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The Elemental #2
Breakwater
“My name is Larkspur, and I am an Elemental.”
My people use the power of the earth to sustain life and defy our enemies. I should be at my father's side as a royal princess. But as a half-breed, bastard child, that isn't going to happen.
As an Ender, one of my father’s Elite guards, it’s my job to do as I’m told. When my older sister is sent as an ambassador to the realm of the water elementals--the Deep--I have no choice but to accompany her as her bodyguard.
With the death of the water elemental's King, a deadly battle for the throne begins; a battle we are forced to choose sides in.
There are only a few things I know for sure. The ocean may be beautiful, but lurking in its depths are monsters to fear, the water I tread is teaming with danger and I am on my own.
With no one to help, and no one to trust, I have to find a way to keep my sister safe, and stop a civil war.
But the secrets within the Deep are far darker than any of us realized.
Welcome... welcome to the Deep.
My people use the power of the earth to sustain life and defy our enemies. I should be at my father's side as a royal princess. But as a half-breed, bastard child, that isn't going to happen.
As an Ender, one of my father’s Elite guards, it’s my job to do as I’m told. When my older sister is sent as an ambassador to the realm of the water elementals--the Deep--I have no choice but to accompany her as her bodyguard.
With the death of the water elemental's King, a deadly battle for the throne begins; a battle we are forced to choose sides in.
There are only a few things I know for sure. The ocean may be beautiful, but lurking in its depths are monsters to fear, the water I tread is teaming with danger and I am on my own.
With no one to help, and no one to trust, I have to find a way to keep my sister safe, and stop a civil war.
But the secrets within the Deep are far darker than any of us realized.
Welcome... welcome to the Deep.
175 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 23, 2015
2710 people are currently reading
2806 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Mayer
161 books7,246 followersA long time ago, in a galaxy far away, I was born into a family of Star Wars nuts. I have a lot of siblings (somewhere I lost count but I think there was more than could be numbered on one hand) and being one of the young padawans I was subjected to Star Wars marathons, on a regular basis. If you've read any of my books you'll see there is often a reference to said movies as a small homage to my upbringing. May the force be with you and all that jazz.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 307 reviews
December 18, 2015
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads.
BREAKWATER was a twisty, come-out-swinging book that really propelled this series and its characters forward in a big way. The first installment revolved around the Earth Elementals which by their very definition made them less alien than the Undine so, in volume 2, Shannon Mayer was able to fully let her creative cat (Peta) out of the bag by initiating readers to the secrets of the Deep.
Belladonna didn’t exactly leave me with a pleasant taste in my mouth after RECURVE, so she had a lot to prove as far as this story went. The author handled her evolution from prissy Princess to tactful Ambassador with grace, and even mended the rift between the sisters much to my delight. Likewise, Mayer also added new layers to the protagonist’s relationship with Ash that left me equally content.
I enjoyed the politicking a great deal in this novel what with the battle for the throne, the delicate maneuvering by the other Elementals, and the advancement of this series’ larger plot arc. Seeds of doubt were planted on all sides which converted the ending into a fun puzzle to be solved. Requiem was a treacherously evil antagonist that just wouldn’t die, and I loved every minute of his reign.
The Deep lived up to its name by emphasizing the constant fear of drowning, uncovering the monsters that dwell in the deepest, darkest parts of the ocean, and exposing the nastier aspects of Undine society. If you’re familiar with this author’s other works—be on the lookout for a Tracker holler—then this advisory is not required, but for the rest of you… This book touches on slavery, rape, and many violent deaths.
Shannon Mayer unleashed the Kraken in BREAKWATER, and her name was Olive. :) ~ 4.5 Stars
BREAKWATER was a twisty, come-out-swinging book that really propelled this series and its characters forward in a big way. The first installment revolved around the Earth Elementals which by their very definition made them less alien than the Undine so, in volume 2, Shannon Mayer was able to fully let her creative cat (Peta) out of the bag by initiating readers to the secrets of the Deep.
Belladonna didn’t exactly leave me with a pleasant taste in my mouth after RECURVE, so she had a lot to prove as far as this story went. The author handled her evolution from prissy Princess to tactful Ambassador with grace, and even mended the rift between the sisters much to my delight. Likewise, Mayer also added new layers to the protagonist’s relationship with Ash that left me equally content.
I enjoyed the politicking a great deal in this novel what with the battle for the throne, the delicate maneuvering by the other Elementals, and the advancement of this series’ larger plot arc. Seeds of doubt were planted on all sides which converted the ending into a fun puzzle to be solved. Requiem was a treacherously evil antagonist that just wouldn’t die, and I loved every minute of his reign.
The Deep lived up to its name by emphasizing the constant fear of drowning, uncovering the monsters that dwell in the deepest, darkest parts of the ocean, and exposing the nastier aspects of Undine society. If you’re familiar with this author’s other works—be on the lookout for a Tracker holler—then this advisory is not required, but for the rest of you… This book touches on slavery, rape, and many violent deaths.
Shannon Mayer unleashed the Kraken in BREAKWATER, and her name was Olive. :) ~ 4.5 Stars
October 14, 2024
Breakwater is book two in The Elemental series by Shannon Mayer. This one features The Water Elementals. It’s full of twists, turns, mystery, and drama.
We come-out-swinging, moving the characters and plot forward in a big way. I wasn’t a fan of Bella and she had a lot to prove to me; before I’d change my mind. The author handled Belladonna’s evolution from prissy Princess to tactful Ambassador with grace and even mended the relationship between sisters. Also Mayer added a new layer to the protagonist’s relationship with Ash that left me equally content. Lark through it all kept a level head and handled all the challenges well.
The Deep lived up to its name by highlighting the constant fear of drowning, exposing the monsters that dwell in the deepest darkest parts of the ocean, and revealing the nastier aspects of Undine society.
Breakwater was another action-packed adventure and I look forward to reading on in The Elemental series.
Rated: 4 Stars
We come-out-swinging, moving the characters and plot forward in a big way. I wasn’t a fan of Bella and she had a lot to prove to me; before I’d change my mind. The author handled Belladonna’s evolution from prissy Princess to tactful Ambassador with grace and even mended the relationship between sisters. Also Mayer added a new layer to the protagonist’s relationship with Ash that left me equally content. Lark through it all kept a level head and handled all the challenges well.
The Deep lived up to its name by highlighting the constant fear of drowning, exposing the monsters that dwell in the deepest darkest parts of the ocean, and revealing the nastier aspects of Undine society.
Breakwater was another action-packed adventure and I look forward to reading on in The Elemental series.
Rated: 4 Stars
February 3, 2019
2.5 stars
I’m still trying to wrap my head around my feelings towards this book. The first 100 pages were confusing and contradictory to previous story arcs and character development. And the next 100 pages were filled with unnecessary action ‘sequences’ which were frankly, badly written and lacked imagery (due to the too-fast pace). Honestly, the only thing that kept me interested was the hinted relationship between you-know-who (not Voldemort, guys) as, you can’t not ship them.
I guess I’m just not much for the repetitive narrative of “disruption, realisation, resolution, new equilibrium” etc; which I’ve already seen in 2 out of 7 (I think?) books in this series (and is the hinted narrative for book 3). Which brings me on to my main point. We get it Mayer, your protagonist is evolving into an all-powerful-but-consciously-humane-hero due to her plethora of familial ‘issues’. But you didn’t need to write 400 pages of foreshadowing which ultimately, acted as a condescending slap in the face with every page turn. The writing just screams ‘money-grab’ to me, in that there is so much foreshadowing that there is no actual plot. It’s as if Mayer is merely trying to convince you to buy her next book in hopes that it will actually have a satisfying storyline. So for them reasons, I don’t think I’ll be reading ‘Firestorm’.
ALSO, if I ever read or hear the words ‘reaching for’, ‘focussing on’ or ‘connecting to’ the “power of the Earth” again, then I will be forced to show the assailant MY physically violent method of reaching for the power of the damned Earth. You’ve been warned...
I’m still trying to wrap my head around my feelings towards this book. The first 100 pages were confusing and contradictory to previous story arcs and character development. And the next 100 pages were filled with unnecessary action ‘sequences’ which were frankly, badly written and lacked imagery (due to the too-fast pace). Honestly, the only thing that kept me interested was the hinted relationship between you-know-who (not Voldemort, guys) as, you can’t not ship them.
I guess I’m just not much for the repetitive narrative of “disruption, realisation, resolution, new equilibrium” etc; which I’ve already seen in 2 out of 7 (I think?) books in this series (and is the hinted narrative for book 3). Which brings me on to my main point. We get it Mayer, your protagonist is evolving into an all-powerful-but-consciously-humane-hero due to her plethora of familial ‘issues’. But you didn’t need to write 400 pages of foreshadowing which ultimately, acted as a condescending slap in the face with every page turn. The writing just screams ‘money-grab’ to me, in that there is so much foreshadowing that there is no actual plot. It’s as if Mayer is merely trying to convince you to buy her next book in hopes that it will actually have a satisfying storyline. So for them reasons, I don’t think I’ll be reading ‘Firestorm’.
ALSO, if I ever read or hear the words ‘reaching for’, ‘focussing on’ or ‘connecting to’ the “power of the Earth” again, then I will be forced to show the assailant MY physically violent method of reaching for the power of the damned Earth. You’ve been warned...
January 29, 2020
3.5 Let the fun begin!
The story is picking up, we're getting more and more information and I'm starting to think that there's a way bigger plot that we'll probably see in the future.
I didn't expect Bella's reaction and I really like the water Queen, so yay!
The great part is that it got me hooked, I can barely put the book down, so on to the next one.
The story is picking up, we're getting more and more information and I'm starting to think that there's a way bigger plot that we'll probably see in the future.
I didn't expect Bella's reaction and I really like the water Queen, so yay!
The great part is that it got me hooked, I can barely put the book down, so on to the next one.
September 22, 2015
I found this book infinitely more enjoyable than the first. Considering the first took me months of picking up and putting down, I feel this is a minor accolade.
Action packed, character epiphanies and some romance. What more could I want. Good world building and a good tale.
Action packed, character epiphanies and some romance. What more could I want. Good world building and a good tale.
May 12, 2017
Rate: 4/3 stars.
October 9, 2016
I LOVED this! I was hooked from the very first page and I loved reentering this world. Lark is just one of my absolute favourite heroines. I love her strength, her honour and also that she isn’t perfect. She makes mistakes and she is strong enough to own up to that. I absolutely crave scenes between her and Ash, and while there weren’t many in this entry, there was enough progression that I can’t wait to see more of them together. Add in an awful foe, odds that are truly terrifying, constant tension, family and new characters that make you question their motives, and you have one action-packed, suspenseful read that is an absolute winner! I know I will be rereading in the future. A must read for Mayer fans!
July 1, 2015
Oh man
Breakwater had me in a whirl of emotions. Action packed from the first chapter. I wanted to cry and scream out in frustration at some points. Bella and Lark's relationship takes a turn. As does Ash and hers. We find out how Lark met Peta and Lark's father made me want to punch him in the face! I'm ready for book 3!
Breakwater had me in a whirl of emotions. Action packed from the first chapter. I wanted to cry and scream out in frustration at some points. Bella and Lark's relationship takes a turn. As does Ash and hers. We find out how Lark met Peta and Lark's father made me want to punch him in the face! I'm ready for book 3!
June 29, 2015
Uhuuuu - it gets better and better! There will be sexy times ahead, I know it!
This was a really good sequel, I like the heroine and I so like the world-building.
I like it much better than the Rylee Adams series, maybe because it feels fresh.
I can't wait to get my grubby fingers on the third installment!
This was a really good sequel, I like the heroine and I so like the world-building.
I like it much better than the Rylee Adams series, maybe because it feels fresh.
I can't wait to get my grubby fingers on the third installment!
Read
February 5, 2020I enjoyed this book and the conflict that happened. I also liked the fact that belladonna is not annoying anymore and that lark is finally being excepted by some of her family.
