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The Dance of Light #3
Η Ανέγερση της Δύσης
Το χώμα έξω από τα τείχη της Γουίρσκγουορθ είναι βαμμένο με αίμα, μετά από την τελευταία μάχη του Έλιοτ ενάντια στους άντρες του Γουόλτερ. Ο εχθρός μπορεί να ηττήθηκε για ακόμα μία φορά, όμως ο πόλεμος δεν έχει τελειώσει. Οι στρατιώτες στο πλευρό του Έλιοτ έχουν αποδεκατιστεί, ενώ δεν έχουν απομείνει άλλοι σύμμαχοι στο βασίλειο.
Όσο ο Έλιοτ προσπαθεί να βρει μια λύση στο πλάι του Άλερον και της Σοφί, τραγικά νέα φτάνουν στο Έλμορ. Ένα αγαπημένο πρόσωπο έχει δολοφονηθεί, ενώ ο Γουόλτερ έχει καταφέρει να γίνει πιο ισχυρός από ποτέ. Κανείς δεν μπορεί να εξηγήσει τα γεγονότα, ωστόσο όλοι ξέρουν πως το τέλος πλέον πλησιάζει με αδυσώπητους ρυθμούς.
Το σκοτεινότερο βιβλίο της σειράς, ο Χορός του Φωτός, θα αλλάξει την ιστορία του Νάιτντορν μια για πάντα.
Όσο ο Έλιοτ προσπαθεί να βρει μια λύση στο πλάι του Άλερον και της Σοφί, τραγικά νέα φτάνουν στο Έλμορ. Ένα αγαπημένο πρόσωπο έχει δολοφονηθεί, ενώ ο Γουόλτερ έχει καταφέρει να γίνει πιο ισχυρός από ποτέ. Κανείς δεν μπορεί να εξηγήσει τα γεγονότα, ωστόσο όλοι ξέρουν πως το τέλος πλέον πλησιάζει με αδυσώπητους ρυθμούς.
Το σκοτεινότερο βιβλίο της σειράς, ο Χορός του Φωτός, θα αλλάξει την ιστορία του Νάιτντορν μια για πάντα.
- GenresFantasy
Unknown Binding
Published November 30, 2024
5 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Gregory Kontaxis
5 books130 followersDiscover the enchanting world of "The Dance of Light" epic fantasy series with a FREE prequel novella, "The Knight of the Moon." Join Gregory Kontaxis' mailing list now at https://gregorykontaxis.com/sign-up/ to claim your copy!
Gregory Kontaxis is a Greek epic fantasy author who writes about medieval wars, mythology, politics and epic adventures. His characters are ordinary and at the same time complex living with many challenges to face.
"The Return of the Knights" is the first part of his planned pentalogy “The Dance of Light”.
Gregory was born on 17th December 1989 in Athens. He studied Informatics and Finance in Greece and the United Kingdom and he has worked as a Financial Analyst in Vienna and London. He currently resides in London, where he is occupied with investment risk management and writing.
Gregory Kontaxis is a Greek epic fantasy author who writes about medieval wars, mythology, politics and epic adventures. His characters are ordinary and at the same time complex living with many challenges to face.
"The Return of the Knights" is the first part of his planned pentalogy “The Dance of Light”.
Gregory was born on 17th December 1989 in Athens. He studied Informatics and Finance in Greece and the United Kingdom and he has worked as a Financial Analyst in Vienna and London. He currently resides in London, where he is occupied with investment risk management and writing.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
May 26, 2025
“If all knights were as honourable as Elliot, then no children would ever die in war.”
EXCUSE ME, I AM IN PAIN BECAUSE OF THIS BOOK. What do you mean multiple intriguing characters met their end?? Nope, nope, I refuse to believe it. Everyone is fine and happy.
AGH. Those two in the last several chapters really got me, the first one was an absolute shock, I had to put the book down in disbelief. Then I went back to reread that section to make sure my eyes weren't playing tricks on me. IT'S SO UNFAIR!!
Then when the second one happened, I was almost expecting it, but was hoping that character would somehow make it. Unfortunately, that wasn't meant to be.
As hurt as I am, I still love that twist, everything seemed to finally be going in the right direction, there was a light at the end of the tunnel, and then of course something terrible had to happen to ruin it, but I love the emotions it pulled out of me anyway.
I feel so bad for the ones who'll have to pick up the pieces, and try to defeat Walter once and for all with such big players removed from the board. They'll need all the luck in the world to pull it off.
Now, speaking generally, this was the best book in the series (so far). And you know how I feel about book one, but The Rise of the West took The Dance of Light to a whole different level with the stellar character development. I had a hard time tearing my eyes away from the pages, everything was simply enchanting.
Every single PoV was gripping in its own way, so it's kind of cruel we lost some we were getting to know even better (no, I will not get over it).
I found myself falling deeper in love with the world and its characters as I was reading, even the newly introduced ones like Rain and Marin. I hope we'll see more of them in the next book. I like Edmee too, even if she's a bit misguided.
Velhisya's PoV was the scariest / most anxiety-inducting to me, because of the situation she was in. I didn't want anything bad to happen to her, and was waiting for her to either rescue herself, or for someone to come and help her.
Relating to that, I miss her poor cellmate already, I'd like to think that they're in a better place now, free from judgement.
I also missed our favourite pirate, John, who spends the whole book away from his (remaining) friends, which is very inconvenient, considering the situations they found themselves in. But worry not, he's coming back to his senses, slowly.
I'd say this was more character heavy than plot heavy, but there's absolutely enough politics, betrayals & plot to go around. And it doesn't feel like a filler book, though the fight with Walter is eminent.
There's even a teeny tiny speck of romance, where Velhisya realises there's a bond with Elliot, and where Elliot realises she's the only one for him. It's only a matter of time before they can finally be together, and I can't wait to see it.
If you love series that progressively get darker, punch you in the feels, and are filled with adventures and wonder at every turn, PLEASE GIVE THE DANCE OF LIGHT A CHANCE!!! I've been obsessed since the first book and I know you will be too.
*Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
EXCUSE ME, I AM IN PAIN BECAUSE OF THIS BOOK. What do you mean multiple intriguing characters met their end?? Nope, nope, I refuse to believe it. Everyone is fine and happy.
AGH. Those two in the last several chapters really got me, the first one was an absolute shock, I had to put the book down in disbelief. Then I went back to reread that section to make sure my eyes weren't playing tricks on me. IT'S SO UNFAIR!!
Then when the second one happened, I was almost expecting it, but was hoping that character would somehow make it. Unfortunately, that wasn't meant to be.
As hurt as I am, I still love that twist, everything seemed to finally be going in the right direction, there was a light at the end of the tunnel, and then of course something terrible had to happen to ruin it, but I love the emotions it pulled out of me anyway.
I feel so bad for the ones who'll have to pick up the pieces, and try to defeat Walter once and for all with such big players removed from the board. They'll need all the luck in the world to pull it off.
Now, speaking generally, this was the best book in the series (so far). And you know how I feel about book one, but The Rise of the West took The Dance of Light to a whole different level with the stellar character development. I had a hard time tearing my eyes away from the pages, everything was simply enchanting.
Every single PoV was gripping in its own way, so it's kind of cruel we lost some we were getting to know even better (no, I will not get over it).
I found myself falling deeper in love with the world and its characters as I was reading, even the newly introduced ones like Rain and Marin. I hope we'll see more of them in the next book. I like Edmee too, even if she's a bit misguided.
Velhisya's PoV was the scariest / most anxiety-inducting to me, because of the situation she was in. I didn't want anything bad to happen to her, and was waiting for her to either rescue herself, or for someone to come and help her.
Relating to that, I miss her poor cellmate already, I'd like to think that they're in a better place now, free from judgement.
I also missed our favourite pirate, John, who spends the whole book away from his (remaining) friends, which is very inconvenient, considering the situations they found themselves in. But worry not, he's coming back to his senses, slowly.
I'd say this was more character heavy than plot heavy, but there's absolutely enough politics, betrayals & plot to go around. And it doesn't feel like a filler book, though the fight with Walter is eminent.
There's even a teeny tiny speck of romance, where Velhisya realises there's a bond with Elliot, and where Elliot realises she's the only one for him. It's only a matter of time before they can finally be together, and I can't wait to see it.
If you love series that progressively get darker, punch you in the feels, and are filled with adventures and wonder at every turn, PLEASE GIVE THE DANCE OF LIGHT A CHANCE!!! I've been obsessed since the first book and I know you will be too.
*Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
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April 21, 2025
Every victory has its costs. With depleted forces, a desperate western alliance gambled. Danger lurks. Conspirators & blood rule.
And no one is safe.
Wow! By far the bleakest chapter in this series! Grim, terrifying & heartbreaking! Dark & riveting!
I found this one really upped the danger in this world. Whereas the past installments you expect the heroes to eventually stage their gallant stand.
This one you wonder if they can even survive.
The heroes, even our main protagonist have that safety bubble popped. There are so many surprises as this series evolves into grimdark.
Which is fine by me. That’s my first love.
If you are looking to get your heart smashed this is a good one.
A more cheerful note. An old favourite who sails the seas has been mulling things over lately.
Let’s hope it’s not too late.
Much thanks to the author for providing this ARC.
And no one is safe.
Wow! By far the bleakest chapter in this series! Grim, terrifying & heartbreaking! Dark & riveting!
I found this one really upped the danger in this world. Whereas the past installments you expect the heroes to eventually stage their gallant stand.
This one you wonder if they can even survive.
The heroes, even our main protagonist have that safety bubble popped. There are so many surprises as this series evolves into grimdark.
Which is fine by me. That’s my first love.
If you are looking to get your heart smashed this is a good one.
A more cheerful note. An old favourite who sails the seas has been mulling things over lately.
Let’s hope it’s not too late.
Much thanks to the author for providing this ARC.
