy Apollonia! LOL! How we now know that Teuila is all 3 elements (which was SUPER cool btw!) and I loved how they utilized her to be their very own flesh & blood Tagaloa Bone. (So damn AWESOME!) You wrapped everything up so nicely for us! =)
The descriptions on their wedding...just OUTSTANDING!! WOW Lani! You really outdid yourself! Damnit it makes me want to get married again! *sighs* As a reader you totally feel it all...you feel everything and for me...this ending just gives me a huge sense of peace..if that makes any sense! I LALALALLLOOOVEEED IT!!! After EVERYTHING they have been through...FINALLY they have their HEA and it's well deserved too! First off I love how their sex scene was on the beach under the stars surrounded by Mother Earth so to speak. I thought it was very symbolic of their "physical" union! I loved how descriptive you were but you did it in such a way that it was still HOT...but it was done with class...you didn't have to be graphic or vulgar about it. I LOVE IT and I ain't even gonna lie...I was super happy for them both!! *sighs*
Thank you for giving us an Epilogue. I love it when we get to see how our favorite characters have progressed. To see what they have been doing, what's happened in their lives and how they start a family and so on. Super happy for Simone and her man! Woohoo! So not surprised at Maleko and his soon to be third ex-wife, lol! Oh and Talei has a man who I would love to know more about. (You're such a tease!) I love how the kids have their powers and its awesome because it gives us a sense of hope for a future book or two! YAY!! ;)
There are so many great quotes and scenes in this book I highlighted the hell outta my e-copy, lol!
THANK YOU LANI FOR AN OUTSTANDING & AMAZING ENDING TO THIS SERIES! YOU GAVE US ONE HELLUVA RIDE!!!
First off I have to admit that I purposely held off on finishing this book for selfish reasons...I didn't want it to end! Then I had to take a few days or so to gather my thoughts because there is so much I want to say about this book.
This book was definitely an eye-opener!! Definitely darker than the other books because Pele is one crazy ass bitch! LOL! Super glad you gave us the prequel on Pele because I felt it was relevant to the story as a whole and it gave us a good inside look into her psyche. I loved how you kept us abreast on all the other characters and it didn't just stay focused on any one person for too long. The story was a good steady and at times fast paced read to where you can't help but want to keep reading to find out what happens next. I'm so that "and then..and then" type person lol!
I LOVE Talei and her free spirited, no lekea attitude and how she was comfortable in her own skin. I thought it was super cool that you added a Shifter to this book. Would love to see her with her own novella hehe!
Love how descriptive you were when the Keawe & Olohe arrived for the meeting. I don't know where or how you come up with some of these names for your characters, but I love it!
I loved how the group decides to ban together and form their very own X-Men group. That was pretty cool because they definitely needed to learn how to work together.
Ohhwee when Pele & Keahi start to make out and they both flame up slowly and even the lava around them starts to burn...That was HOT! It's a sensual scene but kind of a sad one too. As convincing as Pele was, Keahi glimpsed Leila's taulima and that was enough of a reminder to him that her love belonged to another and that Pele was in control of Leila's body. Kalofae as I almost feel sorry for Pele.
Simone Simone Simone *sighs* he will always be an All-Time fave of mine! I was LMAO when she would go off on Daniel or be hella sarcastic, just LOVE it!!
I really LOVED the ifoga piece and the reference of it during the final battle scene where Daniel sacrifices his Love for Leila to beat Pele. It was very symbolic and one you can't miss!