February 29, 2020
*Reread Review*
I'm going to go ahead and up this to 3.5 stars. I mean honestly there is nothing wrong with Shannon Mayer's story telling ability. As I've read other series written by her, I've come to recognize the slow revealing plot progression and it doesn't bother me near as much as it did when I first gave this series a shot. I know now to trust that she will eventually deliver. Betrayals are her specialty though so I'm still very unwilling to trust any of these characters. As evidently, they are unwilling to trust each other as well. The most frustrating part about this book in the series this round, for me, was that the characters aren't given enough information to be proactive instead of always on the crap end reactive. I can't fathom the secrecy of sending both your daughters into the Deep without any information, why try to kill them? Why does anyone ever think that keeping information that may save someone's life, from them, is going to end up good? I get that the author explains a lot away with Cassava's continued control.. but it just seems flimsy to me. I almost feel like alot of the dangers these characters are facing are of their own making because no one will give them any truthful and legit information instead constantly either lying straight to their faces, or giving some sort of riddle answer. I'm definitely feeling the frustration.
I will say that despite everyone's attitude toward Lark still not improving.. unfortunately. Lark's attitude toward herself has improved. She is really turning into a great FMC. I'm interested in seeing where we end up with this series!
*Original Review*
I really want to love this series but I am just really not quite there yet. There is just way to much going on and I really don't know what all is happening. Not only that, but you really can't tell who the bad guys are and who the good guys are...and the good guys may only be good for a minute, and in all honesty what is the real point here. Where are we headed and what is Cassava's real endgame here?
That being said the world building and character depth aren't a problem with me. I really like Lark, she has just enough sassiness and snark as well as gumption to make for a great heroine. In this book Lark goes through the Ender test and finds out she is a little more than she ever thought, chosen by the Mother (whatever that means, it wasn't explained) she leaves the test an Ender ready to serve. I still don't understand everyone's treatment of Lark especially her father. They tried to explain it away as for appearances but it doesn't make a lick of sense to me. The fire kingdom is still mad after the battles in the last book and are looking to capture Lark and Ash and have them tried. As a way of putting it off, Lark and Bella journey to the Water Kingdom where some political unrest is happening. Maybe we misjudged Bella in the first book?....I don't really know if shes done the 180 character wise that we are lead to believe. Really there is noone for Lark to trust.
Really fast read. I just don't feel all that invested in the storyline thus far. I am still holding out hope though.
I'm going to go ahead and up this to 3.5 stars. I mean honestly there is nothing wrong with Shannon Mayer's story telling ability. As I've read other series written by her, I've come to recognize the slow revealing plot progression and it doesn't bother me near as much as it did when I first gave this series a shot. I know now to trust that she will eventually deliver. Betrayals are her specialty though so I'm still very unwilling to trust any of these characters. As evidently, they are unwilling to trust each other as well. The most frustrating part about this book in the series this round, for me, was that the characters aren't given enough information to be proactive instead of always on the crap end reactive. I can't fathom the secrecy of sending both your daughters into the Deep without any information, why try to kill them? Why does anyone ever think that keeping information that may save someone's life, from them, is going to end up good? I get that the author explains a lot away with Cassava's continued control.. but it just seems flimsy to me. I almost feel like alot of the dangers these characters are facing are of their own making because no one will give them any truthful and legit information instead constantly either lying straight to their faces, or giving some sort of riddle answer. I'm definitely feeling the frustration.
I will say that despite everyone's attitude toward Lark still not improving.. unfortunately. Lark's attitude toward herself has improved. She is really turning into a great FMC. I'm interested in seeing where we end up with this series!
*Original Review*
I really want to love this series but I am just really not quite there yet. There is just way to much going on and I really don't know what all is happening. Not only that, but you really can't tell who the bad guys are and who the good guys are...and the good guys may only be good for a minute, and in all honesty what is the real point here. Where are we headed and what is Cassava's real endgame here?
That being said the world building and character depth aren't a problem with me. I really like Lark, she has just enough sassiness and snark as well as gumption to make for a great heroine. In this book Lark goes through the Ender test and finds out she is a little more than she ever thought, chosen by the Mother (whatever that means, it wasn't explained) she leaves the test an Ender ready to serve. I still don't understand everyone's treatment of Lark especially her father. They tried to explain it away as for appearances but it doesn't make a lick of sense to me. The fire kingdom is still mad after the battles in the last book and are looking to capture Lark and Ash and have them tried. As a way of putting it off, Lark and Bella journey to the Water Kingdom where some political unrest is happening. Maybe we misjudged Bella in the first book?....I don't really know if shes done the 180 character wise that we are lead to believe. Really there is noone for Lark to trust.
Really fast read. I just don't feel all that invested in the storyline thus far. I am still holding out hope though.
September 22, 2019
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58 points/100 (3 stars/5)
Ender Larkspur has been tasked by her father, the King, to accompany her older sister, Belladonna, on her sister's ambassadorial mission to the Deep. When they get there, they find themselves in a middle of a battle for the Deep's throne, and someone isn't playing nice.
Breakwater is an action packed adventure in the Deep deep sea. This drops you right in the middle of the scene from the end of Recurve, and just keeps on going. Honestly, I really didn't realise that the end of Recurve wasn't supposed to be the end of the scene. It didn't have the feel of a cliffhanger.
Poor Lark just doesn't get a break. It is also made clear that Lark is probably just never going to get a break until the series is over. We are getting more and more evidence that Lark is special, that she is going to become someone super powerful, more powerful than all the other elementals. That people will fear who she is becoming. Especially after what Lark has to do at the end of the book.
The author makes it clear via the Mother Goddess that the key to Larkspur's powers is her emotions. That she will be able to unlock her powers through rage the easiest and that other emotions will come later. I'm still left wondering why this was added, because it wasn't really implemented much at all. In fact, Larkspur barely uses any powers knowingly.
Which, honestly brings me to the Mother Goddess herself. My god is this a capricious god. Back and forth with the emotions. She changes her mind all the time. She says things that end up being lies. Nothing stays the same. For a goddess that is supposedly trying to help the main character to succeed in saving people, she really isn't very helpful.
The plot isn't too special. It is all about trying to become diplomats and failing at it because the entire land is already cast into chaos as is. There can be no diplomacy when there is a crazy ruler who has made everyone say they are the King. Especially when that is thrown into doubt by the presence of a second possible ruler who isn't insane. It is just sad that a large part of the plot hinges on miscommunication. None of the allies seem to want to talk to each other - about anything. Even something as simple as that which leads to trouble. Frustrating.
Overall, I just am a bit tired of the constant switching of sides by the characters. And the events. Nothing stays the same or stays the way it is set up. We could learn that the sky is blue and learn in 100 pages that really it is a deep, deep shade of burgundy, we were just convinced to believe that it was blue. That is the way it feels.
58 points/100 (3 stars/5)
Ender Larkspur has been tasked by her father, the King, to accompany her older sister, Belladonna, on her sister's ambassadorial mission to the Deep. When they get there, they find themselves in a middle of a battle for the Deep's throne, and someone isn't playing nice.
Breakwater is an action packed adventure in the Deep deep sea. This drops you right in the middle of the scene from the end of Recurve, and just keeps on going. Honestly, I really didn't realise that the end of Recurve wasn't supposed to be the end of the scene. It didn't have the feel of a cliffhanger.
Poor Lark just doesn't get a break. It is also made clear that Lark is probably just never going to get a break until the series is over. We are getting more and more evidence that Lark is special, that she is going to become someone super powerful, more powerful than all the other elementals. That people will fear who she is becoming. Especially after what Lark has to do at the end of the book.
The author makes it clear via the Mother Goddess that the key to Larkspur's powers is her emotions. That she will be able to unlock her powers through rage the easiest and that other emotions will come later. I'm still left wondering why this was added, because it wasn't really implemented much at all. In fact, Larkspur barely uses any powers knowingly.
Which, honestly brings me to the Mother Goddess herself. My god is this a capricious god. Back and forth with the emotions. She changes her mind all the time. She says things that end up being lies. Nothing stays the same. For a goddess that is supposedly trying to help the main character to succeed in saving people, she really isn't very helpful.
The plot isn't too special. It is all about trying to become diplomats and failing at it because the entire land is already cast into chaos as is. There can be no diplomacy when there is a crazy ruler who has made everyone say they are the King. Especially when that is thrown into doubt by the presence of a second possible ruler who isn't insane. It is just sad that a large part of the plot hinges on miscommunication. None of the allies seem to want to talk to each other - about anything. Even something as simple as that which leads to trouble. Frustrating.
Overall, I just am a bit tired of the constant switching of sides by the characters. And the events. Nothing stays the same or stays the way it is set up. We could learn that the sky is blue and learn in 100 pages that really it is a deep, deep shade of burgundy, we were just convinced to believe that it was blue. That is the way it feels.
September 29, 2015
In Too Deep!
Larkspur’s penchant for trouble lands her lands her in the Deep with her sister, Belladonna, at her father’s request. Belladonna is being sent as an ambassador to the Deep, and it’s up to Lark to defend not only Belladonna but herself as well. Requiem is vying for the throne, and the rightful heir is nowhere to be seen.
Requiem is starving the Undines (water elementals), and their spirits are as undernourished as their bodies. His evil intent goes much further than simply ruling the Deep, and Lark is forced to find out what his plan is and choose whether or not to break the protocol of not getting involved. As an Ender to the Earth elemental ambassador, her job is to protect Belladonna and return home. Unfortunately, both Belladonna and Lark suspect they were sent as a means to have them removed permanently from the Rim - by death. Ash unexpected arrival causes both girls to question his loyalty to them. Is he there to kill them?
The unexpected friendship and loyalty that arises between Belladonna and Lark takes this story to another level, and it truly makes my heart full to see Lark go from being the outcast in her family to her sister realizing the value Lark truly has as a sister, an Ender, and an elemental.
As the rightful heir to the throne, Princess Finley’s reappearance does nothing at first to save the Undines but only puts her in far worse danger. Even she will need Lark and Ash to intervene on her behalf while they race to save Belladonna from Requiem.
The angst really ramped up in this book, and the characters come alive off the pages in a way that make you believe, just maybe, there’s magic in the world!
I absolutely LOVE the way Shannon moved the story from the Rim to the Deep in this book. Her descriptions of each place create a mental image that make me think I could step into this world. I can’t wait to move on to Firestorm and visit the Pit!
Larkspur’s penchant for trouble lands her lands her in the Deep with her sister, Belladonna, at her father’s request. Belladonna is being sent as an ambassador to the Deep, and it’s up to Lark to defend not only Belladonna but herself as well. Requiem is vying for the throne, and the rightful heir is nowhere to be seen.
Requiem is starving the Undines (water elementals), and their spirits are as undernourished as their bodies. His evil intent goes much further than simply ruling the Deep, and Lark is forced to find out what his plan is and choose whether or not to break the protocol of not getting involved. As an Ender to the Earth elemental ambassador, her job is to protect Belladonna and return home. Unfortunately, both Belladonna and Lark suspect they were sent as a means to have them removed permanently from the Rim - by death. Ash unexpected arrival causes both girls to question his loyalty to them. Is he there to kill them?
The unexpected friendship and loyalty that arises between Belladonna and Lark takes this story to another level, and it truly makes my heart full to see Lark go from being the outcast in her family to her sister realizing the value Lark truly has as a sister, an Ender, and an elemental.
As the rightful heir to the throne, Princess Finley’s reappearance does nothing at first to save the Undines but only puts her in far worse danger. Even she will need Lark and Ash to intervene on her behalf while they race to save Belladonna from Requiem.
The angst really ramped up in this book, and the characters come alive off the pages in a way that make you believe, just maybe, there’s magic in the world!
I absolutely LOVE the way Shannon moved the story from the Rim to the Deep in this book. Her descriptions of each place create a mental image that make me think I could step into this world. I can’t wait to move on to Firestorm and visit the Pit!
March 16, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish...a bit of an improvement from the first book in the series...the characters were more defined and the storyline was focused and precise...I enjoyed this adventure into the Deep with Larkspur and Belladonna...there were some twists and turns along the way as well as action packed moments that were filled with adrenaline and entertainment...Ash and Larkspur continue to explore their complex relationship and the chemistry is starting to ignite between them...I really enjoyed the developing relationship between Larkspur and Belladonna...once enemies, they are learning to never judge a book by it's cover and that what once was held as truths can be tainted by evil and pain....once again, we are presented with a strong, smart, and witty heroine that is evolving into her powers and abilities; the secrets being revealed in small increments to keep the reader invested...I loved it and am looking forward to the next book in the series...4 solid stars for me:)
December 30, 2024
Rylee Adamson was a fantastic series and so I was hoping this would be good too. Larkspur is a great character that you are behind 100%. It is an intriguing, suspenseful, and mysterious thriller filled with tension. The story includes alliances, threats, betrayal, riddles, and plots, all infused with a touch of humour to keep the pages turning. Shannon weaves a tangled web that leaves you in need of more.
July 9, 2015
I loved the first book in this series and opened the sequel feeling excitement mixed with dread - my expectations were so high.
This book totally delivers!
I was carried away in Larkspurs adventures from onset and throughout. Mayer has crafted a great book here, introducing exciting new worlds and characters. It says the next is out in fall, can't wait!
This book totally delivers!
I was carried away in Larkspurs adventures from onset and throughout. Mayer has crafted a great book here, introducing exciting new worlds and characters. It says the next is out in fall, can't wait!
June 18, 2016
2.5 stars
Much better than the first, but still needs improvement.
Much better than the first, but still needs improvement.
May 12, 2022
I like this series. Listening via Graphic audio, which I do enjoy. A full cast narration with background noise of running/fighting etc.
Things change between Bella and lark
Things change between ash and lark
We meet peta - which I’m aware because of the Rylee Adamson series is important.
As usual I have no idea whether or not I like larks dad.
3.5 star read.
Things change between Bella and lark
Things change between ash and lark
We meet peta - which I’m aware because of the Rylee Adamson series is important.
As usual I have no idea whether or not I like larks dad.
3.5 star read.
July 8, 2017
2.5. An improvement on the complete mess that was the first installment.
It's frustrating because the storyline and ideas are fresh and original. The execution is awful in parts.
I'm giving the third book a try but if it's not a 3 star minimum read im walking away from this series.
It's frustrating because the storyline and ideas are fresh and original. The execution is awful in parts.
I'm giving the third book a try but if it's not a 3 star minimum read im walking away from this series.
December 19, 2018
3.5 stars, I really enjoyed this setting, great action, crazy characters.
February 25, 2023
Look out!!!! This series is going to grab onto you and take you on an awesome adventure!!
March 29, 2024
⭐️ 3.5 stars ⭐️
February 27, 2023
Still fun
I must like these stories a lot because I've read the 1st two books in one day. I like characters. They're realistic and fun to follow. The story is interesting and it rolls along nicely
I must like these stories a lot because I've read the 1st two books in one day. I like characters. They're realistic and fun to follow. The story is interesting and it rolls along nicely
April 3, 2024
⭐️3.5⭐️
February 6, 2020
Well written and great read
Great author that knows how to tell a story. Lark is a very likeable, intelligent and kick butt heroine. Lots of action with a touch of romance.
Great author that knows how to tell a story. Lark is a very likeable, intelligent and kick butt heroine. Lots of action with a touch of romance.
March 27, 2018
Larkspur and her sister are sent to another Kingdom where the magic users have power over water. The old King died under mysterious circumstances and his actual heir is missing. It's super dangerous and there's a pretty high head count. I enjoyed Larkspur's growth as a guard and with her attempts at using magic.
March 4, 2017
Oh, this was a good one. Better than the first! There was a bit of laughter, there was a tear, there was love, there was mystery....and it continues! This book ends ready to go into book #3 and you better believe I'll be reading on!
November 20, 2023
Loved it!!
December 11, 2015
Not as good as the first book, and a little more cheesy, but still enjoyable. Looking forward to seeing what happens next
Read
October 30, 2019I just can't finish it....
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