October 28, 2025
"The Dance of Light" series by Gregory Kontaxis continues it's brutal and grim trajectory in the third installment "The Rise of the West"...and let's just say, this book introduces us to a whole new level of...WHAT!? 😲
Gregory goes and (in great detail at times) paints his darkest addition to the series yet with book 3! We've all read books that will hold no character untouchable, but when our fearless author decides to follow this strategy...dear God does he hit home! ☠️ I was actually shocked at multiple points of the book, and it's not scenes that are written lightly or brief. This series has always, from it's creation, been a very strategic game of power with many twists and betrayal...but the deception and backstabbing that takes place in this book may just shake the very core of his most diehard fans. Seriously Gregory, what in the hell are you trying to do to us!? ...I might just have to start calling you Walter...😤
Okay now that I got that out of the way, the expansion of the world building for this saga reaches new shores and kingdoms that add perplexing new additions to the mounting turmoil spreading throughout the lands. As the title states, yes we venture West...but we also head North and follow the unraveling new journey from one of my favs, John (Long Arm). After the fantastic Novella following this characters backstory, I found this chapter in his arc to be quite compelling to read. Does John have personal stuff to work through?...yes, but I have faith...and man I hope we get more from this point in the travels moving forward! ❄️
Elliott continues his March towards his inevitable showdown with Walter, but I found myself more and more frustrated with his decisions and overall behavior this time around ...but I need to remind myself that he's still very young and has a lot riding on him.
The other 2 intriguing and well written ARC's to follow in this book were Velhisya and Sophie...and this is where we get the 'deep dark' tone weighing heavily throughout this entry. Between the dungeons of Vylor and the events out West in Mirth, I found myself hanging on every line with bated breath...only to be (more than a few times) gasping and cursing the name of our beloved author! I will not mention the specifics, but HOW COULD YOU GREGORY!!!
Bottom line, this built on the already complex story we've followed through this series and in brutally grim and soul sucking detail, raises the bar to terrifying heights! I can't foresee the path Kontaxis is intending to take next ..and that's what I think I love most about this series, it's extremely unpredictable and will shock you with almost every chapter! 🤯
Wyverns, Giants, Elves, Men and even Mermaids start to crowd the already volatile and complex race to power in these lands ...peace is but a dream in what is playing out to be a nightmare scenario for most, will the strength of our hero's overcome the might and treachery of the enemy?! Trust is earned...don't turn your back on those that have yet to do so! 🔥
4⭐ for this chess like game of strategy. Character arcs are on a crash course for a major collision...we are well on our way to an explosive finale! 💥
This review is available on Grimoire Ink Reviews
Gregory goes and (in great detail at times) paints his darkest addition to the series yet with book 3! We've all read books that will hold no character untouchable, but when our fearless author decides to follow this strategy...dear God does he hit home! ☠️ I was actually shocked at multiple points of the book, and it's not scenes that are written lightly or brief. This series has always, from it's creation, been a very strategic game of power with many twists and betrayal...but the deception and backstabbing that takes place in this book may just shake the very core of his most diehard fans. Seriously Gregory, what in the hell are you trying to do to us!? ...I might just have to start calling you Walter...😤
Okay now that I got that out of the way, the expansion of the world building for this saga reaches new shores and kingdoms that add perplexing new additions to the mounting turmoil spreading throughout the lands. As the title states, yes we venture West...but we also head North and follow the unraveling new journey from one of my favs, John (Long Arm). After the fantastic Novella following this characters backstory, I found this chapter in his arc to be quite compelling to read. Does John have personal stuff to work through?...yes, but I have faith...and man I hope we get more from this point in the travels moving forward! ❄️
Elliott continues his March towards his inevitable showdown with Walter, but I found myself more and more frustrated with his decisions and overall behavior this time around ...but I need to remind myself that he's still very young and has a lot riding on him.
The other 2 intriguing and well written ARC's to follow in this book were Velhisya and Sophie...and this is where we get the 'deep dark' tone weighing heavily throughout this entry. Between the dungeons of Vylor and the events out West in Mirth, I found myself hanging on every line with bated breath...only to be (more than a few times) gasping and cursing the name of our beloved author! I will not mention the specifics, but HOW COULD YOU GREGORY!!!
Bottom line, this built on the already complex story we've followed through this series and in brutally grim and soul sucking detail, raises the bar to terrifying heights! I can't foresee the path Kontaxis is intending to take next ..and that's what I think I love most about this series, it's extremely unpredictable and will shock you with almost every chapter! 🤯
Wyverns, Giants, Elves, Men and even Mermaids start to crowd the already volatile and complex race to power in these lands ...peace is but a dream in what is playing out to be a nightmare scenario for most, will the strength of our hero's overcome the might and treachery of the enemy?! Trust is earned...don't turn your back on those that have yet to do so! 🔥
4⭐ for this chess like game of strategy. Character arcs are on a crash course for a major collision...we are well on our way to an explosive finale! 💥
This review is available on Grimoire Ink Reviews
January 12, 2025
Η άνοδος στην γραφή του συγγραφέα από το πρώτο ("Η Επιστροφή των Ιπποτών") στο δεύτερο ("Η Πτώση των Γιγάντων") βιβλίο ήταν για εμένα μια αποκάλυψη. Μη παρεξηγηθώ, και το πρώτο βιβλίο το διάβασα ευχάριστα. Όμως στο δεύτερο κατάλαβα πολλά από όσα ήθελε να πει ο συγγραφέας. Σε αυτό βοήθησε και η νουβελέτα "Ο Ιππότης του Φεγγαριού", που ακόμη και σήμερα παραμένει ένα από τα καλύτερα βιβλία που διάβασα ΠΟΤΕ με ιπποτικό θέμα. Η διαφορά εδώ, στο τρίτο μέρος της σειράς "Ο Χορός του Φωτός" έχει να κάνει με λεπτομέρειες. Στα υπόλοιπα βιβλία υπάρχουν ξεκάθαρα ΚΑΛΟΙ και ΚΑΚΟΙ χαρακτήρες. Οι γκρίζοι είναι στην ουσία αυτοί που ενώ ξέρουν πως όσα κάνει ο αρχηγός τους είναι κακό, δεν τολμούν να πράξουν όσα λέει η καρδιά τους. Σε αυτό το τρίτο βιβλίο, ο συγγραφέας τολμάει να δείξει περισσότερο πως οι άνθρωποι δεν είναι μόνο άσπρο ή μαύρο. Η φαντασία και τα φανταστικά πλάσματα υπάρχουν και εδώ, αλλά μετά την εκπληκτικά υπέροχη αποκάλυψή τους στο δεύτερο μέρος, εδώ μένουν στο παρασκήνιο, χωρίς να εξαφανίζονται φυσικά. Η ιστορία συνεχίζεται με μεγάλο ενδιαφέρον και τολμώ να πω πως απολαμβάνω την ανάγνωσή του. Και αυτό, σε μια τριλογία, τετραλογία κτλ είναι και το σημαντικότερο. Η φαντασία του συγγραφέα μας διηγείται ιστορίες και λεπτομέρειες που κάνουν τον κόσμο του περισσότερο αληθοφανή και... μας οδηγούν στις τελευταίες 20-25 σελίδες, που το βιβλίο γίνεται το σκοτεινότερο από τα τρία και πραγματικά κλείνεις το τελευταίο φύλλο και μαζί νομίζεις πως σβήνει και ο ήλιος! Μετά το τέλος του βιβλίου, ήθελα να μη ξαναδιαβάσω τίποτα, μέχρι να βγει το επόμενο βιβλίο. Στο τέλος κάθε βιβλίου, ενώ οι ήρωες κάνουν ότι πρέπει για να κερδίσουν την μάχη, ανταγωνιστής δείχνει ακόμη δυνατότερος από όσο όταν ξεκίνησε. Πραγματικά, δεν ξέρω τι να περιμένω στη συνέχεια από τον συγγραφέα. Δεν πιστεύω πως υπάρχει σωτηρία για τους ήρωες! Τόσο σκοτεινό είναι το τέλος!
Ανυπομονώ για τη συνέχεια.
Ανυπομονώ για τη συνέχεια.
November 5, 2025
I thought this series was a trilogy and I was very wrong lol. so much yet to uncover. solid story, solid writing. the MC Elliott could be a little more mentally tuff, he can be whiny at times, but pretty solid work all the way around
Read
May 30, 2025Rtc
December 20, 2024
Πρώτη δημοσίευση εδώ: https://www.dominicamat.gr/2024/12/bl...
Όλο και πιο σπάνια επιλέγω να διαβάσω τριλογίες, τετραλογίες, πενταλογίες, ή, σειρές βιβλίων. Θέλω να μπορούν τα εν λόγω βιβλία να μου κρατούν ζεστό το ενδιαφέρον μου γύρω από την ιστορία τους και να αδημονώ να μάθω τη συνέχεια. Δεν μπορώ, πλέον, να σπαταλώ το χρόνο μου σε μοτίβα που επαναλαμβάνουν τα ίδια και τα ίδια με άλλα λόγια, ή, να υστερούν από άποψη πρωτοτυπίας, δομής, γραφής κλπ. Εύλογα θα αναρωτηθείτε αν υπάρχουν και κάποιες εξα��ρέσεις. Φυσικά! Μία εξ αυτών και τα βιβλία του συγγραφέα Γρηγόρη Κονταξή που με έχουν κάνει να ταξιδεύω σε φανταστικούς χρόνους και χώρους και να ''συναντώ'' εξωπραγματικά πλάσματα, να λαμβάνω -έστω και νοερά- μέρος σε ατελείωτες περιπέτειες και κυρίως να δραπετεύω από τα όρια της κάποιες φορές πνιγηρής πραγματικότητας... Διάβασα και σας προτείνω το νέο του βιβλίο, με τίτλο ''Η Ανέγερση της Δύσης'' (το 3ο της σειράς "Ο Χορός του Φωτός"), το οποίο κυκλοφορεί από τις εκδόσεις Οσελότος και μας υπόσχεται να ζήσουμε μία μοναδική εμπειρία.
''Το χώμα έξω από τα τείχη της Γουίρσκγουορθ είναι βαμμένο με αίμα, μετά από την τελευταία μάχη του Έλιοτ ενάντια στους άντρες του Γουόλτερ. Ο εχθρός μπορεί να ηττήθηκε για ακόμα μία φορά, όμως ο πόλεμος δεν έχει τελειώσει. Οι στρατιώτες στο πλευρό του Έλιοτ έχουν αποδεκατιστεί, ενώ δεν έχουν απομείνει άλλοι σύμμαχοι στο βασίλειο.
Όσο ο Έλιοτ προσπαθεί να βρει μια λύση στο πλάι του Άλερον και της Σοφί, τραγικά νέα φτάνουν στο Έλμορ. Ένα αγαπημένο πρόσωπο έχει δολοφονηθεί, ενώ ο Γουόλτερ έχει καταφέρει να γίνει πιο ισχυρός από ποτέ. Κανείς δεν μπορεί να εξηγήσει τα γεγονότα, ωστόσο όλοι ξέρουν πως το τέλος πλέον πλησιάζει με αδυσώπητους ρυθμούς." (Από το οπισθόφυλλο)
Το τρίτο βιβλίο της σειράς δεν είναι μόνο πιο σκοτεινό, αλλά και πιο πλούσιο από άποψη δράσης, μυστηρίου, αγωνίας και ατελείωτης δόσης φαντασίας. Με σταθερά εξελίξιμη την πένα του συγγραφέα, μπορώ να πω ότι το βιβλίο άξιζε τον χρόνο που του αφιέρωσα. Ναι, για μένα είναι σημαντικό να περνώ καλά διαβάζοντας και το βιβλίο το πέτυχε αυτό! Βρήκα δε εύστοχη την κίνηση του συγγραφέα, αντί προλόγου, να αφιερώνει τις πρώτες σελίδες του βιβλίου, ώστε να μας δίνει μία περιληπτική εικόνα του τί ήδη έχει διαδραματιστεί, οδηγώντας μας με αυτόν τον τρόπο πιο ομαλά μέσα στην πλοκή του τρίτου βιβλίου. Όλοι κι όλες παραταγμένοι/ες στη θέση τους και το ταξίδι ξεκινά. Άραγε, τί νέο θα μας αποκαλυφθεί που θα αλλάξει μια για πάντα την ιστορία του Νάιτντορν; Οι απαντήσεις μέσα στις σελίδες του βιβλίου. Εγώ ανυπομονώ για τη συνέχεια.
Αναζητήστε το! Καλή ανάγνωση.
Κυκλοφορεί από τις εκδόσεις Οσελότος.
https://vivliovamon.blogspot.com/2024...
Όλο και πιο σπάνια επιλέγω να διαβάσω τριλογίες, τετραλογίες, πενταλογίες, ή, σειρές βιβλίων. Θέλω να μπορούν τα εν λόγω βιβλία να μου κρατούν ζεστό το ενδιαφέρον μου γύρω από την ιστορία τους και να αδημονώ να μάθω τη συνέχεια. Δεν μπορώ, πλέον, να σπαταλώ το χρόνο μου σε μοτίβα που επαναλαμβάνουν τα ίδια και τα ίδια με άλλα λόγια, ή, να υστερούν από άποψη πρωτοτυπίας, δομής, γραφής κλπ. Εύλογα θα αναρωτηθείτε αν υπάρχουν και κάποιες εξα��ρέσεις. Φυσικά! Μία εξ αυτών και τα βιβλία του συγγραφέα Γρηγόρη Κονταξή που με έχουν κάνει να ταξιδεύω σε φανταστικούς χρόνους και χώρους και να ''συναντώ'' εξωπραγματικά πλάσματα, να λαμβάνω -έστω και νοερά- μέρος σε ατελείωτες περιπέτειες και κυρίως να δραπετεύω από τα όρια της κάποιες φορές πνιγηρής πραγματικότητας... Διάβασα και σας προτείνω το νέο του βιβλίο, με τίτλο ''Η Ανέγερση της Δύσης'' (το 3ο της σειράς "Ο Χορός του Φωτός"), το οποίο κυκλοφορεί από τις εκδόσεις Οσελότος και μας υπόσχεται να ζήσουμε μία μοναδική εμπειρία.
''Το χώμα έξω από τα τείχη της Γουίρσκγουορθ είναι βαμμένο με αίμα, μετά από την τελευταία μάχη του Έλιοτ ενάντια στους άντρες του Γουόλτερ. Ο εχθρός μπορεί να ηττήθηκε για ακόμα μία φορά, όμως ο πόλεμος δεν έχει τελειώσει. Οι στρατιώτες στο πλευρό του Έλιοτ έχουν αποδεκατιστεί, ενώ δεν έχουν απομείνει άλλοι σύμμαχοι στο βασίλειο.
Όσο ο Έλιοτ προσπαθεί να βρει μια λύση στο πλάι του Άλερον και της Σοφί, τραγικά νέα φτάνουν στο Έλμορ. Ένα αγαπημένο πρόσωπο έχει δολοφονηθεί, ενώ ο Γουόλτερ έχει καταφέρει να γίνει πιο ισχυρός από ποτέ. Κανείς δεν μπορεί να εξηγήσει τα γεγονότα, ωστόσο όλοι ξέρουν πως το τέλος πλέον πλησιάζει με αδυσώπητους ρυθμούς." (Από το οπισθόφυλλο)
Το τρίτο βιβλίο της σειράς δεν είναι μόνο πιο σκοτεινό, αλλά και πιο πλούσιο από άποψη δράσης, μυστηρίου, αγωνίας και ατελείωτης δόσης φαντασίας. Με σταθερά εξελίξιμη την πένα του συγγραφέα, μπορώ να πω ότι το βιβλίο άξιζε τον χρόνο που του αφιέρωσα. Ναι, για μένα είναι σημαντικό να περνώ καλά διαβάζοντας και το βιβλίο το πέτυχε αυτό! Βρήκα δε εύστοχη την κίνηση του συγγραφέα, αντί προλόγου, να αφιερώνει τις πρώτες σελίδες του βιβλίου, ώστε να μας δίνει μία περιληπτική εικόνα του τί ήδη έχει διαδραματιστεί, οδηγώντας μας με αυτόν τον τρόπο πιο ομαλά μέσα στην πλοκή του τρίτου βιβλίου. Όλοι κι όλες παραταγμένοι/ες στη θέση τους και το ταξίδι ξεκινά. Άραγε, τί νέο θα μας αποκαλυφθεί που θα αλλάξει μια για πάντα την ιστορία του Νάιτντορν; Οι απαντήσεις μέσα στις σελίδες του βιβλίου. Εγώ ανυπομονώ για τη συνέχεια.
Αναζητήστε το! Καλή ανάγνωση.
Κυκλοφορεί από τις εκδόσεις Οσελότος.
https://vivliovamon.blogspot.com/2024...
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March 20, 2025I had the pleasure of editing this book, so it's hard to do an unbiased review. This book packs a punch in between the long tension. New memorable characters are introduced while familiar ones deal with the aftermath of book 2's events. No one is safe in this book.
April 13, 2025
I was lucky enough to proofread this book so I cannot be unbiased! However it is safe to say if you enjoyed the previous books in the series you will love this one! In this episode the political machinations have been amped up, there are plots aplenty and a courageous hero shining through. Oh, and mermaids and wyverns bring a boatload of fantasy alongside!
April 17, 2025
Teyst
October 2, 2025
I will admit, this was just about a 2-star for me, but any author that is unwilling to treat their characters with kid gloves deserves more respect.
In all honesty, I picked up the series due to this books cover alone. I have yet to see any other book indie or trad that matches the "I have to read this" feeling I had when I saw this.
The story itself is rather expansive. I feel there is a sense of intimidation when you begin with pages and pages of names and places. For as much as its worth, I don't feel this story needs such a glossary, though I can appreciate the author for putting in the efforts.
The story itself caught me a bit off as I was under the impression this was the last of a 3-book series, so when I was getting on 70 percent done and there had not been any final battle, I was beginning to get worried. Finding out now there are still books coming this makes a bit more sense. This book is effectively setup for the beginning of the grand finale.
I found the writing style solid, not bland nor overly engaging, but a decent means by which the story can be relayed. The characters were varied and detailed enough save for the two extremes. I found Walter (sorry, I still can't get over the bad guy being named Walter, it's like Keith... it just doesn't have gravitas) completely flat. I get that he is supposed to be the irredeemable character, but his actions and person almost seem to surpass caricature. Likewise Elliot is the quintessential good-guy, so much so that he really doesn't stand out as someone to focus on. Characters like Sophie are where it's at as far as I'm concerned, and while I'm sure Kontaxis made some folks chuck their books with how she was handled, so far as I'm concerned *chef's kiss*.
All in all, a solid effort. 70% meh. 30% hell-yeah.
In all honesty, I picked up the series due to this books cover alone. I have yet to see any other book indie or trad that matches the "I have to read this" feeling I had when I saw this.
The story itself is rather expansive. I feel there is a sense of intimidation when you begin with pages and pages of names and places. For as much as its worth, I don't feel this story needs such a glossary, though I can appreciate the author for putting in the efforts.
The story itself caught me a bit off as I was under the impression this was the last of a 3-book series, so when I was getting on 70 percent done and there had not been any final battle, I was beginning to get worried. Finding out now there are still books coming this makes a bit more sense. This book is effectively setup for the beginning of the grand finale.
I found the writing style solid, not bland nor overly engaging, but a decent means by which the story can be relayed. The characters were varied and detailed enough save for the two extremes. I found Walter (sorry, I still can't get over the bad guy being named Walter, it's like Keith... it just doesn't have gravitas) completely flat. I get that he is supposed to be the irredeemable character, but his actions and person almost seem to surpass caricature. Likewise Elliot is the quintessential good-guy, so much so that he really doesn't stand out as someone to focus on. Characters like Sophie are where it's at as far as I'm concerned, and while I'm sure Kontaxis made some folks chuck their books with how she was handled, so far as I'm concerned *chef's kiss*.
All in all, a solid effort. 70% meh. 30% hell-yeah.
May 26, 2025
Excuse me, what?!! I'm literally speechless after these last few chapters because what do you mean? This ending gave me GOT-level trauma and I'm still shocked at some of the plot twists 😱
The Rise of the West is the third book in The Dance of Light series and it picks up right where book 2 left us. Elliot and his companions might have gained another victory against Walter but they soon learned that this defeat was the price that Walter paid in order to bond with all the remaining wyverns.
It is now even more primordial for our friends to secure more alliances in order to hope to be able to end Walter's tyranny once and for all.
This book was full of tension and suspense. It will make you gasp, seethe, stare in horror at the words in front of you, but somehow you'll keep wanting more!
I'm definitely shook after finishing this book and I can't wait to see where the story's gonna go from there.
𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯.
The Rise of the West is the third book in The Dance of Light series and it picks up right where book 2 left us. Elliot and his companions might have gained another victory against Walter but they soon learned that this defeat was the price that Walter paid in order to bond with all the remaining wyverns.
It is now even more primordial for our friends to secure more alliances in order to hope to be able to end Walter's tyranny once and for all.
This book was full of tension and suspense. It will make you gasp, seethe, stare in horror at the words in front of you, but somehow you'll keep wanting more!
I'm definitely shook after finishing this book and I can't wait to see where the story's gonna go from there.
𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯.
April 8, 2025
The Rise of the West, the third book in Gregory Kontaxis's The Dance of Light series, is a perfect continuation of the epic saga. The story picks up seamlessly from where the last book left off, diving straight into the heart of conflict while expanding the rich, myth-infused world the author has built. The pacing is tight, the stakes are higher than ever, and the narrative remains gripping from start to finish.
What truly stands out is the remarkable character development. Both returning and new characters are given space to grow, each arc layered with complexity and emotional weight. The author masterfully weaves their personal struggles into the larger tapestry of war, loyalty, and sacrifice. The ending, in particular, is a powerful crescendo—an explosion of emotions that leaves a lasting impact and sets the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable next chapter.
What truly stands out is the remarkable character development. Both returning and new characters are given space to grow, each arc layered with complexity and emotional weight. The author masterfully weaves their personal struggles into the larger tapestry of war, loyalty, and sacrifice. The ending, in particular, is a powerful crescendo—an explosion of emotions that leaves a lasting impact and sets the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable next chapter.
July 30, 2025
This review is available on Grimoire Ink Reviews
I am really invested in this series. I love the characters. I love seeing the writing get better and better. I love seeing more of the world and the magic and the politics. I also hate Gregory for everything he did in this book. I think I told him this.
Ok I just double checked, it turns out I finished the book, messaged him that were having “many words” about this and then the following day just shrieked about things. Gregory’s response was ‘Yes…the story took me into dark paths.’ To which I replied ‘And you went ‘I’m taking everyone else with me!” Readers, even the author admits this one went so dark!
But dark doesn’t mean it’s a bad thing. I genuinely liked The Rise of the West and I can’t wait to see more of these books. Where Gregory’s going to go and which characters with, I have no idea because he made some choices but it’s not described as “Game of Thrones meets Greek mythology” for nothing.
The opening chapter after The Story So Far (which is always appreciated!), caught me right away. I wasn’t sure who the people named were necessarily but they become very important and in hindsight it really set the tone for how things were going to go.
Just like with The Fall of the Giants, we get a lot more world and lore with The Rise of the West. And I am such a lore lover. The White Angel, the elwyn magic and bonds, the mermaids! I’m so keen, give me more! Ideally with less emotional trauma but I know Gregory well enough to know that’s just not going to happen.
One of the things that continues to shine, besides Velhisya, is the complexity that exists within the characters. I was tabbing this book and Long Arm John remains equal parts infuriating, cowardly, self-serving, and drunk, while also being really, really clever, understanding, and pragmatic. The duality of man! Also, more Jack. He’s been great. Berta Loers can just be summed up for me as ‘I don’t like her but damn do I like her.’
Sophie continues to grow on me. She knows what she needs to do but is also nursing some ongoing, and seriously deep, grief and guilt. As is Syrella. At least Sophie can see past her own feet, I’m not Syrella has that ability 24/7. As evidenced by **gesturing vaguely over there**. Meanwhile Elliot is just….he’s like meant to be the main character and is the least main character to me. I don’t dislike him, I just kind of treat him like wallpaper. I’m aware of he brings to things but I’d struggle to have a strong opinion of him other than ‘Think through your choices!’ Which is arguably not a trait of wallpaper. He’s a very strong Catalyst Character though. And I would still like him to think through his choices. …But then maybe we wouldn’t have that one scene at the end and that’s definitely going to come back to be something more later…. Well now I’m conflicted.
Walter is awful and I hate him. Which is his whole character so that’s working fine. There is such a wide cast of characters all doing so much and without question there are some you’re designed to hate and do, but others are many layers of thoughts that overlap and contradict one another. It makes for such a great cast overall.
I’m equal parts looking forward to the next book and also deeply concerned for my fragile emotions when it comes to the next book. I am so keen to see more of the world lore and magic though so that is winning over everything! I know there is more to come but I cannot even begin to speculate on where it’s going to go and how we’ll get there, except that ships will probably be involved at many points cause we ended on a number of islands.
I am really invested in this series. I love the characters. I love seeing the writing get better and better. I love seeing more of the world and the magic and the politics. I also hate Gregory for everything he did in this book. I think I told him this.
Ok I just double checked, it turns out I finished the book, messaged him that were having “many words” about this and then the following day just shrieked about things. Gregory’s response was ‘Yes…the story took me into dark paths.’ To which I replied ‘And you went ‘I’m taking everyone else with me!” Readers, even the author admits this one went so dark!
But dark doesn’t mean it’s a bad thing. I genuinely liked The Rise of the West and I can’t wait to see more of these books. Where Gregory’s going to go and which characters with, I have no idea because he made some choices but it’s not described as “Game of Thrones meets Greek mythology” for nothing.
The opening chapter after The Story So Far (which is always appreciated!), caught me right away. I wasn’t sure who the people named were necessarily but they become very important and in hindsight it really set the tone for how things were going to go.
Just like with The Fall of the Giants, we get a lot more world and lore with The Rise of the West. And I am such a lore lover. The White Angel, the elwyn magic and bonds, the mermaids! I’m so keen, give me more! Ideally with less emotional trauma but I know Gregory well enough to know that’s just not going to happen.
One of the things that continues to shine, besides Velhisya, is the complexity that exists within the characters. I was tabbing this book and Long Arm John remains equal parts infuriating, cowardly, self-serving, and drunk, while also being really, really clever, understanding, and pragmatic. The duality of man! Also, more Jack. He’s been great. Berta Loers can just be summed up for me as ‘I don’t like her but damn do I like her.’
