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Dragonoak #2
Dragonoak: The Sky Beneath The Sun
(This is the second book in a series.) The days when Rowan Northwood was exiled to the farmland around her village seem like a lifetime ago, and the passing Knight she ran away with has become a memory she does her best not to revisit. Her powers lie dormant, settling within her as glowing embers waiting to come alive once more. Canth is a scorching land built upon disorder and neglect, and having traded the sheep of Felheim’s fields for the fish of the sea, Rowan finds herself living amongst pirates. Port Mahon takes her in, accepts her as one of their own, but throughout peaceful days and violent assaults on the town alike, her thoughts are ever on Kastelir--or what remains of it.
531 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 10, 2015
72 people are currently reading
611 people want to read
About the author
Sam Farren
9 books166 followersSam Farren started writing the way many young authors do: they really, really wanted to post some fanfiction. After dabbling in both transformative and original works for many years, they developed a passion for representing queer women of all sorts in fantasy worlds. Their debut novel, Dragonoak: The Complete History of Kastelir, is the first instalment in a fully-written trilogy, spanning both years and continents.
Born and raised in the south-east of England, Sam currently resides in Oxford, with a charming pile of royal pythons, Tofu, Twix and Toffee. They are currently living the much coveted life of a poor student, and deeply appreciates any and all support via her published works.
Born and raised in the south-east of England, Sam currently resides in Oxford, with a charming pile of royal pythons, Tofu, Twix and Toffee. They are currently living the much coveted life of a poor student, and deeply appreciates any and all support via her published works.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
January 10, 2018
Initially frustrating, especially if you picked it up immediately after the first book. Like the lead character Rowan, readers are left in limbo, stewing with her in a laid-back pirate town while being completely frustrated at not knowing what happened to Claire and the rest of the kingdom. Once we get past that however, it's a rollercoaster ride of emotions -- exhilaration, pain and frustration, heartbreak and hope. Best of all, you'll not want to waste too much time on reviewing the book but instead want to tear into the third book right away. :)
4.75 stars
4.75 stars
April 6, 2017
Admittedly, for the first 10% of the book I was actually kind of bored. Rowan, Kouris, and a few others have escaped across the ocean and live a rudderless day to day life in an all female pirate's port. It sounds like an interesting scenario but the aimlessness of it all didn't motivate me.
I was about to put the book down when a completely unexpected and shocking event occurred and, from that point on, I was hooked. The story was an intense page turner and I stayed enthralled to the final page.
The book moves at a steady pace, more action oriented than the first in the series and still contains the twists and turns the author is adept at delivering. Characters old and new are distinct and complex and so is the story line. There are many delightful and happy moments in the read but it's couched in a lot of pain and torment, too, as both Rowan and Claire endure a lot. There are no easy quick fixes and consequences persist.
One new change is that from the first page of the book we see that Rowan has matured immensely, no longer the naive adventurer, and she continues to evolve as we move through this new journey. I quite liked the growth of her character.
I would not say that this is a standalone book. Definitely read the first book in the series before this one. And, if you're looking for romance, this has f/f relationships but the romance aspect is minimal.
Well done to the author once again for an amazing fantasy saga. 4.6 stars.
I was about to put the book down when a completely unexpected and shocking event occurred and, from that point on, I was hooked. The story was an intense page turner and I stayed enthralled to the final page.
The book moves at a steady pace, more action oriented than the first in the series and still contains the twists and turns the author is adept at delivering. Characters old and new are distinct and complex and so is the story line. There are many delightful and happy moments in the read but it's couched in a lot of pain and torment, too, as both Rowan and Claire endure a lot. There are no easy quick fixes and consequences persist.
One new change is that from the first page of the book we see that Rowan has matured immensely, no longer the naive adventurer, and she continues to evolve as we move through this new journey. I quite liked the growth of her character.
I would not say that this is a standalone book. Definitely read the first book in the series before this one. And, if you're looking for romance, this has f/f relationships but the romance aspect is minimal.
Well done to the author once again for an amazing fantasy saga. 4.6 stars.
February 22, 2017
This is book 2 in the Dragonoak series. With book 3 coming out on Feb 23rd, I had to re-read these books. I still love this book! It is even better than book 1, Dragonoak: The Complete History of Kastelir Book 1 is a bit slow to start out, this book is not.
I need to be very careful not to spoil anything. With how book 1 ends, almost anything I write about would give away its exciting ending. So I will say this. This book is fantastic. It will take your heart and rip it out. I cried, just like the first time I read this. Than it will give you hope, and you will become even more connected to the great cast of characters. This book is more exciting than the first, and I am dying waiting the one more day for book 3 to come out. Book 3 has been the most anticipated book, that I can ever remember.
I just cannot say how much I love these book. I honestly believe, if you read the first two books, you will become hooked like I did. This is my favorite LGBT epic fantasy series out there. These books have to be read in order. I really hope anyone that gives these books a chance, loves them as much as I do. Oh and not only does this book have dragons, but pirates too! :)
I need to be very careful not to spoil anything. With how book 1 ends, almost anything I write about would give away its exciting ending. So I will say this. This book is fantastic. It will take your heart and rip it out. I cried, just like the first time I read this. Than it will give you hope, and you will become even more connected to the great cast of characters. This book is more exciting than the first, and I am dying waiting the one more day for book 3 to come out. Book 3 has been the most anticipated book, that I can ever remember.
I just cannot say how much I love these book. I honestly believe, if you read the first two books, you will become hooked like I did. This is my favorite LGBT epic fantasy series out there. These books have to be read in order. I really hope anyone that gives these books a chance, loves them as much as I do. Oh and not only does this book have dragons, but pirates too! :)
February 26, 2017
I liked the second book of the series even better than the first. I love fantasy, I love dragons and magic and pirates in a book and I love to have female main characters.
Reading this made me realise how few fantasy books (with that kind of ingredients) I've read that are not solely centred around male characters with only one or two females sprinkled in. And here I am reading a fantasy series and there are females everywhere: stern, crazy, kind, short-tempered, scared, paranoid ... most of them with a major chip on their shoulder, yet they love each other and they support each other. What I think is most refreshing and eye-opening are the way there exist love-triangles or quadrangles: (Sen)-Claire-Rowan-Kouris ... Kouris-Kidira-Akela-(Sen). They love regardless of being pane, necromancer, knight or queen and they are remarkably human when it comes to showing weakness, letting go of self-loathing or trusting.
In my opinion, one of the main themes in the series (1st and 2nd book, haven't read the 3rd yet) is overcoming prejudices: the ones we are having about ourselves, the ones others have about us and the ones we believe others have and thus act or don't act or run away. It is easier to see because there don't seem to exist discrimination against women or lesbian/queer love, but major narrow-mindedness when it comes to panes or necromancers.
"Their blades will not bleed us dry and their oceans will not drown us, but that does not mean there aren't greater ways to harm us."
What harms us? Thoughtlessness, ignorance and fear. Us fearing what we don't know and thus thoughtlessly hurting.
So, Rowan, the necromancer could go around resurrecting and killing people at her wish. She could instil fear in the masses and win this war for her loved ones. But that would be the easy way out. That would be like hitting the person that has insulted me. Of course, it is a nice feeling to hurt back, but I'm afraid it will not change the person's attitude for the better.
And yes, I was sometimes fed up with Rowan for being so reluctant to use her power, yet I also loved her for it.
All in all, I loved the sequel and can hardly wait to read the third book.
Reading this made me realise how few fantasy books (with that kind of ingredients) I've read that are not solely centred around male characters with only one or two females sprinkled in. And here I am reading a fantasy series and there are females everywhere: stern, crazy, kind, short-tempered, scared, paranoid ... most of them with a major chip on their shoulder, yet they love each other and they support each other. What I think is most refreshing and eye-opening are the way there exist love-triangles or quadrangles: (Sen)-Claire-Rowan-Kouris ... Kouris-Kidira-Akela-(Sen). They love regardless of being pane, necromancer, knight or queen and they are remarkably human when it comes to showing weakness, letting go of self-loathing or trusting.
In my opinion, one of the main themes in the series (1st and 2nd book, haven't read the 3rd yet) is overcoming prejudices: the ones we are having about ourselves, the ones others have about us and the ones we believe others have and thus act or don't act or run away. It is easier to see because there don't seem to exist discrimination against women or lesbian/queer love, but major narrow-mindedness when it comes to panes or necromancers.
"Their blades will not bleed us dry and their oceans will not drown us, but that does not mean there aren't greater ways to harm us."
What harms us? Thoughtlessness, ignorance and fear. Us fearing what we don't know and thus thoughtlessly hurting.
So, Rowan, the necromancer could go around resurrecting and killing people at her wish. She could instil fear in the masses and win this war for her loved ones. But that would be the easy way out. That would be like hitting the person that has insulted me. Of course, it is a nice feeling to hurt back, but I'm afraid it will not change the person's attitude for the better.
And yes, I was sometimes fed up with Rowan for being so reluctant to use her power, yet I also loved her for it.
All in all, I loved the sequel and can hardly wait to read the third book.
June 2, 2018
3.4 stars. It almost felt like a filler, very little progress was made in the main storyline. The book has is strong moments for sure, especially in the first part of it but a lot of it is just inconsequential stalling with Rowan going from living in one place to another while waiting for things to happen. She rarely is a proactive participant. More often than not things just happen to her and then she reacts. Which is why it turned out to be such a frustrating read for me.
The worldbuilding is more than good. The characters likable (except you know who but that's intended), I just wish the plot progression would live up to the same standard. At times it seems like the book has an identity crisis. It goes from the long slice of life sections right into action which usually is very brief and then returns to another slice of life phase where nothing happens, Rowan is mistreated, someone is angry, feelings are hurt but nothing is done.
And then some extrinsic factor yet again forces them into reactive action. Structurally I'm not a fan of how the story is being progressed but otherwise, it's a really solid read.
The worldbuilding is more than good. The characters likable (except you know who but that's intended), I just wish the plot progression would live up to the same standard. At times it seems like the book has an identity crisis. It goes from the long slice of life sections right into action which usually is very brief and then returns to another slice of life phase where nothing happens, Rowan is mistreated, someone is angry, feelings are hurt but nothing is done.
And then some extrinsic factor yet again forces them into reactive action. Structurally I'm not a fan of how the story is being progressed but otherwise, it's a really solid read.
March 2, 2017
4.5 stars
This book is not at all what I expected it to be. While the first book is quite slow paced, so many things happen here that it has become overwhelming. And the ANGST, all these raw emotions, what with Rowan and Claire going through unimaginable physical and mental torture I was torn between bawling my eyes out and smashing anything within reach throughout. So now we have Rowan, no longer the wide-eyed kid. She has grown up so much with every step she takes. Never stop being afraid, mostly of her too great power and the burdens and responsibilities that com with it, Rowan always keep moving forward, fighting for what she believes in. And Claire, oh Claire TT_TT. To be honest I don't know whether to like or hate this book because of how much it mkes me feel. Hopefully, book 3 will be kind to me and my broken heart!
This book is not at all what I expected it to be. While the first book is quite slow paced, so many things happen here that it has become overwhelming. And the ANGST, all these raw emotions, what with Rowan and Claire going through unimaginable physical and mental torture I was torn between bawling my eyes out and smashing anything within reach throughout. So now we have Rowan, no longer the wide-eyed kid. She has grown up so much with every step she takes. Never stop being afraid, mostly of her too great power and the burdens and responsibilities that com with it, Rowan always keep moving forward, fighting for what she believes in. And Claire, oh Claire TT_TT. To be honest I don't know whether to like or hate this book because of how much it mkes me feel. Hopefully, book 3 will be kind to me and my broken heart!
January 15, 2018
How much, is too much? This was a lil much. I need a break after all that angst and trauma.
September 27, 2017
IDK. It was all right. A whole heck of a lot of bad happens and not a lot of good. So..... Dunno if I'm gonna brave book 3 or not. I think I need a break from it. The Clair / Rowan arc frustrated me to no end. Shrug.
May 8, 2018
This is my favorite of the trilogy.
Because the main character grows up, is forced to shed some of her innocence after a traumatic event and learns more about the world and it's mysteries.
I must say the piratic world, hot air and jungle was much more grabing than the knightdom and farms.
And holy cow ! we do meet interesting persona !
Because the main character grows up, is forced to shed some of her innocence after a traumatic event and learns more about the world and it's mysteries.
I must say the piratic world, hot air and jungle was much more grabing than the knightdom and farms.
And holy cow ! we do meet interesting persona !
July 10, 2017
4.5 stars
This is the second beook in the series and it is another grand epic fantasy.
I admit I did find the start a little off putting, in that it seemed a little dijointed from the first book. But then it got going and when it goes, it flies.
One other minor irritation. Rowan. She is a little too passive and "Oh-woe-is-me", but in the scheme of things this is a very minor issue.
Can't wait to read book three.
This is the second beook in the series and it is another grand epic fantasy.
I admit I did find the start a little off putting, in that it seemed a little dijointed from the first book. But then it got going and when it goes, it flies.
One other minor irritation. Rowan. She is a little too passive and "Oh-woe-is-me", but in the scheme of things this is a very minor issue.
Can't wait to read book three.
May 1, 2017
Builds up into a wonder, like book one!
Like the first book of the series, if you can give this one some time to let the groundwork in the beginning start to come together, you'll be satisfied. Farren's contemplative main character pulls us along on adventure that's simultaneously realistic and fantastic. Yes, there are dragons and pane and pirates and lots and lots of queer folk, but no one feels half-baked. Everyone has their own motivations and personality, and that makes for interesting character dynamics. Don't get me wrong, the story has its twists and excitement, but it's the characters you'll fall in love with and want more of. Now, onto book 3!
Like the first book of the series, if you can give this one some time to let the groundwork in the beginning start to come together, you'll be satisfied. Farren's contemplative main character pulls us along on adventure that's simultaneously realistic and fantastic. Yes, there are dragons and pane and pirates and lots and lots of queer folk, but no one feels half-baked. Everyone has their own motivations and personality, and that makes for interesting character dynamics. Don't get me wrong, the story has its twists and excitement, but it's the characters you'll fall in love with and want more of. Now, onto book 3!
September 30, 2021
Now this was better
Unlike the first one, which let's be honest, nothing really happened, this one sees some action in the first half of the book. And even though I felt there was a lot of unnecessary filler stuff, there was a good amount of progress.
Certain characters still confuse me and personally I'd rather see Korus with the Queen K and Aki with Sen but that's just me.
On to the third book!
Unlike the first one, which let's be honest, nothing really happened, this one sees some action in the first half of the book. And even though I felt there was a lot of unnecessary filler stuff, there was a good amount of progress.
Certain characters still confuse me and personally I'd rather see Korus with the Queen K and Aki with Sen but that's just me.
On to the third book!
May 30, 2025
Uff, forget lovely, this was brutal. I was compelled to read a bit more, more and then more, I was tempted to skip sleep, food, doing stuff, just to read a bit more. Awesome stuff.
August 14, 2022
Back to the world of Dragonoak! I had a bit of the same issue that I had in the first book, some information was not revealed fully right away in order to keep intrigue, but it just ended up confusing me since it felt like characters were talking around important things. I think Farren's writing improved from the first book since I noticed this issue less.
The second book in a trilogy can be more difficult since it reconciles events from book 1 but also preps for book 3. This is certainly the purpose of this volume, however there is lots to experience and lots of angst and trauma to keep things from feeling too bogged down at any point.
Highly recommend to anyone looking for a high fantasy with lots of different side characters. The writing may not be perfect, but the cast is so interesting and there is a broad spectrum of representation (disabled, polyamorous, trans, wlw, mlm, ect.) you're sure to find a few characters you can connect with.
The second book in a trilogy can be more difficult since it reconciles events from book 1 but also preps for book 3. This is certainly the purpose of this volume, however there is lots to experience and lots of angst and trauma to keep things from feeling too bogged down at any point.
Highly recommend to anyone looking for a high fantasy with lots of different side characters. The writing may not be perfect, but the cast is so interesting and there is a broad spectrum of representation (disabled, polyamorous, trans, wlw, mlm, ect.) you're sure to find a few characters you can connect with.
January 30, 2016
Just as heartbreakingly brilliant as the first in the series. Sam Farren has done an amazing job of imagining a "classic" fantasy world - full of magic and dragons and pirates and legacies from ancient (and not-so-ancient) conflict - and then populating it with a cast of real, complex LGBT women and people of other genders who get to play all the major roles in the story and not be defined by their sexuality. I also adore how despite being a rather dark story, the vast majority of the main characters are full of love and support for each other and there's a huge amount of care given to the handling of trauma and mental illness and its effect on relationships.
Highly recommend for anyone looking for perfectly balanced quasi dystopian misery, epic fantasy tales, or an escape from cis/hetero patriarchal norms.
Highly recommend for anyone looking for perfectly balanced quasi dystopian misery, epic fantasy tales, or an escape from cis/hetero patriarchal norms.
July 19, 2020
This is the future of storytelling
When I finished the first book, I was so engaged I started the second one immediately, and I didn't review it, so I'll make a general review of both books.
I suppose if you are reading this, you've already read both books or at least the first one, so I'll just say this is a fantastic trilogy, its characters.... I would DIE for every one of them, the worldbuilding is outstanding (I myself want to write a fantasy book in the future and I'm taking notes about how to write a great fantasy world), and the diversity in this book, I genuinely want to cry for how inspiring it is to read about queer characters living their lives with their sexuality and gender being as important as their hair color. It made me think and I even had discusions with friends about this and that tells you how good this book is, how important what the author is doing is.
That's all I can say without getting into spoilers so yes, this is a great book and saga.
Where to start?
The characters in this book have stolen my heart. I want to marry every one of this women!
Akela has to be my fav character, I just love her and want to protect her. She is so funny and the fact that the author created a way of writing her dialogues that is entirely her own and distinguises her is very impressive. The fact that she is a strong as hell warrior but also sensitive and funny..., she deserves the world. I kinda hate her relationship with Kidira, mainly because I hate Kidira and (call me toxic, I'm aware) I would like for her to be with Kouris.
Kouris in the first book was like Akela, so funny and loving... her friendship with Rowan was everything I needed. I have to say, I didn't like that she was with Rowan in Canth, because to me it took the innocence/sisterly love from their friendship, and it may be just me, but I preferred their bond as it was in the first book.
Rowan is a great protagonist. In the first book she was the perfect narrator: she is completely clueless of the world, so she has to discover it, taking the reader along in her journey. I loved her aproach to everything and... I just loved the first book alright. In the second, she is grown, she has experienced lost and many hardships, but she is stronger and has a clearer path. When Katja happened, my jaw was in the floor, I cried, I was angry as hell, but, it was what the character needed and I appreciated it.
Claire, oh Claire. Why? Claire is everything I need in a lesbian fantasy novel. She is a warrior, strong, beautiful, misterious, just... everything. One thing I loved from the first book was the way the relationship with Rowan developed. It was slow, but their romance needed it to be. They grow to love each other and finally they give into it..., just to be separated one chapter later. When I tell you I sobbed... Then the second book came, and yes, it is slow at first, because I suppose all of us knew Claire wasn't dead and a reunion was coming... but wow, I didn't expect that. Why did you have to do Claire so dirty? Just poor Claire. I think it's just me, that I want to read happy lesbian content, but I need there to be like a grand love gesture or magic whatever that makes Claire heal in the end. Not because I personally care that she has changed, but because I just want her to be happy, and making an expert warrior lose all of her capability to fight or even walk it's just cruel. And the fact that she is an alcoholic and clearly depressed... Please give Claire some peace, I beg you.
Like I said, I loved the relationship Claire and Rowan had in the first book, so... I suppose you can imagine my opinion know. Do I love them together? Obviously. Did I want them to get together and immediately fall into each others arms and cry together? Also yes, but I didn't get that. I understand the approach the author gives to every relationship in this book, they are adults with lots of trauma that need time to heal, but, I just want queer people to be happy. Idk, I feel like every romantic relationship in this book is kinda underwhelming, they love each other but they don't show it, they are two years apart but when they are reunited they only see each other once a day, or not at all... I'm just a hopeless romantic and I was sad to not get what I hoped for, as well as, I respect the fact that the author decided to keep every romance pg, but, they are grown adults, I need them to long for each other and like Idk, show each other what the other means for them with physical demonstrations if you know what I mean
Moving on...
The plot is fantastic, I love a good destruction of a kingdom and a rebellion. I preferred the first book's plot (once again lmao), because I just loved the discovering knew towns and the traveling with Claire and Kouris, but I really like where the trilogy is heading. I know it's kind of and unpopular opinion, but I loved the time in Canth, I just love pirates, and I feel like when they get back to Felheim is quite confusing what they are going to do. They don't have an actual plan of action, so it's kind of repetitive, them getting somewhere, Rowan feeling she could settle down, then something happens and they move on.
I've already started book three, and I get the feeling that finally they have a plan, so I think it's gonna be a fun ride.
So yeah,
I think I'm out of words after all of that lmao, so the only thing I have left to say is,
please give this saga a chance, give queer authors the opportunity to use their voice and tell the stories that need to be told. Thank you
4,5 stars
When I finished the first book, I was so engaged I started the second one immediately, and I didn't review it, so I'll make a general review of both books.
I suppose if you are reading this, you've already read both books or at least the first one, so I'll just say this is a fantastic trilogy, its characters.... I would DIE for every one of them, the worldbuilding is outstanding (I myself want to write a fantasy book in the future and I'm taking notes about how to write a great fantasy world), and the diversity in this book, I genuinely want to cry for how inspiring it is to read about queer characters living their lives with their sexuality and gender being as important as their hair color. It made me think and I even had discusions with friends about this and that tells you how good this book is, how important what the author is doing is.
That's all I can say without getting into spoilers so yes, this is a great book and saga.
Where to start?
The characters in this book have stolen my heart. I want to marry every one of this women!
Akela has to be my fav character, I just love her and want to protect her. She is so funny and the fact that the author created a way of writing her dialogues that is entirely her own and distinguises her is very impressive. The fact that she is a strong as hell warrior but also sensitive and funny..., she deserves the world. I kinda hate her relationship with Kidira, mainly because I hate Kidira and (call me toxic, I'm aware) I would like for her to be with Kouris.
Kouris in the first book was like Akela, so funny and loving... her friendship with Rowan was everything I needed. I have to say, I didn't like that she was with Rowan in Canth, because to me it took the innocence/sisterly love from their friendship, and it may be just me, but I preferred their bond as it was in the first book.
Rowan is a great protagonist. In the first book she was the perfect narrator: she is completely clueless of the world, so she has to discover it, taking the reader along in her journey. I loved her aproach to everything and... I just loved the first book alright. In the second, she is grown, she has experienced lost and many hardships, but she is stronger and has a clearer path. When Katja happened, my jaw was in the floor, I cried, I was angry as hell, but, it was what the character needed and I appreciated it.
Claire, oh Claire. Why? Claire is everything I need in a lesbian fantasy novel. She is a warrior, strong, beautiful, misterious, just... everything. One thing I loved from the first book was the way the relationship with Rowan developed. It was slow, but their romance needed it to be. They grow to love each other and finally they give into it..., just to be separated one chapter later. When I tell you I sobbed... Then the second book came, and yes, it is slow at first, because I suppose all of us knew Claire wasn't dead and a reunion was coming... but wow, I didn't expect that. Why did you have to do Claire so dirty? Just poor Claire. I think it's just me, that I want to read happy lesbian content, but I need there to be like a grand love gesture or magic whatever that makes Claire heal in the end. Not because I personally care that she has changed, but because I just want her to be happy, and making an expert warrior lose all of her capability to fight or even walk it's just cruel. And the fact that she is an alcoholic and clearly depressed... Please give Claire some peace, I beg you.
Like I said, I loved the relationship Claire and Rowan had in the first book, so... I suppose you can imagine my opinion know. Do I love them together? Obviously. Did I want them to get together and immediately fall into each others arms and cry together? Also yes, but I didn't get that. I understand the approach the author gives to every relationship in this book, they are adults with lots of trauma that need time to heal, but, I just want queer people to be happy. Idk, I feel like every romantic relationship in this book is kinda underwhelming, they love each other but they don't show it, they are two years apart but when they are reunited they only see each other once a day, or not at all... I'm just a hopeless romantic and I was sad to not get what I hoped for, as well as, I respect the fact that the author decided to keep every romance pg, but, they are grown adults, I need them to long for each other and like Idk, show each other what the other means for them with physical demonstrations if you know what I mean
Moving on...
The plot is fantastic, I love a good destruction of a kingdom and a rebellion. I preferred the first book's plot (once again lmao), because I just loved the discovering knew towns and the traveling with Claire and Kouris, but I really like where the trilogy is heading. I know it's kind of and unpopular opinion, but I loved the time in Canth, I just love pirates, and I feel like when they get back to Felheim is quite confusing what they are going to do. They don't have an actual plan of action, so it's kind of repetitive, them getting somewhere, Rowan feeling she could settle down, then something happens and they move on.
I've already started book three, and I get the feeling that finally they have a plan, so I think it's gonna be a fun ride.
So yeah,
I think I'm out of words after all of that lmao, so the only thing I have left to say is,
please give this saga a chance, give queer authors the opportunity to use their voice and tell the stories that need to be told. Thank you
4,5 stars
April 23, 2018
As previously stated by others, this author was accused (and found guilty?) by at least two teenagers of abuse. And when it got out, tried to silence them, discredit them, and in last resort, rebranded themselves entirely to push it under the rug. I hope those who enjoyed this book learn of this and stop praising and recommending it. There are plenty of queer authors out there who are not despicable, and who do not subtly instill their dubious views in their writing.
April 18, 2017
4.5
A wonderful push to the peak of events and schemes in book 1.
This book might be set in a fantasy world, but the characters' internal fights and problems are not something unfamiliar to us, bits or whole. The book is packed with emotional rides and intriguing plot threads, with even more adorable characters adding to those in book 1. It is solidly written, we get to see and feel the harsh, ruthful impacts of what happened at the end of book 1, coupled with heart-wrenching characters' struggles.
The characters are definitely the most emphasized and memorable aspect of this book, especially Rowan and Claire. The seemingly slow and peaceful start in Canth still fills with a gritty, heavy atmosphere lurking around our cast. Rowan's conversations with the others and her thoughts effectively tease at readers' curiosity about the end of book 1, all the while showing characters' emotions and subtlely hidden fears for their friends' fate in Kastelir. The pirates are very entertaining to read about, making the wait for plot to kick in all the more enjoyable.
All the above is just a set-up for the aching plot point considering Rowan, her necromancy and her sanity. This plot point baffles me at first with its tedious nature, but I later on kinda love/hate it. It definitely has a role, a very important one at that, in the story. This plot point brings up really interesting character developments for Ro, letting us dig into her mentality and rooting for her to grow, to win over her fears, however hard it can be. It also contributes to Ro's attitude around her necromancy and what she is willing to do with it. A horrible way to flicker conflicts, but brilliant and (hurts me to say this) neccessary. Ro is also more active to the story than the first book, and bits by bits getting more independent.
Claire is also put through crazy hardship, Sam deserves all the praises in the world for splendidly portraying such a real character with all those burdens and wounds carved in her flesh. For all she has been through, Claire is doing all she can to stay standing, with subtle reveals of her pains taking their toll on her, which Sam scatters around in quick but impactful moments. Claire's suffering is not an overblown drama, not an edgy throwaway just for shock values. It is the pain of war and injustice. This way, readers can truly feel the weight of war, and therefore get more engrossed in the plot. The interactions between Claire and Ro are brilliantly written, with both heartfelt and distressing moments alike. I love how Ro cares for Claire and notices her hidden pains, while being thoughtful in treating her with love and respect, not the baby gloves we typically see in other so-called angst stories.
Sam did extremely well on the characters aspect, while keeping the story side enticing and well-presented, too. The pacing in this book is definitely better than the first one, with major events spreading out pretty evenly, giving readers time to let those events' impacts sink in. The plot also connects greatly to details in the first book and blends in perfectly as though it was real history. I can't say much in case of spoiling, but I'm certain the story is very enticing to dip in.
All in all, this book is amazing and riveting. The characters' mentalities are beautifully presented, the story is interesting and well-paced, not to mention the adorable minor casts. It's definitely worth a read. I'm truthfully eager to see how Sam will wrap this all up in the last book of the series.
A wonderful push to the peak of events and schemes in book 1.
This book might be set in a fantasy world, but the characters' internal fights and problems are not something unfamiliar to us, bits or whole. The book is packed with emotional rides and intriguing plot threads, with even more adorable characters adding to those in book 1. It is solidly written, we get to see and feel the harsh, ruthful impacts of what happened at the end of book 1, coupled with heart-wrenching characters' struggles.
The characters are definitely the most emphasized and memorable aspect of this book, especially Rowan and Claire. The seemingly slow and peaceful start in Canth still fills with a gritty, heavy atmosphere lurking around our cast. Rowan's conversations with the others and her thoughts effectively tease at readers' curiosity about the end of book 1, all the while showing characters' emotions and subtlely hidden fears for their friends' fate in Kastelir. The pirates are very entertaining to read about, making the wait for plot to kick in all the more enjoyable.
All the above is just a set-up for the aching plot point considering Rowan, her necromancy and her sanity. This plot point baffles me at first with its tedious nature, but I later on kinda love/hate it. It definitely has a role, a very important one at that, in the story. This plot point brings up really interesting character developments for Ro, letting us dig into her mentality and rooting for her to grow, to win over her fears, however hard it can be. It also contributes to Ro's attitude around her necromancy and what she is willing to do with it. A horrible way to flicker conflicts, but brilliant and (hurts me to say this) neccessary. Ro is also more active to the story than the first book, and bits by bits getting more independent.
Claire is also put through crazy hardship, Sam deserves all the praises in the world for splendidly portraying such a real character with all those burdens and wounds carved in her flesh. For all she has been through, Claire is doing all she can to stay standing, with subtle reveals of her pains taking their toll on her, which Sam scatters around in quick but impactful moments. Claire's suffering is not an overblown drama, not an edgy throwaway just for shock values. It is the pain of war and injustice. This way, readers can truly feel the weight of war, and therefore get more engrossed in the plot. The interactions between Claire and Ro are brilliantly written, with both heartfelt and distressing moments alike. I love how Ro cares for Claire and notices her hidden pains, while being thoughtful in treating her with love and respect, not the baby gloves we typically see in other so-called angst stories.
Sam did extremely well on the characters aspect, while keeping the story side enticing and well-presented, too. The pacing in this book is definitely better than the first one, with major events spreading out pretty evenly, giving readers time to let those events' impacts sink in. The plot also connects greatly to details in the first book and blends in perfectly as though it was real history. I can't say much in case of spoiling, but I'm certain the story is very enticing to dip in.
All in all, this book is amazing and riveting. The characters' mentalities are beautifully presented, the story is interesting and well-paced, not to mention the adorable minor casts. It's definitely worth a read. I'm truthfully eager to see how Sam will wrap this all up in the last book of the series.
May 27, 2020
I’m on fence whether to give this 4 or 5 stars, but finally I can’t give it 5 stars it’s not a 5 because I don’t think I will reread it in the future because I get overwhelmed with emotions so I can’t enjoy it fully. And I'll give book a 5 if I intend to reread it again in the future
I think I have love and hate relationship with this book. While the first book is kinda slow, this one is intense and grab your attention. There’s enough action here or maybe just more than I can handle.
Anyway this is a great fantasy series, I recommend it to everyone that love fantasy genre with some loveable character that will make you feel their pain, endured their agony, and root for their happiness
I think I have love and hate relationship with this book. While the first book is kinda slow, this one is intense and grab your attention. There’s enough action here or maybe just more than I can handle.
Anyway this is a great fantasy series, I recommend it to everyone that love fantasy genre with some loveable character that will make you feel their pain, endured their agony, and root for their happiness
January 15, 2020
I love a book where being badass is not equated with being emotionless, hard or cruel. I love a book with side characters that aren't a drag but make me want to read about their point of views and histories. I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to starting the third one in the trilogy.
January 8, 2016
Just as the 1st book, this book is nothing less than amazing. It has my warmest recommendations, and is absolutely a must-read!
It follows where the former book left up, and further pulls us into this fantasy universe, that manages to be exhilarating, tragic and humouring, whilst devoid of sexual assault or discrimination against the MOGAI community.
It's a necessity on anyones bookshelves, offering diversity in every aspect of the characters lives (Disabilities, colours, races, sexualities, gender identity, etc.) and is an outstanding piece of fiction. 10/10 do recommend.
It follows where the former book left up, and further pulls us into this fantasy universe, that manages to be exhilarating, tragic and humouring, whilst devoid of sexual assault or discrimination against the MOGAI community.
It's a necessity on anyones bookshelves, offering diversity in every aspect of the characters lives (Disabilities, colours, races, sexualities, gender identity, etc.) and is an outstanding piece of fiction. 10/10 do recommend.
November 23, 2018
This book is so great! I thought I wouldn't like it as much as the first one, but how mistaken I was.
There are so many (surprising) things that happen and I just couldn't stop reading. I loved the story, the characters, especially the way they change because of the things that happen to them, which just felt real.
It was just great in general! Such a fantastic series, the kind of fantasy books I'm always after.
There are so many (surprising) things that happen and I just couldn't stop reading. I loved the story, the characters, especially the way they change because of the things that happen to them, which just felt real.
It was just great in general! Such a fantastic series, the kind of fantasy books I'm always after.
June 22, 2017
I'm reviewing this on a reread.
4.5 stars
How great is it that not only was that first book not a fluke but that this one actually ups the quality? This is the best self-published series I've ever read, and it's better than a ton of not-self-published books I've read too. I mean, there's a chance I'm jumping the gun by saying that and later books may turn out to be mediocre, but oh well. That probably won't happen though, this author writes too well for that.
Anyway, after the cliffhanger at the end of the first book the plot picks up pretty quickly, and I don't think I'll be able to talk about it without spoilers, so I won't. I will say that any issues I had with pacing last book weren't there this time. That had been the major thing I disliked last book, and because basically everything else stayed the same, I'm resorted to nitpicking to find things wrong with it. And even then I can't find much! Mostly just the writing issues I'd noticed last book, which were either pretty much absent or a lot less noticeable, anyway.
If you read the first book and liked it, definitely read this one.
These are the comments and questions I have:
4.5 stars
How great is it that not only was that first book not a fluke but that this one actually ups the quality? This is the best self-published series I've ever read, and it's better than a ton of not-self-published books I've read too. I mean, there's a chance I'm jumping the gun by saying that and later books may turn out to be mediocre, but oh well. That probably won't happen though, this author writes too well for that.
Anyway, after the cliffhanger at the end of the first book the plot picks up pretty quickly, and I don't think I'll be able to talk about it without spoilers, so I won't. I will say that any issues I had with pacing last book weren't there this time. That had been the major thing I disliked last book, and because basically everything else stayed the same, I'm resorted to nitpicking to find things wrong with it. And even then I can't find much! Mostly just the writing issues I'd noticed last book, which were either pretty much absent or a lot less noticeable, anyway.
If you read the first book and liked it, definitely read this one.
These are the comments and questions I have:
November 9, 2020
I had a good time reading this book! It kept me engaged and had some fun and interesting moments, and I'm loving all the queer characters. Still, many of the problems that I laid out in my review of the first book in this series are still present, for example the characters were just as lifeless and devoid of depth in this book as they were in the last book, although there definitely was some progress on that front.
Now, there were many improvements over the last book! For one, Rowan is a more active protagonist, and has more of an idea of what's going on most of the time, and this time it made sense that she was present for the major plot points she witnessed (unlike in the last book, where she was inexplicably dragged from place to place in order for her to narrate events that she logically should never have been a part of). She's finally come into her own, power wise, and it makes sense for her to be more of a central figure in the unfolding events because of it.
The above would have been enough to pull the book up to at least 4 stars, had it not been for everything to do with Katja. I won't go into detail because it would be major plot spoilers, but I took issue with almost every scene in the book that included her, and not just in That Chapter. It was a serious detriment to my enjoyment of the book.
Often in a book we have to piece together a side character's personality, motivations, and overall character by watching their actions and behaviors. They might be mysterious and challenging to read at first, but ultimately their actions build up a consistent picture of a person. Katja isn't mysterious, she's just confusing, and her actions seem to be totally lacking in any consistent drive or purpose.
It feels very much like the author needed some way to develop Rowan more as a character so that she could talk about "what she's been through" as a way to relate to people later on in the book. Or maybe they simply wanted Rowan to be warring with some inner turmoil to make her character more interesting, or maybe they needed some way to advance Rowans powers. Whatever the reason, the author arbitrarily decided to use Katja for this end, and then backwards-rationalized her motivations for why she did what she did. Her actions were very clearly driven by the author's goals, and not by Katja herself. There's sort of a feeble explanation given for her actions, but it ultimately came completely out of the blue and didn't make sense in conjunction with everything we had seen from her thus far.
And the problems didn't stop with that one chapter; her behavior for the rest of the book is similarly erratic and devoid of purpose, depth, or consistency. There was an opportunity to then make something interesting out of Katja's character following the events above, to create tension between many of the other side characters as they struggled to figure out what really happened and who to believe, but instead everyone immediately sides with Rowan, Katja doesn't even bother with pretenses and nothing intriguing about her is revealed, and her character simply serves, for the rest of the book, as a boring vessel for making other characters feel bad for Rowan and for Rowan herself to angst over. It all felt very pointless and often it was downright annoying.
Am I going to buy and read the next book in the series? Yes; I'm enjoying myself overall, but this definitely isn't one of my top favorite books.
Now, there were many improvements over the last book! For one, Rowan is a more active protagonist, and has more of an idea of what's going on most of the time, and this time it made sense that she was present for the major plot points she witnessed (unlike in the last book, where she was inexplicably dragged from place to place in order for her to narrate events that she logically should never have been a part of). She's finally come into her own, power wise, and it makes sense for her to be more of a central figure in the unfolding events because of it.
The above would have been enough to pull the book up to at least 4 stars, had it not been for everything to do with Katja. I won't go into detail because it would be major plot spoilers, but I took issue with almost every scene in the book that included her, and not just in That Chapter. It was a serious detriment to my enjoyment of the book.
Often in a book we have to piece together a side character's personality, motivations, and overall character by watching their actions and behaviors. They might be mysterious and challenging to read at first, but ultimately their actions build up a consistent picture of a person. Katja isn't mysterious, she's just confusing, and her actions seem to be totally lacking in any consistent drive or purpose.
It feels very much like the author needed some way to develop Rowan more as a character so that she could talk about "what she's been through" as a way to relate to people later on in the book. Or maybe they simply wanted Rowan to be warring with some inner turmoil to make her character more interesting, or maybe they needed some way to advance Rowans powers. Whatever the reason, the author arbitrarily decided to use Katja for this end, and then backwards-rationalized her motivations for why she did what she did. Her actions were very clearly driven by the author's goals, and not by Katja herself. There's sort of a feeble explanation given for her actions, but it ultimately came completely out of the blue and didn't make sense in conjunction with everything we had seen from her thus far.
And the problems didn't stop with that one chapter; her behavior for the rest of the book is similarly erratic and devoid of purpose, depth, or consistency. There was an opportunity to then make something interesting out of Katja's character following the events above, to create tension between many of the other side characters as they struggled to figure out what really happened and who to believe, but instead everyone immediately sides with Rowan, Katja doesn't even bother with pretenses and nothing intriguing about her is revealed, and her character simply serves, for the rest of the book, as a boring vessel for making other characters feel bad for Rowan and for Rowan herself to angst over. It all felt very pointless and often it was downright annoying.
Am I going to buy and read the next book in the series? Yes; I'm enjoying myself overall, but this definitely isn't one of my top favorite books.
June 28, 2020
The shape of her mouth had been forever altered, the edges of her lips made rough, but there hadn't been a single moment scattered across the past two years where I felt so wholly at peace.
I'M CRYING IN THE CLUB.
This is so close to perfect I'm frothing at the mouth with it. I read the first book in the series about two years ago, and I skimmed through it and reread the last few pages in preparation for this, and perhaps I should have reread the entire thing because I'd forgotten a lot of plot points and the importance of certain things/people, and the details of the war, and so much more. But on the other hands I truly do not care about any of that lol. The characters and relationships (and to a certain extent the world/world-building) were the BEST things about this!! Like, seriously, there are so many good characters, and I love how they interact and play off one another, all of the different histories and intricacies. This book is so QUEER, so many f/f relationships, and trans characters and nb characters, I LOVED it.
And of course I have to talk about
I feel like I have more to say but I honestly just want to post this and start the third book so in conclusion: I LOVE ROMANCE AND THIS BOOK DOES IT SO WELL I FEEL LIKE I WAS SLAMMED DUNKED INTO A VAT OF FEELINGS AND I CAN'T WAIT TO DO IT AGAIN.
4.5 stars.
I'M CRYING IN THE CLUB.
This is so close to perfect I'm frothing at the mouth with it. I read the first book in the series about two years ago, and I skimmed through it and reread the last few pages in preparation for this, and perhaps I should have reread the entire thing because I'd forgotten a lot of plot points and the importance of certain things/people, and the details of the war, and so much more. But on the other hands I truly do not care about any of that lol. The characters and relationships (and to a certain extent the world/world-building) were the BEST things about this!! Like, seriously, there are so many good characters, and I love how they interact and play off one another, all of the different histories and intricacies. This book is so QUEER, so many f/f relationships, and trans characters and nb characters, I LOVED it.
And of course I have to talk about
I feel like I have more to say but I honestly just want to post this and start the third book so in conclusion: I LOVE ROMANCE AND THIS BOOK DOES IT SO WELL I FEEL LIKE I WAS SLAMMED DUNKED INTO A VAT OF FEELINGS AND I CAN'T WAIT TO DO IT AGAIN.
4.5 stars.
March 20, 2020
I wanted this series to be better. Farren creates an exquisite world in which same-sex couples, transgender folks, and gender non-binary folks are so commonplace that it’s almost jarring when a straight cis character shows up. I can’t overstate how incredibly refreshing that is. Meanwhile, Farren weaves an intricate tapestry of messy history, deep-rooted prejudice, family secrets, slow-burn romance, adrenaline-filled action sequences, and pragmatic fantasy that is almost - almost - delightful enough to allow me to forgive the abundant and obvious flaws technical.
The books read like drafts - like really good drafts, but drafts that still need work. From the more minor copy editing mistakes (which are pervasive - typos, missing words, incorrect words, etc) to the broader thematic and structural flaws, there are just too many distractions to overlook.
One of my biggest issues is that the books are written in first person, but the narrator almost has an omniscient voice as she describes other character’s feelings, reactions, and motivations. In fact, I’d argue that she reveals more about other characters’ inner dialogue than she does her own. She is also one of the least-developed and least complex characters, although only a few of the characters have greater than one dimension that is manifested in their one dominant trait. The ones that are more developed and complex are some of the most intriguing characters I’ve come across in quite some time. I only wish Farren had given the same amount of attention to all of the characters.
Another major issue is the entire lack of exposition. Farren leaves the reader to discover the story along with the narrator, which is a great way to drive suspense, but fails to give us even a hint of the background knowledge that the main character already possesses. They leave it up to the reader to piece together the necessary information to make sense the action, and sometimes we aren’t given vital pieces of information until the very end of the book or indeed, the end of the series. For example (not a spoiler, and by far not the only example), many references are made to the Bloodless Lands and how humans cannot look at the Lands without being harmed. We find out eventually - in the one section of true exposition in the entire series - how and why the Bloodless Lands were created; but I cannot tell you what happens to a human if they look at the Bloodless Lands. Does it really matter? No, I suppose not. But in order for the series to feel real and fully fleshed and complete, it’s necessary.
My point is that these books are one or two steps away from being something truly spectacular. I’m honestly saddened that they were published as they were. Another round or two of revisions, with some frank feedback and a fresh set of critical eyes, could put these works of fiction among the greats.
If you are a generally forgiving reader and like to be swept away into a world of fantasy and intrigue, these are wonderful books. If you are a more discerning reader and get distracted by mechanical errors, you may still enjoy them, but perhaps not to the extent that you wish you could.
The books read like drafts - like really good drafts, but drafts that still need work. From the more minor copy editing mistakes (which are pervasive - typos, missing words, incorrect words, etc) to the broader thematic and structural flaws, there are just too many distractions to overlook.
One of my biggest issues is that the books are written in first person, but the narrator almost has an omniscient voice as she describes other character’s feelings, reactions, and motivations. In fact, I’d argue that she reveals more about other characters’ inner dialogue than she does her own. She is also one of the least-developed and least complex characters, although only a few of the characters have greater than one dimension that is manifested in their one dominant trait. The ones that are more developed and complex are some of the most intriguing characters I’ve come across in quite some time. I only wish Farren had given the same amount of attention to all of the characters.
Another major issue is the entire lack of exposition. Farren leaves the reader to discover the story along with the narrator, which is a great way to drive suspense, but fails to give us even a hint of the background knowledge that the main character already possesses. They leave it up to the reader to piece together the necessary information to make sense the action, and sometimes we aren’t given vital pieces of information until the very end of the book or indeed, the end of the series. For example (not a spoiler, and by far not the only example), many references are made to the Bloodless Lands and how humans cannot look at the Lands without being harmed. We find out eventually - in the one section of true exposition in the entire series - how and why the Bloodless Lands were created; but I cannot tell you what happens to a human if they look at the Bloodless Lands. Does it really matter? No, I suppose not. But in order for the series to feel real and fully fleshed and complete, it’s necessary.
My point is that these books are one or two steps away from being something truly spectacular. I’m honestly saddened that they were published as they were. Another round or two of revisions, with some frank feedback and a fresh set of critical eyes, could put these works of fiction among the greats.
If you are a generally forgiving reader and like to be swept away into a world of fantasy and intrigue, these are wonderful books. If you are a more discerning reader and get distracted by mechanical errors, you may still enjoy them, but perhaps not to the extent that you wish you could.
May 21, 2020
I liked this book less than the first one but that is pretty typical of the second book in any trilogy. Like most second books in a trilogy not much happened. There was some set up for the third book and the characters moved around but in the big scene of things nothing really changed. The team is still a few unlikely characters, who are isolated from safety or a place to call home, wandering around trying to make the world better. Even the stronger powers aren’t really new because Rowan killed a dragon at the end of the last book (explaining a surge in the strength of her powers) so the author could almost cut this book out entirely. Sure some character development happens with Claire being crippled and everyone finding each other years later but that’s not enough to fill an adventure book. Anyway onto the pros and cons.
Pros:
- Katja was so annoying in the first book so i’m glad she knows that her mother is disgusted by her.
- Oak is a lovable dragon puppy
Cons:
- Rowan could heal Oak all the way (at least physically). She has mentioned removing rot from people before so just randomly saying that the dragon is too rotted to heal makes no sense.
- Micheal. Why was he even in this book (or the first one) he does nothing.
- Rowan (or anyone else i’m not picky) should have killed Katja it makes no sense that they kept her alive and trusted her not to escape through so many precarious situations. Not that Katja should be revenge murdered or anything, it just doesn’t make sense that Reis didn’t kill her. It’s a pirate town where the rules are rough and Reis could have killed Katja before Rowan ever regained her strength. A brutal pirate would have retaliated quickly and with force.
- Rowan could totally heal Claire. Claire even mentions the idea of cutting away the damaged areas so new healthy ones can grow. I get that the process would be painful and traumatic, and that Claire needed to know that she was loved as is. However, it is borderline cruel to deny someone treatment who wants it and would be able to live a much better quality of life.
- While nice, Rowan’s dad’s attitude doesn’t make any sense. He was in the army and knows that pane aren’t murdering monsters but he raised both of his children to be racists towards them?
Pros:
- Katja was so annoying in the first book so i’m glad she knows that her mother is disgusted by her.
- Oak is a lovable dragon puppy
Cons:
- Rowan could heal Oak all the way (at least physically). She has mentioned removing rot from people before so just randomly saying that the dragon is too rotted to heal makes no sense.
- Micheal. Why was he even in this book (or the first one) he does nothing.
- Rowan (or anyone else i’m not picky) should have killed Katja it makes no sense that they kept her alive and trusted her not to escape through so many precarious situations. Not that Katja should be revenge murdered or anything, it just doesn’t make sense that Reis didn’t kill her. It’s a pirate town where the rules are rough and Reis could have killed Katja before Rowan ever regained her strength. A brutal pirate would have retaliated quickly and with force.
- Rowan could totally heal Claire. Claire even mentions the idea of cutting away the damaged areas so new healthy ones can grow. I get that the process would be painful and traumatic, and that Claire needed to know that she was loved as is. However, it is borderline cruel to deny someone treatment who wants it and would be able to live a much better quality of life.
- While nice, Rowan’s dad’s attitude doesn’t make any sense. He was in the army and knows that pane aren’t murdering monsters but he raised both of his children to be racists towards them?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2020
Most of my reviews are written as notes to myself about books I have read, and perhaps forget over time. In this case, I started reading the 2nd Dragonoak book and found I had forgotten most of the details of the end scenes of the 1st book, apart from Rowan narrowly escaping from the city of Isin under attack by dragons. So I needed to re-read the last chapters again, before starting book 2.
ETA: 4-stars. Very good, better than the first book with Rowan growing up. I still think she is a wimpy heroine, but I loved the way she has matured within herself, as she (and us readers) learn more about her powers, and the slow but steady paced revealing of the world-building, its history and magic structures.
Spoiler Warning (Notes on Book 1):
With the story so far, after King Jonas is killed by an assassin, the 3 adventurers , Rowan, Kouras and Claire plan to leave the city. Before they can leave, Claire, Kouras and Atalya are called to fight a single dragon. Rowan raises King Jonas after being begged by Princess Katya to do so, but immediately regrets it as she had promised to not use her necromancy, and is terrified of being caught and burned. The dragon fighters return, and Claire is again seriously injured needing healing. Before Rowan can explain what has happened with King Jonas and begging Claire to leave with her, she heads to Katya's apartment to delay the return of King Jonas. On the way, several dragons descend on the castle and city.
Rowan helps heal and raise many cityfolk, and after a sorrowful farewell to her lover Claire (who feels she has to stay and fight the dragons), Rowan also takes down one of the lead dragons. She collapses in exhaustion, and the end is Rowan being carried by Kouras (the pane Queen) and with Atalya (the other Queens personal guard) fleeing the destroyed city. Claires fate is unknown.
ETA: 4-stars. Very good, better than the first book with Rowan growing up. I still think she is a wimpy heroine, but I loved the way she has matured within herself, as she (and us readers) learn more about her powers, and the slow but steady paced revealing of the world-building, its history and magic structures.
Spoiler Warning (Notes on Book 1):
With the story so far, after King Jonas is killed by an assassin, the 3 adventurers , Rowan, Kouras and Claire plan to leave the city. Before they can leave, Claire, Kouras and Atalya are called to fight a single dragon. Rowan raises King Jonas after being begged by Princess Katya to do so, but immediately regrets it as she had promised to not use her necromancy, and is terrified of being caught and burned. The dragon fighters return, and Claire is again seriously injured needing healing. Before Rowan can explain what has happened with King Jonas and begging Claire to leave with her, she heads to Katya's apartment to delay the return of King Jonas. On the way, several dragons descend on the castle and city.
Rowan helps heal and raise many cityfolk, and after a sorrowful farewell to her lover Claire (who feels she has to stay and fight the dragons), Rowan also takes down one of the lead dragons. She collapses in exhaustion, and the end is Rowan being carried by Kouras (the pane Queen) and with Atalya (the other Queens personal guard) fleeing the destroyed city. Claires fate is unknown.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2020
I'll have to go back and actually write a full review for the first book, but I was so emotional and barely coherent I wouldn't be able to properly write anything. I liked this book! Maybe not as much as the first one but that doesnt mean that it wasnt a fantastic read!
My personal problem with it was how painful it was to read at times. Everyone, understandably, is going through so much pain and hardship that I as a reader felt so much pain for them. I binged 80% of it in a day and then went to work completely out of it as if I was down there with Rowan, Kouris, and Claire. Feeling their pain. Hurting like them.
Whether that is a plus or a negative I think depends on the person. I definitely liked the ending of this book more than the first. As I mentioned to my partner, I don't feel like my soul was ripped out and set aflame, I feel good? Hopeful? I really hope book 3 brings me the conclusion and closure I yearn for in this series.
Enough of me ranting, time for mayhaps the third and final book!!
My personal problem with it was how painful it was to read at times. Everyone, understandably, is going through so much pain and hardship that I as a reader felt so much pain for them. I binged 80% of it in a day and then went to work completely out of it as if I was down there with Rowan, Kouris, and Claire. Feeling their pain. Hurting like them.
Whether that is a plus or a negative I think depends on the person. I definitely liked the ending of this book more than the first. As I mentioned to my partner, I don't feel like my soul was ripped out and set aflame, I feel good? Hopeful? I really hope book 3 brings me the conclusion and closure I yearn for in this series.
Enough of me ranting, time for mayhaps the third and final book!!
July 26, 2020
Damnit, this series! I was even more absorbed in this volume than the first. By now, we well and truly know the characters and are invested emotionally in them. This is a roller coaster ride of ups and downs. Admittedly, after the conclusion of the first book the author leaves us hanging for a little while but then they pull us right back into the heart of things. All the characters grow throughout this book, some in good ways, some in bad, but it is intriguing. We learn more about the world and its history, and how everything fits together. The book is another page turner and I got through it in 10 hours stopping only to do a load of washing and make some food. I shall probably dream of these characters tonight as I was so buried in their experiences. I am so pleased book 3 is available and my only regret is the weekend is over and I'll not be able to binge read it due to work.
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