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Tipping Point Prophecy
The Elementalists
Rising sea levels, droughts, earthquakes, tornadoes. Far below the earth’s crust, imprisoned in ancient slumber, the elemental powers of the land grow restless…
Meanwhile, in small town Virginia, Chloe McClellan’s first day of sophomore year was an epic fail. After she becomes the target of the fiery queen of the It-Girls in gym, she gains instant notoriety when she’s struck by lightning. That’s when things start to get weird.
There are disconcerting gaps in her memory, and freaky weather seems to follow her everywhere. She comes to believe that either she’s going insane, or her accident has awoken a terrifying creature from mythology, triggering the final countdown to the extinction of humankind.
Chloe finds unlikely help from a trio of male classmates: the grounded captain of the football team, the flighty stoner with a secret, and the enigmatic transfer student who longs for the sea. All the while, she struggles with the growing realization that dragons exist, and she, and her friends, may be the only ones who can stop them.
In the first book in the epic new Tipping Point Prophecy series, global dragon mythology is reimagined against a backdrop of ecological disaster, high school angst, and the power of the human spirit when working in accord with the elements.
Meanwhile, in small town Virginia, Chloe McClellan’s first day of sophomore year was an epic fail. After she becomes the target of the fiery queen of the It-Girls in gym, she gains instant notoriety when she’s struck by lightning. That’s when things start to get weird.
There are disconcerting gaps in her memory, and freaky weather seems to follow her everywhere. She comes to believe that either she’s going insane, or her accident has awoken a terrifying creature from mythology, triggering the final countdown to the extinction of humankind.
Chloe finds unlikely help from a trio of male classmates: the grounded captain of the football team, the flighty stoner with a secret, and the enigmatic transfer student who longs for the sea. All the while, she struggles with the growing realization that dragons exist, and she, and her friends, may be the only ones who can stop them.
In the first book in the epic new Tipping Point Prophecy series, global dragon mythology is reimagined against a backdrop of ecological disaster, high school angst, and the power of the human spirit when working in accord with the elements.
374 pages, Paperback
First published October 28, 2014
13 people are currently reading
1152 people want to read
About the author
C. Sharp
2 books51 followersChris Sharp grew up in the suburban wonderland of Alexandria, VA, where he cut his nerd teeth playing role-playing games and making gore movies with his friends.
After learning some stuff, he spent sixteen years in Brooklyn, NY, where he worked in film and commercial production by day, and was yet another wannabe novelist by night.
His first book was a 900 page epic fantasy novel that waits in the depths of a dark box. The Elementalists is his second novel, and he really hopes you like it. His third novel, Cold Counsel is a dark fantasy/crime fiction hybrid coming Feb 2017 from Tor.com Publishing. There is more coming to both those stories if the stars align in his favor, and plenty more besides.
After learning some stuff, he spent sixteen years in Brooklyn, NY, where he worked in film and commercial production by day, and was yet another wannabe novelist by night.
His first book was a 900 page epic fantasy novel that waits in the depths of a dark box. The Elementalists is his second novel, and he really hopes you like it. His third novel, Cold Counsel is a dark fantasy/crime fiction hybrid coming Feb 2017 from Tor.com Publishing. There is more coming to both those stories if the stars align in his favor, and plenty more besides.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
July 30, 2014
I give up. I hate not finishing a netgalley book, but this shit is so bad that I want to puke.
We have a Mary Sue..but no.. Let's pretend she is the poor picked on highschooler.
Let's pretend she is the poor kid who has government lunches..with her fucking smart phone. Let's pretend she is the poorest kid in school. With her new New Balances. Let's pretend she is sweet and innocent. While she cusses her mom.
I was gonna blame this:
but it ain't even worth it..
I'm going with this:
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
We have a Mary Sue..but no.. Let's pretend she is the poor picked on highschooler.
Let's pretend she is the poor kid who has government lunches..with her fucking smart phone. Let's pretend she is the poorest kid in school. With her new New Balances. Let's pretend she is sweet and innocent. While she cusses her mom.
I was gonna blame this:
but it ain't even worth it..
I'm going with this:
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2015
I love Dragon stories and will pretty much read anything with them in it. A lot of them have been hit an miss but The Elementalists was a home run! I absolutely flew through this, and that's saying something because it's nearly 400 pages!!
The Elementalists isn't your typical Dragon book. It's set in modern times and the Dragons aren't the main theme, they play a big part of the plot but it's so much more than a Dragon book. I must admit that I didn't read the blurb before starting this so I was expecting magic users and tons of dragons and what I got was a modern tale of cataclysmic events heralding the coming of something unbelievable. It was fan-freaking-tastic!!
It was fascinating reading the lore of The Tipping Prophecy and I loved that the author had researched Chinese Dragon myths so well. It really showed during the story.
The best thing about this book, for me, was the characters. I loved Chloe. She is strong, determined, smart and nice. She starts High School with the intention of keeping a low profile but a series of events make her the center of attention. She joins the track team and is soon seen as one of the best the school has ever had. She then gets struck by lightening and survives, which leads to the nickname Lightening girl (both for track and after getting hit). She hasn't a hope of flying below the radar after that. I loved her attitude and spirit.
We also have Kirin, the transfer student from China, who Chloe has a crush on. Stan, the enigmatic stoner and Ezra, the captain of the football team and all round womaniser. Each of these boys play a big part in Chloes life and each brings something special to the story. I loved seeing Chloe deal with each of the boys and cant wait to see more from them.
While reading about the cataclysmic events happening all over the world was so frightening, it added an extra something to the story. The fact that crazy things are happening everywhere really gets you thinking! In The Elementalists, all the events that are happening are a portent to the Tipping Point Prophecy. Chloe doesn't believe in Dragons nor had she much interest in things like that but when she sees what's happening all over the world and when she sees the piercing blue eyes everywhere, she knows she will have to dig deep and get the answers. What she finds will change her life and the lives of those she loves forever. I loved finding out about the lore along with Chloe, it was scary but fascinating reading.
I'm finding it hard to express how much I loved this book!! I'm trying to put my feelings into words and all that comes to mind is "an epic adventure that's unlike anything I was expecting", but that doesn't sufficiently express what I think! This book was superbly written and absolutely captivating and I still find it hard to think that this is a debut author. While this isn't the most action packed book, it's got so much happening and such depth to it that you will fly through the pages. It's a mash up of contemporary YA, fantasy, mythology and Dragons all rolled into one phenomenal story. It's the first book in the series and if this is anything to go by then this series is going to be EPIC.
All in all an absolutely amazing debut and I can't wait till book 2 comes out because that ending sure left me with my jaw open ;)
The Elementalists isn't your typical Dragon book. It's set in modern times and the Dragons aren't the main theme, they play a big part of the plot but it's so much more than a Dragon book. I must admit that I didn't read the blurb before starting this so I was expecting magic users and tons of dragons and what I got was a modern tale of cataclysmic events heralding the coming of something unbelievable. It was fan-freaking-tastic!!
It was fascinating reading the lore of The Tipping Prophecy and I loved that the author had researched Chinese Dragon myths so well. It really showed during the story.
The best thing about this book, for me, was the characters. I loved Chloe. She is strong, determined, smart and nice. She starts High School with the intention of keeping a low profile but a series of events make her the center of attention. She joins the track team and is soon seen as one of the best the school has ever had. She then gets struck by lightening and survives, which leads to the nickname Lightening girl (both for track and after getting hit). She hasn't a hope of flying below the radar after that. I loved her attitude and spirit.
We also have Kirin, the transfer student from China, who Chloe has a crush on. Stan, the enigmatic stoner and Ezra, the captain of the football team and all round womaniser. Each of these boys play a big part in Chloes life and each brings something special to the story. I loved seeing Chloe deal with each of the boys and cant wait to see more from them.
While reading about the cataclysmic events happening all over the world was so frightening, it added an extra something to the story. The fact that crazy things are happening everywhere really gets you thinking! In The Elementalists, all the events that are happening are a portent to the Tipping Point Prophecy. Chloe doesn't believe in Dragons nor had she much interest in things like that but when she sees what's happening all over the world and when she sees the piercing blue eyes everywhere, she knows she will have to dig deep and get the answers. What she finds will change her life and the lives of those she loves forever. I loved finding out about the lore along with Chloe, it was scary but fascinating reading.
I'm finding it hard to express how much I loved this book!! I'm trying to put my feelings into words and all that comes to mind is "an epic adventure that's unlike anything I was expecting", but that doesn't sufficiently express what I think! This book was superbly written and absolutely captivating and I still find it hard to think that this is a debut author. While this isn't the most action packed book, it's got so much happening and such depth to it that you will fly through the pages. It's a mash up of contemporary YA, fantasy, mythology and Dragons all rolled into one phenomenal story. It's the first book in the series and if this is anything to go by then this series is going to be EPIC.
All in all an absolutely amazing debut and I can't wait till book 2 comes out because that ending sure left me with my jaw open ;)
January 8, 2016
I will admit I was a little hesitant to read this. By its description it's not the type of book I would normally be drawn to...young adult...dragons...fantasy? Also, the author and I were classmates all through junior high and high school. There is a weird pressure for a reader who knows the author (what if it's awful!)
But.
I remembered Chris having an innate talent for writing so I figured this book deserved a chance from me. And besides the dragons, there was a environmental theme to this book that appealed to the side of my reading life that likes well-written dystopian fiction. And I was very curious to see how well Chris would pull of writing a teenage girl. Well, I love Chloe McClellan. She is my kind of girl--a smart, fearless, and bookish outsider with feelings who won't let her tormentors destroy her.
Well, as you see, I gave the book five stars. In a way I didn't want to give a writer an A+ on his first published book, but Chris is an A+ writer. I am so glad I took the "risk," to read this. I only wish that maybe I had waited a little longer because now I have to wait for the second book. Hurry up with those revisions, Chris. Thanks!
Ps. Thank you also for setting the book in Virginia instead of NYC. Haha.
But.
I remembered Chris having an innate talent for writing so I figured this book deserved a chance from me. And besides the dragons, there was a environmental theme to this book that appealed to the side of my reading life that likes well-written dystopian fiction. And I was very curious to see how well Chris would pull of writing a teenage girl. Well, I love Chloe McClellan. She is my kind of girl--a smart, fearless, and bookish outsider with feelings who won't let her tormentors destroy her.
Well, as you see, I gave the book five stars. In a way I didn't want to give a writer an A+ on his first published book, but Chris is an A+ writer. I am so glad I took the "risk," to read this. I only wish that maybe I had waited a little longer because now I have to wait for the second book. Hurry up with those revisions, Chris. Thanks!
Ps. Thank you also for setting the book in Virginia instead of NYC. Haha.
October 1, 2014
Before I write my review of this YA novel. I need to talk about the trolls that have reviewed this book without even finishing it. I think that this is very unfair to a new author. I can't imagine what it would take to sit down day after day and try to write over 400 pages of story.
If you DNF a book, then you shouldn't review it. I suspect that this could potentially affect sales.
Now, on to my review.
I enjoy fantasy. I enjoy dragons. I enjoy end of world stories.
I had some time to kill so I chose this YA novel thinking that I would blow through it quickly and easily. Boy was I surprised! This is a complex story involving five kids from disparate backgrounds. And a dragon. Ecological disaster, the "evil corporation" and all those feelings associated with teen awakening.
I can't say any more because I'm not a spoiler of great story telling.
Do yourself a favor, buy this book and read it.
If you DNF a book, then you shouldn't review it. I suspect that this could potentially affect sales.
Now, on to my review.
I enjoy fantasy. I enjoy dragons. I enjoy end of world stories.
I had some time to kill so I chose this YA novel thinking that I would blow through it quickly and easily. Boy was I surprised! This is a complex story involving five kids from disparate backgrounds. And a dragon. Ecological disaster, the "evil corporation" and all those feelings associated with teen awakening.
I can't say any more because I'm not a spoiler of great story telling.
Do yourself a favor, buy this book and read it.
September 25, 2014
The Elementalists is a fantastic book! It was a page turner from start to finish. Mr. Sharp has crafted a must read novel for any fantasy fan out there. I can't wait to get into the rest of the series.
I would like to thank Net Galley for giving me the opportunity to come across this book and read it. Now, on with the review.
The plot of this book is fantastic. It mixes mythology, teen angst, and action/adventure all into one. The story follows Chloe, a 15 yr old girl that is just trying to keep her head low and stay out of the lime light in her new high school. Needless to say, that doesn't really work out for her. She ends up uncovering thousands of years old mysteries, fighting with a global corporation, and trying to juggle umpteen relationships all at once. Mr. Sharp does a fantastic job of weaving the plot in and out and over and around itself so that you are completely immersed in the story from page 1.
The characters in this book are wonderful. You really get to know them and get to relate to them. You find yourself rooting for the good guys and booing the bad guys when they come up in the book. The characters are not over done and over developed. There is just enough told to you to keep it interesting. I don't feel like I know everything there is to know about them yet, which is good since this is just the first book in the series.
The pacing of this book is fantastic. There aren't spots where you feel like you are having the slog through the story to get to the next good part. The readability is also very good. It flows very well and is easy to get yourself lost in for hours at a time.
Overall I would give this book a 5/5. It's a well crafted story that keeps you wanting more. I can't wait for the next installment in the series. So, make haste Mr. Sharp!
I would like to thank Net Galley for giving me the opportunity to come across this book and read it. Now, on with the review.
The plot of this book is fantastic. It mixes mythology, teen angst, and action/adventure all into one. The story follows Chloe, a 15 yr old girl that is just trying to keep her head low and stay out of the lime light in her new high school. Needless to say, that doesn't really work out for her. She ends up uncovering thousands of years old mysteries, fighting with a global corporation, and trying to juggle umpteen relationships all at once. Mr. Sharp does a fantastic job of weaving the plot in and out and over and around itself so that you are completely immersed in the story from page 1.
The characters in this book are wonderful. You really get to know them and get to relate to them. You find yourself rooting for the good guys and booing the bad guys when they come up in the book. The characters are not over done and over developed. There is just enough told to you to keep it interesting. I don't feel like I know everything there is to know about them yet, which is good since this is just the first book in the series.
The pacing of this book is fantastic. There aren't spots where you feel like you are having the slog through the story to get to the next good part. The readability is also very good. It flows very well and is easy to get yourself lost in for hours at a time.
Overall I would give this book a 5/5. It's a well crafted story that keeps you wanting more. I can't wait for the next installment in the series. So, make haste Mr. Sharp!
July 30, 2014
I've been a huge fan of the fantasy genre ever since the day my best friend handed me the first Dragonlance novel by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hicks. It was the late 80’s, I was in sixth grade, and my mind was officially blown.
These days I like my fantasy dark and gritty, but I’m always looking for books that take me back to those moments when I first read about the Dragon Highlords as an awkward kid.
The Elementalists had all the right ingredients for my nostalgic fix: dragons and adolescent drama set against an approaching apocalypse. I had a lot of fun reading this book. The plot moved quickly, the dragons were cool, the characters were all memorable, and the world building was clever. I especially enjoyed how the book’s mythology was based on the classical elements of fire, air, water, and earth. All heed the Tipping Point Prophecy!
These days I like my fantasy dark and gritty, but I’m always looking for books that take me back to those moments when I first read about the Dragon Highlords as an awkward kid.
The Elementalists had all the right ingredients for my nostalgic fix: dragons and adolescent drama set against an approaching apocalypse. I had a lot of fun reading this book. The plot moved quickly, the dragons were cool, the characters were all memorable, and the world building was clever. I especially enjoyed how the book’s mythology was based on the classical elements of fire, air, water, and earth. All heed the Tipping Point Prophecy!
August 16, 2014
Review from Elysian Fields Book Reviews
Rated 4.4 out of 5.0 Stars
By C. Sharp
Release Date: October 28, 2014 - ARC from Diversion Books
Book 1 of the Tipping Point Prophecy
Chloe's first day as a sophomore in high school couldn't have possibly gone any worse than it did. She makes an enemy of one of the most popular girls at school, her best friend wants nothing to do with her, and she gets struck with lightning. Wonderful. She gains instant attention as "the lightning girl", with a mixture of awe and avoidance from her peers. There are gaps in her memory, and strange pieces start to come to her in dreams. Something about a dragon, and an end of the world prophecy. With the help of her friends, the star quarterback- Ezra, the stoner- Stan, and the gorgeous surfer- Kiran, can Chloe put the pieces of the puzzle together in time to save the world? Or will ecological disaster wipe the humans from the planet, with the help of five terrifying dragons?
It took me a bit after reading this book to gather my thoughts. I was expecting a typical fantasy, demons and dragons taking over the world story. It turned out to be so much more. With the rippling undercurrents of global warming and the murder of our planet at our own hands, it truly was terrifying in a non-paranormal kind of way. Natural disasters are occurring all over the planet, while Chloe learns of an ancient prophecy that predicts the rise of five dragons. The dragons represent the Elements- Earth, Air, Fire, Water, and Lightning- or Spirit, and they will only awaken when the planet is dying at the hands of the humans. This book isn't your average paranormal read, it is well beyond that. It was well researched, with mythological creatures, (or so we all hope) and ancient Eastern prophecies. I was able to connect with the characters fairly easily; Chloe and Kiran balance each other perfectly. I'm sure everyone can also relate to Stan and Ezra, the jock and stoner friends. But most of all, Uktena is a powerfully written character. His age and wisdom seep through the pages, as does his hatred for the human race. It was a wonderful balance that was pulled off well. Thank you, Mr. Sharp for this wake up call book that I hope gathers a large following. I cannot wait to read the follow up in this series!
"Those were just the new, big, and sexy stories; there was no more mention of the chronic mudslides in Brazil, the ongoing toxic leak in the Gulf of Mexico, or the water riots that had consumed large swaths of Africa and Southern Asia. War and tragedy had become so common-place that after a week or so, no one bothered to talk about it any more. Someplace, far away from here, people are fighting and dying- the end... In other news: NATURE WANTS TO KILL YOU!"
Rated 4.4 out of 5.0 Stars
By C. Sharp
Release Date: October 28, 2014 - ARC from Diversion Books
Book 1 of the Tipping Point Prophecy
Chloe's first day as a sophomore in high school couldn't have possibly gone any worse than it did. She makes an enemy of one of the most popular girls at school, her best friend wants nothing to do with her, and she gets struck with lightning. Wonderful. She gains instant attention as "the lightning girl", with a mixture of awe and avoidance from her peers. There are gaps in her memory, and strange pieces start to come to her in dreams. Something about a dragon, and an end of the world prophecy. With the help of her friends, the star quarterback- Ezra, the stoner- Stan, and the gorgeous surfer- Kiran, can Chloe put the pieces of the puzzle together in time to save the world? Or will ecological disaster wipe the humans from the planet, with the help of five terrifying dragons?
It took me a bit after reading this book to gather my thoughts. I was expecting a typical fantasy, demons and dragons taking over the world story. It turned out to be so much more. With the rippling undercurrents of global warming and the murder of our planet at our own hands, it truly was terrifying in a non-paranormal kind of way. Natural disasters are occurring all over the planet, while Chloe learns of an ancient prophecy that predicts the rise of five dragons. The dragons represent the Elements- Earth, Air, Fire, Water, and Lightning- or Spirit, and they will only awaken when the planet is dying at the hands of the humans. This book isn't your average paranormal read, it is well beyond that. It was well researched, with mythological creatures, (or so we all hope) and ancient Eastern prophecies. I was able to connect with the characters fairly easily; Chloe and Kiran balance each other perfectly. I'm sure everyone can also relate to Stan and Ezra, the jock and stoner friends. But most of all, Uktena is a powerfully written character. His age and wisdom seep through the pages, as does his hatred for the human race. It was a wonderful balance that was pulled off well. Thank you, Mr. Sharp for this wake up call book that I hope gathers a large following. I cannot wait to read the follow up in this series!
"Those were just the new, big, and sexy stories; there was no more mention of the chronic mudslides in Brazil, the ongoing toxic leak in the Gulf of Mexico, or the water riots that had consumed large swaths of Africa and Southern Asia. War and tragedy had become so common-place that after a week or so, no one bothered to talk about it any more. Someplace, far away from here, people are fighting and dying- the end... In other news: NATURE WANTS TO KILL YOU!"
October 13, 2014
Chloe has never been popular more like invisible, but after the holidays going back to school she knows it will be like all the rest just work hard and get good grades, but her first day turns out to be a mega fail the most popular girl hates her. She is know known for being struck by lightning during the holidays that's bad on its own, but other weird things are happening to with worldwide disasters like earthquakes and tornadoes happening all the time and on top of that the bad weather seems to follow her about like an oman along with some creature that she keeps seeing that, can't be real and the memory lose either the world is coming to an end or she is going crazy either way trouble is coming!
When I started this book I was not really sure what to expect if I'm honest, but within second of starting I knew that this book was going to blow me away and it did.
The storyline is phenomenal it was unlike any book I had read I loved that you saw the family drama with Chloe and her mum and getting a clear view of school life, but it was the prophecy and world disasters that got me the most. The author took so many things that I thought there was no way you could mix together, but the author did and made the book spectacular. The book made me think about things in real life about the way people flatten forests and put toxins in the water about how we are now and the book really made me think and I really loved that.
The Author added great detail to everything and I felt like I was seeing everything through Chloe's eyes and feeling everything she was. Chloe is a wonderful character she was likeable and down to earth. I loved the fact she was not popular or stuck up and struggled with the normal day to day things and was not the best at social interaction. She was kind and determined and I liked that about her.
The book was so easy to follow and it flows like water there was no patches that dragged or got boring the whole book had me glued and I found nothing that bugged me and for me it was perfect
When I started this book I was not really sure what to expect if I'm honest, but within second of starting I knew that this book was going to blow me away and it did.
The storyline is phenomenal it was unlike any book I had read I loved that you saw the family drama with Chloe and her mum and getting a clear view of school life, but it was the prophecy and world disasters that got me the most. The author took so many things that I thought there was no way you could mix together, but the author did and made the book spectacular. The book made me think about things in real life about the way people flatten forests and put toxins in the water about how we are now and the book really made me think and I really loved that.
The Author added great detail to everything and I felt like I was seeing everything through Chloe's eyes and feeling everything she was. Chloe is a wonderful character she was likeable and down to earth. I loved the fact she was not popular or stuck up and struggled with the normal day to day things and was not the best at social interaction. She was kind and determined and I liked that about her.
The book was so easy to follow and it flows like water there was no patches that dragged or got boring the whole book had me glued and I found nothing that bugged me and for me it was perfect
August 4, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. I received an ARC copy through a friend. I am not an avid reader of the fantasy genre, which might be why this book appealed to me since it did such a wonderful job of blending reality with fantasy. The underlying mythology about dragons made the fantasy even more believable. Unlike other YA fantasy books I have read, this book is a slow burn and puts worthwhile effort into fully developing the characters: in the beginning, the author sets up the typical "high school" stereotypes and then works throughout the book to undo what you would expect. As a result, the book picks up speed as you get farther in, until it ends with a bang (literally). This book is rare in that it is about what happens leading up to the apocalypse, which makes me really excited for the next book in the series which will take on the post apocalyptic world. The author also does a fantastic job of offering a real view of what teenagers are doing: it doesn't shy from topics of sex and drugs, but handles these issues in a real and balanced way. So this might not be appropriate for the tweens/Harry Ptter age kids. It is more for the 14+ age. I can't wait for my daughter to be old enough to read this book. Hopefully by then the whole series will be complete. I could easily see this as a movie too.
August 12, 2014
Ok so I received this book on Netgallery for an honest review. I first requested to read it because I loved the cover. Love dragons and favorite color is blue. ;-) What I didn't realize was that I wouldn't be able to put the book down when I stated reading it.
Chloe is a fifteen year old sophomore that is just starting high school. She has an archenemy that dies everything in her power to make Chloe a laughing stock of the school. You would think this is just about high school drama but that is not all what it seems. During school Chloe makes fast friends with three Senior boys that are completely different then each other and her.
You might think that is all that is good about this book however, you would be surprised! Chloe some how awakens an ancient dragon that is part of a prophecy. She goes on thinking that he its not real but have to face facts when he actually talks to her. Chloe then goes out of her way to help him as she can.
Reading Elementalists will keep you guessing and wondering what will happen and how these five high schoolers might play a part it this prophecy. I highly recommend it if you are looking for something that is SciFi, fun, and heartfelt. Yes it does dive into some deep belief about how we, humans, are polluting the earth and causing sometimes more harm then good but all in all it is a great read.
Chloe is a fifteen year old sophomore that is just starting high school. She has an archenemy that dies everything in her power to make Chloe a laughing stock of the school. You would think this is just about high school drama but that is not all what it seems. During school Chloe makes fast friends with three Senior boys that are completely different then each other and her.
You might think that is all that is good about this book however, you would be surprised! Chloe some how awakens an ancient dragon that is part of a prophecy. She goes on thinking that he its not real but have to face facts when he actually talks to her. Chloe then goes out of her way to help him as she can.
Reading Elementalists will keep you guessing and wondering what will happen and how these five high schoolers might play a part it this prophecy. I highly recommend it if you are looking for something that is SciFi, fun, and heartfelt. Yes it does dive into some deep belief about how we, humans, are polluting the earth and causing sometimes more harm then good but all in all it is a great read.
August 1, 2014
Dragons, Mean Girls, and The End of the World…
When I first realized that 'Here There Be Dragons', I was a little worried about this one. I don't read a lot of fantasy. My worries were baseless. I raced through this book.
It's contemporary, funny, and an exciting adventure. And the dragon is pretty cool. I also enjoyed Chloe and her boys. The characterization was stellar - each character lived and breathed.
The book is long yet, oddly, not long enough. It's the first in a series of books and I really want to read the rest of them. It's got a great mix of contemporary YA, fantasy, and mythology. You've also got high school drama, teen angst, and the meanest of the mean girls.
Now, fair warning, if like me, it was the talk of quakes, destruction, and the end of the world that gets you to download the book, this is just the precursor to the end. You don't really get very apocalyptic here. But getting there is a blast and I really can't wait until the next book!
Now, a non-spoilery note to the author: What you did in the end with Fire? I laughed out loud. That was absolutely great and I can't wait to see how that plays out in the next book.
*ARC Provided by Netgalley for review purposes.
When I first realized that 'Here There Be Dragons', I was a little worried about this one. I don't read a lot of fantasy. My worries were baseless. I raced through this book.
It's contemporary, funny, and an exciting adventure. And the dragon is pretty cool. I also enjoyed Chloe and her boys. The characterization was stellar - each character lived and breathed.
The book is long yet, oddly, not long enough. It's the first in a series of books and I really want to read the rest of them. It's got a great mix of contemporary YA, fantasy, and mythology. You've also got high school drama, teen angst, and the meanest of the mean girls.
Now, fair warning, if like me, it was the talk of quakes, destruction, and the end of the world that gets you to download the book, this is just the precursor to the end. You don't really get very apocalyptic here. But getting there is a blast and I really can't wait until the next book!
Now, a non-spoilery note to the author: What you did in the end with Fire? I laughed out loud. That was absolutely great and I can't wait to see how that plays out in the next book.
*ARC Provided by Netgalley for review purposes.
August 27, 2015
I'm an 11 year old boy. I read a ton of books. My favorites of the past are PERCY JACKSON, THE UNWANTEDS, and ERAGON. I loved this book. The story starts with a teenage girl, Chloe, who was struck by lightning but survives. Bad weather starts to follow her around. And eventually she discovers a dragon. But we're in the modern world! And there's a bad group looking for the dragon as well. That's all I'll say about the story because I don't want to spoil it. I read this book in one day. The story moves quickly. Not cliffhanger style, but it pulls you in. I liked the characters too. Chloe felt like a real person. And there was lots of cool Chinese mythology that I didn't know about. It was fun to learn that stuff as I was reading. All in all, if you're a fan of good writing, dragons, and interesting characters, you'll love this book too!
October 28, 2014
I'm so thankful this totally cool, delightful, and winningly readable novel is the entry point in a series: The Tipping Point Prophecy. If it is indeed the End of The World As We Know It--well, most of us just weren't expecting dragons--but.that's as it is. I haven't been this excited over a YA since DESTRUCTION by Sharon Bayliss, and REMEMBERING KAYLEE COOPER by Christopher French. All 25-star books.
November 3, 2015
Dragons, dystopian scenarios, high school drama and a love quadrangle? This story contains all of the above. It is a wild ride with unexpected twists, a dash of romance and a surprising amount of comedy. The 80 lb. organic meat heist ... I laughed hysterically. I enjoyed every character contained on these pages and can't wait for the author to pen a sequel. I'll never forget Stan's moment of solidarity ... "Stupid tower!" And I'm laughing again... Loved this book.
August 1, 2014
An unbelievable ride, action packed, well written adventure. I was hooked from the first chapter. Characters were well thought out, the plot was intriguing, can't fault the book at all.
Looking forward to the next one.
Would recommend it to those who love dragons, fantasy and end of the world themes.
Looking forward to the next one.
Would recommend it to those who love dragons, fantasy and end of the world themes.
October 27, 2014
I thought this book was wonderfully written and unique. While I was reading this, I felt immersed into the story and I couldn't out it down. I gave this book 5/5 stars because I was extremely well done. For my full review, click here: https://unquenchablereads.wordpress.c...
December 22, 2014
Book received for free from GoodReads First Reads
I really loved this book. It was so interesting and, while fanciful, it was also really current. I enjoyed the characters and their interactions. And, in my opinion, everything is better with dragons. I can't wait to read the next installment in the series.
I really loved this book. It was so interesting and, while fanciful, it was also really current. I enjoyed the characters and their interactions. And, in my opinion, everything is better with dragons. I can't wait to read the next installment in the series.
September 15, 2014
Uniquely stylized and wonderfully imaginative (dark) YA fiction. Teen angst + dragons + the end of the world: balances astute characterization with rich layers of world-building (and a mythology hinting at large scale craziness yet-to-come) that makes for an incredibly fun and addictive read.
July 3, 2017
Rating: 3.5
I won a copy of this book for an honest review. This will never effect how I like or rate a book.
First matter of business; Wow, that's a beautiful cover, especially the background. It was a very good choice for this book.
Onto the book itself though. It was a bit more of a mixed bag but overall I got more enjoyment out of it than not. Though even I have to admit it's a bit strange in its delivery. It had an idea but it was a little disjointed. That was really its biggest problem and it left me wondering just how certain things would work.
So here's the main issue. The dragons are obviously bad. There's no denying it. They've killed many and plan to kill many many more. Planning to eradicate mankind. So obviously they're not a good thing. Yet our protagonist seems to think she's going to ride one. Granted there is at least one that she maybe can ride but I definitely don't see the others ever giving rides to humans. Besides that there's this thing about them gaining elemental powers from the different dragons. What? How? Again I can understand it more in regard to Chloe but for her friends? Lets put aside for the moment how convenient that is that they all happened to be the ones to get bestowed these powers but how did they manage their connections with the dragons? Are they even connected to them? If not how did they get their element power?
My only guess so far is that these Elementalists are suppose to maybe tame these dragons and possibly command them somehow? I really don't know. It wasn't well explained and at the moment it's hard to picture such a thing happening. So besides that craziness what else do we have going on?
Well we have Chloe and her three boys. Kirin, Stan, and Ezra. I enjoyed them more in the beginning than towards the end but overall they were pretty likable. I liked it best when they seemed to all have specific roles in Chloe's life and it seemed each knew where they stood. It also made me happy that there were no love triangles going on. Or so I thought. Things were going fine until the book decided to waste time at one point in having Kirin get jealous over seeing Chloe hug Ezra. The only good thing about this is he gets over it a bit later but really that just made the whole thing even more pointless. Especially since it's never talked about or mentioned again.
Still even with that slip up Kirin still easily comes in as the favorite out of the three. If only because I didn't notice him doing as many stupid things. It would of been Ezra but towards the end it seemed he lost some brain cells.
Really you brought your football with you to a dangerous mission? Or how about dating your friend's enemy and then not understanding why she may not like it. What was even going on with that anyway? I thought he was into older woman or girls his own age. Yet suddenly he's okay with dating someone younger. Not only that but when she continued to be mean to his friend he still stuck with her. Sure she's great at photography but so far the book hasn't made me believe she's that great of a person. Really I wasn't much for her character at all, though I already seen the twist with her in the end coming.
On to the always high Stan. Yeah, just no. I did feel bad that the guy he liked was into someone else but at the same time this boy really needs to get himself together. I'm surprised he hasn't gotten himself or someone else killed yet. I mean he nearly did one time if it wasn't for the dragon swooping in to save the day. Having him on drugs or craving drugs just in the end wasn't doing it for me. He's a nice enough guy and obviously has a good heart but his constant drug use was worrying.
It's a little off topic but I need to talk about Brent a moment. The book tries I think to make him more likable towards the end but all the time all I could picture was him telling Chloe's mom she should get back with him because she could do a lot worse than him. So no, I never could like him after that. He's trying to do right and maybe he'll become an okay character at some point but no I could never want him to get back together with Chloe's mom.
For Chloe herself. Well she was okay. Just okay. I didn't hate her but I never really grew fond of her character either. With this book's plot it was hard to believe just how much time she spent worrying and thinking about boys. Really? There's a dragon, the world as you know it is likely coming to an end, and we're wasting our time waiting and worrying about a boy not calling us? Still for her faults she is only fifteen and really she wasn't all that bad a main character. Just okay. With YA that's saying something. It's sad but true.
Lets get to the things the book really excelled at. Uktena. Loved him. He was unique in his own way and I quite enjoyed him, in both his forms, but especially his dragon form.
I also really liked the idea of these dragons coming out of hibernation and taking back the world. This book had a strong and interesting plot and because of it it managed to make me really interested in what the next book could have in store. I mean I could complain about a number of things but at the same time I'm really wondering where this story is going. Now that we've reached the dragons arriving things should really get even more interesting and intense.
I'd recommend this book to fans of YA. Probably more the 15-18 range.
I won a copy of this book for an honest review. This will never effect how I like or rate a book.
First matter of business; Wow, that's a beautiful cover, especially the background. It was a very good choice for this book.
Onto the book itself though. It was a bit more of a mixed bag but overall I got more enjoyment out of it than not. Though even I have to admit it's a bit strange in its delivery. It had an idea but it was a little disjointed. That was really its biggest problem and it left me wondering just how certain things would work.
So here's the main issue. The dragons are obviously bad. There's no denying it. They've killed many and plan to kill many many more. Planning to eradicate mankind. So obviously they're not a good thing. Yet our protagonist seems to think she's going to ride one. Granted there is at least one that she maybe can ride but I definitely don't see the others ever giving rides to humans. Besides that there's this thing about them gaining elemental powers from the different dragons. What? How? Again I can understand it more in regard to Chloe but for her friends? Lets put aside for the moment how convenient that is that they all happened to be the ones to get bestowed these powers but how did they manage their connections with the dragons? Are they even connected to them? If not how did they get their element power?
My only guess so far is that these Elementalists are suppose to maybe tame these dragons and possibly command them somehow? I really don't know. It wasn't well explained and at the moment it's hard to picture such a thing happening. So besides that craziness what else do we have going on?
Well we have Chloe and her three boys. Kirin, Stan, and Ezra. I enjoyed them more in the beginning than towards the end but overall they were pretty likable. I liked it best when they seemed to all have specific roles in Chloe's life and it seemed each knew where they stood. It also made me happy that there were no love triangles going on. Or so I thought. Things were going fine until the book decided to waste time at one point in having Kirin get jealous over seeing Chloe hug Ezra. The only good thing about this is he gets over it a bit later but really that just made the whole thing even more pointless. Especially since it's never talked about or mentioned again.
Still even with that slip up Kirin still easily comes in as the favorite out of the three. If only because I didn't notice him doing as many stupid things. It would of been Ezra but towards the end it seemed he lost some brain cells.
Really you brought your football with you to a dangerous mission? Or how about dating your friend's enemy and then not understanding why she may not like it. What was even going on with that anyway? I thought he was into older woman or girls his own age. Yet suddenly he's okay with dating someone younger. Not only that but when she continued to be mean to his friend he still stuck with her. Sure she's great at photography but so far the book hasn't made me believe she's that great of a person. Really I wasn't much for her character at all, though I already seen the twist with her in the end coming.
On to the always high Stan. Yeah, just no. I did feel bad that the guy he liked was into someone else but at the same time this boy really needs to get himself together. I'm surprised he hasn't gotten himself or someone else killed yet. I mean he nearly did one time if it wasn't for the dragon swooping in to save the day. Having him on drugs or craving drugs just in the end wasn't doing it for me. He's a nice enough guy and obviously has a good heart but his constant drug use was worrying.
It's a little off topic but I need to talk about Brent a moment. The book tries I think to make him more likable towards the end but all the time all I could picture was him telling Chloe's mom she should get back with him because she could do a lot worse than him. So no, I never could like him after that. He's trying to do right and maybe he'll become an okay character at some point but no I could never want him to get back together with Chloe's mom.
For Chloe herself. Well she was okay. Just okay. I didn't hate her but I never really grew fond of her character either. With this book's plot it was hard to believe just how much time she spent worrying and thinking about boys. Really? There's a dragon, the world as you know it is likely coming to an end, and we're wasting our time waiting and worrying about a boy not calling us? Still for her faults she is only fifteen and really she wasn't all that bad a main character. Just okay. With YA that's saying something. It's sad but true.
Lets get to the things the book really excelled at. Uktena. Loved him. He was unique in his own way and I quite enjoyed him, in both his forms, but especially his dragon form.
I also really liked the idea of these dragons coming out of hibernation and taking back the world. This book had a strong and interesting plot and because of it it managed to make me really interested in what the next book could have in store. I mean I could complain about a number of things but at the same time I'm really wondering where this story is going. Now that we've reached the dragons arriving things should really get even more interesting and intense.
I'd recommend this book to fans of YA. Probably more the 15-18 range.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2014
*This advanced reader copy was supplied by Diversion books on Netgalley. Thank you, Diversion!*
I'd like to introduce a friend to the Cat and Caterpillar Reviewing team! You might see him pop up now and then, so it might be good to get to know him. Meet...
GABRIEL. Not to be mistaken for Gabriel the angel from Supernatural, of course. Boy, does he hate it when that happens. Gabe the dragon is known for being a bit capricious; especially difficult to get along with when his book is taken from him. And is the one who helps me review our dragon books. Yes, this was a dragon book. At least, vaguely like a dragon book.
And I. Love. Dragons. In case you couldn't tell.
So, I'll admit, I was a little disappointed when this book was less dragon-centric than the cover hinted at. Not that dragons didn't show up at all, they were a major part of the book. Lots of dragon dreams and protecting the environment and stuff...
Characters
Chloe: Yeah, it's one thing for the main character to complain about being a social outcast, it's another thing for the main character to complain about being a social outcast if she's actually really well-liked by everyone except one person. That's not what a social outcast is, people. In fact, she's voted Homecoming Queen, she's pretty, she's the fastest runner in pretty much the entire state, she's super smart, she has three—scratch that, more like two and a half—guys fighting over her and she's all "oh woe is me!" Did I mention that she also has special powers? Yeah, there's that.
Kirin: So if Chloe annoyed me, Kirin annoyed me a little less. Not much else to say. He's mentioned more than he's actually in the book. And he's basically a totally different character from the beginning of the second quarter of the book on than he was in the beginning. Kind of weird.
Stan: Whoo, Stan! Never loved a druggie as much as I loved Stan! (Well, I've never really known any druggies or read about many likable druggies, and I don't do drugs so...) Anyhow, his grin is constantly referred to as a "Cheshire grin" which of course made me so warm and fuzzy inside. Plus, he has some really good one-liners and is overall cool.
Ezra: Eh. Better than everyone else—excluding Stan—and of course if really good-looking, misunderstood, super-popular football jock who just happens to be super nice and takes shy, introverted Mary Jane I mean Chloe under his wing. Not to be super stereotypical or anything, but this is reaching a little. Like, this doesn't usually happen in real life. Then again, none of this does, so...
Setting
Virginia.
Plot
Pretty much sums up entire plot except for lightning and awkward life triangles and a bunch of whining about school being terrible. Oh, and getting caught trespassing. Gabe approves. Well, not of the trespassing part. Or the whining. Actually, Gabe approves mostly of the dragons.
Writing
Good one-liners, okay plot, Stan was cool, love the dragons. However, the point of view switched randomly and choppily throughout the course of the novel, and I was really thrown by it. Also, C. Sharp? *sigh* What pennames have come to these days. Actually, it's okay, I kind of like it. Thanks again to Diversion Books and Netgalley. Gabe and I had a great time reading this book. Despite its flaws, it was enjoyable. Probably wouldn't read the sequel unless it were given to me, but a diverting and interesting read, especially for lovers of pre-apocalyptic tales and dragons.
"'Who is the mysterious Lightning Girl?'"
That is all.
Review by Cheshire
I'd like to introduce a friend to the Cat and Caterpillar Reviewing team! You might see him pop up now and then, so it might be good to get to know him. Meet...
GABRIEL. Not to be mistaken for Gabriel the angel from Supernatural, of course. Boy, does he hate it when that happens. Gabe the dragon is known for being a bit capricious; especially difficult to get along with when his book is taken from him. And is the one who helps me review our dragon books. Yes, this was a dragon book. At least, vaguely like a dragon book.
And I. Love. Dragons. In case you couldn't tell.
So, I'll admit, I was a little disappointed when this book was less dragon-centric than the cover hinted at. Not that dragons didn't show up at all, they were a major part of the book. Lots of dragon dreams and protecting the environment and stuff...
Characters
Chloe: Yeah, it's one thing for the main character to complain about being a social outcast, it's another thing for the main character to complain about being a social outcast if she's actually really well-liked by everyone except one person. That's not what a social outcast is, people. In fact, she's voted Homecoming Queen, she's pretty, she's the fastest runner in pretty much the entire state, she's super smart, she has three—scratch that, more like two and a half—guys fighting over her and she's all "oh woe is me!" Did I mention that she also has special powers? Yeah, there's that.
Kirin: So if Chloe annoyed me, Kirin annoyed me a little less. Not much else to say. He's mentioned more than he's actually in the book. And he's basically a totally different character from the beginning of the second quarter of the book on than he was in the beginning. Kind of weird.
Stan: Whoo, Stan! Never loved a druggie as much as I loved Stan! (Well, I've never really known any druggies or read about many likable druggies, and I don't do drugs so...) Anyhow, his grin is constantly referred to as a "Cheshire grin" which of course made me so warm and fuzzy inside. Plus, he has some really good one-liners and is overall cool.
Ezra: Eh. Better than everyone else—excluding Stan—and of course if really good-looking, misunderstood, super-popular football jock who just happens to be super nice and takes shy, introverted Mary Jane I mean Chloe under his wing. Not to be super stereotypical or anything, but this is reaching a little. Like, this doesn't usually happen in real life. Then again, none of this does, so...
Setting
Virginia.
Plot
Pretty much sums up entire plot except for lightning and awkward life triangles and a bunch of whining about school being terrible. Oh, and getting caught trespassing. Gabe approves. Well, not of the trespassing part. Or the whining. Actually, Gabe approves mostly of the dragons.
Writing
Good one-liners, okay plot, Stan was cool, love the dragons. However, the point of view switched randomly and choppily throughout the course of the novel, and I was really thrown by it. Also, C. Sharp? *sigh* What pennames have come to these days. Actually, it's okay, I kind of like it. Thanks again to Diversion Books and Netgalley. Gabe and I had a great time reading this book. Despite its flaws, it was enjoyable. Probably wouldn't read the sequel unless it were given to me, but a diverting and interesting read, especially for lovers of pre-apocalyptic tales and dragons.
"'Who is the mysterious Lightning Girl?'"
That is all.
Review by Cheshire
February 20, 2018
I'm not a fantasy buff, but I am a YA buff, so I was partly skeptical but optimistic when dipping into this novel.
I was not disappointed in the least.
The realistic YA fiction element is strong, and I was drawn deeply into Chloe, the 15 year old protagonist, who has to navigate around the social mores of high school. Her personality grows richer and choices more admirable as the narrative unfolds. All the while, and cleverly, the fantasy element slowly becomes interlaced. This is a risk for readers like me who like to be grounded in reality, but it works. The backstory unfolds at just the right time, adding more layers and believability. From that moment on, I went from being engaged as a reader to completely immersed. I loved the characters, the mystery (and even the fantasy!) and couldn't stop reading as the story flew towards its conclusion.
For me, this book struck a brilliant balance between teenage high school angst, global climate crisis angst, and fantasy adventure. I know, it sounds like a strange mix, but it works, and author Chris Sharp's protagonist Chloe is the rock that keeps it all bound masterfully together.
I was not disappointed in the least.
The realistic YA fiction element is strong, and I was drawn deeply into Chloe, the 15 year old protagonist, who has to navigate around the social mores of high school. Her personality grows richer and choices more admirable as the narrative unfolds. All the while, and cleverly, the fantasy element slowly becomes interlaced. This is a risk for readers like me who like to be grounded in reality, but it works. The backstory unfolds at just the right time, adding more layers and believability. From that moment on, I went from being engaged as a reader to completely immersed. I loved the characters, the mystery (and even the fantasy!) and couldn't stop reading as the story flew towards its conclusion.
For me, this book struck a brilliant balance between teenage high school angst, global climate crisis angst, and fantasy adventure. I know, it sounds like a strange mix, but it works, and author Chris Sharp's protagonist Chloe is the rock that keeps it all bound masterfully together.
February 13, 2016
I've read a lot of YA apocalyptic and dystopian fiction. It's all the rage in the speculative fiction universe right now, and I've read most of the big ones (before I knew they were big, at least) and many that aren't.
So it's not without experience that I say this one stands well up to the rest. It has a high school sophomore with high school problems as a protagonist without falling prey to taking high school drama seriously. It does the environmental activist message you'll find in Shari Tepper almost invisibly. It's the almost cliche old (probably Greek rather than Chinese but who wants to quibble?) five elements thing, but it feels genuine. The heroes are a pack of high schoolers, but the adults are smart, hard working and nuanced. (Look out for the bad guys to not be stereotypical.)
If Buffy was mashed up with McAffrey and Tepper, with a side of modern life, I'm pretty sure this would be it. I don't actually write reviews - not ever, I kind of hate it - but this one needed it.
So it's not without experience that I say this one stands well up to the rest. It has a high school sophomore with high school problems as a protagonist without falling prey to taking high school drama seriously. It does the environmental activist message you'll find in Shari Tepper almost invisibly. It's the almost cliche old (probably Greek rather than Chinese but who wants to quibble?) five elements thing, but it feels genuine. The heroes are a pack of high schoolers, but the adults are smart, hard working and nuanced. (Look out for the bad guys to not be stereotypical.)
If Buffy was mashed up with McAffrey and Tepper, with a side of modern life, I'm pretty sure this would be it. I don't actually write reviews - not ever, I kind of hate it - but this one needed it.
October 5, 2014
I would like to thank NetGalley & Diversion Books for granting me a copy of this e-ARC to read in exchange for an honest review. Though I received this e-book for free that in no way impacts my review.
Goodreads Blurb:
Easily one of the better blends of current events, as viewed by teenagers, and ancient mythology. This mythology is so old that most of the world has not only forgotten the acts themselves, but also all the warning stories that they spawned. The dragon featured in this opening book of the Tipping Point Prophecy series is clearly based upon the Chinese styled dragons of old, looking more serpent-like than dragons that come out of Western stories.
Chloe is the ideal main human protagonist, being somewhat close to the typical high school sophomore whose only desire is to get through the year unnoticed. But Chloe simply can't manage to go unnoticed for very long no matter how hard she tries. Luckily she has more of a backbone than she credits herself with, and that's a good thing as she'll need it. Often.
For a self-described nerd, the collection of friends Chloe amasses is pretty remarkable. There is Stan the stoner, who is willing to take pretty much anything Chloe says on faith. They end up bonded together, past the casual acquaintance level, by shared secrets. Ezra, a senior and the captain of the football team. Instead of falling at his feet and fawning over every move he makes, every word he utters, she is constantly calling him on his bullshit. So he grounds her and she gives him a slice of reality. Last but not least is Kirin, the object of her first crush. A transplant from the West Coast, Kirin is a surfer who has become stranded. Yet everything about him still seems fluid, when they're talking that is. Without even trying to Kirin has managed to get Chloe all twisted up, something she certainly wasn't expecting to feel for a boy. But once they admit to their mutual attraction they are excellent support for each other.
The scenes between Chloe and these three boys, as well as the reconciliation scenes with her former only, and best, friend Liz, are so authentic to her age range that it feels as if you're reading her journal and experiencing all the emotions right along with her. Sharp has managed to capture the inner turmoil that every high school student suffers through, regardless of their level of popularity (something most of us don't grasp until we've escaped the hormonal hell known as high school - no matter how popular and perfect someone's life appears on the outside, everyone has their own insecurities).
When Chloe discovers what appears to be a dragon she's terrified that she is becoming like her father. Schizophrenic. Yet the proof is there, and it is getting harder and harder for her to ignore it. The real test could be trusting her new friends with this secret, they'll either see the dragon and confirm her sanity or they won't, and her worst fears will be realized. Can she take that step? Is she willing to risk it all, including her budding new romance, to possibly save the world from a risk that may not even be real?
Regardless of the question of its reality, let's not leave out this several thousand year old dragon. The development of this creature is impressive, as are the details included. Not just visual details, but dietary requirements and problems. The world Uktena left is very much different than the world he awakens to. How he copes with the changes is fascinating, and easily fits in with Chloe's knowledge of the world, leaving her with nothing to hang onto as proof of her sanity.
As the story progresses the action arcs smoothly, keeping pace with the emotional drama as it unfolds. By the end I was ready to begin reading the second book in this series. The surprise at the end wasn't as surprising as it could have been for me, but then again I read so much I may unconsciously know some of the cues to watch for. I can honestly say that this is an entertaining, and at times exhilarating, read!.
Goodreads Blurb:
Rising sea levels, droughts, earthquakes, tornadoes. Far below the earth’s crust, imprisoned in ancient slumber, the elemental powers of the land grow restless…
Meanwhile, in small town Virginia, Chloe McClellan’s first day of sophomore year was an epic fail. After she becomes the target of the fiery queen of the It-Girls in gym, she gains instant notoriety when she’s struck by lightning. That’s when things start to get weird.
There are disconcerting gaps in her memory, and freaky weather seems to follow her everywhere. She comes to believe that either she’s going insane, or her accident has awoken a terrifying creature from mythology, triggering the final countdown to the extinction of humankind.
Chloe finds unlikely help from a trio of male classmates: the grounded captain of the football team, the flighty stoner with a secret, and the enigmatic transfer student who longs for the sea. All the while, she struggles with the growing realization that dragons exist, and she, and her friends, may be the only ones who can stop them.
In the first book in the epic new Tipping Point Prophecy series, global dragon mythology is reimagined against a backdrop of ecological disaster, high school angst, and the power of the human spirit when working in accord with the elements.
Easily one of the better blends of current events, as viewed by teenagers, and ancient mythology. This mythology is so old that most of the world has not only forgotten the acts themselves, but also all the warning stories that they spawned. The dragon featured in this opening book of the Tipping Point Prophecy series is clearly based upon the Chinese styled dragons of old, looking more serpent-like than dragons that come out of Western stories.
Chloe is the ideal main human protagonist, being somewhat close to the typical high school sophomore whose only desire is to get through the year unnoticed. But Chloe simply can't manage to go unnoticed for very long no matter how hard she tries. Luckily she has more of a backbone than she credits herself with, and that's a good thing as she'll need it. Often.
For a self-described nerd, the collection of friends Chloe amasses is pretty remarkable. There is Stan the stoner, who is willing to take pretty much anything Chloe says on faith. They end up bonded together, past the casual acquaintance level, by shared secrets. Ezra, a senior and the captain of the football team. Instead of falling at his feet and fawning over every move he makes, every word he utters, she is constantly calling him on his bullshit. So he grounds her and she gives him a slice of reality. Last but not least is Kirin, the object of her first crush. A transplant from the West Coast, Kirin is a surfer who has become stranded. Yet everything about him still seems fluid, when they're talking that is. Without even trying to Kirin has managed to get Chloe all twisted up, something she certainly wasn't expecting to feel for a boy. But once they admit to their mutual attraction they are excellent support for each other.
The scenes between Chloe and these three boys, as well as the reconciliation scenes with her former only, and best, friend Liz, are so authentic to her age range that it feels as if you're reading her journal and experiencing all the emotions right along with her. Sharp has managed to capture the inner turmoil that every high school student suffers through, regardless of their level of popularity (something most of us don't grasp until we've escaped the hormonal hell known as high school - no matter how popular and perfect someone's life appears on the outside, everyone has their own insecurities).
When Chloe discovers what appears to be a dragon she's terrified that she is becoming like her father. Schizophrenic. Yet the proof is there, and it is getting harder and harder for her to ignore it. The real test could be trusting her new friends with this secret, they'll either see the dragon and confirm her sanity or they won't, and her worst fears will be realized. Can she take that step? Is she willing to risk it all, including her budding new romance, to possibly save the world from a risk that may not even be real?
Regardless of the question of its reality, let's not leave out this several thousand year old dragon. The development of this creature is impressive, as are the details included. Not just visual details, but dietary requirements and problems. The world Uktena left is very much different than the world he awakens to. How he copes with the changes is fascinating, and easily fits in with Chloe's knowledge of the world, leaving her with nothing to hang onto as proof of her sanity.
As the story progresses the action arcs smoothly, keeping pace with the emotional drama as it unfolds. By the end I was ready to begin reading the second book in this series. The surprise at the end wasn't as surprising as it could have been for me, but then again I read so much I may unconsciously know some of the cues to watch for. I can honestly say that this is an entertaining, and at times exhilarating, read!.
February 26, 2020
Chloe runs fast and kicks (butt). This is a fast read and sets up interesting future stories. I'm excited to see what C. Sharp does next.
I'm a little partial to further adventures of Slud, though. Slud chopped trees down and Neither Nor got unchopped. What they do next is more important, to this reader.
I'm a little partial to further adventures of Slud, though. Slud chopped trees down and Neither Nor got unchopped. What they do next is more important, to this reader.
December 24, 2017
I read this book by a different author? Rascal, on Wattpad. but they don´t appear on goodreads so I´m editing it here for my own knowledge. Good story just a novice writer so some parts could be better.
May 31, 2023
I ad to read this book for school, but I chose to finish it on my own. It was necessarily my favorite book, but I enjoyed reading it.
December 2, 2023
Loved it
August 9, 2014
I'm always on the look out for a good dragon book, but The Elementalist wasn't it. Honestly, the protagonist and the slowness of the book were my biggest issues.
Exhibit A:
What in the world! Her mom is overworked and she's complaining about wearing the same shoes for the last two months! Her shoes are New Balance; those are not cheap. I'm pretty sure that most the population has worn, at least once, the same shoes for two months. Has no one seen Forest Gump, hmm?
She supposedly is very poor, yet she's complaining about school lunches and saying she's going to bring lunch. If she's on financial assistance, how can she afford to bring lunches everyday to school? Besides, everyone knows school lunches are notoriously bad.
Exhibit B:
What kind of mother would talk to their child like this? Well, I guess when a daughter talks to a mother like this:
Chloe was a jerk to her mother and other adults. She's a complete jerk when she's with an adult policeman who is dating her mom. (Her mom had to work late because one of the waitress's husband had an accident so her mom's boyfriend came over to watch her.):
Also, he's not at the accident because he's watching Chloe. Again, she's rude to adults. But when a mean girl from school taunts her, she curls up in a ball and falls silent.
Exhibit C:
Stupidity. Just plain stupidity. If someone looks older than tenth grade that normally means that they are older. I hate to burst her bubble but high school is made up of ninth to twelfth graders. Not just tenth graders.
This is the protagonist we're suppose to rout for? A brain-dead, foot in her mouth, annoying girl? Really? I want a few more brain cells in my heroines.
Exhibit E:
Why was it "mortifying?" I have never heard a girl criticizes herself for being too skinny. If the author is trying to show that she's under fed and hungry, she would have eaten that school lunch even if it was less than appetizing. I thought that Chloe couldn't get any lower, but I was wrong:
I don't even know what to say to that. What girl wants to be known as a slut? That's not awesome at all! Shorty after that, I quit the book. I just couldn't read it any more, it was ridiculously bad.
*Thank you NetGalley and Diversion Books*
**All quotes are from an unfinished copy and maybe subject to change in the final version
If my review peeked your interest, you can find me at Urban Girl Book Review.
Exhibit A:
"Here it didn't matter that her mom was overworked and unlucky in love, or that Chloe had worn the same pair of running shoes every day for months."
What in the world! Her mom is overworked and she's complaining about wearing the same shoes for the last two months! Her shoes are New Balance; those are not cheap. I'm pretty sure that most the population has worn, at least once, the same shoes for two months. Has no one seen Forest Gump, hmm?
"Chloe was in the financial assistance program and qualified for subsidized lunches, but looking down at her near-sauceless pizza wedge, clump of browning iceberg lettuce, and green banana, she made a mental note to remember to brown-bag it from now on."
She supposedly is very poor, yet she's complaining about school lunches and saying she's going to bring lunch. If she's on financial assistance, how can she afford to bring lunches everyday to school? Besides, everyone knows school lunches are notoriously bad.
Exhibit B:
"Well, if I were you, I'd stop acting so weird; you're starting high school tomorrow. You could use a few more friends that don't have four legs or wings."
What kind of mother would talk to their child like this? Well, I guess when a daughter talks to a mother like this:
"'Now go wash your hands and put on some dry clothes for dinner,' interrupted her mother. 'Mom, hundreds of thousands of people are dying in China and you're worried about wet clothes and dirty hands?' 'Go!' Chloe clicked her wet-socked heels and saluted crisply. 'Oh captain, my captain.'"
Chloe was a jerk to her mother and other adults. She's a complete jerk when she's with an adult policeman who is dating her mom. (Her mom had to work late because one of the waitress's husband had an accident so her mom's boyfriend came over to watch her.):
"'Well, because you're a cop, right? Don't people call you when they have an emergency?' she knew she was baiting him, but couldn't stop herself. He chuckled without humor and straightened in the chair. 'I guess this was one of those situations where they called an ambulance, not the police.' 'Right,' she said."
Also, he's not at the accident because he's watching Chloe. Again, she's rude to adults. But when a mean girl from school taunts her, she curls up in a ball and falls silent.
Exhibit C:
"He was way too easy to look at and looked way too old to be in tenth grade."
Stupidity. Just plain stupidity. If someone looks older than tenth grade that normally means that they are older. I hate to burst her bubble but high school is made up of ninth to twelfth graders. Not just tenth graders.
"'And now you've traded the waves for the woods?' Did I really just say that?"
"'Did you hear about that earthquake in China yesterday?' She flailed. 'They say it was one of the biggest recorded quakes in history.' Now his smile dropped, glassy and distant. 'My grandmother lives in Xining, China,' he answered stonily."
This is the protagonist we're suppose to rout for? A brain-dead, foot in her mouth, annoying girl? Really? I want a few more brain cells in my heroines.
Exhibit E:
"Her shorts were too short for her thin legs, and the shirt hung like a dress. It was mortifying."
Why was it "mortifying?" I have never heard a girl criticizes herself for being too skinny. If the author is trying to show that she's under fed and hungry, she would have eaten that school lunch even if it was less than appetizing. I thought that Chloe couldn't get any lower, but I was wrong:
"She'd never even really kissed a boy, and yet now, only two weeks into high school, her name had become synonymous with slut... Awesome!"
I don't even know what to say to that. What girl wants to be known as a slut? That's not awesome at all! Shorty after that, I quit the book. I just couldn't read it any more, it was ridiculously bad.
*Thank you NetGalley and Diversion Books*
**All quotes are from an unfinished copy and maybe subject to change in the final version
If my review peeked your interest, you can find me at Urban Girl Book Review.
September 12, 2014
Book Review- The Elementalists by C. Sharp
Chloe is interested in science and protecting the earth. She is practically invisible. She is starting high school as a sophomore and she is dreading it. Her first day cements her beliefs. She is determined to keep her head down and concentrate on her studies. She meets Kirin on the first day back. He is a senior from California and in her homeroom. They become instant friends. However Chloe’s life starts getting crazy after she races her enemy in PE. She outruns Kendra and beats some of the boys’ times. As a result the cross country team is in her near future. So are new friends. Stan thinks she is cool for not getting mad at him when he accidentally drops her lunch tray. Then she attracts, Ezra, Mr. Football himself, as a training partner. He likes her when she doesn’t fall at his feet like everyone else. Her plan of being invisible is no longer possible.
Then her life gets even crazier when she is struck by lightning and keeps seeing piercing blue eyes watching her. She starts investigating the Chinese Prophesy about the end of mankind with the dragons that awaken to punish them.
I really liked the characters in this book. Chloe is refreshing is what interests her and her courage. She is struggling with where she fits in and the disappearance of her father. She is genuinely surprised when she has a group of boys vying for her attention and apparently a sworn enemy in Kendra who tries to make her life hell. The boys are sweet and end up being her partners in crime. They are there to help her when she needs it.
The fight to save mankind and protecting a dragon proves to be difficult and time consuming. Chloe thinks she is going crazy but tries to do what is right. She doesn’t realize what she has gotten herself into when she finds herself going against the Daedalus Group and Kendra’s father.
I found the plot unique and exciting. The mystery and mythology intertwines providing a magical story of dragons, dragon riders, elementals, and the end of man. I look forward to the next book in the series. I give it a 4 out of 5.
Chloe is interested in science and protecting the earth. She is practically invisible. She is starting high school as a sophomore and she is dreading it. Her first day cements her beliefs. She is determined to keep her head down and concentrate on her studies. She meets Kirin on the first day back. He is a senior from California and in her homeroom. They become instant friends. However Chloe’s life starts getting crazy after she races her enemy in PE. She outruns Kendra and beats some of the boys’ times. As a result the cross country team is in her near future. So are new friends. Stan thinks she is cool for not getting mad at him when he accidentally drops her lunch tray. Then she attracts, Ezra, Mr. Football himself, as a training partner. He likes her when she doesn’t fall at his feet like everyone else. Her plan of being invisible is no longer possible.
Then her life gets even crazier when she is struck by lightning and keeps seeing piercing blue eyes watching her. She starts investigating the Chinese Prophesy about the end of mankind with the dragons that awaken to punish them.
I really liked the characters in this book. Chloe is refreshing is what interests her and her courage. She is struggling with where she fits in and the disappearance of her father. She is genuinely surprised when she has a group of boys vying for her attention and apparently a sworn enemy in Kendra who tries to make her life hell. The boys are sweet and end up being her partners in crime. They are there to help her when she needs it.
The fight to save mankind and protecting a dragon proves to be difficult and time consuming. Chloe thinks she is going crazy but tries to do what is right. She doesn’t realize what she has gotten herself into when she finds herself going against the Daedalus Group and Kendra’s father.
I found the plot unique and exciting. The mystery and mythology intertwines providing a magical story of dragons, dragon riders, elementals, and the end of man. I look forward to the next book in the series. I give it a 4 out of 5.
August 11, 2014
Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
There is a LOT going on in this book, which is a refreshing change from a lot of the YA sci-fi/fantasy novels that have been published recently. Chloe is a straight-A student with anti-social tendencies who just wants to get through high school as unnoticed as possible. However, life has other plans for her.
We’ve got an ancient prophecy that is so old that it has become more myth than anything else. We’ve also got a bunch of teenagers who share an unusual bond that none could have expected. Add in an evil Monsanto-like corporation and we’ve got a great tale.
First of all, I loved that the book was set in Charlottesville, Virginia. I am from that area, so it was cool to me to read about events happening in places that I’ve been and seen. Second, I LOVED Chloe. As a YA heroine, I was so glad to see the character really working hard on her studies and devotes time and energy to the track team. Which means she has more priories than Bella Swan’s “pine and cry over sparkling boy vampire.”
The story itself is very interesting and takes on an ancient Chinese prophecy involving dragons and the elements that may or may not soon be destroying mankind. The secondary characters are interesting as well. My favorites were Stoner Stan and Chloe’s mom, Audrey.
My issue with The Elementalists is that is starts entirely too slowly. I understand the need for character (and world) building, but it seemed as if nothing really happened, other than the typical, teenager high school stuff, until about mid way through the book. I could imagine that a lot of adults who also enjoy YA literature might drop the book well before this point – I know I almost did. I’m not saying the book dragged, because it didn’t. Just that most of the first half of the book was completely irrelevant to me but, then again, I’m not the target audience anyway. At 414 pages, this author could have pared a good hundred pages out of the first half and made this a much more enjoyable novel.
There is a LOT going on in this book, which is a refreshing change from a lot of the YA sci-fi/fantasy novels that have been published recently. Chloe is a straight-A student with anti-social tendencies who just wants to get through high school as unnoticed as possible. However, life has other plans for her.
We’ve got an ancient prophecy that is so old that it has become more myth than anything else. We’ve also got a bunch of teenagers who share an unusual bond that none could have expected. Add in an evil Monsanto-like corporation and we’ve got a great tale.
First of all, I loved that the book was set in Charlottesville, Virginia. I am from that area, so it was cool to me to read about events happening in places that I’ve been and seen. Second, I LOVED Chloe. As a YA heroine, I was so glad to see the character really working hard on her studies and devotes time and energy to the track team. Which means she has more priories than Bella Swan’s “pine and cry over sparkling boy vampire.”
The story itself is very interesting and takes on an ancient Chinese prophecy involving dragons and the elements that may or may not soon be destroying mankind. The secondary characters are interesting as well. My favorites were Stoner Stan and Chloe’s mom, Audrey.
My issue with The Elementalists is that is starts entirely too slowly. I understand the need for character (and world) building, but it seemed as if nothing really happened, other than the typical, teenager high school stuff, until about mid way through the book. I could imagine that a lot of adults who also enjoy YA literature might drop the book well before this point – I know I almost did. I’m not saying the book dragged, because it didn’t. Just that most of the first half of the book was completely irrelevant to me but, then again, I’m not the target audience anyway. At 414 pages, this author could have pared a good hundred pages out of the first half and made this a much more enjoyable novel.
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