Sophie continues to grow on me. She knows what she needs to do but is also nursing some ongoing, and seriously deep, grief and guilt. As is Syrella. At least Sophie can see past her own feet, I’m not Syrella has that ability 24/7. As evidenced by **gesturing vaguely over there**. Meanwhile Elliot is just….he’s like meant to be the main character and is the least main character to me. I don’t dislike him, I just kind of treat him like wallpaper. I’m aware of he brings to things but I’d struggle to have a strong opinion of him other than ‘Think through your choices!’ Which is arguably not a trait of wallpaper. He’s a very strong Catalyst Character though. And I would still like him to think through his choices. …But then maybe we wouldn’t have that one scene at the end and that’s definitely going to come back to be something more later…. Well now I’m conflicted.
Walter is awful and I hate him. Which is his whole character so that’s working fine. There is such a wide cast of characters all doing so much and without question there are some you’re designed to hate and do, but others are many layers of thoughts that overlap and contradict one another. It makes for such a great cast overall.
I’m equal parts looking forward to the next book and also deeply concerned for my fragile emotions when it comes to the next book. I am so keen to see more of the world lore and magic though so that is winning over everything! I know there is more to come but I cannot even begin to speculate on where it’s going to go and how we’ll get there, except that ships will probably be involved at many points cause we ended on a number of islands.
May 30, 2025
Book Review - The Rise of the West
Overall Rating 8.5/10⭐️
There are some series/authors that you are just hoping the next book in a series lands in your inbox.
The Dance of Light is that series for me, after that ending in Fall of the giants, I have been chomping to get hold of the next instalment.
Luckily Gregory being the gentleman that he is, sent me a physical arc to read. Thank you!
The Rise of the West was on the slower side initially compared to the previous books in this series. However the pacing soon ramped up.
I had to take some time to reacquaint myself with the huge cast of characters in this series. You may be like me and need to use the cast list at the front of the book, this helped me so much while reading this book.
I went into this book knowing it was the darkest one yet, however, I was reading this book thinking this ain’t so bad, then the author does something I didn’t see coming.
There was less focus on the action in this instalment, the focus from the author was definitely on the characters.
The characters development throughout this series has been really good but this book in particular was awesome.
You have returning and new characters alike given space to grow, each characters arc was fraught with complexity and emotional weight.
The author weaves their personal struggles into the larger story arc.
I think I’ve said this after each book in this series, after that ending I can’t wait to read the next book.
Overall Rating 8.5/10⭐️
There are some series/authors that you are just hoping the next book in a series lands in your inbox.
The Dance of Light is that series for me, after that ending in Fall of the giants, I have been chomping to get hold of the next instalment.
Luckily Gregory being the gentleman that he is, sent me a physical arc to read. Thank you!
The Rise of the West was on the slower side initially compared to the previous books in this series. However the pacing soon ramped up.
I had to take some time to reacquaint myself with the huge cast of characters in this series. You may be like me and need to use the cast list at the front of the book, this helped me so much while reading this book.
I went into this book knowing it was the darkest one yet, however, I was reading this book thinking this ain’t so bad, then the author does something I didn’t see coming.
There was less focus on the action in this instalment, the focus from the author was definitely on the characters.
The characters development throughout this series has been really good but this book in particular was awesome.
You have returning and new characters alike given space to grow, each characters arc was fraught with complexity and emotional weight.
The author weaves their personal struggles into the larger story arc.
I think I’ve said this after each book in this series, after that ending I can’t wait to read the next book.
May 28, 2025
I’m sending the author my therapist bill!!
This book has to be the darkest one so far from the series. The emotional rollercoaster i endured towards that last few chapters !!😭 it’s bittersweet but I honestly can’t wait to find out how the story progress.
If you love epic fantasy books then I implore you to pick up this series asap!!!
This book has to be the darkest one so far from the series. The emotional rollercoaster i endured towards that last few chapters !!😭 it’s bittersweet but I honestly can’t wait to find out how the story progress.
If you love epic fantasy books then I implore you to pick up this series asap!!!
June 16, 2025
A read that is both breathtaking and heartshattering.
August 17, 2025
Ο συνδυασμός της καλογραμμένης πλοκής, των πιστευτών χαρακτήρων και της συνεχούς δράσης καθιστούν το βιβλίο ένα πραγματικό page-turner. Η πορεία του Έλιοτ προς την ωριμότητα και η αναζήτηση νέων συμμάχων σε έναν κόσμο που καταρρέει προσφέρουν μια βαθιά και συγκινητική εμπειρία. «Η ανέγερση της Δύσης» είναι ένα μυθιστόρημα που δικαιώνει απόλυτα τις προσδοκίες και επιβεβαιώνει τη θέση του Γρηγόρη Κονταξή ως έναν από τους πιο αξιόλογους συγγραφείς επιστημονικής φαντασίας στην Ελλάδα. Το βιβλίο δεν απογοητεύει τους λάτρεις της σειράς, καθώς συνεχίζει να χτίζει πάνω στο πλούσιο σύμπαν, προσφέροντας παράλληλα νέες προκλήσεις και ανατροπές. Προτείνεται ανεπιφύλακτα σε όσους αγαπούν τη science fiction, αλλά και σε όσους αναζητούν μια συναρπαστική ιστορία με καλοδουλεμένους χαρακτήρες και ατμόσφαιρα.
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