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The Shattered Trilogy #2

Son of Shattered Souls

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When her magic speaks, It demands to be heard.

As the last Imperial, heir to the throne of Ellorhys, everyone expected Issaria Elysitao to follow in the Evernight Witch’s footsteps.

No one expected her to run to her enemies for help.

Forced into a marriage alliance with the prince of a rival kingdom, Issaria struggles to keep her crown amid tiring court politics while hiding a dangerous secret. Plagued to be the incarnation of an ancient deity that awakened on her eighteenth birthday, Issaria’s mind and body do not belong solely to herself. Less benevolent than history would remember, Aurelia, Mythos of Light, has threatened the existence of the realm in an effort to restore balance to Ellorhys. As Issaria and Calix leave their friends and palace life behind and take to the high seas to fulfill their promises, Issaria remains keenly aware of what this journey may yet cost her.

Former soldier turned rebel commander, Elon Sainthart marshals a growing force to resist the Evernight Witch. Determined to reclaim the capitol city of Espera for its rightful ruler, Elon and his ragtag band of rebels are unprepared for the mechanical monstrosities unleashed upon the celestial city.

From the far north, an unknown foe bears down upon Espera. Poised to conquer, Shura Wintersea leads an engineered army in siege against the Evernight Witch. With a mantle of darkness thrust upon him, Shura will stop at nothing to break the Evernight curse and unite the continents under one crown — his.

362 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 27, 2024

4 people are currently reading
61 people want to read

About the author

Sara DeLaVergne

4 books60 followers
Sara is an emerging fantasy author with an MFA in creative writing from Western Colorado University and a BFA from Franklin Pierce University. She believes she has always been a reader, and a story-teller of sorts, with works circling back to the heyday of Fanfiction.net and a popular HP Marauder’s Era fan fiction that shall never be named. When she is not writing or reading, she is likely sniffing book-themed candles in a totally non-addictive sort of way, collecting custom Funko Pops, or being a dog mom.

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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
Profile Image for Ali.
39 reviews6 followers
February 8, 2024
Arc provided, thoughts are 100%
my own.

I don't know if I can adequately describe how an obsession can grow over a series and an absolute NEED for a continuation and more of these characters! I feel as though I have bonded with them and I can see this playing in my mind like a movie.

I won't say much about the plot, other than the intense amount of story building was magnified, and I found myself really vibing with characters, disliking other characters, having the feels, worries, and even wanting some to get squashed. The world, the magic, the mythos, the characters FINALLY having their cute moment, (🌶🌶🌶, anyone?) finding a quote I love, and then, of course, being 'shattered' by the end. Ahhh, the story!! It's just amazing. The authors ability to make you scream and really feel like you're part of the story is a huge part of why this gets a 5-star review. The other reasons are what you just read. (I am obsessed with Calix, and I love how his name is pronounced, too.)

It took me a while to get used to the style and different world for the first book, but honestly, I don't know why it took me so long because I absolutely devoured this book, and like I said, need the next part in my hands, five minutes ago.

I'm begging for the next book 😂 I was honored to be able to read this as an arc, and I truly enjoyed it. Bravo!
Profile Image for Reese.
187 reviews3 followers
January 30, 2024
RTC but for now i am just shouting from my bed!!

******

ARC provided but all these thoughts are my own.

i am not ok. you will not be okay. NO ONE IS OKAY, okay?!

back in the enchanting world of ellorhys, we begin right where DoSS ended. it gives all the vibes of villainous disney meets game of thrones.

and let me tell you, our new pal shura (you know, the guy from the epilogue who scared the crap out of us?) is just out here flexing on us with his power, his goals, and his too many years head start. he came out swinging and he will not stop. he is the kind of man who is terrifying, ruthless, and has a massive god complex (pun intended), but you also kinda maybe have a crush on him. maybe that is just me and i need to work on this in therapy some more.
issaria and calix were set on a quest by their third wheel, aurelia. and my poor poor babies, don't we know better than to trust the voices in our heads (bodies?)? oh, the places they will go! but seriously, we got to see so much more of this world, and it did not disappoint. you begin to see much more of the effects of the magic curse that is destroying the world, and the willingness of people to make it better. but you never can figure out whose "better" will win out in the end.
and we can never, and will never, forget about elon saintheart. schrodinger's elon. the rock for issaria's people who never knew what was coming (if ykyk). i salute you.

this book holds no punches. i spent a lot of time cursing the author in my head (but in the fun way) because there was never a moment of god damn safety for anyone. the stakes were sky high at all times, and boy howdy, it got me sweating. i appreciate that the darkness and violence of the world had real consequences for each and every character, big or small. it felt precarious and tense, and that made the reading experience one million times better.

the elemental magic shines. it walks this perfect line of mundanity and epic. magic exists, everyone knows it, and most people use it in a way to make their day to day life easier. and then the big mythos walk into the room. we now see our celestial players outmatch everyone and this, fellow readers, is a tale as old as time. but hubris is about to square off against ingenuity, and it is time we take bets on who will win. and i honestly don't know who will reign victorious. and that is why i loved this book.

the lore is tight. the prose is dreamy. the world building is BUILDING.

this book is a ride, a leviathan, fast paced but there was still enough time to enjoy the small things, to explore the new places, and explore the hearts of everyone.
Profile Image for thespookybooknerd.
247 reviews
February 27, 2024
I'm so freaking happy to have finally read the sequel to Daughter of Shattered Skies! I read book one back in 2022 and it was one of my favorite reads for that year! I'm happy to say that I really enjoyed book two as well. It was so worth the wait!
I loved every second of being back in the magical world of Ellorhys! It was once again well written, and I really loved and appreciated the attention to detail! I enjoyed exploring more of the world through the characters' travels.
Another thing I enjoyed was being back with these characters! It was so nice to be back with Issaria and Calix. I loved the two of them in book one! I also enjoyed seeing some of the side characters I particularly enjoyed in book one again as well. There were also some interesting new characters added to the story this time around! Like book one, there was also once again twists and revelations that I had not seen coming!
I loved being fully absorbed back into this story. I did find myself wishing a few times that since it had been so long since I read book one, that I was able to do a reread of DOSS before diving in. I was just a bit slow to remember what happened previously, and some of the characters were a bit fuzzy, but I eventually started to remember bits and pieces! It didn't stop me from enjoying the story!
I loved it. I'm so ready for book three! I can't wait to find out what happens next and to get to know certain characters more! Also, I'm just ready for more Calix! 😆

Check this series out sometime if it sounds like something you'd enjoy!
Profile Image for Sayv Ilahsiav.
31 reviews19 followers
March 2, 2024
Contents
First Impression
What did I like?
What I didn't like?
Final Words

Disclaimer:
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This review contains minor spoilers.



"Son of Shattered Souls" is the eagerly awaited second instalment in the "The Shattered Trilogy" after the standout debut "Daughter of Shattered Skies" by Sara DeLaVergne.

Released on February 27th, 2024, after a bit of a wait, it plunges us back into the enthralling world of Ellorhys with high stakes, deep magic, and complex characters.

Despite awesome visual world-building and cool magic, the sequel's character growth and some story choices didn't fully deliver for me.

Still, Sara DeLaVergne's talent shines, and I'm hopeful for a strong finish in "Crown of Shattered Stars."

What's Good:

World-Building: Still top-notch. Sara's got a gift for painting this magical world in your head.

Magic & Action: The elemental magic is cooler than ever, really bringing the action scenes to life.

Elon: He might not be the flashiest or the one grabbing all the headlines, but there's something solid about him that's hard not to admire. Kinda makes you wish he was front and centre of the story.

Shura & Shairi: Two-of-a-kind characters, Shura, with his complex motivations and dark past, revealed in his relentless pursuit of power and his intricate relationship with his family provides a fascinating study of ambition and loyalty. Shairi, on the other hand, captivates with her wickedness and strategic mind. Looking forward to their interactions in the final instalment.

“The air reeks of death, Commander,”


Not So Good:

Character Development: How is it the same Issaria who, despite her doubts, didn’t easily believe that her Aunt Cate has betrayed her, and yet without any solid proof or even a tiny hint, Issaria is suddenly convinced Elon's a goner? Like, what? Where did the girl who needed solid proof go?

Romance: From missed enemies-to-lovers opportunity to immature declaration of love, the love story between Calix and Issaria didn't hit the mark for me.

"Issa" Nickname: I found it grating that Issaria's new circle – her handmaidens and even Calix – adopted her nickname 'Issa', a term of endearment previously exclusive to Elon.

Epic Quest Feels Off: The showdown with the original big bad villain was supremely underwhelming and anti-climatic. Once again, to bring in something bigger, and better, you do not really have to so severely sabotage the existing that it disrupts the narrative's cohesion and emotional resonance.

“Like calls to like. Our little dance has only just begun, I’d be disappointed if victory came so easily. She and I are the shadow and the flame, as our ancestors before us. ” A cruel smile carved his face as he added, “And we all know the darkness existed long before the light. It is time to return us to our humble beginnings.”


Read full detailed review on Syviv's Bibliofile
Profile Image for Charlee.
265 reviews14 followers
February 29, 2024
In "Son of Shattered Souls," Sara DeLaVergne crafts an emotionally charged odyssey that defies the typical constraints of middle book syndrome. From the outset, readers are plunged into a world pulsating with heightened stakes and heart-wrenching dilemmas.

For fans of "Sailor Moon," "Air Awakens," Studio Ghibli films, and "Avatar: The Last Airbender," this sequel is an absolute gem, seamlessly blending elements of magic, romance, and adventure into a tapestry of wonder and awe.

Where the first book took you by the hand, and whisked you away, this one straps you into a supercharged Ford Mustang and asks if you packed your brown pants.

Central to the narrative is Issa, who battles not only external forces but also the internal struggle of her own body. She grapples with the knowledge that she is but a mere sheep, biding her time until the slaughter, yet possessing the courageous heart of a wolf. Complicating matters is the presence of a Goddess within her, whose motives and nature remain enigmatic but obvious, akin to that of a venomous snake - whose colours do not hide it's true nature. Readers are left to decipher the true essence of this divine presence and her intrusive influence on Issa's journey.

Amidst Issa's turmoil, Calix emerges as a steadfast presence, his roguish charm and unwavering loyalty adding a vibrant spark to the narrative. His character, a pillar of strength and resilience, serves as a beacon of hope amidst the darkness that threatens to engulf them all.

But the shadows of intrigue deepen with the introduction of Shura, a mysterious figure whose lawful evil deeds leave readers torn between empathy and condemnation. His enigmatic presence adds layers of complexity to the narrative, forcing readers to question their own beliefs and perceptions.

And amidst the tumult, the poignant presence of Elon, Issa's childhood friend, guardian, and first love, tugs at the heartstrings, adding a layer of nostalgia and heartache to the unfolding drama. His fate becomes intertwined with the ever-unfolding narrative across the map, leaving readers on the edge of their seats, eager to discover his ultimate destiny.

There are so many other new characters I could talk about - but I will leave you to say hello, and get to know them, because they are worth knowing!

DeLaVergne's storytelling prowess shines brightly in this installment, effortlessly expanding the world, deepening the bonds between characters, and delivering an emotionally charged rollercoaster ride that will leave readers spellbound. Her writing style has matured into a symphony of prose, weaving together moments of tenderness and turmoil with exquisite grace.

With Calix's magnetic charisma, Issa's resolute determination, and Shura's enigmatic presence adding depth and complexity to an already enthralling narrative, "Son of Shattered Souls" emerges as a masterful blend of fantasy and drama that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.

Prepare to be swept away on an unforgettable, sometimes swashbuckling, journey where nothing is as it seems, and every twist and turn leaves you breathless for more, eagerly anticipating the next installment in this captivating trilogy.

Prepare to be dazzled, moved, and utterly captivated—this is fantasy at its finest.

✨💕✨
Profile Image for Adriana.
121 reviews4 followers
February 29, 2024
You know it has been an amazing story when you hate a character, and the worst one comes along that you feel like the first one wasn't that bad.
That type of rollercoaster emotion was one of my favorite parts of this book. I laughed, I cried, I mourned.
Sara DeLaVergne is an amazing writer, and I love how much her writing affects me.
I believe that the multi-POV is one the best parts of the book. I love watching everything happen at once, and it made it go by faster. But I just couldn't get enough of it.
Can't wait to read the rest!
I also love it when authors put a list of pronunciations and definitions at the beginning of the book. That way, I kind of have an idea how I am supposed to sound them out.
Profile Image for Kennedy Butler.
121 reviews9 followers
February 23, 2024
Astonishing - Breath Stealing- Phenomenal

Three words to describe this high stake magical war that DeLaVergne has written yet again. The Imagery painted a picture so vividly as if I saw it play as a movie. I finished in a day in one sitting, clutching my shirt and gasping at every twist and turn.

The ending had me covering my mouth in awe and shock. Her characters are riveting, and her words are written so beautifully.

I can't wait to have Book 3 in my hands.

