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Land of Destiny #2
Destiny's Flame
Repercussions…
What happens after the battle is done? Do you think everyone lives happily ever after?
Lumernia has been left divided, leaderless. The ensuing power struggle cost the city more than just the knightly order, leaving the land and its people unguarded. Is the conquering army content with their prize, or do they have their sights set on more?
Celeste, Tarnelius, Arcus and Siobhan are back. After saving the land of Altierra from the threat of the ultimate evil, they expected life to return to normal and made plans to pay respects to a fallen friend. No good deed ever goes unpunished, though, and their actions have many consequences. Kuunkierto was defeated, but an ancient pact was broken and the first calls of war have sounded. Will they be able to right the wrongs of the world once more? Will they be strong enough to face what is coming?
Through the flames of war, new destinies arise.
What happens after the battle is done? Do you think everyone lives happily ever after?
Lumernia has been left divided, leaderless. The ensuing power struggle cost the city more than just the knightly order, leaving the land and its people unguarded. Is the conquering army content with their prize, or do they have their sights set on more?
Celeste, Tarnelius, Arcus and Siobhan are back. After saving the land of Altierra from the threat of the ultimate evil, they expected life to return to normal and made plans to pay respects to a fallen friend. No good deed ever goes unpunished, though, and their actions have many consequences. Kuunkierto was defeated, but an ancient pact was broken and the first calls of war have sounded. Will they be able to right the wrongs of the world once more? Will they be strong enough to face what is coming?
Through the flames of war, new destinies arise.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2015
29 people want to read
About the author
D.S. Schmeckpeper
3 books14 followersD.S. Schmeckpeper (a.k.a. Dottie and Steve Schmeckpeper) live in Florida, USA. They are a husband and wife team who work together to create the Land of Destiny series. Both have loved the Fantasy genre for many years and have wasted way too much time playing fantasy-based games. Dottie was a vocal performance major in college, before she decided a liberal arts major was not for her. Ironic, huh? They have two wonderful twin boys, who are three at the time of this publication. They are the light or their parents’ lives. Steve does the artwork and comes up with many of the story concepts. Dottie brings the ideas to life. When not working, writing or drawing, the pair love to take their children to Florida’s many amusement parks, and can often be found there.
Check us out on Facebook to see upcoming news, excerpts and more of Steve’s artwork!
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
April 24, 2015
Celeste, Tarnel and the rest of the gang are at it again. This time they are trying to save the world from the orcs, oh and Tarnel’s atrocious father/king. Tarnel does not want the throne, so if his father is removed as leader, he will need to find someone he can trust to do right by Kayalost. Not knowing what kind of trouble they are going to run into next, big plans must be made to eradicate the evil that lurks. Asking for help from Axistra seems like a great idea, but she holds to a pact that says she and her sibling dragons cannot interfere. The stakes are higher than ever before as Celeste leads her friends into a battle like no other.
I want to first say that the author(s) of this book are very talented! It is definitely a story that will have you biting your nails and pulling your hair out. To say you will not want to put this book down once you start is an understatement. You will find it nearly impossible to pull your mind back to the here and now once you have escaped to Altierra. The journey is intense and the battles are epic.
I want to first say that the author(s) of this book are very talented! It is definitely a story that will have you biting your nails and pulling your hair out. To say you will not want to put this book down once you start is an understatement. You will find it nearly impossible to pull your mind back to the here and now once you have escaped to Altierra. The journey is intense and the battles are epic.
April 21, 2015
I couldn’t wait to see what the cast of characters we got to know and love in Destiny’s Wings would be up to now. Who could have foreseen the disastrous consequences of saving the world from the darkest evil?
Siobhan, Arcus, Celeste and Tarnelius return in force, and their challenges are even more testing than ever before. Their enemies are more formidable, but what hits hardest, at least for some (read it and see who I’m talking about), is the nemesis of your own blood. Standing up to such evil is never an easy decision, and the repercussions of your actions can scar you for life. Dark times, well handled. Ethical beliefs and traditional values are unquestionably challenged in this nail-biting adrenaline rush.
The real monsters are not always the ones you can see in front of your eyes, and that notion is an eye-opener for more than one of the band of heroes who, once more, protect what is valuable. What is good without evil, light without darkness, peace without the struggle to make it so – these are questions that were dancing in my mind all through reading this book.
Yes, at its core this is an epic fantasy novel, but to me it was so much more.
Beautiful prose, an incredible plot delivered flawlessly, and clearly the promise of more adventures to come are only a few of the gems that make this exquisite novel shine. An incredibly satisfying read, wholeheartedly recommended. You won’t be disappointed. I would love to see this series made into film.
