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War of the Alliance #1
Wings of War
The blood of legends runs in his veins.
Born with his father's legendary magic, half-elf Fieran Laesornysh longs to prove himself worthy of the elven heritage he carries.
With the Alliance Kingdoms and the power-hungry Mongavarian Empire teetering on the brink of war, Fieran seizes his chance to take to the skies and become a legend in his own right. He just has to curb his cheekiness and survive the rigors of basic training first.
With a band of fellow flying aces-in-training and a cute half-dwarf girl mechanic at his side, will Fieran complete his training before the long-dreaded war engulfs his homeland? Or will his incorrigible nature cause him to dishonor the legacy and name he bears?
This action-packed, epic steampunk fantasy series, filled with magical gadgets, elven warriors, and a hint of no spice romance, is perfect for fans of Lindsay Buroker and K.M. Shea.
Born with his father's legendary magic, half-elf Fieran Laesornysh longs to prove himself worthy of the elven heritage he carries.
With the Alliance Kingdoms and the power-hungry Mongavarian Empire teetering on the brink of war, Fieran seizes his chance to take to the skies and become a legend in his own right. He just has to curb his cheekiness and survive the rigors of basic training first.
With a band of fellow flying aces-in-training and a cute half-dwarf girl mechanic at his side, will Fieran complete his training before the long-dreaded war engulfs his homeland? Or will his incorrigible nature cause him to dishonor the legacy and name he bears?
This action-packed, epic steampunk fantasy series, filled with magical gadgets, elven warriors, and a hint of no spice romance, is perfect for fans of Lindsay Buroker and K.M. Shea.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 26, 2024
184 people are currently reading
370 people want to read
About the author
Tara Grayce
33 books794 followersBorn and raised in Michigan, I enjoy traveling to new adventures that inspire my writing.
Growing up, I read just about every book I could get my hands on, especially fantasy. I currently write YA fantasy and romantic fantasy filled with lots of humor, spunky and tough leading ladies, and broken heroes.
When I am not writing, I enjoy spending time with my chocolate lab, Miss Kisses.
Growing up, I read just about every book I could get my hands on, especially fantasy. I currently write YA fantasy and romantic fantasy filled with lots of humor, spunky and tough leading ladies, and broken heroes.
When I am not writing, I enjoy spending time with my chocolate lab, Miss Kisses.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
April 5, 2024
Show of hands, who read and absolutely adored The Elven Alliance series by Tara Grayce?
Farrendel and Essie took the elf/human romance bookworld by storm, endearing many a reader with the mix of feel-good humor, heart-wrenching feels, sweet and clean romance, and great family dynamics! Who, even after several books and several side stories, STILL could just not get ENOUGH?
Well, I have had the privilege of reading Book 1 of the sequel series, Wings of War, and let me tell you, prepare to fall in love with the characters and world all over again! Although set a significant seventy years into the future, it doesn’t take long to feel the familiar warmth we all loved. The elvish and human worlds have progressed to a WWII era, and fittingly, a war is indeed about to break.
With Farrendel and Essie’s eldest son now centerstage, our tale whisks away on an adventure full of that era’s spunk, curiosity, and wanderlust, only to be met by the true devastation and sorrow of war, and faced with resilience and courage.
While the first book is lighter on “romantic” content, the absolute vibes of our leading pair are too adorable for words.
All the new characters are delightful and easy to love, and there’s plenty of familiar faces to satisfy the nostalgic soul. Indeed, Farrendel has reached a legendary status and a maturity that is truly *chef’s kiss* to see.
It releases April 26th, so not long now! Can’t wait discuss this story with my bookish friends and fangirl all over again!
Farrendel and Essie took the elf/human romance bookworld by storm, endearing many a reader with the mix of feel-good humor, heart-wrenching feels, sweet and clean romance, and great family dynamics! Who, even after several books and several side stories, STILL could just not get ENOUGH?
Well, I have had the privilege of reading Book 1 of the sequel series, Wings of War, and let me tell you, prepare to fall in love with the characters and world all over again! Although set a significant seventy years into the future, it doesn’t take long to feel the familiar warmth we all loved. The elvish and human worlds have progressed to a WWII era, and fittingly, a war is indeed about to break.
With Farrendel and Essie’s eldest son now centerstage, our tale whisks away on an adventure full of that era’s spunk, curiosity, and wanderlust, only to be met by the true devastation and sorrow of war, and faced with resilience and courage.
While the first book is lighter on “romantic” content, the absolute vibes of our leading pair are too adorable for words.
All the new characters are delightful and easy to love, and there’s plenty of familiar faces to satisfy the nostalgic soul. Indeed, Farrendel has reached a legendary status and a maturity that is truly *chef’s kiss* to see.
It releases April 26th, so not long now! Can’t wait discuss this story with my bookish friends and fangirl all over again!
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November 8, 2025Perhaps that was the burden of having a good relationship with parents instead of a bad one. The fear of disappointing them had a different taste, a different hold, when that fear came out of love instead of terror.
I've been slack with reading indie published fiction for a few years owing to burnout and health struggles, but this week I dipped my toe back into Tara Grayce's delightful elf steampunk fantasies, and now I'm remembering what's so beautifully healing about them. These are cosy, slice-of-life stories set in an epic fantasy world, in which closely-knit families tackle personal and geopolitical conflict with empathy, kindness, and grace. WINGS OF WAR is no different.
I'll admit that the cosy slice-of-life flavour of this book sometimes left me feeling impatient through the middle section in which Fieran and his squad of quirky fantasy friends - including humans, trolls, and one half-dwarf, half-elf mechanic - gradually bond while going through basic air force training. The technological and military detail on show is painstaking and convincing, but isn't something I tend to read about for its own sake, in fiction at least. That said, the slow burn plot absolutely paid off once the final quarter of the book hit. I was in a glass case of emotion.
Grayce's original ELVEN ALLIANCE series began with the trope of an elf warrior whose uniquely powerful death magic makes him little more than his people's weapon. How do you learn to value yourself when your main purpose is destruction? WAR OF THE ALLIANCE turns the trope upside down. Thanks to the work done in the first series, Fieran has grown up in a stable, loving home, trying to come to terms with being overshadowed by his legendary father. When war threatens, he joins the nascent air force in hope of finding adventure and making his own legend, earning a place of his own. This book is about how he discovers not only the cost of war, but also the true weight of the magic he has inherited. But of course, because this is a Tara Grayce book, Fieran is going to process all this in the healthiest way possible, with loving support from his family and friends. And that's worth reading about.
I've been slack with reading indie published fiction for a few years owing to burnout and health struggles, but this week I dipped my toe back into Tara Grayce's delightful elf steampunk fantasies, and now I'm remembering what's so beautifully healing about them. These are cosy, slice-of-life stories set in an epic fantasy world, in which closely-knit families tackle personal and geopolitical conflict with empathy, kindness, and grace. WINGS OF WAR is no different.
I'll admit that the cosy slice-of-life flavour of this book sometimes left me feeling impatient through the middle section in which Fieran and his squad of quirky fantasy friends - including humans, trolls, and one half-dwarf, half-elf mechanic - gradually bond while going through basic air force training. The technological and military detail on show is painstaking and convincing, but isn't something I tend to read about for its own sake, in fiction at least. That said, the slow burn plot absolutely paid off once the final quarter of the book hit. I was in a glass case of emotion.