Well done.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read such a well written fantasy novel.
Profile Image for Summer Allen.
49 reviews
February 15, 2024
We dive right back into the majestic world that Sara has created. The intrigue, world/character building, action, romance, and adventure are just as captivating as the first book! As soon as I started it, I couldn't put it down. The ending left me dying for the next book!
Profile Image for Batwoman.
534 reviews6 followers
March 10, 2024
This book was amazing to read. Starts off where book one left at. But this time Issaria’s journey is so much more tense and keeps you on your toes about what will happen next. The ending leaving you begging that you had book three already. I really loved getting more different points of views in this book too. New characters while other grew more and other learning to accept themselves. I very highly recommend this book/series to all epic fantasy lovers. It’s seriously one of my favorites.
Profile Image for Rebelle.
196 reviews2 followers
March 1, 2024
This book is such a perfect continuation from the first story!! I loved being swept back into Ellorhys with the feisty band of gals- old and new. The characters are each so iconic and strong in their own ways and the new threat? Legitimately scary. Shura is terrifying and I loved it. And that twist with Shairi?!? SERIOUSLY looking forward to book 3 to see what happens there!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Ali Lussier.
201 reviews5 followers
April 9, 2024
“𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒏 𝒆𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝑰𝒔𝒔𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒂, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝑰 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒂𝒔𝒌 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑪𝒐𝒔𝒎𝒐𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒆𝒍𝒔𝒆.”

I devoured Books 1 and 2 in just a few days and now I'm at a loss that I have to wait for the final book and just sit here with that ending in my mind.

This series has been a wild adventure so far. I am a Romance girlie through and through and it's honestly been a while since I read a book that was more World Building plot heavy with a romance sub plot but, truly I loved every moment of being in this World.

Each of the characters and we have quite a few, are amazing. Getting to know each of them, their motives and voices. It's a lot but, if you love heavy World Building, many character POVs, epic quests, forgotten Gods and reincarnation all wrapped into a Magical Fantasy World - you'll want to pick this series up.

Super grateful to have been able given both books to read and promote. Thank you Sara and BOMM. 🫶

Check my link in bio to order Books 1 & 2!

𝑶𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔:
🌶: 1.5/5

𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔:
☆ Urban Fantasy
☆ Little Spicy Spice
☆ Reincarnation/Forgotten Gods
☆ Multi POV
☆ Political Intrigue/Royals
☆ Epic Quests
☆ Magic
☆ World Building
Profile Image for Kristyn Schrier.
222 reviews11 followers
February 28, 2024
Just wow!

Another action packed story with phenomenal characters and storyline.

It takes off where Daughter of Shattered Skies ends and just keeps going with its fast paced characters and storyline. It introduces new characters and challenges that they must face in order to try and save their world, not only from the curse that was put in place but from a new conquerer who thinks he has a better claim on the throne.

I'm excited to see where Sara takes this and can't wait to get my hands on book 3! I was lucky enough to be a part of Sara's streat team and read this book before it released but that in no way has influenced my opinions which are all my own. I highly urge you to get yourself a copy now!
Profile Image for Jillian.
161 reviews1 follower
October 13, 2025
I liked this one much more than the first! Much better paced, but I was confused at the end. I didn’t understand the purpose of Issaria at the Vera Caelum. She wasn’t supposed to become Aurelia? They couldn’t have just shared her powers? And I think I need a reread to understand Tarlix/Calix. Their relationship is different than Issa/Aurelia, but how and why? Idk I think the lore could’ve been a little clearer. I definitely liked the increase in romance in this book, but I wish I was feeling more of the romance between them. There were sparks but not as much as I’d like. I do really like the series so far, I’m very interested in how they survive Shura.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
85 reviews1 follower
February 22, 2025
The second book in the Shattered Trilogy keeps up the momentum from the first one. We learn more about the magic and how even those with the same element can have unique skills. We are also introduced to a new baddie who has just upped the stakes. I am looking forward to the third book to see how Issaria will overcome her personal obstacles while saving the world.
Profile Image for Sonja Blanco.
Author 4 books132 followers
December 24, 2024
Powerful sequel filled with adventure, magic, romance, and nail-biting tension.

A forced yet incredibly hot (literally) and swoony marriage alliance. A fierce princess with a keep-you-on-the-edge-of-your-seat internal struggle with a vengeful God. And a lethal force slowly devouring an intriguing world split between light and dark. Son of Shattered Souls is a POWERFUL read!

As a fan of Calix and Issaria and the world of Ellorhys, I devoured this second installment in the Shattered Trilogy. The beginning instantly gripped me with Shura’s side of this story’s multiple POV diamond and I was so invested in what he would do next.

Author Sara DeLaVergne once again weaves a wondrous story of secret identities, nonstop action, high stakes tension, dark vengeance, multi-faceted characters, and an intriguing, epic world.
Multiple twists and turns and a cliff hanger of an ending have me anxiously awaiting the final installment.

I highly recommend this series to fans of epic fantasy with intricate plotting and wonderfully complex characters.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews

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