I love how everything came to pass so to speak and came to a complete circle. For example the vision that Talei's mother shared with her how she would help Daniel and soar to the heavens. How Noa fulfilled her oath to her Keawe to protect Daniel and I was super glad she shanked that beezy Apollonia! LOL! How we now know that Teuila is all 3 elements (which was SUPER cool btw!) and I loved how they utilized her to be their very own flesh & blood Tagaloa Bone. (So damn AWESOME!) You wrapped everything up so nicely for us! =)
The descriptions on their wedding...just OUTSTANDING!! WOW Lani! You really outdid yourself! Damnit it makes me want to get married again! *sighs* As a reader you totally feel it all...you feel everything and for me...this ending just gives me a huge sense of peace..if that makes any sense! I LALALALLLOOOVEEED IT!!! After EVERYTHING they have been through...FINALLY they have their HEA and it's well deserved too! First off I love how their sex scene was on the beach under the stars surrounded by Mother Earth so to speak. I thought it was very symbolic of their "physical" union! I loved how descriptive you were but you did it in such a way that it was still HOT...but it was done with class...you didn't have to be graphic or vulgar about it. I LOVE IT and I ain't even gonna lie...I was super happy for them both!! *sighs*
Thank you for giving us an Epilogue. I love it when we get to see how our favorite characters have progressed. To see what they have been doing, what's happened in their lives and how they start a family and so on. Super happy for Simone and her man! Woohoo! So not surprised at Maleko and his soon to be third ex-wife, lol! Oh and Talei has a man who I would love to know more about. (You're such a tease!) I love how the kids have their powers and its awesome because it gives us a sense of hope for a future book or two! YAY!! ;)
There are so many great quotes and scenes in this book I highlighted the hell outta my e-copy, lol!
THANK YOU LANI FOR AN OUTSTANDING & AMAZING ENDING TO THIS SERIES! YOU GAVE US ONE HELLUVA RIDE!!!
September 25, 2013
I absolutely loved the first and second books in the Telesa Trilogy, so when this one came out, I absolutely HAD to have it (nevermind the new covers that caused me to up and re-buy all the printed books, just because). I went into this one expecting much the same of what I got in the other two, but though I still loved it, it was completely different than anything I had imagined.
Before the primary story we read the story of Pele, daughter of The Covenant Keeper for the Telesa back in the day. Unfortunately, she was ungifted. Her mother loved her though, so she decided not to give her away, as was custom. Later, Pele became distraught about the fact that she was ungifted, and her mother sought to rectify the situation. Unfortunately, as we all know, power is not meant for everyone, and with just a taste, Pele became a bit of a (excuse the term) “power whore.” Later she went mad, and soon her body could no longer hold all the elemental power she owned so she was consumed by the earth, but not before she killed the only two people who cared for her.
We are then tossed into the story with the aftermath of the ending of When Water Burns. If you remember, Leila is in the hospital with Daniel, and Pele is lingering somewhere under the surface. At the beginning of this story however, things switch, and we lose all contact with Leila, and gain Pele instead. Pele is taking things over (literally) and no one can control her.
Feeling the change in the elements, many other Telesa from other Pacific Islands swarm to Samoa in order to destroy Pele. Meanwhile, Daniel, Simone, Keahi, and some other wonderful characters must band together to defeat Pele and save Leila.
This story has a lot more drama, a lot more characters, and a lot more myth. I loved reading every word of it. Unfortunately, Leila wasn’t much present, and that disappointed me, but there were plenty of the other characters we loved. Daniel is pretty much pathetic most of the beginning of the book, but things got better for him and I wasn’t as disappointed in him. As for my new love Keahi, I loved him even more in this one.
There was only one thing I didn’t like. Pele was a bit dense in my opinion. You’d think that for a woman as old as she is, she’d know when she was being betrayed, but she was a bit naïve. Then again, she never actually had friends, so I guess she wouldn’t know the difference. Also, there were a lot of characters, and sometimes it was kind of hard to keep up.
I don’t want to give too much away for the ending of this series, but I absolutely loved it. Though this story was much different than the others, I still enjoyed reading it. Lani Wendt Young is an amazing writer, and I can’t wait to read everything else she writes.
I give this one 4 stars.
Before the primary story we read the story of Pele, daughter of The Covenant Keeper for the Telesa back in the day. Unfortunately, she was ungifted. Her mother loved her though, so she decided not to give her away, as was custom. Later, Pele became distraught about the fact that she was ungifted, and her mother sought to rectify the situation. Unfortunately, as we all know, power is not meant for everyone, and with just a taste, Pele became a bit of a (excuse the term) “power whore.” Later she went mad, and soon her body could no longer hold all the elemental power she owned so she was consumed by the earth, but not before she killed the only two people who cared for her.
We are then tossed into the story with the aftermath of the ending of When Water Burns. If you remember, Leila is in the hospital with Daniel, and Pele is lingering somewhere under the surface. At the beginning of this story however, things switch, and we lose all contact with Leila, and gain Pele instead. Pele is taking things over (literally) and no one can control her.
Feeling the change in the elements, many other Telesa from other Pacific Islands swarm to Samoa in order to destroy Pele. Meanwhile, Daniel, Simone, Keahi, and some other wonderful characters must band together to defeat Pele and save Leila.
This story has a lot more drama, a lot more characters, and a lot more myth. I loved reading every word of it. Unfortunately, Leila wasn’t much present, and that disappointed me, but there were plenty of the other characters we loved. Daniel is pretty much pathetic most of the beginning of the book, but things got better for him and I wasn’t as disappointed in him. As for my new love Keahi, I loved him even more in this one.
There was only one thing I didn’t like. Pele was a bit dense in my opinion. You’d think that for a woman as old as she is, she’d know when she was being betrayed, but she was a bit naïve. Then again, she never actually had friends, so I guess she wouldn’t know the difference. Also, there were a lot of characters, and sometimes it was kind of hard to keep up.
I don’t want to give too much away for the ending of this series, but I absolutely loved it. Though this story was much different than the others, I still enjoyed reading it. Lani Wendt Young is an amazing writer, and I can’t wait to read everything else she writes.
I give this one 4 stars.
August 6, 2013
Rounding out my Samoan fiction summer reads is The Bone Bearer by Lani Wendt Young, book three in her Telesa series. With book 2, When Water Burns ending with a literal bang of epic proportions, the story landscape was wide open for book 3 and Lani didn’t disappoint.
In the hospital Leia doesn’t remember much of anything after the time she first arrived in Samoa. Daniel, Simone, and Keahi are strangers to her and you can imagine all the tip-toeing around her fire gifts. Meanwhile Telesa from all over the Pacific gather in Samoa to discuss an ancient doomsday prophecy about to be fulfilled, the return of Pele the terrible herself. Besides the looming threat that all male Telesa should be killed as soon as their gifts are discovered, there’s an ancient bone broken into three pieces and hidden that has to be recovered and united by our gang before Pele gets control and absorbs all the Telesa power forever.
Did I mention Leia’s acting weird?
We meet some new characters, see alliances formed and double-crossed, delve deeper into Pacific mythology flavored with Lani’s unique spin, see cultural biases in conflict as male Telesas are revealed, and finally learn who is Leia’s true soul mate.
It’s an entertaining and satisfying read full of smoky, smoldering heat, adventure, and shhhnap! comic relief from my favorite fa’afafine in literature, Simone. (I swear I went to school with the real Simone, but I digress.) Readers of the first books in the series will not be disappointed. The epilogue even jumps 10 years into the future to show us a sneak peek of how it all turns out. While this book was supposed to end the series, rumor has it that Lani isn’t quite finished with at least some of the characters. Can’t wait.
In the hospital Leia doesn’t remember much of anything after the time she first arrived in Samoa. Daniel, Simone, and Keahi are strangers to her and you can imagine all the tip-toeing around her fire gifts. Meanwhile Telesa from all over the Pacific gather in Samoa to discuss an ancient doomsday prophecy about to be fulfilled, the return of Pele the terrible herself. Besides the looming threat that all male Telesa should be killed as soon as their gifts are discovered, there’s an ancient bone broken into three pieces and hidden that has to be recovered and united by our gang before Pele gets control and absorbs all the Telesa power forever.
Did I mention Leia’s acting weird?
We meet some new characters, see alliances formed and double-crossed, delve deeper into Pacific mythology flavored with Lani’s unique spin, see cultural biases in conflict as male Telesas are revealed, and finally learn who is Leia’s true soul mate.
It’s an entertaining and satisfying read full of smoky, smoldering heat, adventure, and shhhnap! comic relief from my favorite fa’afafine in literature, Simone. (I swear I went to school with the real Simone, but I digress.) Readers of the first books in the series will not be disappointed. The epilogue even jumps 10 years into the future to show us a sneak peek of how it all turns out. While this book was supposed to end the series, rumor has it that Lani isn’t quite finished with at least some of the characters. Can’t wait.
August 2, 2013
This was my favorite book in the series and I can't believe that it's over! (Say it isn't so!)
This book was pretty different from the other two since the majority of the story isn't told from Leila's point of view but it was a refreshing change.
I loved the legend of Pele and how the author incorporated her sad tale with Daniel and Leila's story. I really felt for Pele even though she was the evil one.
The action, romance and characters in this book really left me guessing. (I actually read the whole book in two days because I was so hooked on the exciting plot!) I enjoyed the different dynamics among the "x-men" and how they didn't all get along at first. In addition, the wedding scene was so beautiful!
This book was encompassed with wonderful quotes and I could tell that the author's writing really went a level. Ultimately, I loved everything about the book and would read it again!
This book was pretty different from the other two since the majority of the story isn't told from Leila's point of view but it was a refreshing change.
I loved the legend of Pele and how the author incorporated her sad tale with Daniel and Leila's story. I really felt for Pele even though she was the evil one.
The action, romance and characters in this book really left me guessing. (I actually read the whole book in two days because I was so hooked on the exciting plot!) I enjoyed the different dynamics among the "x-men" and how they didn't all get along at first. In addition, the wedding scene was so beautiful!
This book was encompassed with wonderful quotes and I could tell that the author's writing really went a level. Ultimately, I loved everything about the book and would read it again!
August 28, 2013
Like the first two Telesa books, it doesn't dissapoint! It's a jam packed book that will leave you speechless, happy, and very emotional. I loved loved loved this book so much and I'm sad that it's ended. I purchased this book at the brisbane book launch and finished the book in 2 days. If you loved the first two books you'll absolutely without a doubt love this final book. I did get jealous at the ending wishing I was Leila in the end lol. If you hated Keahi in the second book you'll probably grow to like him in this book as I did. This book is truly AMAZING!Daniel is dalascious (forgot how to spell it)as always. We need more books like these especially around polynesian mythology/legends/stories. ASTOUNDING accomplishment Lani. :) Can't wait for more of your latest work. :) OFF-TOPIC: Don't we all wish there were boys/men like Daniel Tahi? lol
August 5, 2013
So sad this series has come to an end... Will miss these characters so much. Loved the imagery, metaphors, similes, descriptions. Loved the new characters and all of their layers. The different points of view enriched the story. The last 10% was simply beautiful. The ending was bittersweet but I loved it. Daniel + Leila forever!
November 29, 2013
Oh my goodness!! Where do I start?! (This is a 4.5 for me by the way)
This is just amazing, granted it was pretty different given that Leila doesn't really feature but there is so much going on!! The author has perfectly provided back stories for each of our main characters, the entire way through the series and in this book, it's especially important.
Without Leila, we are given a more all round story, with all elements of it explored, we don't miss out on anything or wonder why certain things happened.
I had tears in my eyes toward the end of this, it's just fantastic.
My only gripe - we get hit with a bombshell in the epilogue regarding Pele. It almost feels like a cliff hanger BUT, I feel like the main elements in the epilogue sort of ensure that we won't get another book as what exists in said epilogue would just get in the way. I *really* wish the epilogue never happened and we'd just been hit with the bombshell at the end, so we could then all beg for another sequel that would just continue on.
Beautiful ending, (although I did feel a little sad) but the epilogue has left me feeling like there's more that still needs to be told. . . Unless what exists in the epilogue becomes necessary to a continued story with regards to the bombshell
This is just amazing, granted it was pretty different given that Leila doesn't really feature but there is so much going on!! The author has perfectly provided back stories for each of our main characters, the entire way through the series and in this book, it's especially important.
Without Leila, we are given a more all round story, with all elements of it explored, we don't miss out on anything or wonder why certain things happened.
I had tears in my eyes toward the end of this, it's just fantastic.
My only gripe - we get hit with a bombshell in the epilogue regarding Pele. It almost feels like a cliff hanger BUT, I feel like the main elements in the epilogue sort of ensure that we won't get another book as what exists in said epilogue would just get in the way. I *really* wish the epilogue never happened and we'd just been hit with the bombshell at the end, so we could then all beg for another sequel that would just continue on.
Beautiful ending, (although I did feel a little sad) but the epilogue has left me feeling like there's more that still needs to be told. . . Unless what exists in the epilogue becomes necessary to a continued story with regards to the bombshell
April 17, 2015
" I am Daniel Tahi I have your name tattooed on my heart and you don't even remember who i am"...I loved being able to read the back story of pele and find out more about the modern day keawe and their protectors the olohe. "You will soar with wings my child and touch the heavens and hold the star bringer in your hands never forget you are drauki and i love you" I loved the character of Tahei and found the powers of the drauki very interesting." I was pele the daughter of Noalani the coventant keeper.I was broken . And now I am whole. I am Leila the daughter of Leila the covenant keeper.I was lost. And now I am found.I am Pele. I am Leila. I am Beloved" Great end to the series a lot of action through out.
July 11, 2013
What a wonderful conclusion to a series I absolutely adored.
I loved how Ms. Wendt Young brought Samoan legends and culture to life. There was so much in this book to enjoy. Burgeoning relationships, difficult choices, heroism, action and comedy - all coming together to the most satisfying of endings. I'm really sad that this is the end of my time with Leila and Daniel, but I'll be looking forward to more from this exciting author in the future. And hey - I can always re-read this series right from the start. These books deserve to be picked up and re-read.
Thanks for the ride, Lani. I had a ball!
I loved how Ms. Wendt Young brought Samoan legends and culture to life. There was so much in this book to enjoy. Burgeoning relationships, difficult choices, heroism, action and comedy - all coming together to the most satisfying of endings. I'm really sad that this is the end of my time with Leila and Daniel, but I'll be looking forward to more from this exciting author in the future. And hey - I can always re-read this series right from the start. These books deserve to be picked up and re-read.
Thanks for the ride, Lani. I had a ball!
July 1, 2013
Wow what a great conclusion! This book definitely had a different feel from the others since it's not in Leila's POV. The action seemed like it started right from the beginning with a great introduction of Pele's backstory. And I liked the addition of new characters as well. It never seemed slow and always had me anticipating what was going to happen next. The only thing I wish we got to see more of was Pele's POV especially since we got to see so much of her in the beginning. Great and unique series!
February 25, 2014
I did enjoy this story. It sucked me in and I was on pins and needles throughout wondering how it was all going to be resolved. All in all it was a good ending to the Trilogy. That said, the epilogue actually raised more questions for me than answers and I felt like if this is the end, I was left hanging a little bit. All in all, though it was well worth the read! I loved the characters and the story.
April 4, 2014
Awesome Series, awesome ending, made me sad that it was all coming to an end. I love his series it has opened my mind to the importance of my Samoan heritage to me. Love this Lani Wendt Young. OMG love love love ! This made me love Samoa even more. Thanks Lani for sharing this with us. Your biggest fan. Mad respect :)
May 9, 2014
To be honest, I tried several times to get past Pele's story, don't ask me why because once I did - it was pretty good and I'm glad I didn't skip it because it made the flow of the story more fluid! Simone remains my favourite character lol and the ending... AMAZEBALLS! I'm interested to see where this is going to lead to! An awesome series! Proud to have a Samoan Tusitala amongst my favourite Authors!
August 27, 2013
The best book in the series. I loved all the pacific mythology in the beginning, the new characters, and my absolute favorite was the end of the book! A sneak peak into the future! I could read this and the first book again. Beautiful beginning with a beautiful end. I would give the author a huge high five!
June 6, 2014
Oh my heart! If I could pick a perfect ending for Leila and Daniel it is this one but it also leaves it open if Lani wants to write some more, which would not be bad either! The last book of the Leila and Daniel trilogy is done with flair and I loved every minute of it! I couldn't put it down! Many times it helped me through my walks around my house! Please write some more!!
July 8, 2013
Not my favorite of the three. It wasn't until the end that i even felt like i was reading a book from the same series. It was good, but not as good as the first two.
September 24, 2013
i want more!!! lol
June 19, 2014
Pele is one crazy chick!
March 22, 2018
Before starting on this last book in the series, I want to say I really enjoyed the first book. Not only did it have an interesting concept and characters, it took place on an unfamiliar island to me. I enjoyed learning a bit about Samoan culture.
The second book was fine.
But this last book...
Something gets lost when the character you've been following gets possessed, and then you get povs of different characters. I was invested in Leila and now she's not there. Her story was in first person, and now the story is being told in third person omniscient. Maybe if the pov had stayed with Daniel for most of it, it would have helped to keep me invested. Or somehow have Leila be in this story more. She didn't do anything, and other types of stories like this, the character is fighting the possession. Yeah, it mentions that her love for Daniel is keeping her there, but that's more of tether keeping her afloat then her actively swimming to stay on the surface.
The book starts from Pele's pov. While interesting, it wasn't who I had been following in the story. A lot of those details could have been worked in later. This section takes up 20% of the book. Pele's story is set 1,000 years ago, but her father is a European explorer who comes from a land where they've harnessed electricity. That's more like 100 years ago, not a 1000.
There were a lot of characters being introduced especially for the last book. Talei was the most interesting of the new but it seems like she was forced in because the author wanted to put in a shape shifter.
The telesa council went into too much detail about the various members. It seems the reason all these characters were introduced was so they could die. On that note, some of the deaths in the story should have meant something, but by the end, the story had lost me and I just wanted to finish.
Some plot type things: Iolana tells Daniel to let the youngest lead them, which should be Teuila. And that made sense because she could use all the elements. But the youngest leading them was never mentioned again. It wouldn't have surprised me if she had been the bone bearer in the end or if she had been given the bone to unite all the telesa. Nothing significant happens with her and I wonder why it was even important she could control all three elements.
In the second book, I thought the bone bearer was supposed to bring peace, but that doesn't seem to be the case here.
Pele was starting to change at the end, but instead of expounding on that, she quickly becomes a vengeful goddess again. Daniel briefly touches on feeling guilty for planning on destroying her when he notice these changes. This could have been explored so much more. Why have her change if it makes none of the characters grow or adds anything to the plot?
The books just seems rushed. Except the conclusion. The wedding dragged on. I'll admit, perhaps it was supposed to be heavy on the romance and I'm not usually into lots of romance. Maybe some people would find this ending very sweet and encompassing.
The last chapter that occurs ten years later also goes on a bit, and while it gives satisfactory conclusions for most of the characters, it didn't tell what become of the telesa. Did they change their ways? Did they die out?
It also introduced the concept that Leila is still battling Pele in her head. I'm not sure if that's supposed to hint at another book or not. Plus the fact that the twin girl seems like she could be evil. I think the author was just going for mischievous and/or precocious but I was getting a bad seed vibe from her. But in any case, the twins could also be a hint for another book.
There's also the fact that it mentions that Leila used her mother's inheritance to continue the women's shelter and such, but in the second book it was stated she would lose her mother's inheritance if she ever married.
Like I said, it seems like this last book was rushed. It had a lot of issues that could easily have been fixed if more time were taken with it.
The second book was fine.
But this last book...
Something gets lost when the character you've been following gets possessed, and then you get povs of different characters. I was invested in Leila and now she's not there. Her story was in first person, and now the story is being told in third person omniscient. Maybe if the pov had stayed with Daniel for most of it, it would have helped to keep me invested. Or somehow have Leila be in this story more. She didn't do anything, and other types of stories like this, the character is fighting the possession. Yeah, it mentions that her love for Daniel is keeping her there, but that's more of tether keeping her afloat then her actively swimming to stay on the surface.
The book starts from Pele's pov. While interesting, it wasn't who I had been following in the story. A lot of those details could have been worked in later. This section takes up 20% of the book. Pele's story is set 1,000 years ago, but her father is a European explorer who comes from a land where they've harnessed electricity. That's more like 100 years ago, not a 1000.
There were a lot of characters being introduced especially for the last book. Talei was the most interesting of the new but it seems like she was forced in because the author wanted to put in a shape shifter.
The telesa council went into too much detail about the various members. It seems the reason all these characters were introduced was so they could die. On that note, some of the deaths in the story should have meant something, but by the end, the story had lost me and I just wanted to finish.
Some plot type things: Iolana tells Daniel to let the youngest lead them, which should be Teuila. And that made sense because she could use all the elements. But the youngest leading them was never mentioned again. It wouldn't have surprised me if she had been the bone bearer in the end or if she had been given the bone to unite all the telesa. Nothing significant happens with her and I wonder why it was even important she could control all three elements.
In the second book, I thought the bone bearer was supposed to bring peace, but that doesn't seem to be the case here.
Pele was starting to change at the end, but instead of expounding on that, she quickly becomes a vengeful goddess again. Daniel briefly touches on feeling guilty for planning on destroying her when he notice these changes. This could have been explored so much more. Why have her change if it makes none of the characters grow or adds anything to the plot?
The books just seems rushed. Except the conclusion. The wedding dragged on. I'll admit, perhaps it was supposed to be heavy on the romance and I'm not usually into lots of romance. Maybe some people would find this ending very sweet and encompassing.
The last chapter that occurs ten years later also goes on a bit, and while it gives satisfactory conclusions for most of the characters, it didn't tell what become of the telesa. Did they change their ways? Did they die out?
It also introduced the concept that Leila is still battling Pele in her head. I'm not sure if that's supposed to hint at another book or not. Plus the fact that the twin girl seems like she could be evil. I think the author was just going for mischievous and/or precocious but I was getting a bad seed vibe from her. But in any case, the twins could also be a hint for another book.
There's also the fact that it mentions that Leila used her mother's inheritance to continue the women's shelter and such, but in the second book it was stated she would lose her mother's inheritance if she ever married.
Like I said, it seems like this last book was rushed. It had a lot of issues that could easily have been fixed if more time were taken with it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2019
Leila's selfless act in the second Telesā installment, 'When Water Burns', unleashes the demonic fury that is the fire goddess Pele, and now Daniel is left to fight an epic battle to save his home and free the one he loves. Unlikely allies put aside their differences and join forces to help their friend, but the awakening of Pele has caused cataclysmic fear throughout the Telesā guardians of the Pacific. The race is on to find the one thing that can stop Pele and save the Blue Continent from the devastating threat of the fire goddess' fury—the ancient Tangaloa Bone. The question is: who will wield this bone and save the Pacific from its apocalyptic fury?
✨
• Best Points: The book wasn't told in Leila's point of view. She was irritating lmao.
• Rate: ⭐⭐⭐
✨
Why did it feel like the only character developments came from everyone EXCEPT Leila and Daniel? I enjoyed this book for what it was but the character of growth of Leila throughout the whole trilogy was pretty non-existent and Daniel was someone who just needed to really think things through logically and not based on emotions. I get it though—love is the key/answer. I don't know, I just felt underwhelmed by how this story concluded. I was expecting something more gratifying, however, I enjoyed it for what it was and the fact that it was a story intertwined with Polynesian mythology was something I've always needed in my life. Lmao lowkey though, why were the Cook Island Telesā the evil ones? 😂 and they were from Mangaia too?! Mangaia is literally the nicest island out of all fifteen islands in the Cook Islands 😂
✨
• Best Points: The book wasn't told in Leila's point of view. She was irritating lmao.
• Rate: ⭐⭐⭐
✨
Why did it feel like the only character developments came from everyone EXCEPT Leila and Daniel? I enjoyed this book for what it was but the character of growth of Leila throughout the whole trilogy was pretty non-existent and Daniel was someone who just needed to really think things through logically and not based on emotions. I get it though—love is the key/answer. I don't know, I just felt underwhelmed by how this story concluded. I was expecting something more gratifying, however, I enjoyed it for what it was and the fact that it was a story intertwined with Polynesian mythology was something I've always needed in my life. Lmao lowkey though, why were the Cook Island Telesā the evil ones? 😂 and they were from Mangaia too?! Mangaia is literally the nicest island out of all fifteen islands in the Cook Islands 😂
January 4, 2022
The story of Pele was one of sadness, greed and anger. I enjoyed her introduction into the Telesa world and it made me better understand why she was so psychotic. The fact that other Telesa from islands like Tonga, Cook Islands, Fiji and more was very fun to read about as well as the depths to how powerful both Daniel and Leila are. A great ending to the Telesa trilogy, I hope more books based in the Telesa world are to come.
November 4, 2017
This has definitely become one of my favorite series. I was hooked after reading the first book.
Lani just knows how to write a damn good story about psychotic fire goddesses, love,heartbreak, and about people I've never met but learned to love/hate.
I'm not gonna lie, *The Bone Bearer* is my favorite one. It is crazy good.
Lani just knows how to write a damn good story about psychotic fire goddesses, love,heartbreak, and about people I've never met but learned to love/hate.
I'm not gonna lie, *The Bone Bearer* is my favorite one. It is crazy good.
September 11, 2018
I wasn’t expecting that! This book had me all over the place and I just wanted to laugh, cry, fight, and enjoy this book!
I’m sad that it ended but I’m also hoping that Lani will pick it up with the kids!
I just know I’d fall in love with the little Tahi family!
I’m sad that it ended but I’m also hoping that Lani will pick it up with the kids!
I just know I’d fall in love with the little Tahi family!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2018
ive read the whole series of the telesa and i've learn't alot about this mythical legend that holds so much meaning to it and honestly its very captivating. the drama forbidden love family secrets.
June 5, 2020
More...more
I love this series and want more and more to it lol I wish there could be more 😊 thank you
I love this series and want more and more to it lol I wish there could be more 😊 thank you
February 1, 2023
Wish it were longer it was so good 🤞🏼 want to know more about what happens to Pele. Kind of made me think of the scene in Disney's Moana when Maui gives it all he's got for one last hit. Te Ka turns back to Te Fiti but Te Ka's still in there.
Loved the inclusion of the sister islands.
The love triangle between Keahi, Leila & Daniel remind me of Bella, Jacob & Edward, but still very different.
LOVE how Lani wrote this story with just the right juice while keeping it... respectful
OOOH maybe there will be a spin-off of the kids, one can hope.
Loved the inclusion of the sister islands.
The love triangle between Keahi, Leila & Daniel remind me of Bella, Jacob & Edward, but still very different.
LOVE how Lani wrote this story with just the right juice while keeping it... respectful
OOOH maybe there will be a spin-off of the kids, one can hope.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2023
This was such an easy, fun series to read. Teen tropes and adventure abundant, would recommend to nz teens
November 26, 2024
Hoping the series doesn't stop there. I want to read about Moon & Ryan!
April 7, 2024
4.75 ⭐️
(spotify playlist: link on my profile)
the way that i didn't want this book to end is insane! i honestly was not ready for this whole series to end (although there is the Telesa World series, so it's not completely over!) this is the 3rd and final instalment in the Telesa series, and tbh my heart is so full after reading these books. definitely some of my new comfort books, i just love everything about these.
the author does yet another amazing job capturing the beauty and raw essence of Samoa and illustrates this beautifully through their writing. as i've said so many times before, my heart is full when i read this book because the characters are just like me. i can put myself in their shoes, and understand their experiences as pacific islanders. i love the representation, and how it connects to our real Samoan mythology and folklore - these books will forever hold a very special place in my heart.
as per usual, the love story between daniel and leila is amazing! this story is slightly different though, because we are introduced to pele, who takes over leila's body after the events that happened at the end of the last book. the love that daniel has throughout this book, determined to save the woman he loves, is just beautiful and a real testament to his heart and character. i love all of the main/supporting characters in these books, and this was such an epic way to finish off this whole series. these books are just perfection.
well, here we are. i have no words to explain how amazing the reading experience has been reading these books, and i cannot wait to dig into the Telesa World series very soon! my new comfort reads, i will re-read these books a thousand more times, they are amazing! (and no, i will never get over these books.)
(spotify playlist: link on my profile)
the way that i didn't want this book to end is insane! i honestly was not ready for this whole series to end (although there is the Telesa World series, so it's not completely over!) this is the 3rd and final instalment in the Telesa series, and tbh my heart is so full after reading these books. definitely some of my new comfort books, i just love everything about these.
the author does yet another amazing job capturing the beauty and raw essence of Samoa and illustrates this beautifully through their writing. as i've said so many times before, my heart is full when i read this book because the characters are just like me. i can put myself in their shoes, and understand their experiences as pacific islanders. i love the representation, and how it connects to our real Samoan mythology and folklore - these books will forever hold a very special place in my heart.
as per usual, the love story between daniel and leila is amazing! this story is slightly different though, because we are introduced to pele, who takes over leila's body after the events that happened at the end of the last book. the love that daniel has throughout this book, determined to save the woman he loves, is just beautiful and a real testament to his heart and character. i love all of the main/supporting characters in these books, and this was such an epic way to finish off this whole series. these books are just perfection.
well, here we are. i have no words to explain how amazing the reading experience has been reading these books, and i cannot wait to dig into the Telesa World series very soon! my new comfort reads, i will re-read these books a thousand more times, they are amazing! (and no, i will never get over these books.)
October 13, 2014
I'm sad, yet happy to see this series at its end. I really enjoyed the love, emotion, originality and writing within as a whole. The characters, both good and bad, are incredible. The story line is intriguing and the authors voice is powerful.
Anyone looking for something to take you away from everyday blahs, off to somewhere beautiful, realistic and imaginative. This series is the way to go :)
Anyone looking for something to take you away from everyday blahs, off to somewhere beautiful, realistic and imaginative. This series is the way to go :)
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