Siobhan, Arcus, Celeste and Tarnelius return in force, and their challenges are even more testing than ever before. Their enemies are more formidable, but what hits hardest, at least for some (read it and see who I’m talking about), is the nemesis of your own blood. Standing up to such evil is never an easy decision, and the repercussions of your actions can scar you for life. Dark times, well handled. Ethical beliefs and traditional values are unquestionably challenged in this nail-biting adrenaline rush.
The real monsters are not always the ones you can see in front of your eyes, and that notion is an eye-opener for more than one of the band of heroes who, once more, protect what is valuable. What is good without evil, light without darkness, peace without the struggle to make it so – these are questions that were dancing in my mind all through reading this book.
Yes, at its core this is an epic fantasy novel, but to me it was so much more.
Beautiful prose, an incredible plot delivered flawlessly, and clearly the promise of more adventures to come are only a few of the gems that make this exquisite novel shine. An incredibly satisfying read, wholeheartedly recommended. You won’t be disappointed. I would love to see this series made into film.
April 26, 2015
D.S. Schmeckpeper transports us back to the land of Altierra in this sequel to her debut novel, Destiny’s Wings. We find Celeste, Tarnelius, Arcus, and Shiobhan facing the disastrous consequences of their actions.
I got/had to beta read this book. I actually wasn’t given much of a choice in the matter, but the author has bribed me with the promises of cake. It wasn’t hard to get me on board with promises like that. Also, I was anxious to continue the adventures of Celeste and her crew. In Destiny’s Flame, the crew travels to almost all of the locations we first visited in Destiny’s Wings, all of them under very different circumstances, and with vastly different results. I enjoyed being able to revisit these locations under different circumstances.
Although this book is the second in a series, you don’t actually have to read Destiny’s Wings first to feel up to speed with what is going on in this story. The major pertinent details from the first book are covered, but if you read this book without reading Destiny’s Wings first, you will be subjecting yourself to some major spoilers for Destiny’s Wings, so I would still recommend reading that first.
I would recommend this series to any epic fantasy fan, and personally look forward to reading more from this author.
I got/had to beta read this book. I actually wasn’t given much of a choice in the matter, but the author has bribed me with the promises of cake. It wasn’t hard to get me on board with promises like that. Also, I was anxious to continue the adventures of Celeste and her crew. In Destiny’s Flame, the crew travels to almost all of the locations we first visited in Destiny’s Wings, all of them under very different circumstances, and with vastly different results. I enjoyed being able to revisit these locations under different circumstances.
Although this book is the second in a series, you don’t actually have to read Destiny’s Wings first to feel up to speed with what is going on in this story. The major pertinent details from the first book are covered, but if you read this book without reading Destiny’s Wings first, you will be subjecting yourself to some major spoilers for Destiny’s Wings, so I would still recommend reading that first.
I would recommend this series to any epic fantasy fan, and personally look forward to reading more from this author.
April 21, 2015
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In comparison to Destiny's Wings, this book had much more character depth and I found it to be better written. It is obvious the author is learning to improve her craft.
Unlike book 1, I was immediately drawn into the story. With the characters having already been established, it was easy to get back into everything. I had missed the characters, so I was looking forward to seeing what shenanigans they were going to get up to. The first bit between Arcus and Siobhan was so frustrating, but in a good way! Since she joined the story toward the end of Destiny's Wings, I hadn't had enough time to get to know her as much as I would have liked so I was excited to read more about her.
There are two very minor characters from the first book that become a major element for this one. The issue with that was that this story became more of a sort of romance between the two of them midway through the book, with the whole epic dragon/orc fight going on in the background as filler to their story. I was a bit put off in a few scenes and I wished the four from the previous book played a more dominant role. Especially Arcus and Siobhan, because obvious reasons.
One scene in specific really bothered me. I shan't go into detail, because spoilers, but what had happened was pure evil. I expected something of that nature to cause issue, but instead it was largely ignored. This felt strongly out of place for me knowing the party leaned towards good, despite their natural alignment of neutral. I also felt the resolution to the situation was a cop out.
Aside from the two new main characters, I enjoyed everything else with the story. The conflict between Tarnelius and his father was perhaps one of the best parts in the story. Although, I am now quite fond of the dwarf dragon, Khellendriox.
I would really like to see more to the main story in book 3. I humbly request more dragons, because that was freaking awesome! Also, I hope more characters aren't added that take away from the ones I was looking forward to getting to know more. Give me more Siobhan, dammit!
In conclusion, I liked a good chunk of the story. It was pretty great and I highly recommend this series.
4/5 Platypires
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/d...
In comparison to Destiny's Wings, this book had much more character depth and I found it to be better written. It is obvious the author is learning to improve her craft.
Unlike book 1, I was immediately drawn into the story. With the characters having already been established, it was easy to get back into everything. I had missed the characters, so I was looking forward to seeing what shenanigans they were going to get up to. The first bit between Arcus and Siobhan was so frustrating, but in a good way! Since she joined the story toward the end of Destiny's Wings, I hadn't had enough time to get to know her as much as I would have liked so I was excited to read more about her.
There are two very minor characters from the first book that become a major element for this one. The issue with that was that this story became more of a sort of romance between the two of them midway through the book, with the whole epic dragon/orc fight going on in the background as filler to their story. I was a bit put off in a few scenes and I wished the four from the previous book played a more dominant role. Especially Arcus and Siobhan, because obvious reasons.
One scene in specific really bothered me. I shan't go into detail, because spoilers, but what had happened was pure evil. I expected something of that nature to cause issue, but instead it was largely ignored. This felt strongly out of place for me knowing the party leaned towards good, despite their natural alignment of neutral. I also felt the resolution to the situation was a cop out.
Aside from the two new main characters, I enjoyed everything else with the story. The conflict between Tarnelius and his father was perhaps one of the best parts in the story. Although, I am now quite fond of the dwarf dragon, Khellendriox.
I would really like to see more to the main story in book 3. I humbly request more dragons, because that was freaking awesome! Also, I hope more characters aren't added that take away from the ones I was looking forward to getting to know more. Give me more Siobhan, dammit!
In conclusion, I liked a good chunk of the story. It was pretty great and I highly recommend this series.
4/5 Platypires
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/d...
November 1, 2015
“You can’t heal the dead.”
…that is just a line that I found to be hilarious during a rather dark point in the book. I absolutely love Schmekpeper’s writing anyway but partly into this book, it does become noticeably darker and she manages to transition into this darker style and work it all into the storyline just perfectly.
I’m relieved that I read ‘Destiny’s Wings’ and enjoyed it so much that I remember it well because Destiny’s Flame dives right in and I’m able to follow easily. I am able to appreciate some little side mentions or what I perceive as inside jokes that I otherwise wouldn’t get and of course ‘Flame’ picks up right where ‘Wings’ left off. The backstory from ‘Wings’ is important in order to fully appreciate the situation here so I strongly urge you to read this series in order.
Some of the characters we haven’t heard about in awhile are back and elaborated on – there are now even more characters I’m attached to in this series and I’m once again completely sucked in / cannot get enough.
Although Book 1 gave us the gist of Tarnel’s story, thanks to some painful flashbacks on his account, we are treated to a more detailed view and understanding of why he has come to be who he is. We are more enlightened into some of the other characters as well and introduced to still more likable characters.
There is some drama and even scandal among the ‘good guys’ in this installation, along with the action, a bit of gore, war scenes, a bit of romance and humor. Having all of these packed in together may seem like an unlikely combination but it all flows just perfectly.
…that is just a line that I found to be hilarious during a rather dark point in the book. I absolutely love Schmekpeper’s writing anyway but partly into this book, it does become noticeably darker and she manages to transition into this darker style and work it all into the storyline just perfectly.
I’m relieved that I read ‘Destiny’s Wings’ and enjoyed it so much that I remember it well because Destiny’s Flame dives right in and I’m able to follow easily. I am able to appreciate some little side mentions or what I perceive as inside jokes that I otherwise wouldn’t get and of course ‘Flame’ picks up right where ‘Wings’ left off. The backstory from ‘Wings’ is important in order to fully appreciate the situation here so I strongly urge you to read this series in order.
Some of the characters we haven’t heard about in awhile are back and elaborated on – there are now even more characters I’m attached to in this series and I’m once again completely sucked in / cannot get enough.
Although Book 1 gave us the gist of Tarnel’s story, thanks to some painful flashbacks on his account, we are treated to a more detailed view and understanding of why he has come to be who he is. We are more enlightened into some of the other characters as well and introduced to still more likable characters.
There is some drama and even scandal among the ‘good guys’ in this installation, along with the action, a bit of gore, war scenes, a bit of romance and humor. Having all of these packed in together may seem like an unlikely combination but it all flows just perfectly.
January 13, 2016
***I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.***
Holy cow that was great! Destiny's Flame is a vast improvement over Destiny's Wings. The editing was great, there was more action, and we delved a little deeper into the lives of these characters.
From the beginning of the book to the last page, Destiny's Flame grabs you and doesn't let go. I read this in one sitting, mostly because the plot kept me guessing as to what would happen.
This book was more centered on Joseph, Victoria, and Arcus more than anyone else. It wasn't a bad thing, but I would have liked to have seen more perspective from the other characters.
Oh, and there is a scene where I was left with my mouth hanging open. I had to reread it to make sure I read it correctly. And a couple of the characters make a little fuss about it, but for the most part are like "meh." Meh? MEH? I think the reason this wasn't made such a big deal of as it should have been is because there were more pressing matters going on at the time. What was done was done, and nothing could be done to fix it or reverse it.
Also, I have a love/hate relationship with Arcus. Sometimes I like him, and other times I wish I could kill him. It's been like this since book 1, and will probably continue with book 3, whenever that comes out.
But besides all the exasperating moments, I devoured Destiny's Flame, as it kept me reading and didn't have a dull moment. (Plus, I loved it!)
Destiny's Flame receives 5/5 Platypires from me!
Holy cow that was great! Destiny's Flame is a vast improvement over Destiny's Wings. The editing was great, there was more action, and we delved a little deeper into the lives of these characters.
From the beginning of the book to the last page, Destiny's Flame grabs you and doesn't let go. I read this in one sitting, mostly because the plot kept me guessing as to what would happen.
This book was more centered on Joseph, Victoria, and Arcus more than anyone else. It wasn't a bad thing, but I would have liked to have seen more perspective from the other characters.
Oh, and there is a scene where I was left with my mouth hanging open. I had to reread it to make sure I read it correctly. And a couple of the characters make a little fuss about it, but for the most part are like "meh." Meh? MEH? I think the reason this wasn't made such a big deal of as it should have been is because there were more pressing matters going on at the time. What was done was done, and nothing could be done to fix it or reverse it.
Also, I have a love/hate relationship with Arcus. Sometimes I like him, and other times I wish I could kill him. It's been like this since book 1, and will probably continue with book 3, whenever that comes out.
But besides all the exasperating moments, I devoured Destiny's Flame, as it kept me reading and didn't have a dull moment. (Plus, I loved it!)
Destiny's Flame receives 5/5 Platypires from me!
April 30, 2015
Destiny’s Flame picks up where Destiny’s Wings left off and takes the story to new personal level. We are reunited with Celeste, Cornelius, Arcus and Siobhan as they continue their journey through the land of Altierra. What types of obstacles must they overcome?
Some of our main characters give us a peek into their personal backgrounds and you get a better sense of who they are. I love the relationship dynamics of the group as well as the couples. They came together for a common cause and seem to balance each other out well. The growth of each character from Destiny’s Wings was noticeable and I loved watching them develop. The story had a steady pace and just flowed nicely. It was an easy transition from the first book. There was a nice mix of romance, action, lore and I truly enjoyed the character development in this story.
This is the second book I’ve read by D.S. Schmeckpeper and I think she is a very gifted writer. You can see the growth in her writing writing style from the first book to the second and I can’t wait to see what else she comes up with. I enjoyed every minute of reading this and would recommend it to anyone who is into the fantasy genre. Well done!
Some of our main characters give us a peek into their personal backgrounds and you get a better sense of who they are. I love the relationship dynamics of the group as well as the couples. They came together for a common cause and seem to balance each other out well. The growth of each character from Destiny’s Wings was noticeable and I loved watching them develop. The story had a steady pace and just flowed nicely. It was an easy transition from the first book. There was a nice mix of romance, action, lore and I truly enjoyed the character development in this story.
This is the second book I’ve read by D.S. Schmeckpeper and I think she is a very gifted writer. You can see the growth in her writing writing style from the first book to the second and I can’t wait to see what else she comes up with. I enjoyed every minute of reading this and would recommend it to anyone who is into the fantasy genre. Well done!
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April 28, 2015I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This is honestly one of the best sequels ever written. I am so looking forward to the next installment.
My favorites that survived the first book are back and there are some new characters that are introduced. Everything flowed beautifully and the storyline(s) flowed easily. I will recommend this series to others.
I give it 5/5 Platypires.
My favorites that survived the first book are back and there are some new characters that are introduced. Everything flowed beautifully and the storyline(s) flowed easily. I will recommend this series to others.
I give it 5/5 Platypires.
March 30, 2015
Was excited to get my hands on a copy of this book! The adventure continues with lots of action, emotion and surprises.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews