What do you think?
Rate this book
The Immortal Descendants #3
Changing Nature
Immortal Descendants are disappearing one by one, and seventeen-year-old Clocker Saira Elian is next on the list…
Saira and Archer’s London summer is carefree and romantic, until a brazen attempt to capture Saira looks suspiciously like the handiwork of the Descendants of War. When the kidnappings of other Descendants come to light and Mr. Shaw is taken for questioning under threat to his family, Saira realizes that for herself and young Shifter Connor, Time is the only refuge.
But one danger is merely exchanged for another. Believing that their time-warping nemesis Bishop Wilder may have fled Elizabethan England for medieval France, Saira and her friends emerge onto the gloomy streets of Paris in 1429 to find it besieged by marauding wolves. When they encounter an illiterate peasant girl, whose deeds as Joan of Arc are extolled in an obscure sixteenth century book, but are unknown in their modern history, they realize the wolves may be the least of their problems.
As Saira, Archer, and Ringo reunite to track down Wilder, they are faced with increasing evidence that time has been split and history altered. Crossing the time stream to repair it drops them in the heart of a battle, where friends are enemies, and foes are lethal. And in a fight for their lives, they encounter an old friend to whom Time as not been kind. To help him heal and end the deadly game of cat and mouse with Wilder once and for all, Saira must confront her greatest challenge yet: the truth about her changing Nature.
Saira and Archer’s London summer is carefree and romantic, until a brazen attempt to capture Saira looks suspiciously like the handiwork of the Descendants of War. When the kidnappings of other Descendants come to light and Mr. Shaw is taken for questioning under threat to his family, Saira realizes that for herself and young Shifter Connor, Time is the only refuge.
But one danger is merely exchanged for another. Believing that their time-warping nemesis Bishop Wilder may have fled Elizabethan England for medieval France, Saira and her friends emerge onto the gloomy streets of Paris in 1429 to find it besieged by marauding wolves. When they encounter an illiterate peasant girl, whose deeds as Joan of Arc are extolled in an obscure sixteenth century book, but are unknown in their modern history, they realize the wolves may be the least of their problems.
As Saira, Archer, and Ringo reunite to track down Wilder, they are faced with increasing evidence that time has been split and history altered. Crossing the time stream to repair it drops them in the heart of a battle, where friends are enemies, and foes are lethal. And in a fight for their lives, they encounter an old friend to whom Time as not been kind. To help him heal and end the deadly game of cat and mouse with Wilder once and for all, Saira must confront her greatest challenge yet: the truth about her changing Nature.
400 pages, ebook
First published January 20, 2015
211 people are currently reading
1090 people want to read
About the author
April White
31 books1,139 followersAPRIL WHITE has been a film producer, private investigator, bouncer, teacher and screenwriter. She has climbed in the Himalayas, survived a shipwreck, and lived on a gold mine in the Yukon. She and her husband share their home in Southern California with two extraordinary boys and a lifetime collection of books.
Her first novel, Marking Time is the 2016 winner of the Library Journal Indie E-Book Award for YA Literature, and all five books in the Immortal Descendants series are on the Amazon Top 100 lists in Time Travel Romance and Historical Fantasy. Code of Conduct is an RWA Vivian Award finalist for romantic suspense, a Next Generation Award finalist for romance, and RONE Award finalist for suspense. And Death's Door is a Grand Prize winner of the Next Generation Award, and a Foreword Reviews Award finalist. More information and her blog can be found at www.aprilwhitebooks.com.
Her first novel, Marking Time is the 2016 winner of the Library Journal Indie E-Book Award for YA Literature, and all five books in the Immortal Descendants series are on the Amazon Top 100 lists in Time Travel Romance and Historical Fantasy. Code of Conduct is an RWA Vivian Award finalist for romantic suspense, a Next Generation Award finalist for romance, and RONE Award finalist for suspense. And Death's Door is a Grand Prize winner of the Next Generation Award, and a Foreword Reviews Award finalist. More information and her blog can be found at www.aprilwhitebooks.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
August 15, 2020
4.5 Home is Where Your People Are Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free
As I mentioned in updates... I am not a usual time travel, fantasy reader. I have in the past; I was part of the Adult fan base of Harry Potter... so I can suspend my disbelief with the best of them. I just don't usually want to... except for April White's series of the Immortal Descendants. It is something I can not get enough of...
This is a series which has it all...an incredibly strong heroine who embodies intelligence, self-assurance, curiosity, scathing wit and a heart so big and sure in its love of her match. No whining... no angsty miscommunication or flip-flopping... No, our gal is part of a bigger picture... and she is in it balls to the wall.
In order to appreciate this book, you must read the first; Marking Time and Tempting Fate . This installment takes our troops of Descendants to search out Bishop Wilder and through some investigation and a possible time stream change... back to Joan of Arc Times...because things are getting changed...and not for the better.
All of the past characters are there... and we are privy to learn more and fall deeper in love with them. We also meet new ones and they impact us, as well.
This series is really so good, it defies my ability to explain it all... What I can say is there is young romance, adventure, mystery all with the use of real history mixed with today's world and sensibilities. When I read these installments... each, by the way, all detailed with history, life lessons and sweet love, I feel like I am seeing some huge blockbuster in my mind's eye... my breath is held during fight scenes with shifters, vampires....then the quieter moments talk about how we must know who we are in order to be able to love someone else fully...it is a combination of real purposeful thought and weaving on so many levels... and all of it works.
So... If you haven't started this series and you happened to love the "other fantasy ones" out there... then this is something to try. The first book is FREE right now ... so there is no investment but time... see how I did that... and the next one is $3.99 and worth so much more.
Here is hoping safe journeys and happy outcomes...
Marking Time (The Immortal Descendants, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Tempting Fate (The Immortal Descendants #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Changing Nature (The Immortal Descendants #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Waging War (The Immortal Descendants #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Cheating Death (The Immortal Descendants #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Immortal Descendants (The Immortal Descendants #1-3) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
A gifted copy was provided by author for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * Spoiler Free
As I mentioned in updates... I am not a usual time travel, fantasy reader. I have in the past; I was part of the Adult fan base of Harry Potter... so I can suspend my disbelief with the best of them. I just don't usually want to... except for April White's series of the Immortal Descendants. It is something I can not get enough of...
This is a series which has it all...an incredibly strong heroine who embodies intelligence, self-assurance, curiosity, scathing wit and a heart so big and sure in its love of her match. No whining... no angsty miscommunication or flip-flopping... No, our gal is part of a bigger picture... and she is in it balls to the wall.
In order to appreciate this book, you must read the first; Marking Time and Tempting Fate . This installment takes our troops of Descendants to search out Bishop Wilder and through some investigation and a possible time stream change... back to Joan of Arc Times...because things are getting changed...and not for the better.
All of the past characters are there... and we are privy to learn more and fall deeper in love with them. We also meet new ones and they impact us, as well.
This series is really so good, it defies my ability to explain it all... What I can say is there is young romance, adventure, mystery all with the use of real history mixed with today's world and sensibilities. When I read these installments... each, by the way, all detailed with history, life lessons and sweet love, I feel like I am seeing some huge blockbuster in my mind's eye... my breath is held during fight scenes with shifters, vampires....then the quieter moments talk about how we must know who we are in order to be able to love someone else fully...it is a combination of real purposeful thought and weaving on so many levels... and all of it works.
So... If you haven't started this series and you happened to love the "other fantasy ones" out there... then this is something to try. The first book is FREE right now ... so there is no investment but time... see how I did that... and the next one is $3.99 and worth so much more.
Here is hoping safe journeys and happy outcomes...
Marking Time (The Immortal Descendants, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Tempting Fate (The Immortal Descendants #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Changing Nature (The Immortal Descendants #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Waging War (The Immortal Descendants #4) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Cheating Death (The Immortal Descendants #5) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Immortal Descendants (The Immortal Descendants #1-3) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3... A gifted copy was provided by author for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
January 21, 2015
Psssssst. It's live.
December 17, 2015
This book was completely captivating! I was that lady who disappears into her reading nook for hours...no food...no interaction with the family. I was just lost in this world that April White has built...lost in it!
Saira is a total badass! I love her. I want to adopt her and be her and follow her and, yeah, good on you with the heroine creation, April White. With each book, she has gained new insight that perfectly matches the circumstances. I really like the fact that the author hasn't given her incredible jumps in maturity that wouldn't jive with her actual age and experience. The fact that her character is credible in the midst of this incredible tale is pure genius. I think that that is what actually makes this series work. There is a relatable quality to Saira that will continue to endear her to readers. I will tell you a secret...I cried several times, reading this book. When Saira visited Will...tears. That was very well done. There is a revelation about Saira in this book that just increases the dynamic level of this series by about 10 million! Again, the author has continued to write Saira's journey in a logical way with an amazingly firm hold on the pacing of events in the midst of some pretty CRAZY INTENSE events. I give a high-five, a hug, and a handshake for that kind of commitment and talent in storytelling! Kudos and a big THANK YOU for not rushing the relationship with Archer. Thank you. The speech he made on the eve of her birthday...gah! That was epic in the romance department. Archer = True Romantic Hero... *sighs* I think that there has been just the right amount of attention to the development of a romance without taking away from the balance of the tale. There is far more going on here than a love story after all!
Archer...I felt such sadness for him when reading of how he has watched friends age and has been forced to remove himself from their lives in order to hide the fact that he is ageless. His flashbacks to the moment he met Saira and then the years of separation? Yeah, some more tears. I appreciate how Saira has gained greater sensitivity to these aspects of Archer's existence and that she is so protective of him. It is a very poignant facet of Saira's thought process that shows her growing level of maturity and the strengthening of their bond as a couple. It is also a clever way to remind the reader that Archer's life has been so very different...so much longer...than the rest of this group. Add to that... what a great way to have the historical facts relayed! Whether Archer actually experienced them firsthand, or dedicated himself to research over that 125 years, he is quite the font of historical information. I continue to enjoy the visit back into history in this series. LOVE IT! I feel like we are getting Archer in small bites. He has remained a bit of a mystery, but maybe that is just because of his being a child of Death? Anyway, I give Archer the Gold Medal for having the Patience of Job.
You just completely broke my heart with poor Tom, April White! You know what you did. I loved the lay-out of the storyline. The unfolding of Tom's portion of the story within this book and the layering of that portion into the action with Saira "and crew" was brilliant. If the author had not done such a good job with organizing the timeline and the settings, I would have been completely lost...and crying for a completely different reason! Wilder. He's ba-a-a-ack! I envision Wilder's animated character as a javelina. They used to sleep on our driveway in Arizona...very nasty and scary creatures! They smell terrible and radiate pure menace. Anyway, I picture a javelina with rabies or an alcohol problem...a real treat. Wilder is that incredibly terrible, perfectly evil villain. *stabs the air with imaginary sword*
I will not give away anything else in my review because, for me, that is truly the most wonderful part of reading an adventure such as this...the twists and surprises. HOWEVER, I will leave these words here and let you decide if you aren't completely compelled to read this A-M-A-Z-I-N-G book: The Wolves of Paris in 1450. Look that up if you are unaware of that historical event, people! I'll just tell you that it is relevant to the story. I really enjoyed all of the other characters. Ringo is still so cool. Connor really came into his own in this book! I can't wait for more about the talented little Mr Logan. I still want to gag Millicent and lock her in the pantry at Elian Manor. Doran! What? What just happened? Jeezum, when do the rest of the books come out?
You are the author of your own destiny.
You build your own tribe.
Your home is wherever your people are.
* Live out Loud*
These are all such powerful messages. I recommend The Immortal Descendants to everyone. All genders and all ages would find great joy in reading them. They are fantastic, magical, adventures that have been written with great attention to historical and geographical details.
Saira is a total badass! I love her. I want to adopt her and be her and follow her and, yeah, good on you with the heroine creation, April White. With each book, she has gained new insight that perfectly matches the circumstances. I really like the fact that the author hasn't given her incredible jumps in maturity that wouldn't jive with her actual age and experience. The fact that her character is credible in the midst of this incredible tale is pure genius. I think that that is what actually makes this series work. There is a relatable quality to Saira that will continue to endear her to readers. I will tell you a secret...I cried several times, reading this book. When Saira visited Will...tears. That was very well done. There is a revelation about Saira in this book that just increases the dynamic level of this series by about 10 million! Again, the author has continued to write Saira's journey in a logical way with an amazingly firm hold on the pacing of events in the midst of some pretty CRAZY INTENSE events. I give a high-five, a hug, and a handshake for that kind of commitment and talent in storytelling! Kudos and a big THANK YOU for not rushing the relationship with Archer. Thank you. The speech he made on the eve of her birthday...gah! That was epic in the romance department. Archer = True Romantic Hero... *sighs* I think that there has been just the right amount of attention to the development of a romance without taking away from the balance of the tale. There is far more going on here than a love story after all!
Archer...I felt such sadness for him when reading of how he has watched friends age and has been forced to remove himself from their lives in order to hide the fact that he is ageless. His flashbacks to the moment he met Saira and then the years of separation? Yeah, some more tears. I appreciate how Saira has gained greater sensitivity to these aspects of Archer's existence and that she is so protective of him. It is a very poignant facet of Saira's thought process that shows her growing level of maturity and the strengthening of their bond as a couple. It is also a clever way to remind the reader that Archer's life has been so very different...so much longer...than the rest of this group. Add to that... what a great way to have the historical facts relayed! Whether Archer actually experienced them firsthand, or dedicated himself to research over that 125 years, he is quite the font of historical information. I continue to enjoy the visit back into history in this series. LOVE IT! I feel like we are getting Archer in small bites. He has remained a bit of a mystery, but maybe that is just because of his being a child of Death? Anyway, I give Archer the Gold Medal for having the Patience of Job.
You just completely broke my heart with poor Tom, April White! You know what you did. I loved the lay-out of the storyline. The unfolding of Tom's portion of the story within this book and the layering of that portion into the action with Saira "and crew" was brilliant. If the author had not done such a good job with organizing the timeline and the settings, I would have been completely lost...and crying for a completely different reason! Wilder. He's ba-a-a-ack! I envision Wilder's animated character as a javelina. They used to sleep on our driveway in Arizona...very nasty and scary creatures! They smell terrible and radiate pure menace. Anyway, I picture a javelina with rabies or an alcohol problem...a real treat. Wilder is that incredibly terrible, perfectly evil villain. *stabs the air with imaginary sword*
I will not give away anything else in my review because, for me, that is truly the most wonderful part of reading an adventure such as this...the twists and surprises. HOWEVER, I will leave these words here and let you decide if you aren't completely compelled to read this A-M-A-Z-I-N-G book: The Wolves of Paris in 1450. Look that up if you are unaware of that historical event, people! I'll just tell you that it is relevant to the story. I really enjoyed all of the other characters. Ringo is still so cool. Connor really came into his own in this book! I can't wait for more about the talented little Mr Logan. I still want to gag Millicent and lock her in the pantry at Elian Manor. Doran! What? What just happened? Jeezum, when do the rest of the books come out?
You are the author of your own destiny.
You build your own tribe.
Your home is wherever your people are.
* Live out Loud*
These are all such powerful messages. I recommend The Immortal Descendants to everyone. All genders and all ages would find great joy in reading them. They are fantastic, magical, adventures that have been written with great attention to historical and geographical details.
June 21, 2019
Five families from five Immortals are the descendants of Time (the Clockers), Fate (the Seers), Nature (Shifters), War (Mongers) and Death (Suckers). For Saira Elian the last Clocker things are going to get even more complicated.
I’m a sucker for a prophecy and here we are now getting down to the nitty gritty of everything.
“Fated for one, born to another
The child must seek to claim the Mother
The stream shall split and branches will fight
Death will divide, and lovers unite
The child of opposites will be the one
To heal the Dream that War’s undone”
Saira was enjoying her summer with Archer until something with time went wrong and things started to change. Where mixed bloods are going missing but the answer lies in the past they are still hunting for Wilder they have come to the conclusion that 1429 is the year to go back to. He is trying to pimp his already existing skills but he has made a mistake and well his life shall be forfeit.
But with all that going there is much more at stake. Ms. White has once again done a fantastic job with her story weaving. It is engaging and entertaining and the perfect package even my cynical YA vein isn’t bothered by it either. I love this series and I love Ringo is this book makes me feel like a cougar.
But why 3 stars? That the author took artistic license with what was used in 1429 and what didn’t happen in 1429 doesn’t matter to me. The fact that I am just not that interested in French history even if it is Joan of Arc. Saira was a bit of a queen bee here so that is also why I was convinced.
On to read book 4 now.
I’m a sucker for a prophecy and here we are now getting down to the nitty gritty of everything.
“Fated for one, born to another
The child must seek to claim the Mother
The stream shall split and branches will fight
Death will divide, and lovers unite
The child of opposites will be the one
To heal the Dream that War’s undone”
Saira was enjoying her summer with Archer until something with time went wrong and things started to change. Where mixed bloods are going missing but the answer lies in the past they are still hunting for Wilder they have come to the conclusion that 1429 is the year to go back to. He is trying to pimp his already existing skills but he has made a mistake and well his life shall be forfeit.
But with all that going there is much more at stake. Ms. White has once again done a fantastic job with her story weaving. It is engaging and entertaining and the perfect package even my cynical YA vein isn’t bothered by it either. I love this series and I love Ringo is this book makes me feel like a cougar.
But why 3 stars? That the author took artistic license with what was used in 1429 and what didn’t happen in 1429 doesn’t matter to me. The fact that I am just not that interested in French history even if it is Joan of Arc. Saira was a bit of a queen bee here so that is also why I was convinced.
On to read book 4 now.
April 9, 2024
3.5+ . It was 2018 when I read book 2 so felt a little confused (my fault) with all the coming and goings with time travel, vampires, shape shifters, seers etc and I doubt I am the target demographic audience for this story…. But I did enjoy it and I like to read across as many genres as I can. I liked the historic side of the story and I will try to not take 6 years to start book four 😊 😊
January 18, 2015
"Home is where yer people are". Indeed it is, and this book is where my people are. It is a wonderful thing to be able to return to these characters and the amazing world April White has created.
Changing Nature takes place about a month after Tempting Fate concludes. We see the continuing riff between families of the Immortal Descendants and this time we are taken to medieval Paris. The amount of research in this series is one of my favorite things about them. We really are taken to medieval Paris. In the midst of this Saira explores her Shifter side.
However my favorite thing about the series is the characters. I just love them. Saira, Archer (ah Archer), and Ringo feel so real that I miss them already.
This is my favorite book in the series so far. I loved absolutely everything about it.
I am in awe at this technicolor fantasy world April has created and can't wait for the next installment in the series.
Changing Nature takes place about a month after Tempting Fate concludes. We see the continuing riff between families of the Immortal Descendants and this time we are taken to medieval Paris. The amount of research in this series is one of my favorite things about them. We really are taken to medieval Paris. In the midst of this Saira explores her Shifter side.
However my favorite thing about the series is the characters. I just love them. Saira, Archer (ah Archer), and Ringo feel so real that I miss them already.
This is my favorite book in the series so far. I loved absolutely everything about it.
I am in awe at this technicolor fantasy world April has created and can't wait for the next installment in the series.
August 22, 2015
I'm always impressed by the historical ties April creates within her books. This book is no exception, it's intriguing and so very endearing at times. To portray something which took place hundreds of years ago in a way for readers to grasp in a fictional setting is an impressive feat. I love Saira and Archer's adventures through the dark and messy 1400-1500s. Oh and the secondary characters are so wonderful, I want to know more about what happens to them all. Once again I loved another April White book.
July 11, 2017
I'm reeling from this book. April White paints such vivid imagery that I feel like I've experienced the world of the Immortal Descendants right along with them. She has made me fall in love with all the characters, even the new ones that she introduces in this book. As always, I'm amazed at the history and how it weaves through the story. This series has me interested in the past again, eager to learn more about what's in these books.
This adventure takes us back to the 1400s. It is not an easy journey. This book isn't necessarily darker than the others, but all is not roses for our friends along the way. I love how Joan of Arc was used in this story. We aren't supposed to like her, but there is something about her that I find myself drawn to. She's feisty, bound by her convictions, and it's easy to forget just how young she is. I don't like most of what she does in the story, but I respect her. She stands for something, and whether right or wrong, that makes up who she is.
Saira and Archer... their relationship is blossoming so. There are bumps along the way, but they're communicating and finding out what works for them. It's so much fun watching the two of them grow. Saira is maturing, and Archer is the rock, her constant.
I was desperate to find out what happens to Tom. He's had a tough go of things and I wasn't sure it would get any better. We do get a few chapters from his perspective, which was an unexpected surprise. I absolutely adore him and I'm so happy we get to know him a lot better.
Connor, Ringo, and Charlie are stars in this one. I love the dynamic between this family. There are lots of characters, but it's easy to know them all. I promise with this book, you'll fall more in love with each and every one.
This adventure takes us back to the 1400s. It is not an easy journey. This book isn't necessarily darker than the others, but all is not roses for our friends along the way. I love how Joan of Arc was used in this story. We aren't supposed to like her, but there is something about her that I find myself drawn to. She's feisty, bound by her convictions, and it's easy to forget just how young she is. I don't like most of what she does in the story, but I respect her. She stands for something, and whether right or wrong, that makes up who she is.
Saira and Archer... their relationship is blossoming so. There are bumps along the way, but they're communicating and finding out what works for them. It's so much fun watching the two of them grow. Saira is maturing, and Archer is the rock, her constant.
I was desperate to find out what happens to Tom. He's had a tough go of things and I wasn't sure it would get any better. We do get a few chapters from his perspective, which was an unexpected surprise. I absolutely adore him and I'm so happy we get to know him a lot better.
Connor, Ringo, and Charlie are stars in this one. I love the dynamic between this family. There are lots of characters, but it's easy to know them all. I promise with this book, you'll fall more in love with each and every one.
February 16, 2015
Wow. I'm not sure where to start. Changing Nature was bursting with action and so much battle techniques/scenes that I felt lost in them. These scenes contained the technical descriptions that allow you to visualize the action and were sprinkled with the emotions and reactions of the characters so you felt it too.
The first novel in the series was all about the groundwork: setting the scene, falling in love with the characters, learning the ins and out of the Immortal Descendants, and discovering the conflicts that lay ahead. The second novel was all about developing the relationships within the characters and progressing the plot line. This novel was an explosion of action, a portrait of how the characters compliment each other and become a solid unit (a totally BA and amazing unit of course).
I really enjoyed the progression and maturity of Ringo and Charlie's character. Learning more about Archer's time while waiting for Saira really allowed the reader to further connect with him and understand his fierce emotions toward her. Connor (and his family) were an unexpected addition to the main characters list for this one, but an excellent one. I hope we get more of Connor and his quirky little brother in future novels. Also, I really want a good ending for Charlie and Ringo too!
My only negative is completely a personal preference and in no way should detract from ones decision to read this novel. Joan of Arc was portrayed as a well...nothing positive. She was mean, prejudice, short tempered, deficient in morals, a liar, and just all around an ugly character. Although, I admit my knowledge of her is limited. Historically, she seemed to be a cool character. Really, a 17 year old leading men in a battle? That only happens in books. :) I'm just saying that it felt a little disrespectful to only portray her in such unfavorable light without an author's note on the liberties taken in this personality portrayal.
I highly recommend this whole series. For those considering this for younger audiences, please note: it contains mild language, very violent scenes, unpleasant recollections of history, threats made toward Saira of the ugliest kind, and descriptions of her warm fuzzy feelings (but no sex).
The first novel in the series was all about the groundwork: setting the scene, falling in love with the characters, learning the ins and out of the Immortal Descendants, and discovering the conflicts that lay ahead. The second novel was all about developing the relationships within the characters and progressing the plot line. This novel was an explosion of action, a portrait of how the characters compliment each other and become a solid unit (a totally BA and amazing unit of course).
I really enjoyed the progression and maturity of Ringo and Charlie's character. Learning more about Archer's time while waiting for Saira really allowed the reader to further connect with him and understand his fierce emotions toward her. Connor (and his family) were an unexpected addition to the main characters list for this one, but an excellent one. I hope we get more of Connor and his quirky little brother in future novels. Also, I really want a good ending for Charlie and Ringo too!
My only negative is completely a personal preference and in no way should detract from ones decision to read this novel. Joan of Arc was portrayed as a well...nothing positive. She was mean, prejudice, short tempered, deficient in morals, a liar, and just all around an ugly character. Although, I admit my knowledge of her is limited. Historically, she seemed to be a cool character. Really, a 17 year old leading men in a battle? That only happens in books. :) I'm just saying that it felt a little disrespectful to only portray her in such unfavorable light without an author's note on the liberties taken in this personality portrayal.
I highly recommend this whole series. For those considering this for younger audiences, please note: it contains mild language, very violent scenes, unpleasant recollections of history, threats made toward Saira of the ugliest kind, and descriptions of her warm fuzzy feelings (but no sex).
February 15, 2015
4.5/5
Like all books by April White, Changing Nature rocked my socks. The closest comparison I can come up with for this paranormal fantasy is Deborah Harkness' trilogy, although the witches here are replaced by Immortal Descendants with various talents.
Saira is a Clocker, a time traveller, and at just under 18-years of age she's already managed to stop Jack The Ripper in Victorian London and save Elizabeth Tudor from the executioner's axe - all in a pursuit of a villain bent on splitting the time stream for his own gain.
This time Saira, Archer and their friends have to travel into 15th century France during The Hundred Years' War, and I admit I was hooked straight away. I LOVE this time period, mostly due to my intense crush on Catherine series by Juliette Benzoni, which I read countless times in my teenage years, but it's also oh so....juicy! and Miss White depicted it really well.
Changing Nature is extremely well-paced, very intense and well-crafted. Saira is a fantastic heroine. She reminds me of Buffy Summers with her tenacity, levelheadedness and the ability to gather loyal supporters around her who will follow her into the fire. Despite her superpower (time travel) she is an ordinary tomboy with a knack for free running, and that only makes me admire her even more. Great story, awesome series, very much recommended.
Like all books by April White, Changing Nature rocked my socks. The closest comparison I can come up with for this paranormal fantasy is Deborah Harkness' trilogy, although the witches here are replaced by Immortal Descendants with various talents.
Saira is a Clocker, a time traveller, and at just under 18-years of age she's already managed to stop Jack The Ripper in Victorian London and save Elizabeth Tudor from the executioner's axe - all in a pursuit of a villain bent on splitting the time stream for his own gain.
This time Saira, Archer and their friends have to travel into 15th century France during The Hundred Years' War, and I admit I was hooked straight away. I LOVE this time period, mostly due to my intense crush on Catherine series by Juliette Benzoni, which I read countless times in my teenage years, but it's also oh so....juicy! and Miss White depicted it really well.
Changing Nature is extremely well-paced, very intense and well-crafted. Saira is a fantastic heroine. She reminds me of Buffy Summers with her tenacity, levelheadedness and the ability to gather loyal supporters around her who will follow her into the fire. Despite her superpower (time travel) she is an ordinary tomboy with a knack for free running, and that only makes me admire her even more. Great story, awesome series, very much recommended.
March 13, 2015
Fantastic as always! So many feels! So many things happen! So much clocking and past altering, my brain hurts (in a good way)!
What did I love, hmm. *Spoilers*
I loved when Saira clocked back to visit her father. That was a sweet moment and tied back perfectly to marking time.
The new skills and creatures, like Saira's newest hmm hmm skill and the other world creature thing.
Saira and Archer's love story, of course!
Oh and these historical, partly fictional creepy characters like Bluebeard. *shudder*
Also Tom's story was so heartbreaking.
Hmm there are just too many things to list really.
What else, tgeres still the big story arc to come together in the final two books. Wondering about Dorian, maybe he is hundreds of years old. Even wondering if he could be the lost child!?
I also wondered about a cure for death becoming available and being able to test it on Tom as he is only a teenager in his real time and wouldn't die from resetting to an old age or after.
Anyway these are all my late night ramblings after just finishing the book. Looking forward to the last two books, Archer and Saira's future, Mr Shaw and Claire, ringo and all the other awesome characters. And the fulfilling of the prophecy!
What did I love, hmm. *Spoilers*
I loved when Saira clocked back to visit her father. That was a sweet moment and tied back perfectly to marking time.
The new skills and creatures, like Saira's newest hmm hmm skill and the other world creature thing.
Saira and Archer's love story, of course!
Oh and these historical, partly fictional creepy characters like Bluebeard. *shudder*
Also Tom's story was so heartbreaking.
Hmm there are just too many things to list really.
What else, tgeres still the big story arc to come together in the final two books. Wondering about Dorian, maybe he is hundreds of years old. Even wondering if he could be the lost child!?
I also wondered about a cure for death becoming available and being able to test it on Tom as he is only a teenager in his real time and wouldn't die from resetting to an old age or after.
Anyway these are all my late night ramblings after just finishing the book. Looking forward to the last two books, Archer and Saira's future, Mr Shaw and Claire, ringo and all the other awesome characters. And the fulfilling of the prophecy!
April 7, 2015
Joan of Fricking Arc? Seriously? It is amazing the way April White takes the historical characters, strips them down to what they could have been like in their every day life and inserts Saira and Ringo and Archer into their mundane activities.
Another well written book with number three in the Immortal Descendants series. I loved book one, Marking Time. I adored book two, Tempting Fate. Book three is my FAVORITE so far!
There is a surprise with the awful Bishop Wilder and very well written scenes surrounding his situation that were very believable and disturbing and awesome all at the same time. April just weaves a terrific story.
I can not wait to read what four and five in the series have in store for us!
Another well written book with number three in the Immortal Descendants series. I loved book one, Marking Time. I adored book two, Tempting Fate. Book three is my FAVORITE so far!
There is a surprise with the awful Bishop Wilder and very well written scenes surrounding his situation that were very believable and disturbing and awesome all at the same time. April just weaves a terrific story.
I can not wait to read what four and five in the series have in store for us!
May 24, 2015
The only thing I didn't like about this book is that I'm done and now I have to wait for the next book to be published. I think this book might actually have been even better than the first two, if that's possible. I just can't get enough of this series!
January 24, 2015
Changing Nature by April White is remarkable! Give it a try. ta-da! the end..
I love the characters, having also read the first two, and was able to jump back in where Tempting Fate left off.
I love that Saira is a proper 17 year old with her life and frustrations, aside that she has mostly raised herself since her Clocker mother would be MIA at times. I love that she gets angry and loves honestly without it going angsty and dark. This is a series that I want to go on forever, I want to see how these kids grow up, see who they become as adults!
They are kids (except Archer, but he is also appropriate and respectful) but I don't know that I think of it as a YA novel. It's a good story. Period. The action scenes (fighting, free running and such) put me, and kept me, on the edge of my kindle (till the battery died! gah..electronics...) to the very end.
There was a seriously touching section that I won't go into but I bawled. And the story within the story also had me in tears at one point. There are serious issues the characters discuss and a lot of light heartened banter.
Favorite phrase: poopy corpse.
There are many pop culture references to keep just about every fandom happy, I don't recall a Sherlock reference though.. Older shows/story references as well as current, so us older readers don't feel left out!
I love it, I love it, I love it!
#thatisall
P.S.
I love Ringo, and would love to see him have a story of his own!
I love the characters, having also read the first two, and was able to jump back in where Tempting Fate left off.
I love that Saira is a proper 17 year old with her life and frustrations, aside that she has mostly raised herself since her Clocker mother would be MIA at times. I love that she gets angry and loves honestly without it going angsty and dark. This is a series that I want to go on forever, I want to see how these kids grow up, see who they become as adults!
They are kids (except Archer, but he is also appropriate and respectful) but I don't know that I think of it as a YA novel. It's a good story. Period. The action scenes (fighting, free running and such) put me, and kept me, on the edge of my kindle (till the battery died! gah..electronics...) to the very end.
There was a seriously touching section that I won't go into but I bawled. And the story within the story also had me in tears at one point. There are serious issues the characters discuss and a lot of light heartened banter.
Favorite phrase: poopy corpse.
There are many pop culture references to keep just about every fandom happy, I don't recall a Sherlock reference though.. Older shows/story references as well as current, so us older readers don't feel left out!
I love it, I love it, I love it!
#thatisall
P.S.
I love Ringo, and would love to see him have a story of his own!
June 28, 2015
I've officially read all three books currently in this series. I could go into a long, drawn out spiel complimenting this book and such, but I'm not. because this book doesn't deserve it. No, it needs much more than kind words and compliments. This book needs to be read by all!! By far, Changing Nature is my favorite of the series to date, and I loved every moment of reading. Once again we are drawn back in time, this time it's 1429 in Paris. We tag along for a few funny moments where language barriers are the pits, we are reintroduced to old friends, and we even make new ones. Also, I always thought I would like Joan of Arc if I met her. Now I'm not so sure!
Changing Nature is guaranteed to have you laughing, then crying, then laughing again....then yelling a little. All in all, these books will touch you emotionally and stick with you. Each time I open one of these stories, I feel like I am being greeted by friends and invited onto a strange journey back into time. But when I, inevitably, meet an end, I am saddened because I must tell them goodbye.
So. My only question becomes at this point. WHEN IS THE NEXT BOOK, I NEED IT.
Changing Nature is guaranteed to have you laughing, then crying, then laughing again....then yelling a little. All in all, these books will touch you emotionally and stick with you. Each time I open one of these stories, I feel like I am being greeted by friends and invited onto a strange journey back into time. But when I, inevitably, meet an end, I am saddened because I must tell them goodbye.
So. My only question becomes at this point. WHEN IS THE NEXT BOOK, I NEED IT.
February 11, 2015
Thank you April White for another wonderful book! I loved seeing the characters and relationships develop and see this amazing story continues. My favorite part is how much you weaved history with your story- those are my favorite types of books!!
November 19, 2015
4.5 stars
October 7, 2020
This series is quite good fun with a world of shifters, vampires, werewolves, time travelers and seers.
In this installment Saira needs to go back in time with Ringo and Archer to track down Wilder and fix a time split.
As the 3rd book in what I thought was a trilogy (oops) I was looking forward to a conclusion, but as it became evident this wasn't going to happen I actually didn't mind. I realised it is a 5 book series and went along for the ride. I enjoyed the further development of the characters and the world, and didn't find Saira quite as irritating in this book.
I enjoyed the audio narration except when the POVs changed from Saira to Tom the voice didn't which made it rather confusing at times. A male narrator for his parts would have helped that along.
In this installment Saira needs to go back in time with Ringo and Archer to track down Wilder and fix a time split.
As the 3rd book in what I thought was a trilogy (oops) I was looking forward to a conclusion, but as it became evident this wasn't going to happen I actually didn't mind. I realised it is a 5 book series and went along for the ride. I enjoyed the further development of the characters and the world, and didn't find Saira quite as irritating in this book.
I enjoyed the audio narration except when the POVs changed from Saira to Tom the voice didn't which made it rather confusing at times. A male narrator for his parts would have helped that along.
November 17, 2015
A great mixture of adventure, friendship and love, battled over the course of history. This series is a must read for everyone looking for a great time, it has it all, twisted plot, great characters and you never want to stop reading. If you haven’t started this series yet, do it now, you won’t be disappointed!
After nearly being beheaded in the Tower of London (Tempting Fate) in 1554, Saira hopes for a calm summer together with Archer – in the present of course. But say the happiness that lasts… After nearly getting kidnapped Saira and Archer discerned that mixed bloods have gone missing over the past few months. But that’s not the only issue at hand. When researching history for any sign of Bishop Wilder and Tom they discovers a split in time in France 1429. And when Mr. Shaw gets abducted and a council meeting gone awry, the gang needs to do a hasty exit to get the timeline back in order.
Things get more complicated and infinitely more dangerous than they planned when they land in the middle of a war and they don’t know who they can trust. Not to mention that the person they’re supposed to help, Joan of Arc hates their guts and does everything she can to complicate matters.
I really liked that I absolutely hated Joan of Arc – Jehanne. Usually the person the protagonists is supposed to help or save is innocent or at the very least likable, but Jehanne is anything but. I honestly wouldn’t have minded if Saira (or anyone else really) strangled her in the end – or preferably when they met, but sadly that wouldn’t have fixed the split in time.
After being a major part of everything that happened in Marking Time and Tempting Fate, Bishop Wilder’s involvement in the events in 1429 were surprisingly I have said it before and I’ll say it again, I love reading books by authors that aren’t afraid to hurt and injure their characters, it gives the books a much more credible feel to them.
And what of our gang? Saira continues to grow into herself and her relationship with Archer and is also starting to realise her limitations. It was interesting to see her I love the friendship developing between Conner and Ringo, I can already see them playing D&D and I’m guessing Ringo is winning ;) I also liked the relationship between Charlie and Valerie and think both will benefit from it, but also Ringo as they will both develop into separate people before they continue with their relationship. Oh, and do I have to add that I want more of Archer? ;)
The book has left me with hundreds (possibly more) questions, (minor spoiler warning) for example What happened with the original immortals? Why can Conner’s little brother shift to any animal? what is the connection between the amount of blood they have to drink in order to gain other abilities, and does the amount have any significance on the level of power? Claire was drained in order for Wilder to clock, And what exactly are the Others and where do they come from?
I know one thing, If I were a clocker I’d go forth in time and bring back the rest of the books in the series, I need to find out what happens next!
After nearly being beheaded in the Tower of London (Tempting Fate) in 1554, Saira hopes for a calm summer together with Archer – in the present of course. But say the happiness that lasts… After nearly getting kidnapped Saira and Archer discerned that mixed bloods have gone missing over the past few months. But that’s not the only issue at hand. When researching history for any sign of Bishop Wilder and Tom they discovers a split in time in France 1429. And when Mr. Shaw gets abducted and a council meeting gone awry, the gang needs to do a hasty exit to get the timeline back in order.
Things get more complicated and infinitely more dangerous than they planned when they land in the middle of a war and they don’t know who they can trust. Not to mention that the person they’re supposed to help, Joan of Arc hates their guts and does everything she can to complicate matters.
I really liked that I absolutely hated Joan of Arc – Jehanne. Usually the person the protagonists is supposed to help or save is innocent or at the very least likable, but Jehanne is anything but. I honestly wouldn’t have minded if Saira (or anyone else really) strangled her in the end – or preferably when they met, but sadly that wouldn’t have fixed the split in time.
After being a major part of everything that happened in Marking Time and Tempting Fate, Bishop Wilder’s involvement in the events in 1429 were surprisingly I have said it before and I’ll say it again, I love reading books by authors that aren’t afraid to hurt and injure their characters, it gives the books a much more credible feel to them.
And what of our gang? Saira continues to grow into herself and her relationship with Archer and is also starting to realise her limitations. It was interesting to see her I love the friendship developing between Conner and Ringo, I can already see them playing D&D and I’m guessing Ringo is winning ;) I also liked the relationship between Charlie and Valerie and think both will benefit from it, but also Ringo as they will both develop into separate people before they continue with their relationship. Oh, and do I have to add that I want more of Archer? ;)
The book has left me with hundreds (possibly more) questions, (minor spoiler warning) for example What happened with the original immortals? Why can Conner’s little brother shift to any animal? what is the connection between the amount of blood they have to drink in order to gain other abilities, and does the amount have any significance on the level of power? Claire was drained in order for Wilder to clock, And what exactly are the Others and where do they come from?
I know one thing, If I were a clocker I’d go forth in time and bring back the rest of the books in the series, I need to find out what happens next!
July 3, 2016
4.25★ Audiobook ⎮ This installment didn't do as much for me as I was hoping. Unfortunately, either the story or my interest seems to have a hit a mid-series slump (which happens sometimes, on both accounts). Overall, this is still an incredibly fun series that incorporates several fantastical elements into one story. This installment was extremely action-packed and spent more time at the Elian Manor, which I appreciated as it was something I was wanting in the last installment. I still really like the main character, Saira, but I can't help but feel like she's getting lost in the series. The addition of these other minor characters are getting in the way of Saira's development (the only character I care about, tbh). Archer (her vampire love) has yet to grow on me and I was actually kind of rooting for his demise in this installment (no such luck). He seems very one-dimensional to me and I've been over the vampire boyfriend trend in 2010.
Character flaws aside, I absolutely adore April White's writing style. It's witty, sarcastic, and full of pop culture references, which I find delightful. But the whole "Saira and her merry gang" angle grew cold on me more quickly in this installment. I would have much rather seen her kicking butt on her own, but whatever. However, I can't ignore the originality of the world April White has created in this series. I enjoy the writing so much that I can abide a cliché vampire romance and a few flat and, in my opinion, unnecessary characters.
Narration review: This was the second installment Gemma Barrett has narrated for this series. I was critical of the audio for the last installment, largely because of production issues, not narration. Thankfully, those issues were corrected in this installment, which made for a much smoother listening experience. Barrett has a very distinct way of narrating, which made her voice stick around in my head long after the audiobook had concluded. Her narration style has grown on me over the last two installments and I never have trouble calling her voice to mind for reviews. Bonus: April White gave me a little insight (via Twitter ) into the process of choosing a narrator by saying that she knew Barrett was the perfect narrator for this series after just one meeting because Barrett's voice has the exact timbre she imagines for Saira. So neat! ♣︎
Character flaws aside, I absolutely adore April White's writing style. It's witty, sarcastic, and full of pop culture references, which I find delightful. But the whole "Saira and her merry gang" angle grew cold on me more quickly in this installment. I would have much rather seen her kicking butt on her own, but whatever. However, I can't ignore the originality of the world April White has created in this series. I enjoy the writing so much that I can abide a cliché vampire romance and a few flat and, in my opinion, unnecessary characters.
Narration review: This was the second installment Gemma Barrett has narrated for this series. I was critical of the audio for the last installment, largely because of production issues, not narration. Thankfully, those issues were corrected in this installment, which made for a much smoother listening experience. Barrett has a very distinct way of narrating, which made her voice stick around in my head long after the audiobook had concluded. Her narration style has grown on me over the last two installments and I never have trouble calling her voice to mind for reviews. Bonus: April White gave me a little insight (via Twitter ) into the process of choosing a narrator by saying that she knew Barrett was the perfect narrator for this series after just one meeting because Barrett's voice has the exact timbre she imagines for Saira. So neat! ♣︎
May 30, 2015
I had already grown attached to the free runners and tight-knit group of friends, introduced in the first two books of the Immortal Descendants series. Although the plot line is dark, and there is violence (and war and death), there are enough snarky, light-hearted moments to carry me through. I love books that explore relationships, and where I feel that I fit right into the story. This series gives me that. It reminds me a little of other YA series like "Vampire Academy/Bloodlines" or even "Harry Potter," since part of the story takes place in a school, where there are hidden passages and storerooms, and there is more going on that meets the eye. But it is a unique storyline too, and I find myself waiting desperately for the 4th book.
April apparently plans on 5 books to round out the series, referring to the five original immortals - Time, Fate, Nature, War and Death. (I hope I have those right.) Each book explores one group of immortal descendants and their subsequent talents.
Saira, descended from Time and Nature, and Archer, a descendent of Fate and Death, are the two lovers around whom most of the story revolves. Archer is the perfect boyfriend, loyal through the centuries, and Saira loves him back, eventually, just as fiercely. They have amazing adventures - in this book - with Joan of Arc, and Gilles de Rais, in France.
But Ringo, Conner, Tom and Charlie also have their parts to play. I grew very fond of all of them, and very protective, as well. They were all safe at the end - now I can't wait to see what the new book brings!
April apparently plans on 5 books to round out the series, referring to the five original immortals - Time, Fate, Nature, War and Death. (I hope I have those right.) Each book explores one group of immortal descendants and their subsequent talents.
Saira, descended from Time and Nature, and Archer, a descendent of Fate and Death, are the two lovers around whom most of the story revolves. Archer is the perfect boyfriend, loyal through the centuries, and Saira loves him back, eventually, just as fiercely. They have amazing adventures - in this book - with Joan of Arc, and Gilles de Rais, in France.
But Ringo, Conner, Tom and Charlie also have their parts to play. I grew very fond of all of them, and very protective, as well. They were all safe at the end - now I can't wait to see what the new book brings!
June 2, 2020
Please don't look at this 4 star review and put off reading this great book!! It's totally me. I just don't give that many books 5 stars.
This is a great installment of the Immortal Descendants series. Saira, Archer and my personal favorite Ringo are once again traveling through time to put right what once went wrong. I love that April White puts real history in these stories (even if she rearranges the dates to better fit the story). I enjoyed getting to know Connor better. He is one spunky alpha wolf.
My last thought is to leave you with a warning. This book is hard to put down. It's a good thing I was in bed with a cold or else I might feel bad about not getting anything done today but to finish this book!
Note 2/5/2018: I am currently in the process of doing a re-read because after reading "An Urchin of Means" by April White I found that I missed Archer and Saira. The first time I read this book I hadn't read "Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss. I was pleasantly surprised it was quoted here. Second I learned that the State bird of the Yukon was a Raven. Living in Alaska as I do it didn't surprise me but It was something I didn't know.
This is a great installment of the Immortal Descendants series. Saira, Archer and my personal favorite Ringo are once again traveling through time to put right what once went wrong. I love that April White puts real history in these stories (even if she rearranges the dates to better fit the story). I enjoyed getting to know Connor better. He is one spunky alpha wolf.
My last thought is to leave you with a warning. This book is hard to put down. It's a good thing I was in bed with a cold or else I might feel bad about not getting anything done today but to finish this book!
Note 2/5/2018: I am currently in the process of doing a re-read because after reading "An Urchin of Means" by April White I found that I missed Archer and Saira. The first time I read this book I hadn't read "Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss. I was pleasantly surprised it was quoted here. Second I learned that the State bird of the Yukon was a Raven. Living in Alaska as I do it didn't surprise me but It was something I didn't know.
January 22, 2015
Book 3 of the series....and well, love, love, LOVEEE the book and the series. In AWE with the author for being unconventional and keeping us engaged through out the book, and kept us yearning for more once we finished it! This book will touch all your emotions, as it has history, mystery, humor, romance, sadness, action, friendship, and a LOT of enlightenment, with the secrets still kept. Read the book and fall in love with it....
Thank you April...waiting for the next book in series ...Waging Wars!
Thank you April...waiting for the next book in series ...Waging Wars!
May 30, 2015
Oh my I didn't want this book to end. The adventures they went on were exciting, sit on the edge of your seat and what's going to happen next. I really hope the next book comes out sometime soon. I need to know what happens with saira and archer's relationship. Also how Ringo and Charlie get back to each other. I have to say this series has definitely been a different style of paranormal /immortal series. I love that it is not like all of the rest with the typical vampires, werewolves, witches and such! Please hurry with the next book!
May 17, 2015
More enjoyable plot lines and characters.
I have just finished reading the Immortal Descendants series for the second time. As each book progresses through the absorbing plot lines, so do the characters grow and develop. I constantly find myself imagining scenes turned into film, and I dearly hope some producer somewhere is reading these books and doing the same. Book 4 cannot come too soon.
I have just finished reading the Immortal Descendants series for the second time. As each book progresses through the absorbing plot lines, so do the characters grow and develop. I constantly find myself imagining scenes turned into film, and I dearly hope some producer somewhere is reading these books and doing the same. Book 4 cannot come too soon.
February 13, 2015
This book meant I got very little sleep from beginning to end, simply because I couldn't put it down.
Saira, Archer, Ringo and co keep you hooked throughout, not just because of the situations they end up in, but because they are so real in the world April White has created.
The only downside to this series, is having to wait for the next book- though I guess I can sleep now...
Saira, Archer, Ringo and co keep you hooked throughout, not just because of the situations they end up in, but because they are so real in the world April White has created.
The only downside to this series, is having to wait for the next book- though I guess I can sleep now...
March 1, 2015
I certainly enjoyed these first 3 books in this series. Wish I had the time to read faster, but I did finally get thru them! The main characters are quite lovable. Their adventures were action packed, and usually ended with the outcomes you hoped for. Thank you for the thrill rides Miss April White!
July 16, 2015
A masterpiece of writing
I can not say enough about April white. She is a master storyteller. Anyone who has read Harry potter will be absolutely thrilled to have found another writer who in my estimation is equally as gifted as j.k. Rowling. I anxiously await the next book. I also hope someone she's what good movies these books would make.
I can not say enough about April white. She is a master storyteller. Anyone who has read Harry potter will be absolutely thrilled to have found another writer who in my estimation is equally as gifted as j.k. Rowling. I anxiously await the next book. I also hope someone she's what good movies these books would make.
January 21, 2015
I love it!
Review will follow soon.
Review will follow soon.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews