“The Greatest Queen Who Ever Lived.” That’s what the high priest has called Princess Miri of the Lihtari, Keeper of Light, since birth. Raised within Diamond Capital’s walls, Miri believed her life was blessed. But when she comes of age, everything changes. The realm is built on lies. The god she serves is not who she thought. And her bondmate is someone who should not exist. A Keeper of Darkness.
Bound by prophecy, and now the fate of the realm rests with them.
As a child, Haley Anna Marie's deafness inspired her to create stories to accompany the pictures in books. After her hearing was restored at age seven, her passion for storytelling took root. Haley Anna Marie writes gritty romantic fantasy, where love stings and heroes falter. Her Elementas series masterfully weaves twisty plots, flawed characters, and elemental magic into unforgettable emotional journeys. Holding a psychology degree with a minor in criminology, Haley Anna Marie previously worked as a forensic interviewer and investigator for crimes against children. Now, she balances life as a stay-at-home mom to identical twin boys by day and an author by night. When not writing, Haley Anna Marie immerses herself in fantasy or thriller novels, explores nature, saves worlds in video games, or engages in cross-stitching.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the Elementas series so far, and when Keepers came out, I was quick to set a space in my immediate tbr…IT WAS WORTH IT! First thing is that it’s imperative to know that this is the first book in the series that shifts back to the mortal perspective, and that just means that every edge and danger counts. Right away, we are given deeper insights into the world Haley Anna Marie has constructed, seeing more of the tendencies and attributes of the elemental races, and that is part of the awesome grimdark flavor of this series. We get a better look at the alliances and prejudices that have settled into the races since the end of the War of the Gods, and it quickly becomes clear that the war may not be over after all. In this book, you will find the clash of hope and tragedy, and beyond that you will have to see for yourself. The characters are awesome, often taking turns in their development that will surprise you and keep you reading with fervor. I think I will not be the only one to find solid enjoyment in the character of Vexis, but there are so many that contribute so well to the story. I absolutely love this storyline. And readers, don’t forget: this is still grimdark, even if the point of view has changed. To our skilled author, Haley: I’ll be seeing you again for the fourth book, and I have my credits ready for your audiobooks, keep them coming!
Just finished the latest book in the Elementas Series
This is a really strong entry in the series, my favourite so far. You might say not a lot happened, boy meets girl, forbidden love etc. However, it never felt laboured and flowed really well.
It was especially evident in this book that Haley's style of writing has an unusual tone and style. It gives an otherworldly effect at times, to the point of being slightly odd. It was almost as though it had been translated, with some rather interesting phrasing adding a quality which almost jarred. That nonetheless really works in the world she has created, and suits the fantasy Grimdark genre.
The book ends very abruptly, which very much contrasts with the rest of the novel in terms of pacing. It's quite a shocking ending, which I didn't see coming, but in hindsight all the signs were there.
There were some excellent characters in this book, Vexis in particular is probably my favourite of the series so far.
I enjoyed this installment and zoomed through in just a few sittings. A solid 4 stars from me, which I rate as very good. Can't wait to read book four!
Keepers is great continuation of a series I've really enjoyed. Each book is unique in its approach. Yamay was personal, focusing on one person overcoming a bleak childhood, a suffocatingly brutal marriage/imprisonment, and coming out powerful. War of the Gods took several steps upward and gave us a broader look at the world, with its warring factions and gods who involved themselves.
Keepers is somewhere in the middle. We get that personal connection again, with the focus being on a young couple navigating their responsibilities in a world ready to brim over with conflict again. The new characters -- Miri and Vexis -- are very unique from those we've met in this series, and yet their struggle is familiar.
I'll say again -- I'm not some veteran reader of grimdark so I have a limited exposure to it. This book, like its predecessors, has plenty of darkness...and yet I really enjoyed it. I prefer happy endings and lighter fare, but I love Elementas. It feels balanced -- neither excessively dark nor cheerful.
Another great book! This one is a bit lighter with dark undertones at first. Then, quickly, things get wrapped up nice and tragic with that Grimdark flare and send you on your way knowing book 4 is gunna be intense. Also, Vex is definitely a favorite. Characters and World Building are both very well done