Grayce's original ELVEN ALLIANCE series began with the trope of an elf warrior whose uniquely powerful death magic makes him little more than his people's weapon. How do you learn to value yourself when your main purpose is destruction? WAR OF THE ALLIANCE turns the trope upside down. Thanks to the work done in the first series, Fieran has grown up in a stable, loving home, trying to come to terms with being overshadowed by his legendary father. When war threatens, he joins the nascent air force in hope of finding adventure and making his own legend, earning a place of his own. This book is about how he discovers not only the cost of war, but also the true weight of the magic he has inherited. But of course, because this is a Tara Grayce book, Fieran is going to process all this in the healthiest way possible, with loving support from his family and friends. And that's worth reading about.
April 8, 2024
I need more right now!!!
This continuing series for the Elven Alliance doesn’t disappoint. We get to see the original cast of characters parenting their children as they come of age during the start of another war. With new characters, new technology, and world that’s a little different from the one we left in Elf King, we join Fieran, his motley crew of flyboys, and Pip the mechanic as they hurtle into a war they are not entirely prepared to face.
Five out of five! Magnificent and I cannot wait for more!!!
This continuing series for the Elven Alliance doesn’t disappoint. We get to see the original cast of characters parenting their children as they come of age during the start of another war. With new characters, new technology, and world that’s a little different from the one we left in Elf King, we join Fieran, his motley crew of flyboys, and Pip the mechanic as they hurtle into a war they are not entirely prepared to face.
Five out of five! Magnificent and I cannot wait for more!!!
April 16, 2024
SO GOOD!
April 27, 2024
4.5 stars
I never thought I'd say this. I might love Fieran as much as I love Farrendel.
After reading this book, I want to go put on my leather jacket and learn how to fly a plane.
So, it's no secret, the Elven Alliance series is my guilty pleasure series. And I was terrified that the start of this sequel series wouldn't live up to what I wanted in my head. I mean, come on. The author had a lot on her shoulders. She had to stay true to her OG characters while also giving them off-scene character growth, portray them as parents (this is so hard to do), while at the same time making me care about NEW characters enough to not be sad that this isn't just another Farrendel and Co book.
And. She. Did. It.
Fieran was golden. I absolutely loved this half-elf boy who has so much of Essie in him...but who we also get to see his father in. *cries a little* His arc over the course of the book was perfect.
Pip! Oh sweet Pip, we love you. From her Farrendel fangirling to her common sense mechanics and her care for her flyboys...I adored her. (She and Fieran are perfect for each other and I will go down with this airship.) Also, can we just appreciate how this awesome little mechanic simply DID HER JOB. And did it well! There was no "bemoaning her female-ness" or disliking being treated as a girl. She was just a girl who was a great mechanic. I loved that. We didn't sacrifice femininity for skill. *cheers* THIS is how you do it, authors. Pip felt so real.
The FLYBOYS. I loved this little band of brothers. I laughed with them, ached with them, honestly just wanted to be friends with them all.
The SETTING. The WWI vibes, guys. The danger of the aeroplanes. I was on the edge of my seat as the flyboys risked their lives every time they sat in the cockpit. It was phenomenal. I am so excited that we get a whole series set in this time period.
(Were there a couple spots with a little crude humor that I could have done without? Yes. Did it kill my enjoyment at all? Absolutely not.)
Can you tell I loved this book? This is probably my favorite Tara Grayce release since Death Wind. Yeah. It's that high up on my list.
So excuse me, cause I need to go find a leather bomber jacket. Go read it and you'll be joining me.
I never thought I'd say this. I might love Fieran as much as I love Farrendel.
After reading this book, I want to go put on my leather jacket and learn how to fly a plane.
So, it's no secret, the Elven Alliance series is my guilty pleasure series. And I was terrified that the start of this sequel series wouldn't live up to what I wanted in my head. I mean, come on. The author had a lot on her shoulders. She had to stay true to her OG characters while also giving them off-scene character growth, portray them as parents (this is so hard to do), while at the same time making me care about NEW characters enough to not be sad that this isn't just another Farrendel and Co book.
And. She. Did. It.
Fieran was golden. I absolutely loved this half-elf boy who has so much of Essie in him...but who we also get to see his father in. *cries a little* His arc over the course of the book was perfect.
Pip! Oh sweet Pip, we love you. From her Farrendel fangirling to her common sense mechanics and her care for her flyboys...I adored her. (She and Fieran are perfect for each other and I will go down with this airship.) Also, can we just appreciate how this awesome little mechanic simply DID HER JOB. And did it well! There was no "bemoaning her female-ness" or disliking being treated as a girl. She was just a girl who was a great mechanic. I loved that. We didn't sacrifice femininity for skill. *cheers* THIS is how you do it, authors. Pip felt so real.
The FLYBOYS. I loved this little band of brothers. I laughed with them, ached with them, honestly just wanted to be friends with them all.
The SETTING. The WWI vibes, guys. The danger of the aeroplanes. I was on the edge of my seat as the flyboys risked their lives every time they sat in the cockpit. It was phenomenal. I am so excited that we get a whole series set in this time period.
(Were there a couple spots with a little crude humor that I could have done without? Yes. Did it kill my enjoyment at all? Absolutely not.)
Can you tell I loved this book? This is probably my favorite Tara Grayce release since Death Wind. Yeah. It's that high up on my list.
So excuse me, cause I need to go find a leather bomber jacket. Go read it and you'll be joining me.
June 16, 2024
Military training before World War I, along with magic, elves, trolls, dwarves, and humans? Sign me up!
Absolutely loved the sequel series to the first. Fieren is a fantastic main character and Pip is spectacular. I can't wait to read more.
Absolutely loved the sequel series to the first. Fieren is a fantastic main character and Pip is spectacular. I can't wait to read more.
July 23, 2024
Ah, Tara has done it again.
This book was amazing. It's so fun seeing Fieran all grown up, as well as seeing the half-elf half-dwarf Pip. The banter between the characters was amazing, and I must say, I love Farrendel ever more as a dacha. It's so sweet! *Happy sighs* if you can't tell, I am a fangirl of this series and the series before it, the Elven Alliance series. Now I need the next book!
Content warnings: magic, mentions of swearing, some characters who ... lack morals, romantic touch and tension, death, some possibly disturbing descriptions of battlefields, and medical military evaluations that might bother the more sensitive of readers.
This book was amazing. It's so fun seeing Fieran all grown up, as well as seeing the half-elf half-dwarf Pip. The banter between the characters was amazing, and I must say, I love Farrendel ever more as a dacha. It's so sweet! *Happy sighs*
Content warnings: magic, mentions of swearing, some characters who ... lack morals, romantic touch and tension, death, some possibly disturbing descriptions of battlefields, and medical military evaluations that might bother the more sensitive of readers.
May 18, 2024
It was fantastic to return to the world of the Elven Alliance!
I felt so much nostalgia for the original series but also so much excitement for where these new stories are headed. A lot has changed in the world but the heart of it is still there. The modernized times are fascinating! I have to admit scenes from Flyboys (2006) kept flitting through my head as I read Fieran’s and Merrik’s training. This story definitely captured my imagination and heart just like the previous series.
I felt so much nostalgia for the original series but also so much excitement for where these new stories are headed. A lot has changed in the world but the heart of it is still there. The modernized times are fascinating! I have to admit scenes from Flyboys (2006) kept flitting through my head as I read Fieran’s and Merrik’s training. This story definitely captured my imagination and heart just like the previous series.
May 2, 2024
Really good for a sequel
I was nervous about this book because series about the children of protagonists so rarely are any good, even if you can't resist returning to a favorite world. But this one actually held up. No, I actually had a different reason for rating it 4 instead of 5. It just went into a lot more detail on how the army works and how planes work than I was interested in because I don't care about those topics. Don't get me wrong it was great world building. But I care about romance and magic, not basic training and mechanical details. I'm not sure how that could have been rebalanced and it's purely a personal taste but it is different than the original series which while obviously involving war didn't get anywhere near as much into the nitty gritty of how. Plus the romance is basically non existent thus far since rather than marrying 5 minutes after meeting, this series is going friends first. Which is sweet of course. I just would have liked an epilogue with figuring out he sees her as more than a friend rather than not even knowing what the extra feelings are. I look forward to the next book.
I was nervous about this book because series about the children of protagonists so rarely are any good, even if you can't resist returning to a favorite world. But this one actually held up. No, I actually had a different reason for rating it 4 instead of 5. It just went into a lot more detail on how the army works and how planes work than I was interested in because I don't care about those topics. Don't get me wrong it was great world building. But I care about romance and magic, not basic training and mechanical details. I'm not sure how that could have been rebalanced and it's purely a personal taste but it is different than the original series which while obviously involving war didn't get anywhere near as much into the nitty gritty of how. Plus the romance is basically non existent thus far since rather than marrying 5 minutes after meeting, this series is going friends first. Which is sweet of course. I just would have liked an epilogue with figuring out he sees her as more than a friend rather than not even knowing what the extra feelings are. I look forward to the next book.
April 29, 2024
Incredible Expansion of the Elven Alliance World
I’m already in love with Fieran and Pip. Grayce gave them interesting motivations for joining the “cause” before war was declared.
I wasn’t sure I would enjoy the steampunk vibe, but it meshed well with the magical elements I love about this fantasy world.
Fun dialogue, realistic adventures (I know about basic training first hand), and characters you want to root for. This book has it all!
Yes, it was nice to see some characters from the first series but I’m glad these books will focus on the younger generation. I want to see them make their own place in the world. Plus, it will be interesting to see how their parents’ personalities and priorities influenced them.
I’m eagerly awaiting further revelation regarding Pip and Fieran’s powers. Although war stories aren’t my favorite, I’m looking forward to diving in to the coming books.
I’m already in love with Fieran and Pip. Grayce gave them interesting motivations for joining the “cause” before war was declared.
I wasn’t sure I would enjoy the steampunk vibe, but it meshed well with the magical elements I love about this fantasy world.
Fun dialogue, realistic adventures (I know about basic training first hand), and characters you want to root for. This book has it all!
Yes, it was nice to see some characters from the first series but I’m glad these books will focus on the younger generation. I want to see them make their own place in the world. Plus, it will be interesting to see how their parents’ personalities and priorities influenced them.
I’m eagerly awaiting further revelation regarding Pip and Fieran’s powers. Although war stories aren’t my favorite, I’m looking forward to diving in to the coming books.
February 19, 2025
I had to read this since this series is a continuation of a series I literally adore (Elven Alliance).
These books are about the children of the main characters of the previous novels. I will say, this focuses less on romantic relationships and more on war, which caused it to be less enjoyable for me. That being said, that’s the plot lol. Like that’s the whole point. I just preferred how that balance was done in the other novels.
It was still fun and I enjoyed seeing characters I loved again. The new main characters still have to grow on me… but even if I’m not obsessed with them like I am the previous ones, I’m intrigued to see where this series will go!
These books are about the children of the main characters of the previous novels. I will say, this focuses less on romantic relationships and more on war, which caused it to be less enjoyable for me. That being said, that’s the plot lol. Like that’s the whole point. I just preferred how that balance was done in the other novels.
It was still fun and I enjoyed seeing characters I loved again. The new main characters still have to grow on me… but even if I’m not obsessed with them like I am the previous ones, I’m intrigued to see where this series will go!
April 29, 2024
I’m not exactly sure what I expected when I picked up this 1st book in the Elven Alliance Sequel Series. I mean I knew it was going to be absolutely amazing and wonderful and funny and sweet. Grayce is absolutely one of the greatest fantasy writers of our generation! Her Elven Alliance Series has such depth and intrigue and wonder so I knew this book was going to be fantastic!
Buuuuuuuut….
MY HEART AND SOUL WERE COMPLETELY UNPREPARED FOR HOW EXCEPTIONAL WINGS OF WAR REALLY IS!!!
Fieran Laesornysh has spent the last 68 years living somewhat in his father’s—Ferrandel Laesornysh—very prolific and legendary footsteps. Being the son of the Alliance’s foremost warrior isn’t always the easiest. Add in the fact that his father is also a renowned magical engineer and partial owner of the company supplying most of the magical power in the kingdoms and Fieran has his expectations set out for him. But Fieran loves his Dacha and his family and is determined to earn the title Laesornysh—death on the wind—in his own rights. And the sky calls to him. So when he learns that the military is recruiting new aeroplane pilots he jumps at the chance to join, along with his long time Best Friend Merrick. But basic training, drill sergeants, and learning to fly the skies, while the threat of the looming war with Mongavaria hangs over all their heads, is more dangerous and heart wrenching than Fieran anticipated. However with Fieran finally learning the true purpose of The Magic of the Kings, meeting new friends that quickly become family, a sweet and spunky half elf/half dwarf female mechanic, loyalty and his protective instincts, and being daring enough to take to the sky, maybe…just maybe…Fieran might have what it takes to save them all and become a half-elf of legends.
Kudos to Tara Grayce! That made me fall in love with Fieran potentially more than I have grown to love Ferrandel! Ferrandel rose easily through the ranks of book boyfriends from the first moment I started reading Fierce Heart…buuuuuuut…just mere chapters into Wings of Fire I found myself falling head over heals for his somewhat brash, a little naive, but oh so completely loyal and sweet as pie son Fieran! OMG! Could he have been written any more perfect?! He’s got a ton of personality, oh so much, humor and a mischievous nature that speaks to me, all the while being completely loyal and protective.
The humor in this book was 1000% absolutely on point! The story is actually quite intense. I felt joy and dispair, anxiety and sadness, hope and determination, all the while this wonderful and perfect thread of humor and laugh out loud moments were optimally woven throughout the entire book. Not to bring levity and undermine the seriousness to the story but to showcase that even in the darkest of times and the worst circumstances you still have to find the joy and happiness and to live every day and moment to its fullest potential. It was just so well conceived and…perfect…there is no other word for it! IT WAS PERFECT! This book had the potential for great darkness…it is the beginning of war…there is death and battle…and I’m not going to lie there is plenty of darkness…but Grayce did an EXEMPLARY job in showing that hope and happiness can still proveil even during the darkest of times.
And then there was the romance. I really really enjoyed the light and suttle romance that Grayce created between Fieran and Pip. I enjoyed that Pip was able to integrate into the everyday lives of “her flyboys” although there was always that background knowledge that she and Fieran were falling for each other. It was sweet and heartwarming and I loved the whole found family aspect of the situation. I love that Fieran and Pip’s relationship was realistic and allowed to grow throughout the story and I so look forward to their deeper romance in the future books.
So yep…GO READ WINGS OF WAR! It and The Elven Alliance Series are two series I truly believe ANY and ALL readers would benefit from reading! There is darkness and light, awesome magic, harrowing battles and death defying escapes, sweet romance, and the belief that Happiness and Joy should be fought for and can be found even in the depths of the deepest despair.
Buuuuuuuut….
MY HEART AND SOUL WERE COMPLETELY UNPREPARED FOR HOW EXCEPTIONAL WINGS OF WAR REALLY IS!!!
Fieran Laesornysh has spent the last 68 years living somewhat in his father’s—Ferrandel Laesornysh—very prolific and legendary footsteps. Being the son of the Alliance’s foremost warrior isn’t always the easiest. Add in the fact that his father is also a renowned magical engineer and partial owner of the company supplying most of the magical power in the kingdoms and Fieran has his expectations set out for him. But Fieran loves his Dacha and his family and is determined to earn the title Laesornysh—death on the wind—in his own rights. And the sky calls to him. So when he learns that the military is recruiting new aeroplane pilots he jumps at the chance to join, along with his long time Best Friend Merrick. But basic training, drill sergeants, and learning to fly the skies, while the threat of the looming war with Mongavaria hangs over all their heads, is more dangerous and heart wrenching than Fieran anticipated. However with Fieran finally learning the true purpose of The Magic of the Kings, meeting new friends that quickly become family, a sweet and spunky half elf/half dwarf female mechanic, loyalty and his protective instincts, and being daring enough to take to the sky, maybe…just maybe…Fieran might have what it takes to save them all and become a half-elf of legends.
Kudos to Tara Grayce! That made me fall in love with Fieran potentially more than I have grown to love Ferrandel! Ferrandel rose easily through the ranks of book boyfriends from the first moment I started reading Fierce Heart…buuuuuuut…just mere chapters into Wings of Fire I found myself falling head over heals for his somewhat brash, a little naive, but oh so completely loyal and sweet as pie son Fieran! OMG! Could he have been written any more perfect?! He’s got a ton of personality, oh so much, humor and a mischievous nature that speaks to me, all the while being completely loyal and protective.
The humor in this book was 1000% absolutely on point! The story is actually quite intense. I felt joy and dispair, anxiety and sadness, hope and determination, all the while this wonderful and perfect thread of humor and laugh out loud moments were optimally woven throughout the entire book. Not to bring levity and undermine the seriousness to the story but to showcase that even in the darkest of times and the worst circumstances you still have to find the joy and happiness and to live every day and moment to its fullest potential. It was just so well conceived and…perfect…there is no other word for it! IT WAS PERFECT! This book had the potential for great darkness…it is the beginning of war…there is death and battle…and I’m not going to lie there is plenty of darkness…but Grayce did an EXEMPLARY job in showing that hope and happiness can still proveil even during the darkest of times.
And then there was the romance. I really really enjoyed the light and suttle romance that Grayce created between Fieran and Pip. I enjoyed that Pip was able to integrate into the everyday lives of “her flyboys” although there was always that background knowledge that she and Fieran were falling for each other. It was sweet and heartwarming and I loved the whole found family aspect of the situation. I love that Fieran and Pip’s relationship was realistic and allowed to grow throughout the story and I so look forward to their deeper romance in the future books.
So yep…GO READ WINGS OF WAR! It and The Elven Alliance Series are two series I truly believe ANY and ALL readers would benefit from reading! There is darkness and light, awesome magic, harrowing battles and death defying escapes, sweet romance, and the belief that Happiness and Joy should be fought for and can be found even in the depths of the deepest despair.
May 29, 2024
4.25-4.5 stars but I'm rounding up because I feel like it 🤷♀️
I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this book, and honestly, I was a little unsure. I'm always suspicious of legacy series--I have trouble letting go of the old MCs and often feel like legacy series mishandle and/or sideline the old characters in a kind of "they had kids so they're useless now" way. And this is more steampunk/magic punk than Elven Alliance was, which isn't my favorite setting. But it's Tara Grayce and I love EA, so obviously I was going to try it.
It did start a little rough for me, mostly because we're back in the worldbuilding phase and the world of EA has changed a lot. Bridgetown gave me kind of turn-of-the-century St. Louis vibes, and it felt...odd, somehow. Not that it was badly done or didn't make sense; it did. It just took me a while to acclimate and accept. Plus this series is meant to be able to stand alone while simultaneously building on the foundation of EA, and a LOT happened with a LOT of characters in EA, so there was a lot of mini history lessons and worldbuilding explanations throughout, in the first half especially.
Fieran is an interesting character, with clear influences from both his parents but still his own personality. I think that was handled well, especially in establishing early that Fieran is not Farrendel--a weight Fieran carries but was a relief to this reader, lol. Sorry, Fieran, I can't love you like I love your dad 😆, but I found I could love him for who is.
I like Pip, too.
I appreciated that this book didn't sideline the old MCs. They're definitely in the background, but they haven't become wildly different people, they aren't irritating roadblocks for the MCs, and they aren't useless or doing nothing. They're living their own, full lives still, have good relationships with their kids, and they have things to contribute when the war starts. It's well handled. I do kinda wish we could have seen more of the old characters instead of mostly just hearing about them, but the plot didn't need that, lol.
The first 75% also isn't particularly action-packed, and I think I'd expected more based on the title and cover and blurb. Like Fierce Heart and War Bound, it's more cozy and the MC acclimating to a new life and making new friends and establishing the world for the reader as war slowly comes closer at the end, but with less romance as Fieran and Pip do only some very light flirting. Between the light plot, very subtle romance, and the world/setting/technology levels that weren't exactly my cup of tea or what I'm typically drawn to, I wasn't feeling this book as much, but some of that very likely was my own mood and tiredness and life stressors affecting my focus. It kept me coming back but didn't capture me...
Until the war starts toward the end. Then I also had to admit the set-up paid off, as it wouldn't have had the same effect without the cozier earlier bits. But after that, I was fully invested and engaged, and I loved how a lot of things were handled at the end and seeing Fieran mature through those events. I'm definitely looking forward to the rest of the series!
I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this book, and honestly, I was a little unsure. I'm always suspicious of legacy series--I have trouble letting go of the old MCs and often feel like legacy series mishandle and/or sideline the old characters in a kind of "they had kids so they're useless now" way. And this is more steampunk/magic punk than Elven Alliance was, which isn't my favorite setting. But it's Tara Grayce and I love EA, so obviously I was going to try it.
It did start a little rough for me, mostly because we're back in the worldbuilding phase and the world of EA has changed a lot. Bridgetown gave me kind of turn-of-the-century St. Louis vibes, and it felt...odd, somehow. Not that it was badly done or didn't make sense; it did. It just took me a while to acclimate and accept. Plus this series is meant to be able to stand alone while simultaneously building on the foundation of EA, and a LOT happened with a LOT of characters in EA, so there was a lot of mini history lessons and worldbuilding explanations throughout, in the first half especially.
Fieran is an interesting character, with clear influences from both his parents but still his own personality. I think that was handled well, especially in establishing early that Fieran is not Farrendel--a weight Fieran carries but was a relief to this reader, lol. Sorry, Fieran, I can't love you like I love your dad 😆, but I found I could love him for who is.
I like Pip, too.
I appreciated that this book didn't sideline the old MCs. They're definitely in the background, but they haven't become wildly different people, they aren't irritating roadblocks for the MCs, and they aren't useless or doing nothing. They're living their own, full lives still, have good relationships with their kids, and they have things to contribute when the war starts. It's well handled. I do kinda wish we could have seen more of the old characters instead of mostly just hearing about them, but the plot didn't need that, lol.
The first 75% also isn't particularly action-packed, and I think I'd expected more based on the title and cover and blurb. Like Fierce Heart and War Bound, it's more cozy and the MC acclimating to a new life and making new friends and establishing the world for the reader as war slowly comes closer at the end, but with less romance as Fieran and Pip do only some very light flirting. Between the light plot, very subtle romance, and the world/setting/technology levels that weren't exactly my cup of tea or what I'm typically drawn to, I wasn't feeling this book as much, but some of that very likely was my own mood and tiredness and life stressors affecting my focus. It kept me coming back but didn't capture me...
Until the war starts toward the end. Then I also had to admit the set-up paid off, as it wouldn't have had the same effect without the cozier earlier bits. But after that, I was fully invested and engaged, and I loved how a lot of things were handled at the end and seeing Fieran mature through those events. I'm definitely looking forward to the rest of the series!
December 21, 2024
Pip and Fieran are my new favorite pairing!
Pip and her flyboys are in basic training for the Escarlish Pilot Corp at Fort Lindler outside of Bridgetown. Spanning the river between Escarland and Tarenhiel, the Alliance Bridge now stands as a monument to that day 70 years early, Fieran’s parents were married to form the Alliance the world know today.
Mongravaria has been mostly silent these years since the events of Shield Band (Elven Aliiance book 6) but everyone knows a war is coming, it’s simply a matter of when. Desperate to prove himself and determined to be a flyer, Fieran and his cousin Merrik signed up before telling their families, but little did they know just how different dreams of glory are from the harsh reality of destruction when Mongravarian airships start dropping bombs on unsuspecting civilian populations. Can Fieran’s inherited magic of the elven gods somehow help him?
Pip joined the Mechanical Corp as a way to fulfill her love of magic engineering and to put her own iron-based magic to good use. Befriending Fieran and his flyboy friends has her being “just one of the boys” but she can’t help but be attracted to him nonetheless. The fact that she has hero-worshipped his father, Farrendel from afar since she was a little girl just makes it all the more awkward.
Basic training should never be this complicated.
I want to call this a fun start to the spin-off series as we follow the next generation of characters in the Elven Alliance universe, but the theme gets pretty dark before the end, even with the banter and charismatic character keeping it lively. Keep that in mind before stepping into this- war is not pretty and the devastation left in its wake can be triggering.
While I love the original cast of characters mentioned and popping up, there isn’t a lot of interaction other than Fieran with his immediate family. Julien pops up a few times in an official capacity, but doesn’t interact with Fieran, and I don’t know if that’s going to be fairly commonplace in the upcoming books or if the storylines will grow more intertwined as the series progresses. King Averett’s (yay, he’s still around!) progeny seem to be absolute trainwrecks, but we aren’t told how or why (again, yay- no one needs to let that big down the main story. Pretty sure it will be nightmare fuel for future short stories though).
I’m happy I still have book 2 to hop into, but waiting for the rest of the series is going to suck as book 3 won’t release until August 2025, so book 4 probably won’t be until 2026. Don’t let that stop you, however- it’s certainly not holding me back. Just based off of book 1, this will be well worth it.
Pip and her flyboys are in basic training for the Escarlish Pilot Corp at Fort Lindler outside of Bridgetown. Spanning the river between Escarland and Tarenhiel, the Alliance Bridge now stands as a monument to that day 70 years early, Fieran’s parents were married to form the Alliance the world know today.
Mongravaria has been mostly silent these years since the events of Shield Band (Elven Aliiance book 6) but everyone knows a war is coming, it’s simply a matter of when. Desperate to prove himself and determined to be a flyer, Fieran and his cousin Merrik signed up before telling their families, but little did they know just how different dreams of glory are from the harsh reality of destruction when Mongravarian airships start dropping bombs on unsuspecting civilian populations. Can Fieran’s inherited magic of the elven gods somehow help him?
Pip joined the Mechanical Corp as a way to fulfill her love of magic engineering and to put her own iron-based magic to good use. Befriending Fieran and his flyboy friends has her being “just one of the boys” but she can’t help but be attracted to him nonetheless. The fact that she has hero-worshipped his father, Farrendel from afar since she was a little girl just makes it all the more awkward.
Basic training should never be this complicated.
I want to call this a fun start to the spin-off series as we follow the next generation of characters in the Elven Alliance universe, but the theme gets pretty dark before the end, even with the banter and charismatic character keeping it lively. Keep that in mind before stepping into this- war is not pretty and the devastation left in its wake can be triggering.
While I love the original cast of characters mentioned and popping up, there isn’t a lot of interaction other than Fieran with his immediate family. Julien pops up a few times in an official capacity, but doesn’t interact with Fieran, and I don’t know if that’s going to be fairly commonplace in the upcoming books or if the storylines will grow more intertwined as the series progresses. King Averett’s (yay, he’s still around!) progeny seem to be absolute trainwrecks, but we aren’t told how or why (again, yay- no one needs to let that big down the main story. Pretty sure it will be nightmare fuel for future short stories though).
I’m happy I still have book 2 to hop into, but waiting for the rest of the series is going to suck as book 3 won’t release until August 2025, so book 4 probably won’t be until 2026. Don’t let that stop you, however- it’s certainly not holding me back. Just based off of book 1, this will be well worth it.
April 28, 2024
This is a great follow up/addition to the world of Elven Alliance. This book takes place after that series as it covers the first born of that generation now grown up. It's a different tone than that world too, slightly steampunk with almost a historical fiction feel vs the more Fantasy feel of the prior series.
While this book (and thus series) will be able to be read as stand alone I really think your enjoyment will be diminished. This book takes a while to build as we are catching up with old characters while establishing the new world and what is going on as well as introducing a new cast of characters. Some of the ties to the old books will be lost for those who haven't read. However, it is possible to read these without having read any prior books.
I thought this book was a lot of fun. It was great to see Farrendel and Essie as parents to now older and grown kids. Fieran grows up to be about what you'd expect from the snippets of him as a baby or little boy. He is a combination of personality and traits from his parents but he also lives in the shadow of their legacies. It was satisfying to watch him grow up and mature from the good natured but impulsive young man aching to make his own name to one who understood what his powers demand and cost.
The first probably 3/4's of the book is slower paced and easier to put down if you need to get something done. However, I made the mistake of "one more chapter" right at bed time and ended up finishing the book because the action gets revved up in the final quarter. I can't wait to finish Fieran's story and also find out about the other characters. Pip was a nice addion and I enjoyed her character as well as some of the other side characters we meet. Side note- I kinda hope Merrick ends up in the future with Addie.
While this book (and thus series) will be able to be read as stand alone I really think your enjoyment will be diminished. This book takes a while to build as we are catching up with old characters while establishing the new world and what is going on as well as introducing a new cast of characters. Some of the ties to the old books will be lost for those who haven't read. However, it is possible to read these without having read any prior books.
I thought this book was a lot of fun. It was great to see Farrendel and Essie as parents to now older and grown kids. Fieran grows up to be about what you'd expect from the snippets of him as a baby or little boy. He is a combination of personality and traits from his parents but he also lives in the shadow of their legacies. It was satisfying to watch him grow up and mature from the good natured but impulsive young man aching to make his own name to one who understood what his powers demand and cost.
The first probably 3/4's of the book is slower paced and easier to put down if you need to get something done. However, I made the mistake of "one more chapter" right at bed time and ended up finishing the book because the action gets revved up in the final quarter. I can't wait to finish Fieran's story and also find out about the other characters. Pip was a nice addion and I enjoyed her character as well as some of the other side characters we meet. Side note- I kinda hope Merrick ends up in the future with Addie.
May 30, 2024
Tara Grayce has quickly become one of my auto-buy authors. I have quite a few of those though and on top of that a broad taste when it comes to reading books, which means that my TBR is completely out of control at the moment. I therefore didn't get the chance to catch up with the Elven Alliance series yet. Luckily the author assured me that it was totally possible to read this book without having read the Elven Alliance series.
I do think reading this book is probably a lot more fun when you DID read the Elven Alliance series. Quite a few familiar characters are making appearances, quite a few events of the previous series are mentioned and it's also clear that a lot of world building has been done in the previous series. Especially the latter, the world building, therefore felt a little overwhelming at times. It was hard to orientate myself and hard to understand what kind of society and world this actually was.
I also had to get used to the setting. Although this is a fantasy story taking place in a fantasy world, it's a tale about preparing for an upcoming war. And the author does an amazing job keeping that story as realistically as possible. We're getting to see a lot of training, a lot of drills, a lot of push-ups and a lot of wake-up calls when we realize that not everyone who starts this training will survive the training and the war that will follow.
And because of this combination I needed some more time than anticipated to make it through the book. It was totally and completely worth it though. The ending of the book was not much of a surprise, but it was heartbreaking. And although this is the kind of fantasy book that comes really close to reality, especially with the current state of the world, it never forgets to give us moments of happiness and hope.
I do think reading this book is probably a lot more fun when you DID read the Elven Alliance series. Quite a few familiar characters are making appearances, quite a few events of the previous series are mentioned and it's also clear that a lot of world building has been done in the previous series. Especially the latter, the world building, therefore felt a little overwhelming at times. It was hard to orientate myself and hard to understand what kind of society and world this actually was.
I also had to get used to the setting. Although this is a fantasy story taking place in a fantasy world, it's a tale about preparing for an upcoming war. And the author does an amazing job keeping that story as realistically as possible. We're getting to see a lot of training, a lot of drills, a lot of push-ups and a lot of wake-up calls when we realize that not everyone who starts this training will survive the training and the war that will follow.
And because of this combination I needed some more time than anticipated to make it through the book. It was totally and completely worth it though. The ending of the book was not much of a surprise, but it was heartbreaking. And although this is the kind of fantasy book that comes really close to reality, especially with the current state of the world, it never forgets to give us moments of happiness and hope.
May 1, 2024
So good! Fieran wants to prove himself worthy of his father's name. Pip wants to fulfill a purpose that matters. Set into the backdrop of a WWI/steampunk world, this is a great continuation of a previous series (and beginning of a whole new series).
I love Fieran. He's purposeful, a little cocky, hyperactive, definitely impulsive, and yet easy-going and not super offendable. He is Farrendel without the brokenness and the social anxiety; he is Essie without the levelheadedness (lol).
Merrik is one of my favorites. He's Fieran's best friend, willing comrade, and the steadiness Fieran lacks. The brotherhood and banter between these two makes it all so much better.
Pip is equal parts adorable and capable. She's a Rosie-the-Riveter type with impressive magic and great banter. I couldn't help but like her immediately!
I absolutely LOVED the scenes between Farrendal and Fieran. Farrendel has healed so much and has so much to offer his son. Rarely do I get a chance to see good parent/adult child relationships (probably the books I read lol!) and this was done very well.
The world-building was also phenomenal. The biplanes, the dirigibles, and the steampunk/early industrial revolution vibes were perfect. The depictions of bootcamp were simultaneously recognizable and unique.
I loved everything about this book! Perfect for those who enjoy military/historical reads (this book has that feel!).
Rated PG-13 for scenes of war
--clean romance, slow burn, budding romance, friends to lovers
--no language
--mild to moderate violence (death, action in the theater of war, collateral damage)
--no torture/abuse
I love Fieran. He's purposeful, a little cocky, hyperactive, definitely impulsive, and yet easy-going and not super offendable. He is Farrendel without the brokenness and the social anxiety; he is Essie without the levelheadedness (lol).
Merrik is one of my favorites. He's Fieran's best friend, willing comrade, and the steadiness Fieran lacks. The brotherhood and banter between these two makes it all so much better.
Pip is equal parts adorable and capable. She's a Rosie-the-Riveter type with impressive magic and great banter. I couldn't help but like her immediately!
I absolutely LOVED the scenes between Farrendal and Fieran. Farrendel has healed so much and has so much to offer his son. Rarely do I get a chance to see good parent/adult child relationships (probably the books I read lol!) and this was done very well.
The world-building was also phenomenal. The biplanes, the dirigibles, and the steampunk/early industrial revolution vibes were perfect. The depictions of bootcamp were simultaneously recognizable and unique.
I loved everything about this book! Perfect for those who enjoy military/historical reads (this book has that feel!).
Rated PG-13 for scenes of war
--clean romance, slow burn, budding romance, friends to lovers
--no language
--mild to moderate violence (death, action in the theater of war, collateral damage)
--no torture/abuse
May 27, 2024
Okay, so I thoroughly enjoyed the Elven Alliance series, but most of my love for it was because of Farrendel and Essie. So, when I heard about this series, I thought I'd give it a shot simply because it was about Farrendel and Essie's kid. So I'm here to ask you: HOW did I love this one almost even better than the entire predecessor series?! It's got more inventions, more action, and all the coolness from the last series. More races are intermingling (and marrying!), and the three kingdoms are tighter than ever. But with war on the rise, they're going to need a hero from the next generation.
Fieran is aware of his status as a prince and the son of the famed Laesornysh, but he wants to make it on his own, and he's just reckless and bold enough to do it. Add in Pip, a half-dwarf (which isn't really reflected on the cover since she's supposed to be significantly shorter than Fieran) mechanic who wants adventure and purpose, and you've got a winning team.
I loved the honesty of this book: the struggles of finding your place in the world, the awkwardness of trying to live up to your parents, the hardship of army life, and the depth of horror during wartime. Nothing's overly gory or graphic, but they make it clear that war isn't pretty and lives will be lost. I felt Fieran's anguish and frustration over not being better to try and save everyone, and I felt Pip's determination to do everything she could to keep "her flyboys" (I'm sobbing over that) safe. And did I mention there's a subtle, sweet, slow-burn romance?
I'm honestly a bit confused about how much I love this book, but I'm HERE for it. I can't wait for the next one!
Fieran is aware of his status as a prince and the son of the famed Laesornysh, but he wants to make it on his own, and he's just reckless and bold enough to do it. Add in Pip, a half-dwarf (which isn't really reflected on the cover since she's supposed to be significantly shorter than Fieran) mechanic who wants adventure and purpose, and you've got a winning team.
I loved the honesty of this book: the struggles of finding your place in the world, the awkwardness of trying to live up to your parents, the hardship of army life, and the depth of horror during wartime. Nothing's overly gory or graphic, but they make it clear that war isn't pretty and lives will be lost. I felt Fieran's anguish and frustration over not being better to try and save everyone, and I felt Pip's determination to do everything she could to keep "her flyboys" (I'm sobbing over that) safe. And did I mention there's a subtle, sweet, slow-burn romance?
I'm honestly a bit confused about how much I love this book, but I'm HERE for it. I can't wait for the next one!
April 27, 2024
Wings of War is not only a wonderful first book in a new series, it’s the perfect continuation of the Elven Alliance series! While this book can definitely be read and enjoyed without reading the previous series, having knowledge from the Elven Alliance series seriously enhances Wings of War.
After growing up with a legendary father, Fieran is ready to strike out on his own and make a name for himself. When he enlists in the army to become a pilot, Fieran gets his chance to prove himself sooner than he plans. Luckily he has his cousin, fellow pilots, and a female half elf, half dwarf mechanic backing him up.
Pip wants to do more with her engineering degree than work on trains with her family, so when the army auxiliary asks her to sign on as a mechanic she can’t pass it up. Little does she know, she’ll become friends with Prince Fieran and have that friendship slowly start to turn into a romance.
Wings of War has everything you could want from a steampunk fantasy set during a war. There’s action and adventure, airships and aeroplanes, magic and air battles, friendship, a tight knit family, and a slow burn romance.
Having read the Elven Alliance series, it was wonderful to see Farrendel and Essie 70 years later They’ve had time to have children and really settle into their lives and who they are. We also got glimpses of other previous characters, and I’m sure we’ll get to see them all even more as the series progresses.
I loved this book and can’t wait for book 2!
After growing up with a legendary father, Fieran is ready to strike out on his own and make a name for himself. When he enlists in the army to become a pilot, Fieran gets his chance to prove himself sooner than he plans. Luckily he has his cousin, fellow pilots, and a female half elf, half dwarf mechanic backing him up.
Pip wants to do more with her engineering degree than work on trains with her family, so when the army auxiliary asks her to sign on as a mechanic she can’t pass it up. Little does she know, she’ll become friends with Prince Fieran and have that friendship slowly start to turn into a romance.
Wings of War has everything you could want from a steampunk fantasy set during a war. There’s action and adventure, airships and aeroplanes, magic and air battles, friendship, a tight knit family, and a slow burn romance.
Having read the Elven Alliance series, it was wonderful to see Farrendel and Essie 70 years later They’ve had time to have children and really settle into their lives and who they are. We also got glimpses of other previous characters, and I’m sure we’ll get to see them all even more as the series progresses.
I loved this book and can’t wait for book 2!
October 15, 2024
This book was recommended to me by a friend and was a lot of fun. The author generally writes fantasy romance (think J.R.R. Tolkien meets Georgette Heyer), but this is the first book in a fantasy military steampunk coming-of-age spin-off series which tones down the romance: think The Peshawar Lancers (without the sex) meets Pastoral by Nevil Shute meets Biggles of the Camel Squadron.
The book alternates between the points of view of the male and female leads and seems to draw to some extent on the author's brother's military experience. The book starts off fairly slowly, with the half-elven male lead volunteering for an experimental air force, but the intensity builds up towards the end as war begins.
There are sequels, and I suspect that they will involve continued war and probably increased romance.
The book alternates between the points of view of the male and female leads and seems to draw to some extent on the author's brother's military experience. The book starts off fairly slowly, with the half-elven male lead volunteering for an experimental air force, but the intensity builds up towards the end as war begins.
There are sequels, and I suspect that they will involve continued war and probably increased romance.
November 30, 2025
A Boy Becomes a Man
The Elven Alliance is one of my favorite series. I was already looking forward to revisiting the characters and getting to see their children as adults, but this was even better than expected. Same great writing style and tone, but whole new adventures. The world is familiar and yet it has changed and the stories feel fresh and exciting. As always, the characters are amazing! I love the camaraderie amongst the soldiers as well as the touching relationships Fieran has with his parents and siblings. The magic and inventions are creative and intriguing, especially in the ways they combine. Fieran has a pretty energetic and upbeat personality which helps the book as a whole feel pretty upbeat while still dealing with deep themes.
As the title implies there is war but the descriptions of violence, injury, and death are non gory and felt PG or PG-13 at most. There is a hint at a potentially forming romantic relationship and everything in that department is clean and no spice. This series does build on the Elven Alliance series. It could be read stand alone and still make sense, but it will definitely include spoilers. This is the first book in the War of the Alliance series, a series best read in order.
Wings of War is a delightful read and a great kick off to the series.
The Elven Alliance is one of my favorite series. I was already looking forward to revisiting the characters and getting to see their children as adults, but this was even better than expected. Same great writing style and tone, but whole new adventures. The world is familiar and yet it has changed and the stories feel fresh and exciting. As always, the characters are amazing! I love the camaraderie amongst the soldiers as well as the touching relationships Fieran has with his parents and siblings. The magic and inventions are creative and intriguing, especially in the ways they combine. Fieran has a pretty energetic and upbeat personality which helps the book as a whole feel pretty upbeat while still dealing with deep themes.
As the title implies there is war but the descriptions of violence, injury, and death are non gory and felt PG or PG-13 at most. There is a hint at a potentially forming romantic relationship and everything in that department is clean and no spice. This series does build on the Elven Alliance series. It could be read stand alone and still make sense, but it will definitely include spoilers. This is the first book in the War of the Alliance series, a series best read in order.
Wings of War is a delightful read and a great kick off to the series.
August 28, 2024
I'mI was soooo exited when I found this book and I am not joking I literally devoured it in 1 day.
While I can't say I didn't like this book, from the beginning till page 200 I wasn't entirely convinced. Hear me out! The characters weren't bad and I completely loved every part that had Farandell in it, but up till the 200th page that was just about it for me.
I was not a fan of Fierans whole "stop talking about my parents and their fame ughh it's embarrassing" but while talking about and THINKING about it all the time himself. But that was while reading the book after thinking about that a while after reading it I was kind of glad Tara took that route with this character rather than any of the more common ones. Usually he would have either completely abhorred the whole fame thing or would have completely loved it, and either way it would have been kind of annoying. At least this route was unique I guess.
I also didn't like that the whole beginning there was almost none of the action that had made the Elven alliance soo amazing.
But once I reached the end where they was action...I knew that I was most definitely going to keep reading this series.
I guess it was just the laying of the characters and plots foundation that made it lack action, but I bet the next book will be action packed.
Anyways, cannot wait to read the next books and after finishing this one despite the complains I had I could not stop thinking about it.
While I can't say I didn't like this book, from the beginning till page 200 I wasn't entirely convinced. Hear me out! The characters weren't bad and I completely loved every part that had Farandell in it, but up till the 200th page that was just about it for me.
I was not a fan of Fierans whole "stop talking about my parents and their fame ughh it's embarrassing" but while talking about and THINKING about it all the time himself. But that was while reading the book after thinking about that a while after reading it I was kind of glad Tara took that route with this character rather than any of the more common ones. Usually he would have either completely abhorred the whole fame thing or would have completely loved it, and either way it would have been kind of annoying. At least this route was unique I guess.
I also didn't like that the whole beginning there was almost none of the action that had made the Elven alliance soo amazing.
But once I reached the end where they was action...I knew that I was most definitely going to keep reading this series.
I guess it was just the laying of the characters and plots foundation that made it lack action, but I bet the next book will be action packed.
Anyways, cannot wait to read the next books and after finishing this one despite the complains I had I could not stop thinking about it.
June 2, 2024
Meet the next generation from the Heroes and Heroines of the Elven Alliance.
Tara Grayce does it again with the next generation. This series has evolved and has a bit of the steampunk feel to it that the original Alliance did not, but it just works. Though this series could probably be read on its own, it will make much more sense if read after the Elven Alliance series. I am a big fan of all her series and they are always on my preorder wish list. I fell in love with the first generation as each book told stories of the families that worked hard to form an alliance of Elves, Humans and Trolls. Now we meet the next generation many of which are half-Elf, half-Human or even adding in half-Dwarf. Military training, mechanics and flight all play a big part of Wings of War. Secondary characters steal scenes and small snippets in one chapter lead to something bigger in others. It keeps you on your toes. Just look for the soap! Unique magics are shown which show that with the melding of races, Magic has its own chance to evolve. I can’t wait for Book 2!
Tara Grayce does it again with the next generation. This series has evolved and has a bit of the steampunk feel to it that the original Alliance did not, but it just works. Though this series could probably be read on its own, it will make much more sense if read after the Elven Alliance series. I am a big fan of all her series and they are always on my preorder wish list. I fell in love with the first generation as each book told stories of the families that worked hard to form an alliance of Elves, Humans and Trolls. Now we meet the next generation many of which are half-Elf, half-Human or even adding in half-Dwarf. Military training, mechanics and flight all play a big part of Wings of War. Secondary characters steal scenes and small snippets in one chapter lead to something bigger in others. It keeps you on your toes. Just look for the soap! Unique magics are shown which show that with the melding of races, Magic has its own chance to evolve. I can’t wait for Book 2!
May 9, 2024
Wow! 😲🤩😲
I was so excited to get back into the world of the Elven Alliance series and WOW! I was not disappointed! What an epic novel! Tara Grayce has taken that same world but so much is different in this later time period with the children of Farrendel and Essie taking the stage for their own adventures.
Fieran is a fascinating character because while he's charismatic and slightly headstrong, he's also incredibly humble, especially considering his famous parents. Pip is so awesome! I love how adorable she is, but also strong and brave. Their story is unfolding so realistically amidst the possibility of war and difficulty. This book pulled me in and I could barely put it down! What an amazing start to this new series! I can't wait to read more!!! 🤩
I was so excited to get back into the world of the Elven Alliance series and WOW! I was not disappointed! What an epic novel! Tara Grayce has taken that same world but so much is different in this later time period with the children of Farrendel and Essie taking the stage for their own adventures.
Fieran is a fascinating character because while he's charismatic and slightly headstrong, he's also incredibly humble, especially considering his famous parents. Pip is so awesome! I love how adorable she is, but also strong and brave. Their story is unfolding so realistically amidst the possibility of war and difficulty. This book pulled me in and I could barely put it down! What an amazing start to this new series! I can't wait to read more!!! 🤩
July 1, 2024
A grand adventure
That's what Fieran wants. A grand adventure. And if he's going to end up fighting in a war, why not jump in as soon as possible?
Pros: likeable characters, creative world building and potential for an interesting plot.
Cons: less tension than I'd like. Fieran supposedly struggles with discipline, but adjusts to army life much better than I would. 😄 Most of the characters we actually see get along with him. We're sort of promised conflict for varying reasons that never happens or is quickly resolved.
The story is lighthearted and fun, which I enjoy, but I wish things weren't quite so easy for the MCs.
That's what Fieran wants. A grand adventure. And if he's going to end up fighting in a war, why not jump in as soon as possible?
Pros: likeable characters, creative world building and potential for an interesting plot.
Cons: less tension than I'd like. Fieran supposedly struggles with discipline, but adjusts to army life much better than I would. 😄 Most of the characters we actually see get along with him. We're sort of promised conflict for varying reasons that never happens or is quickly resolved.
The story is lighthearted and fun, which I enjoy, but I wish things weren't quite so easy for the MCs.
February 20, 2025
Tara did not disappoint in her Elven Alliance goes Steampunk story! I love both Fieren and Pip. They're both so confident and sassy but not afraid to admit when they mess up or aren't what people expect.
Fieren is trying so hard to make his own mark on the world and earn his notoriety, not just live in his parents' shadow. He ultimately learns that comes at a cost, one that he probably didn't want to pay. But he's such a spunky kid that he definitely makes you laugh while as a parent, I definitely understood the pain Farrendel and Essie were probably feeling.
Pip. So much spunk and man do I empathize with her so much, being naturally shorter than the general population. I loved her character and how accepting she is of herself. I also really love her fangirl moments over Fieren's parents, making him basically blush.
The ending! It was epic but made me cry. As usual, Grayce's narrator hit the narration out of the park so I definitely could imagine and feel it as if I were actually the characters in the story. I can't wait to go read book 2!
Fieren is trying so hard to make his own mark on the world and earn his notoriety, not just live in his parents' shadow. He ultimately learns that comes at a cost, one that he probably didn't want to pay. But he's such a spunky kid that he definitely makes you laugh while as a parent, I definitely understood the pain Farrendel and Essie were probably feeling.
Pip. So much spunk and man do I empathize with her so much, being naturally shorter than the general population. I loved her character and how accepting she is of herself. I also really love her fangirl moments over Fieren's parents, making him basically blush.
The ending! It was epic but made me cry. As usual, Grayce's narrator hit the narration out of the park so I definitely could imagine and feel it as if I were actually the characters in the story. I can't wait to go read book 2!
March 24, 2025
What a phenomenal start to this series, of which I have been looking forward to since I heard it was a possibility.
The characters are memorable and real. The scenes amusing and crushing, depending on which you are reading.
I’m actually writing this review after a reread, and I still basically read it through in one sitting.
Romance: This is a connected series, and while this book ends on a good note (no cliff hanger), there is not really any romance yet to speak of. Mild flirting
Violence: It’s a war book, and we see that. If you can’t watch war movies, this most likely isn’t for you—though I will say nothing was gory.
The characters are memorable and real. The scenes amusing and crushing, depending on which you are reading.
I’m actually writing this review after a reread, and I still basically read it through in one sitting.
Romance: This is a connected series, and while this book ends on a good note (no cliff hanger), there is not really any romance yet to speak of. Mild flirting
Violence: It’s a war book, and we see that. If you can’t watch war movies, this most likely isn’t for you—though I will say nothing was gory.
August 18, 2025
All my expectations were somehow blown away and met at the same time! The time jump into the future and drastic cultural changes took a minute for me to wrap my head around, but made the world feel entirely new again. And provided several laughs, especially when picturing elves on bicycles! Not to mention, Fiaren and Pip both have my full heart! And the whole squadron of flyboys are such a perfect band of army brothers. The only problem is I heard there is a major cliffhanger later in the series and not all the books are released yet...so now I have to pace myself while waiting for the next release!
April 29, 2024
Great fantasy tale, about becoming a warrior pilot, friend, man
Never thought I was much for war stories. Told in Tara Grayce’s style, this book has changed my mind. Wonderful characters. Meaningful plot and storylines, just the right amount if detail, superb writing. I love Fieran with his perceived flaws. I enjoy Pip’s heart from what she does and for others. The whole crew is a lot of fun, yet serious when needed. They are all growing and changing together. I highly recommend.
Never thought I was much for war stories. Told in Tara Grayce’s style, this book has changed my mind. Wonderful characters. Meaningful plot and storylines, just the right amount if detail, superb writing. I love Fieran with his perceived flaws. I enjoy Pip’s heart from what she does and for others. The whole crew is a lot of fun, yet serious when needed. They are all growing and changing together. I highly recommend.
May 16, 2024
So good to be back in this world!! I absolutely loved the Elven Alliance series, and was so excited when I heard their son, Fieran, was getting his own adventure! 😆😍 And what an adventure it was, with army training, war tensions, mischievous endeavors, new friendships, a hint of romance, and the beginning of a horrible war. Fieran and Pip were great MCs, and I loved seeing their friendship form. Their similarities in magic was a nice touch! Tara Grayce knows how to write a gripping story and I can’t wait for the second book!! 🤩
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