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Arts of Substance #2
To Weave the Wind
Win a free kindle copy of this book!
0 days and 07:17:15
100 copies available
U.S. only
Only the powerfully gifted new ambassador can save the underground province. Or so they believe until she arrives.
Dirklan Province is owed a royal ambassador. What they desperately need is a powerful streamer to restore the trade cataracts. Fanteal should provide both, for they’ve heard of her amazing gift.
Fanteal soon discovers that she will be more of a pawn than an ambassador. Worse yet, as crowds cheer her arrival, she collapses from a mysterious illness. Rumors spread that something is wrong with her gift. Had their old prime minister lied? Why?
The new prime minister’s son, Jaikon, becomes Fanteal’s unwilling champion. He alone saw her gift manifest. Didn’t he? His already shaky reputation will never recover if she possesses the wrong gift.
Fanteal must learn what secrets the last prime minister took to his grave. Why is she expected to fix the trade cataracts? Why are wind weavers now rare in Dirklan? What is this mysterious illness? But her visit to his private library just spawns more questions, and it ends with a disastrous public challenge of her gift.
Now everyone knows the truth—or thinks they do. Trade will fail, and severe poverty will follow. Yet Fanteal and Jaikon know there is a far more dangerous truth lurking in their underground world.
To Weave the Wind is the second story in the Arts of Substance trilogy. These stand-alone novels are perfect for those who love cozy fantasy with touches of romance. Each novel explores one of the world’s three substance gifts: forming, wind weaving, and streaming. With every ability comes risk. The gifts are neither easy nor safe. Who has the courage and wit to use their gift well? And at what cost?
Dirklan Province is owed a royal ambassador. What they desperately need is a powerful streamer to restore the trade cataracts. Fanteal should provide both, for they’ve heard of her amazing gift.
Fanteal soon discovers that she will be more of a pawn than an ambassador. Worse yet, as crowds cheer her arrival, she collapses from a mysterious illness. Rumors spread that something is wrong with her gift. Had their old prime minister lied? Why?
The new prime minister’s son, Jaikon, becomes Fanteal’s unwilling champion. He alone saw her gift manifest. Didn’t he? His already shaky reputation will never recover if she possesses the wrong gift.
Fanteal must learn what secrets the last prime minister took to his grave. Why is she expected to fix the trade cataracts? Why are wind weavers now rare in Dirklan? What is this mysterious illness? But her visit to his private library just spawns more questions, and it ends with a disastrous public challenge of her gift.
Now everyone knows the truth—or thinks they do. Trade will fail, and severe poverty will follow. Yet Fanteal and Jaikon know there is a far more dangerous truth lurking in their underground world.
To Weave the Wind is the second story in the Arts of Substance trilogy. These stand-alone novels are perfect for those who love cozy fantasy with touches of romance. Each novel explores one of the world’s three substance gifts: forming, wind weaving, and streaming. With every ability comes risk. The gifts are neither easy nor safe. Who has the courage and wit to use their gift well? And at what cost?
- GenresFantasy
452 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 22, 2024
3 people are currently reading
1375 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Rose
24 books124 followersSharon Rose has been weaving stories since her second-grade masterpiece, titled My Life as a Flying Squirrel. No publisher snatched it up, but her classmates loved it.
After creating home and family, Sharon pursued her dream of creating stories for people like you. To date, she has published ten books, with more in the works. She writes fantasy and science fiction because they offer vast spaces to explore the realities that we all face. Her stories blend cultures and characters into adventures with mystery, romance, and hope.
When not writing or reading, Sharon may be traveling, enjoying gardens, or searching for unique coffee shops with her husband. She lives in Minnesota, USA, famed for its 10,000 lakes and vibrant seasons.
~~~
What’s in a name?
Way more than I expected. As in, more people. Of course, I knew I was not the only Sharon Rose in the world, but it turns out that some of them are authors, too. I’m the Sharon Rose who writes science fiction and fantasy for those who prefer a cleaner read.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
After creating home and family, Sharon pursued her dream of creating stories for people like you. To date, she has published ten books, with more in the works. She writes fantasy and science fiction because they offer vast spaces to explore the realities that we all face. Her stories blend cultures and characters into adventures with mystery, romance, and hope.
When not writing or reading, Sharon may be traveling, enjoying gardens, or searching for unique coffee shops with her husband. She lives in Minnesota, USA, famed for its 10,000 lakes and vibrant seasons.
~~~
What’s in a name?
Way more than I expected. As in, more people. Of course, I knew I was not the only Sharon Rose in the world, but it turns out that some of them are authors, too. I’m the Sharon Rose who writes science fiction and fantasy for those who prefer a cleaner read.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
October 18, 2024
Ever since Devron's time in To Form a Passage, the ties between Dirklan Province below and the rest of Welcia above have been kept alive through the half-year opening of the dome and a formal exchange of representatives. Princess Fanteal's grandfather is the Prime Minister of Dirklan, her mother is Dirklan's Ambassador to Welcia, and now it's Fanteal's turn to take her place as the Royal Ambassador to Dirklan. She's supposed to have the guidance of her grandfather, a canny politician who has planned out the transition... except when the time comes, he's dead and a new, desperate Prime Minister has been installed in his place.
Misunderstandings abound. Fanteal is assured she will have a year to choose a suitable husband, but everyone in Dirklan assumes she will marry the Prime Minister's son. What Fanteal is trained for is to be an ambassador, yet all her suitors - sons of various Dirklan Governors - assume that she will be nothing more than a trophy wife. Most important of all, Fanteal is a powerfully gifted wind weaver, but what Dirklan really wants and needs is a streamer to restore the trade cataracts.
To Weave the Wind is a fantastic read that weaves all the usual political drama about kingdoms and thrones and backstabbing, unscrupulous usurpers with a gentle enemies-to-friends-to-lovers storyline. There's plenty of ambition and pride to go around, but there's also honour, loyalty, and integrity, exemplified in the Mikkaels - the new Prime Minister and his son, Jaikon. Rose makes good use of cultural shifts between those who live above and below ground to build up these misunderstandings - especially when there is a huge communication barrier in the form of an entire swath of rock that prevents either group from going up or down except through the dome.
Where To Form a Passage is a story of visions and dreams and trusting in God (or, well, Ellincreo), To Weave the Wind is a story of restoration. Dirklan, for all that its Keepers speak against idols, has fallen away from true worship. They have covered up the vision wall that once saved them, saying that visions are a thing of the past. They have suppressed the gifts of the wind weavers, putting restrictions on them because they are not deemed 'useful'. They ignore certain gifts, even those of formers, who don't fit into what the current leadership can do.
Yet who is to say that a gift from Ellincreo isn't useful? Or that He isn't sending something unusual that will be useful precisely for such a time as this?
(Hmm, in saying that, there really were some Queen Esther vibes...)
Note: I received a digital ARC of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Misunderstandings abound. Fanteal is assured she will have a year to choose a suitable husband, but everyone in Dirklan assumes she will marry the Prime Minister's son. What Fanteal is trained for is to be an ambassador, yet all her suitors - sons of various Dirklan Governors - assume that she will be nothing more than a trophy wife. Most important of all, Fanteal is a powerfully gifted wind weaver, but what Dirklan really wants and needs is a streamer to restore the trade cataracts.
To Weave the Wind is a fantastic read that weaves all the usual political drama about kingdoms and thrones and backstabbing, unscrupulous usurpers with a gentle enemies-to-friends-to-lovers storyline. There's plenty of ambition and pride to go around, but there's also honour, loyalty, and integrity, exemplified in the Mikkaels - the new Prime Minister and his son, Jaikon. Rose makes good use of cultural shifts between those who live above and below ground to build up these misunderstandings - especially when there is a huge communication barrier in the form of an entire swath of rock that prevents either group from going up or down except through the dome.
Where To Form a Passage is a story of visions and dreams and trusting in God (or, well, Ellincreo), To Weave the Wind is a story of restoration. Dirklan, for all that its Keepers speak against idols, has fallen away from true worship. They have covered up the vision wall that once saved them, saying that visions are a thing of the past. They have suppressed the gifts of the wind weavers, putting restrictions on them because they are not deemed 'useful'. They ignore certain gifts, even those of formers, who don't fit into what the current leadership can do.
Yet who is to say that a gift from Ellincreo isn't useful? Or that He isn't sending something unusual that will be useful precisely for such a time as this?
(Hmm, in saying that, there really were some Queen Esther vibes...)
Note: I received a digital ARC of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 18, 2024
A wind weaver whose inherited role requires her to leave the wind she loves and go underground. A former with a unique gift that other formers view as useless. A land with a single expectation of its new ambassador - an expectation which will be disappointed. But the One who made and gifted them knows what Dirklan truly needs and planned ahead to fill those needs - not its petty wants. As Fanteal settles into the new life that's nothing like she imagined, will she learn the true reason she was chosen? And can Jaikon accept the real value of his gift in the face of long-held beliefs and outside disdain? Dirklan is facing new threats from within and without - it will take all they can do working together to keep the kingdom running as it should...
After loving book 1, I was almost a little hesitant about reading this because surely it couldn't live up to my expectations? Well, it did. I spent far too much time reading it when I had other things to do, just because it was so hard to put down - and stayed up far too late too. The world-building is done beautifully, building on book 1 but still independent and able to be read on its own (though you really should read both because they're great!). And the character building and development kept me reading at least as much. Fanteal has a lot to deal with but has some great insights into things, while Jaikon is so unsure of his gift but does gradually grow into confidence and maturity. And as for all the intrigues and politics going on under the surface - well, politics was never my thing, but this at least has one side which is 'good' - sure, they make mistakes, but they're well-intentioned and have a good basis for their actions. And the bad guys, well, it wouldn't be a story without them and they're well done to gradually uncover their motivations. All in all, I loved the story and can't think of anything that could be improved - just be warned that it may lead to other things being neglected! Highly recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
After loving book 1, I was almost a little hesitant about reading this because surely it couldn't live up to my expectations? Well, it did. I spent far too much time reading it when I had other things to do, just because it was so hard to put down - and stayed up far too late too. The world-building is done beautifully, building on book 1 but still independent and able to be read on its own (though you really should read both because they're great!). And the character building and development kept me reading at least as much. Fanteal has a lot to deal with but has some great insights into things, while Jaikon is so unsure of his gift but does gradually grow into confidence and maturity. And as for all the intrigues and politics going on under the surface - well, politics was never my thing, but this at least has one side which is 'good' - sure, they make mistakes, but they're well-intentioned and have a good basis for their actions. And the bad guys, well, it wouldn't be a story without them and they're well done to gradually uncover their motivations. All in all, I loved the story and can't think of anything that could be improved - just be warned that it may lead to other things being neglected! Highly recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
October 17, 2024
I love how Sharon is able to put 'real life' into fantasy and make it all so believable. Most public speakers will say to gain the audience's attention through laughter, and then hit them with the meat of the matter. It's a joy to read a timely story that tells timeless truth.
Ms. Rose does this in her writing. She takes a wonderfully immersive fantasy and undergirds it with truth that helps the message linger. For instance, knowing you have a gift to share but then discovering that the people you've been sent to think your gift is worthless, as it isn't what they are convinced they need. Which causes you to doubt yourself, your gift, your commission, your place. But what if what you have to give really IS the thing that's needed? It just looks different from what everyone is thinking. This is a situation far more realistic than I'd like to admit sometimes!
I was disappointed to discover we don't get to interact with Devron and company in the second book, but it was intriguing to learn how the society had continued to grow and expand from the first story. Knowing now that these take place years apart has me all the more eager to read the third installment and discover how the world will be wrapped up. I think wind weaving is my favorite of the various substance gifts, but I also really enjoyed reading about Fanteal and Jaikon's relationship. Not to mention the quiet strength displayed by Fanteal as she navigates being the ambassador while avoiding those who simply want to use her for their own nefarious ends.
I received an ARC; this is my honest review.
Ms. Rose does this in her writing. She takes a wonderfully immersive fantasy and undergirds it with truth that helps the message linger. For instance, knowing you have a gift to share but then discovering that the people you've been sent to think your gift is worthless, as it isn't what they are convinced they need. Which causes you to doubt yourself, your gift, your commission, your place. But what if what you have to give really IS the thing that's needed? It just looks different from what everyone is thinking. This is a situation far more realistic than I'd like to admit sometimes!
I was disappointed to discover we don't get to interact with Devron and company in the second book, but it was intriguing to learn how the society had continued to grow and expand from the first story. Knowing now that these take place years apart has me all the more eager to read the third installment and discover how the world will be wrapped up. I think wind weaving is my favorite of the various substance gifts, but I also really enjoyed reading about Fanteal and Jaikon's relationship. Not to mention the quiet strength displayed by Fanteal as she navigates being the ambassador while avoiding those who simply want to use her for their own nefarious ends.
I received an ARC; this is my honest review.
October 12, 2024
To Weave the Wind is the second book in the Arts of Substance series. While this book is stand alone with new unrelated characters, I still recommend reading the first book as the events of that book effect the culture and people of this book.
Naturally To Weave the Wind revolves around a wind weaver, a person with the ability to sense and manipulate air flow. Ambassador Fanteal is not what the people of Dirkland expect, or even want.
To them a female ambassador is only good for boosting ones political power through marriage. A wind weaver is even more useless to their underground nation.
But despite these set backs, Fanteal does her best to bring about real change to the country of Dirkland. Change that is long over due.
I really admire Fanteal's determination and perseverance as she navigates the political hurdles set before her. She also collects a small close knit circle of friends around her who help fulfill her duties without overstepping her bounds as an ambassador.
Sharon Rose composes a masterful plot of political intrigue and the tiniest bit of romance as she once again demonstrate's her ability to create and navigate complex interpersonal situations.
*I received an early review copy of this story and the above review is my honest evaluation of it.*
Naturally To Weave the Wind revolves around a wind weaver, a person with the ability to sense and manipulate air flow. Ambassador Fanteal is not what the people of Dirkland expect, or even want.
To them a female ambassador is only good for boosting ones political power through marriage. A wind weaver is even more useless to their underground nation.
But despite these set backs, Fanteal does her best to bring about real change to the country of Dirkland. Change that is long over due.
I really admire Fanteal's determination and perseverance as she navigates the political hurdles set before her. She also collects a small close knit circle of friends around her who help fulfill her duties without overstepping her bounds as an ambassador.
Sharon Rose composes a masterful plot of political intrigue and the tiniest bit of romance as she once again demonstrate's her ability to create and navigate complex interpersonal situations.
*I received an early review copy of this story and the above review is my honest evaluation of it.*
September 18, 2025
The statues are never discussed. Never!
Another deep story exploring those with giftings for earth, water and air. The latter are the weavers, and a weaver is not what they are expecting of the princess from a family of powerful streamers, nor what they need of the Ambassador to the province below, the kingmaker who is the path to power through marriage. But when the passage is opened, the prime minister of Dirklan who arrives is not the grandfather Princess Fanteal expects, while the PM's son Jaikon opens his mouth only to change feet. As they learn about each other's cultures and politics, they discover that idols and visions have hidden messages for them, but are guiding them together to restore Dirklan.
Another solid instalment with believable characters.
Another deep story exploring those with giftings for earth, water and air. The latter are the weavers, and a weaver is not what they are expecting of the princess from a family of powerful streamers, nor what they need of the Ambassador to the province below, the kingmaker who is the path to power through marriage. But when the passage is opened, the prime minister of Dirklan who arrives is not the grandfather Princess Fanteal expects, while the PM's son Jaikon opens his mouth only to change feet. As they learn about each other's cultures and politics, they discover that idols and visions have hidden messages for them, but are guiding them together to restore Dirklan.
Another solid instalment with believable characters.
September 26, 2024
Oh, I LOVED this book!! Fanteal and Jaikon meet when Fanteal becomes the new Ambassador to Dirklan. Jaikon is the new Prime Minister's son. The people of Dirklan think that Fanteal will be a Sreamer, but she's a Wind Weaver. Love how Fanteal and Jaikon work together for the good of Dirklan!! I'm not going to give spoilers, so this is it, but this is such a great story!!!! This author always makes me remember how much I love SciFi and Christian fantasy!!!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
October 16, 2024
The second installment of the series continues the concept of controlling the elements with a princess destined to spend the rest of her life underground. This is a unique and intriguing tale of overcoming difficult conditions in the face of nearly overwhelming challenges and extremely regimented people.
New characters are introduced with only limited reference to those of the previous book. If you enjoyed To Form a Passage, you will definitely enjoy this book.
New characters are introduced with only limited reference to those of the previous book. If you enjoyed To Form a Passage, you will definitely enjoy this book.
Currently reading
April 15, 2025As the author of this book, all I can say is how much enjoyed writing it.
But you probably want to know if you'll enjoy reading it.
The judges of the Realm Award seem to think so. I just found out that it's a finalist in the fantasy genre for the 2025 awards.
But you probably want to know if you'll enjoy reading it.
The judges of the Realm Award seem to think so. I just found out that it's a finalist in the fantasy genre for the 2025 awards.
October 7, 2024
I absolutely loved this book!
October 22, 2024
An excellent clean young adult romance with lots of growing up, questing, action and villainous opponents to overcome - this is perfect for lovers of clean fairy tale retellings. I particularly recommend this to fans of Tricia Mingerink.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews