Sometimes, the world doesn’t need a hero. It needs a caretaker. Despite being called the Cloud-Maker, Nuvem’s rain spells almost never work. He lives quietly on a garden-raft along the Whisperbend River, helping where he can, and trying not to believe the whispers that say he simply isn’t very good at magic. Then the rain begins. After Nuvem uncovers an ancient relic in the marshlands, the river rises. Strange winged Watchers take to the skies, and secrets buried beneath the bog begin to stir. The people of Silverfern Hollow adapt with cheer and warmth, but something old has awakened, and it seems to be following him. Why does the rain answer Nuvem now, when it never did before? Why do the spirits of the river watch his every step? And why do forgotten voices call him Keeper? At his side are Ludovic, a merchant and scholar who sees worth where Nuvem sees only doubt, and Andy, his sharp-tongued axolotl familiar. Together, they set out into the marshlands in search of answers. There, among mushroom circles and lost villages caught between moments, he understands that magic does not always come from power. Sometimes, it comes from care. This is a story about being chosen not for strength, but for kindness. About found family, slow rainy days at home, and a love that finds you perfect just the way you are. About learning to trust the quiet work of tending, listening, and letting things unfold. Perfect for those who loved A House in the Cerulean Sea, Legends and Lattes, and Studio Ghibli masterpieces like Spirited Away, and Ponyo. This is book 3 of Tales of Silverfern Hollow series, but can be read as a standalone.
My reviews are my own. If you enjoyed this book, I’m glad you did. If not, I respect your opinion, so please respect mine. This is simply my view, so let's keep it courteous. My review is honest and voluntary.
I started reading this book because Google recommended it when I searched for no-romance fantasy, but it turned out to be a romance novel. The book itself isn't bad, but the romance was awful. The characters' conversations felt awkward, and they went from being friends on one page to kissing on the next. The pacing didn't work for me either; at times it felt rushed, while at others it dragged. Ludovic doesn't seem to "know" Nuvum by the way he keeps putting him in uncomfortable situations. Not sure how to explain it, it is just a weird exchange between them, it doesn't feel like it flows properly. Overall, it wasn't a terrible story, but I just couldn't connect or care for it.
A very enjoyable cozy fantasy about accepting who you are, and believing you are where you are supposed to be. Nuvem is plagued by self-doubt. He can never perform his magic on demand, forcing his power never works and he ends up disappointing everyone, reinforcing his belief that he us useless.
Once he starts to listen to the nature around him, he is able to help. Not everything needs magic to solve the problem.
A gentle romance bolsters his courage, as Ludovic accepts him for who he is, and that helps his confidence grow. Add to that a charming, if aloof, axolotl familiar, whose belief in Nuvem is absolute and heart warming.
I loved the descriptions of the river and the magical world around it and how power is not everything, sometimes you just need someone who cares and takes the time to listen. A lovely message in this time of chaos and frantic conflicts.
4.25 Another delightfully whimsical, magical, fantastical tale — the kind that feels like breathing in stardust.
Cloud‑Maker Nuvem, a wandering sorcerer, and Andy — his chatty, steadfast axolotl familiar — move through a world where quiet hearts catch the hum of hidden marvels. Their tale carries a soft reminder: some mysteries are meant to be admired, not opened. Let the strange lie still. Listen to the circling whispers. Trust the call when it finally arrives — who knows what wonders will rise next.
And threaded through it all is a soft reminder — kindness multiplies, and even when you feel small, someone (or something) out there sees your light and thinks the world of you.
Once again I thought I found an author I could enjoy but was sadly let down. Although this author does have a cozy feel to her writing, I will not be reading any more since homosexual relationships are featured in her stories. I feel that books should have a disclosure statement up front so that those of us with conservative values don't waste our money on books we will never finish reading.
Wow I loved this book I was silly enough to start reading it in bed you know those famous words just one more chapter, it was a gentle story that warmed your heart whilst a little bit of romance was bubbling beneath the surface, the characters are amazing I highly recommend this series , a very very well deserved 5 stars
I have enjoyed the first three books. R.S.S.Rodrigues style of writing is great. Each of the books have a new main character to get to know along with characters from the other books. Each main character has experienced things in the past that they need to work on so it is interesting to see the way each one grows.
And all the others in the Silverfern Hollow series. They have charming characters, lots of mystical folk, no sex, no violence, and RECIPES! Perfect for curling up in a comfy reading chair with a pot of tea on a cold rainy day and enjoying. I have the next one all set up on my side table ready to read.
Wonderful read Nuvem learns love and that listening matter most. That listening, stopping, fixing and helping are powerful. That he is lovable and enough. That his sweet careful self, is something we all need to remember. Read this in one sitting.
A gentle ride re-visiting Silverfern Hallow. Meeting new and old characters. The weaving of the stories within the story is delightful and heartwarming. Enjoy the visit.
Another wonderful story full of life and the characters too, like before I could not put the book down. A smile while reading the book and my imagination ran with it. I do hope other people will enjoy the story and a cup of tea too.