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Chaos Queen #2
Dark Immolation
There are rumours in Ashta - a new religion is rising, and Cinzia, one-time Cantic priestess, has escaped the Holy Crucible. Fleeing from Navone, Cinzia travels with Knot, a man of many parts, and Astrid, the child-like vampire. They are gathering followers, but the murderous Nazaniin are still on their trail. Meanwhile, Winter is losing her grip on sanity, grappling with immense powers beyond her understanding. Where she goes, chaos and death follow.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2017
64 people are currently reading
1102 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
June 5, 2018
Christopher Husburg’s Dark Immolation (Chaos Queen Series)
(Note: For an explanation of my Goodreads policy, please see here.)
Christopher is a student from my class at BYU who sold an epic fantasy series a few years back, using Sam Morgan as an agent (who, at the time, worked for my agent). So I was quite predisposed to like the book—though upon first reading, it didn’t hook me.
It took a while for me to give the book another try—something I felt it deserved, as I hadn’t gotten too far before getting distracted by something else. That time, I got through the book and enjoyed it, though I wasn’t certain if it deserved a review on this page. Somewhat undecided, I asked Christopher to send me the second novel when it was finished, and I’m pleased to say that he’s grown quite a bit as a writer between novels. (As most of us often do, particularly early in our careers.)
Having quite enjoyed the second book, I’m happy to recommend it to all of you. This is a series full of strong ideas, intriguing questions about morality, and solid writing—books I think will appeal to anyone who enjoys my epic fantasy. There isn’t a ton of action so some might find the books slow. But if you enjoy religion and political machinations as themes in fantasy—particularly in how these themes change characters—I think you’ll enjoy these novels.
For Writers
One of the things that originally dissatisfied me with the books was the fact that a lot of the worldbuilding was making use of well-worn tropes. This is a world with vampires, for example, and some standard fantasy worldbuilding when it comes to races and the look of the geography.
As I read further, however, I noticed that Christopher was instead using that time to do what I always tell writers—focus your worldbuilding in the areas relevant to the characters. Christopher has spent a lot of his energy (and the words on the page) on the religions and politics of the world, along with the pasts of several of the characters. (Including one of the aforementioned vampires.)
This leads to a story that avoids some of the biggest follies of fantasy worldbuilding, that of throwing everything and the kitchen sink onto the page and leaving the reader overwhelmed with infodumps. I think an aspiring writer can study these books as an excellent example of blending the familiar and the strange in a way that’s different from my personal approach. Though magic plays into the books, it often takes a back seat to interpersonal relationships.
(I particularly like the journey of the sisters who are two of our primary main characters—though as I listened to the audiobooks, I’m not going to even try to spell their names.)
The Short Version
This is a thoughtful epic fantasy series that explores religion in an interesting way, and which has an impressive depth of characterization.
Rating Notes
Though the tone can be a little dark at times, I remember nothing that would be particularly offensive to readers.
Bias Notes
It’s hard to find a group I’m more biased toward than my students, so take that for what it’s worth. I was also given copies of these books in multiple formats for free.
(Note: For an explanation of my Goodreads policy, please see here.)
Christopher is a student from my class at BYU who sold an epic fantasy series a few years back, using Sam Morgan as an agent (who, at the time, worked for my agent). So I was quite predisposed to like the book—though upon first reading, it didn’t hook me.
It took a while for me to give the book another try—something I felt it deserved, as I hadn’t gotten too far before getting distracted by something else. That time, I got through the book and enjoyed it, though I wasn’t certain if it deserved a review on this page. Somewhat undecided, I asked Christopher to send me the second novel when it was finished, and I’m pleased to say that he’s grown quite a bit as a writer between novels. (As most of us often do, particularly early in our careers.)
Having quite enjoyed the second book, I’m happy to recommend it to all of you. This is a series full of strong ideas, intriguing questions about morality, and solid writing—books I think will appeal to anyone who enjoys my epic fantasy. There isn’t a ton of action so some might find the books slow. But if you enjoy religion and political machinations as themes in fantasy—particularly in how these themes change characters—I think you’ll enjoy these novels.
For Writers
One of the things that originally dissatisfied me with the books was the fact that a lot of the worldbuilding was making use of well-worn tropes. This is a world with vampires, for example, and some standard fantasy worldbuilding when it comes to races and the look of the geography.
As I read further, however, I noticed that Christopher was instead using that time to do what I always tell writers—focus your worldbuilding in the areas relevant to the characters. Christopher has spent a lot of his energy (and the words on the page) on the religions and politics of the world, along with the pasts of several of the characters. (Including one of the aforementioned vampires.)
This leads to a story that avoids some of the biggest follies of fantasy worldbuilding, that of throwing everything and the kitchen sink onto the page and leaving the reader overwhelmed with infodumps. I think an aspiring writer can study these books as an excellent example of blending the familiar and the strange in a way that’s different from my personal approach. Though magic plays into the books, it often takes a back seat to interpersonal relationships.
(I particularly like the journey of the sisters who are two of our primary main characters—though as I listened to the audiobooks, I’m not going to even try to spell their names.)
The Short Version
This is a thoughtful epic fantasy series that explores religion in an interesting way, and which has an impressive depth of characterization.
Rating Notes
Though the tone can be a little dark at times, I remember nothing that would be particularly offensive to readers.
Bias Notes
It’s hard to find a group I’m more biased toward than my students, so take that for what it’s worth. I was also given copies of these books in multiple formats for free.
February 9, 2018
This is definitely the second book of a series, but better in some ways than the first. It picks up where the other left off & then leaves everyone with plenty more to do. Some things do get resolved & it was a fun trip anyway. There wasn't the need for world building that took up so much of the text in the first one, although there's enough back story to remind or fill in. The characters & complex magic system were filled in more.
It's pretty realistic for a fantasy novel & Husberg doesn't treat his characters kindly. Surprisingly there's no rape or child abuse, but a fair amount of blood flows. There's a good thread about prejudice & religious schisms.
There's no third novel yet & it's been over 1.5 years since this was originally published. That's a bit worrisome. I hope he gets back to it soon! According to his web site, he's on the final pass of the 3d book & starting on the 4th. Unfortunately, that probably means book 3 is at least a year away.
It's pretty realistic for a fantasy novel & Husberg doesn't treat his characters kindly. Surprisingly there's no rape or child abuse, but a fair amount of blood flows. There's a good thread about prejudice & religious schisms.
There's no third novel yet & it's been over 1.5 years since this was originally published. That's a bit worrisome. I hope he gets back to it soon! According to his web site, he's on the final pass of the 3d book & starting on the 4th. Unfortunately, that probably means book 3 is at least a year away.
September 24, 2021
Not gonna lie, this was actually pretty disappointing after how epic the first book was.
Instead of continuing with the non-stop action, we get the total reverse - a whole lot of sitting around, and talking, and thinking. Dull, very dull. There's an occasional fight sequence or heart-stopping moment but just not enough to make this the thrilling read that the last book promised.
If I were to sum up this book in two words, those words would be Religion and Politics. Sadly, these are two of my least favourite topics, so reading 500-odd pages about them was an absolute drainer. I barely tolerated Cinzia in the last book- now I have come to hate and loath her. There was so much repetition and religious nonsense through her eyes that it made this book a chore to read, and added her to my hate list. Astrid and Knot are two of the best characters but they were wasted here. I loved Astrid's little adventure but even that was reasonably tame, and far too short. There was a moment towards the end where Knot ended up in a tricky situation that I thought was going to lead to an epic cliffhanger, but even that tapered out into a mediocre resolution, leaving me incredibly frustrated. Honestly, I think our characters just have it a little too easy.
Winter's storyline was a tad more interesting, with things at the palace staying relatively dramatic, but then that was dampened with all the 'lights in the void' stuff which was overdone and pretty confusing. I felt like even the word, 'immolation', was overused. If this book had been cut down to about 250 pages, there might have been something to it, but as it stands it's just too long for the sparse action it contains. There's not really anything new to sink your teeth into - no new characters that steal your heart, no new monsters, or pets, or towns ... nothing. There's just too much time wasted pushing the notion of faith, using dull characters who all seem the same.
A disappointing continuation of the story, with very little progression. If I pick up the next one, it'll be due to the merit of the first only.
Instead of continuing with the non-stop action, we get the total reverse - a whole lot of sitting around, and talking, and thinking. Dull, very dull. There's an occasional fight sequence or heart-stopping moment but just not enough to make this the thrilling read that the last book promised.
If I were to sum up this book in two words, those words would be Religion and Politics. Sadly, these are two of my least favourite topics, so reading 500-odd pages about them was an absolute drainer. I barely tolerated Cinzia in the last book- now I have come to hate and loath her. There was so much repetition and religious nonsense through her eyes that it made this book a chore to read, and added her to my hate list. Astrid and Knot are two of the best characters but they were wasted here. I loved Astrid's little adventure but even that was reasonably tame, and far too short. There was a moment towards the end where Knot ended up in a tricky situation that I thought was going to lead to an epic cliffhanger, but even that tapered out into a mediocre resolution, leaving me incredibly frustrated. Honestly, I think our characters just have it a little too easy.
Winter's storyline was a tad more interesting, with things at the palace staying relatively dramatic, but then that was dampened with all the 'lights in the void' stuff which was overdone and pretty confusing. I felt like even the word, 'immolation', was overused. If this book had been cut down to about 250 pages, there might have been something to it, but as it stands it's just too long for the sparse action it contains. There's not really anything new to sink your teeth into - no new characters that steal your heart, no new monsters, or pets, or towns ... nothing. There's just too much time wasted pushing the notion of faith, using dull characters who all seem the same.
A disappointing continuation of the story, with very little progression. If I pick up the next one, it'll be due to the merit of the first only.
June 12, 2017
Sometimes I do not remember much from a previous book. I read too much ;) But I found it really easy to jump into this book and my memories were triggered. Aha, that is what happened.
Winter thinks everyone is dead and she is in a cell. Nooooo! WInter should not be a prisoner...but she did bring down an entire palace and killed the emperor. But she is a good one!
Knot is getting lost in his memories, oh I like him.
Astrid the child vamp is one freaky kid. I mean, dang!
Cinzia and Jane are starting up a new religion. THis is gonna end badly.
There are court intrigues. Assassinations. How to build your religion and keep followers, lol, not really but people are flocking and it was interesting how starved they were for something better. And I do hope this religion is better and that there is just not some demon hiding behind it. Because they are better than the rest of the idiots.
Demons are running free. Countries are waiting for a good fight and yes this continent will explode. Not yet, but soon. Civil war, religious war, some war of some kind is coming. And the characters are not in a good position, it does make me fear for their lives.
I enjoyed it, I do feel it was better than the first book (love when that happens) and I look forward to the next one
Winter thinks everyone is dead and she is in a cell. Nooooo! WInter should not be a prisoner...but she did bring down an entire palace and killed the emperor. But she is a good one!
Knot is getting lost in his memories, oh I like him.
Astrid the child vamp is one freaky kid. I mean, dang!
Cinzia and Jane are starting up a new religion. THis is gonna end badly.
There are court intrigues. Assassinations. How to build your religion and keep followers, lol, not really but people are flocking and it was interesting how starved they were for something better. And I do hope this religion is better and that there is just not some demon hiding behind it. Because they are better than the rest of the idiots.
Demons are running free. Countries are waiting for a good fight and yes this continent will explode. Not yet, but soon. Civil war, religious war, some war of some kind is coming. And the characters are not in a good position, it does make me fear for their lives.
I enjoyed it, I do feel it was better than the first book (love when that happens) and I look forward to the next one
June 23, 2017
This review was originally posted on StrupagDark Immolation, the second book in The Chaos Queen quintet, is a title I've been looking forward to all year. Last June I had the pleasure of reviewing book one, Duskfall (you can find my thoughts here) and this debut novel impressed me so much I couldn't wait to revisit the world and its characters.
Dark Immolation continues where Duskfall left off. While we get answers to many questions in this book there's still plenty to keep us wondering!
The characters in this book are what really makes it for me, and Husberg flawlessly glides from the POV of one character to another. Knot and Astrid are as brilliant as ever - I'd love to hang out with those two!
Sometimes the second book in a series can feel a bit of a letdown but I absolutely did not feel that with Dark Immolation. I enjoyed the continuation of our characters' adventures as well as some glimpses into the past and the Void.
This is a series that I'm so glad I picked up. I can't wait to see what Husberg has in store for us in book three!
Dark Immolation continues where Duskfall left off. While we get answers to many questions in this book there's still plenty to keep us wondering!
The characters in this book are what really makes it for me, and Husberg flawlessly glides from the POV of one character to another. Knot and Astrid are as brilliant as ever - I'd love to hang out with those two!
Sometimes the second book in a series can feel a bit of a letdown but I absolutely did not feel that with Dark Immolation. I enjoyed the continuation of our characters' adventures as well as some glimpses into the past and the Void.
This is a series that I'm so glad I picked up. I can't wait to see what Husberg has in store for us in book three!
January 12, 2020
I have to say, this has made it’s way up to my top 10 favorite all time fantasy series. Very few of the many series/trilogies, etc that I read make it to this list. But, this is well worth the new slot it has made on my top ten. It’s engaging, the story is never boring, it has a unique storyline, characters are likable & pull you into their life as they go about each day regardless of the adventure. I’m looking forward to the third novel of the series. Can’t wait!
September 3, 2019
Addicting, and very interesting series so far.
May 21, 2019
Originally reviewed at Thoughts Stained With Ink:
This book.
This freakin‘ book.
If you read my review of Duskfall, you’d know I was a pretty big fan of that debut and its author, Christopher Husberg. I don’t just call any book the best new book I read in 2016, yet Duskfall was, hands down, certainly that.
Since reading it, I’ve have been eager to see what would happen next. Eager to get my hands on the sequel, to see if Husberg would continue the trend of writing characters that pull my emotions in a thousand different directions at once; creating situations and twists that boggle my mind and leave me whispering profanities at an alarming rate as I struggle to turn the pages fast enough; weave a world so intricate and beautiful and terrifying that I’m just stunned with awe and wonder; and leave me with an ending that makes me so desperate for more, I’d actually consider striking a deal with Azael just to get a glimpse of what happens next in Blood Requiem.
Friends.
I was so not disappointed.
I’m not even sure where to begin. I guess, I could start, with the beginning: the way the book started was…brilliant. It was intriguing, it was different and I suddenly found myself feeling two very conflicting emotions at once: curiosity at the new developments we’re immediately thrown into and yet a feeling of…home. A feeling I’ve missed since I last journeyed with these characters. Yet the more pages I read, the more at home I felt.
You know, if that home was on fire and you were just sitting in the middle of it, thinking it can’t get worse because you’ve already lost the kitchen, the basement and the dining room, but then you turn around and suddenly the entire second floor has collapsed as well, yet you don’t move because you still believe the flames will cease and things can’t get worse. Cue repeating until your entire home is nothing but ash.
Because shit goes down in this book.
Amazing shit. Crazy shit. Baffling shit. Jaw-dropping shit. Just a ton of epic and awesome shit.
And I have a distinct feeling that Husberg is just getting started.
I read this book in 100-page chunks because anything less than that would just not be enough. Even now, after reading all 500+ pages, I’m left feeling unsatisfied. That feeling, however, is not to say that this book wasn’t amazing and I didn’t completely enjoy what happened within it–because that’s totally the case. Dark Immolation is a fantastic sequel that not only delivers on all the epicness we came to expect from Husberg after reading Duskfall, but it continued to elevate and evolve those expectations. As the series continues, I have no doubt in my mind that Husberg will continue to deliver. No, I’m unsatisfied because I’m selfish and impatient and I just want to know the result of SPOILER SPOILER and figure out what happens to SPOILER SPOILER now, instead of waiting until June 2018.
You know. A year from now.
Regardless of those selfish desires, I loved Dark Immolation. I loved falling right back into the world that captivated me so utterly last year. I loved how the story was constantly complicated by new conflicts and characters that heightened the narrative and forced me to keep reading well past the time I allotted for myself to do so. The plot thickens and continues to mold into something truly fantastic and I am so glad I stumbled upon this series and this author. Apologies, friends, if I continue to nag you about reading it like I have since reading Duskfall.
But just trust me: in a series filled with political upheavals, religious revivals, charismatic and complicated characters, a healthy mix of humor with an enjoyable amount of darkness and enough twists and turns that you’re gonna wish you had a road-map and taken notes along the way…can you seriously tell me you want to purposefully choose to miss out on this adventure?
Yeah, I didn’t think so.
Read on!
PS: Also, after reading this book, I am suddenly very intrigued that both Duskfall and Dark Immolation are part of a quintet titled The Chaos Queen. *instantly vanishes to muse over potential meanings*
This book.
This freakin‘ book.
If you read my review of Duskfall, you’d know I was a pretty big fan of that debut and its author, Christopher Husberg. I don’t just call any book the best new book I read in 2016, yet Duskfall was, hands down, certainly that.
Since reading it, I’ve have been eager to see what would happen next. Eager to get my hands on the sequel, to see if Husberg would continue the trend of writing characters that pull my emotions in a thousand different directions at once; creating situations and twists that boggle my mind and leave me whispering profanities at an alarming rate as I struggle to turn the pages fast enough; weave a world so intricate and beautiful and terrifying that I’m just stunned with awe and wonder; and leave me with an ending that makes me so desperate for more, I’d actually consider striking a deal with Azael just to get a glimpse of what happens next in Blood Requiem.
Friends.
I was so not disappointed.
I’m not even sure where to begin. I guess, I could start, with the beginning: the way the book started was…brilliant. It was intriguing, it was different and I suddenly found myself feeling two very conflicting emotions at once: curiosity at the new developments we’re immediately thrown into and yet a feeling of…home. A feeling I’ve missed since I last journeyed with these characters. Yet the more pages I read, the more at home I felt.
You know, if that home was on fire and you were just sitting in the middle of it, thinking it can’t get worse because you’ve already lost the kitchen, the basement and the dining room, but then you turn around and suddenly the entire second floor has collapsed as well, yet you don’t move because you still believe the flames will cease and things can’t get worse. Cue repeating until your entire home is nothing but ash.
Because shit goes down in this book.
Amazing shit. Crazy shit. Baffling shit. Jaw-dropping shit. Just a ton of epic and awesome shit.
And I have a distinct feeling that Husberg is just getting started.
I read this book in 100-page chunks because anything less than that would just not be enough. Even now, after reading all 500+ pages, I’m left feeling unsatisfied. That feeling, however, is not to say that this book wasn’t amazing and I didn’t completely enjoy what happened within it–because that’s totally the case. Dark Immolation is a fantastic sequel that not only delivers on all the epicness we came to expect from Husberg after reading Duskfall, but it continued to elevate and evolve those expectations. As the series continues, I have no doubt in my mind that Husberg will continue to deliver. No, I’m unsatisfied because I’m selfish and impatient and I just want to know the result of SPOILER SPOILER and figure out what happens to SPOILER SPOILER now, instead of waiting until June 2018.
You know. A year from now.
Regardless of those selfish desires, I loved Dark Immolation. I loved falling right back into the world that captivated me so utterly last year. I loved how the story was constantly complicated by new conflicts and characters that heightened the narrative and forced me to keep reading well past the time I allotted for myself to do so. The plot thickens and continues to mold into something truly fantastic and I am so glad I stumbled upon this series and this author. Apologies, friends, if I continue to nag you about reading it like I have since reading Duskfall.
But just trust me: in a series filled with political upheavals, religious revivals, charismatic and complicated characters, a healthy mix of humor with an enjoyable amount of darkness and enough twists and turns that you’re gonna wish you had a road-map and taken notes along the way…can you seriously tell me you want to purposefully choose to miss out on this adventure?
Yeah, I didn’t think so.
Read on!
PS: Also, after reading this book, I am suddenly very intrigued that both Duskfall and Dark Immolation are part of a quintet titled The Chaos Queen. *instantly vanishes to muse over potential meanings*
October 4, 2017
I enjoyed this book more than the first one. The characters become better developed, there's considerably less explanation needed, and the religious subplot I found engaging rather than somewhat tiring as it was in the first book. The author's style with frequent short sentences can create a rather staccato tempo throughout both books, but it seemed more organic in the second one. This, however, is mostly a matter of personal taste, and it isn't as jarring as Vonnegut.
In my review of the first book, I mentioned that it seemed to lack depth, but that I hoped the future installments would fill things out a bit more, and I am not disappointed. This book brings a greater variety of influences and motivations to the existing characters, and introduces several new ones that come into the world feeling fleshed out, and not requiring a lengthy backstory to make you interested.
If you liked the first one, you'll definitely like this one. If you were ambivalent about the first one, I think you'll find this one much better. If you haven't read the first one, do so, but make sure you have the next one close at hand. It's wonderful to watch an author grow, and I'm eager for book three!
In my review of the first book, I mentioned that it seemed to lack depth, but that I hoped the future installments would fill things out a bit more, and I am not disappointed. This book brings a greater variety of influences and motivations to the existing characters, and introduces several new ones that come into the world feeling fleshed out, and not requiring a lengthy backstory to make you interested.
If you liked the first one, you'll definitely like this one. If you were ambivalent about the first one, I think you'll find this one much better. If you haven't read the first one, do so, but make sure you have the next one close at hand. It's wonderful to watch an author grow, and I'm eager for book three!
September 23, 2021
I loved meeting all the new characters and learning more about the old ones. I have to say that Astrid is by far my favorite of them all with her little witty comments and I honestly want to strangle Winter for her obsession with faltira. Can't wait to jump into the next book.
November 20, 2017
A Strong Sequel
Often times the second book of a work struggles - the first is introduction, the last is climax, and in-between can be dicey. This is the second of five, but the issue is the same. Husberg manages to do everything you could want: the world is further fleshed out, our connection and knowledge of the characters is deepened, the stakes are raised.
The conflicts that arise are both personal and yet cosmic - something Sanderson has down pat, but few others do well. The action is brutal and exciting, though sparing. There are moments of warmth and sorrow for a variety of our heroes (and even a villain or two). Overall, the Chaos Queen saga is shaping up to be an excellent contribution to fantasy.
Often times the second book of a work struggles - the first is introduction, the last is climax, and in-between can be dicey. This is the second of five, but the issue is the same. Husberg manages to do everything you could want: the world is further fleshed out, our connection and knowledge of the characters is deepened, the stakes are raised.
The conflicts that arise are both personal and yet cosmic - something Sanderson has down pat, but few others do well. The action is brutal and exciting, though sparing. There are moments of warmth and sorrow for a variety of our heroes (and even a villain or two). Overall, the Chaos Queen saga is shaping up to be an excellent contribution to fantasy.
July 5, 2017
I love this book. It even has a movie trailer! : https://youtu.be/g_zxjkHT6uM
I loved book one. This book continues with the same naturalness of the writing. I never find myself re-reading sentences or paragraphs to maintain the "flow" of the story. Instead, this is a book where I don't notice time going by. It's a movie in your mind type of book.
The complex fantasy world continues with more rich detail. The character depth increases and we are given new insight into their lives. The story continues to be fast paced and exciting. Many conflicts from Book 1 are resolved and new conflicts are introduced, moving the hero's journey to the next level. The multiple cultures, a great magic system, lots of conflict and fantastic battle scenes all continue in Book 2.
I give this book a hearty 5 star recommendation. It's beautiful, wondrous with near effortless readability. I can't wait for volume three, Blood Requiem.
I loved book one. This book continues with the same naturalness of the writing. I never find myself re-reading sentences or paragraphs to maintain the "flow" of the story. Instead, this is a book where I don't notice time going by. It's a movie in your mind type of book.
The complex fantasy world continues with more rich detail. The character depth increases and we are given new insight into their lives. The story continues to be fast paced and exciting. Many conflicts from Book 1 are resolved and new conflicts are introduced, moving the hero's journey to the next level. The multiple cultures, a great magic system, lots of conflict and fantastic battle scenes all continue in Book 2.
I give this book a hearty 5 star recommendation. It's beautiful, wondrous with near effortless readability. I can't wait for volume three, Blood Requiem.
August 1, 2017
3.5 stars! This has a bunch of intrigue & psionic magic. The story weaves a web of backstabbing and loyalty abound. A very good sophomoric outing....
Read
August 12, 2018I thought it was good, it gives more information in regards to the world and gives more understanding to the story
September 7, 2018
I enjoyed Dark Immolation much more than Duskfall. The story is the same, and it's great, but the writing is a lot better this time around, can't wait to read more about Winter, Knot, Cinzia, and Astrid in Blood Requiem.
April 24, 2018
A compelling story with characters that demand your attention. In the world of the Sfera, there are dark forces afoot and an old religion being restored. There are twists and turns aplenty, and an ever-growing number of questions. Husberg creates a world with weight and dimension--and I can hardly wait to read the next book in the series!
March 10, 2020
This book was definitely heavy on killing but it made me think a lot on the perspectives that many characters gave.
June 20, 2017
This was an amazing second book! Often, second books in a series drop the ball and just meander around, unsure of where they want to go. This is not the case with this book. It starts off strong and goes strong for every page. I loved this book!
You can read my full review over on MySF Reviews.
You can read my full review over on MySF Reviews.
May 22, 2018
This is the 2nd book in the series, and I zipped through it as fast as I did the 1st. There are so many emotions that I can feel during this and so many times I wish certain things would've happened. Eagerly waiting for the 3rd book that I preordered 6 months ago lol
April 2, 2018
Good story, pacing is better in this one compared to the first one, dialogue is still a bit stilted. Will most likely read the next one when it makes an appearance.
December 24, 2017
Clearly a sequel, plenty of world building, character development and magic explanations but only a small climax. Enjoyable read though and looking forward to the rest of the quintet!
September 10, 2017
After reading Duskfall last year, I knew had to read the rest of the series and wrote it all down in my book releases notebook. Then Titan Books sent me a press release, I just had to read Dark Immolation. You do need to have read Duskfall, otherwise you will not really know what is going on, you will have also missed the world-building and character development.
Read more at: http://abisbookreviews.com/2017/07/05...
Read more at: http://abisbookreviews.com/2017/07/05...
October 24, 2018
Feuerstunde – Christoper Husberg
Die Chroniken der Sphaera 2
(Zeit der Dämonen 2)
Verlag: Knaur
Taschenbuch: 14,99 €
Ebook: 12,99 €
ISBN: 978-3-426-51922-6
Erscheinungsdatum: 1. Juni 2018
Genre: Fantasy
Seiten: 687
Inhalt:
Eine Magierin verliert die Kontrolle über ihre Kräfte.
Ein Krieger verliert sich im Ringen mit seiner Vergangenheit.
Und einer ganzen Welt droht die Vernichtung.
Mit »Feuerstunde« setzt Christopher Husberg seine epische Fantasy-Saga "Die Chroniken der Sphaera" fort: Auf der Sphaera erhebt sich ein neuer Glaube, angeführt von der Prophetin Jane und ihrer Schwester, der ehemaligen Priesterin Cinzia. Noth hat sich geschworen, die beiden Frauen zu beschützen, damit die Opfer, die sie alle gebracht haben, nicht umsonst gewesen sind. Doch Gefahr droht nicht nur von der mächtigen Kirche und vom Assassinenorden der Nazaniin: Noth wird schlimmer denn je von quälenden Erinnerungsfetzen heimgesucht.
Zur gleichen Zeit findet jenseits des Bluttores in Roden eine junge Tiellanerin einen neuen Beschützer – der ihre einzigartige Begabung für seine eigenen finstern Zwecke einzusetzen gedenkt.
Mein Fazit:
Zum Cover:
Das Cover passt hier sehr gut zum ersten Band, auch hier haben wir die Krone wieder nur diesmal ist sie feurig anstatt frostig. Im inneren des Covers habe wir eine wunderschöne Karte eingearbeitet. Eine ganz wundervolle Arbeit.
Zum Buch:
Für mich ist es immer etwas schwer eine Rezension zu weiteren Teilen einer Reihe zu schreiben, weil ich jedes Mal Angst habe zu spoilern. Im ersten Band lernen wir alle Charaktere kennen und erleben mit ihnen all die Abenteuer, jetzt geht es weiter und ich bin mir noch nicht sicher wie meine Meinung dazu ist. Einerseits ist es recht spannend, andererseits gibt es hier viel Langatmigkeit, die es so in Band 1 für mich nicht gab.
Die Charaktere werden hier noch ein wenig weiter herausgearbeitet und auch einige neue kommen hinzu. Allerdings finde ich es hier auch etwas zu sehr religiös angehaucht, ich habe an sich nichts dagegen, aber wenn es zu viel ist, macht das Lesen auch kein richtigen Spaß mehr.
Hier werden wieder einige Abenteuer erlebt und das machte wieder richtig Spaß, ich bin hier etwas zwiegespalten, auf der einen Seite gefällt es mir richtig gut und auf der anderen bin ich nicht zu 100% überzeugt.
Es wäre von Vorteil wenn ihr vorher Band 1 gelesen habt, sollte aber auch ohne gehen. Ich persönlich mag es lieber, wenn ich alle Teile einer Reihe kenne.Und auch hier ist noch nicht Ende, zumindest lese ich das aus dem Ende heraus.
Ich kann es Fantasy Fans empfehlen, allerdings muss ich dazu sagen, dass wir hier auch ein paar Momente haben die langgezogen sind. Mir hat Band 1 ein wenig besser gefallen.
Ich gebe hier 3 von 5 Sternen und bin mir noch nicht sicher ob ich den Folgeband lesen werde.
Die Chroniken der Sphaera 2
(Zeit der Dämonen 2)
Verlag: Knaur
Taschenbuch: 14,99 €
Ebook: 12,99 €
ISBN: 978-3-426-51922-6
Erscheinungsdatum: 1. Juni 2018
Genre: Fantasy
Seiten: 687
Inhalt:
Eine Magierin verliert die Kontrolle über ihre Kräfte.
Ein Krieger verliert sich im Ringen mit seiner Vergangenheit.
Und einer ganzen Welt droht die Vernichtung.
Mit »Feuerstunde« setzt Christopher Husberg seine epische Fantasy-Saga "Die Chroniken der Sphaera" fort: Auf der Sphaera erhebt sich ein neuer Glaube, angeführt von der Prophetin Jane und ihrer Schwester, der ehemaligen Priesterin Cinzia. Noth hat sich geschworen, die beiden Frauen zu beschützen, damit die Opfer, die sie alle gebracht haben, nicht umsonst gewesen sind. Doch Gefahr droht nicht nur von der mächtigen Kirche und vom Assassinenorden der Nazaniin: Noth wird schlimmer denn je von quälenden Erinnerungsfetzen heimgesucht.
Zur gleichen Zeit findet jenseits des Bluttores in Roden eine junge Tiellanerin einen neuen Beschützer – der ihre einzigartige Begabung für seine eigenen finstern Zwecke einzusetzen gedenkt.
Mein Fazit:
Zum Cover:
Das Cover passt hier sehr gut zum ersten Band, auch hier haben wir die Krone wieder nur diesmal ist sie feurig anstatt frostig. Im inneren des Covers habe wir eine wunderschöne Karte eingearbeitet. Eine ganz wundervolle Arbeit.
Zum Buch:
Für mich ist es immer etwas schwer eine Rezension zu weiteren Teilen einer Reihe zu schreiben, weil ich jedes Mal Angst habe zu spoilern. Im ersten Band lernen wir alle Charaktere kennen und erleben mit ihnen all die Abenteuer, jetzt geht es weiter und ich bin mir noch nicht sicher wie meine Meinung dazu ist. Einerseits ist es recht spannend, andererseits gibt es hier viel Langatmigkeit, die es so in Band 1 für mich nicht gab.
Die Charaktere werden hier noch ein wenig weiter herausgearbeitet und auch einige neue kommen hinzu. Allerdings finde ich es hier auch etwas zu sehr religiös angehaucht, ich habe an sich nichts dagegen, aber wenn es zu viel ist, macht das Lesen auch kein richtigen Spaß mehr.
Hier werden wieder einige Abenteuer erlebt und das machte wieder richtig Spaß, ich bin hier etwas zwiegespalten, auf der einen Seite gefällt es mir richtig gut und auf der anderen bin ich nicht zu 100% überzeugt.
Es wäre von Vorteil wenn ihr vorher Band 1 gelesen habt, sollte aber auch ohne gehen. Ich persönlich mag es lieber, wenn ich alle Teile einer Reihe kenne.Und auch hier ist noch nicht Ende, zumindest lese ich das aus dem Ende heraus.
Ich kann es Fantasy Fans empfehlen, allerdings muss ich dazu sagen, dass wir hier auch ein paar Momente haben die langgezogen sind. Mir hat Band 1 ein wenig besser gefallen.
Ich gebe hier 3 von 5 Sternen und bin mir noch nicht sicher ob ich den Folgeband lesen werde.
September 13, 2023
Another new adventure in the CHAOS QUEEN series, DARK IMMOLATION follows the main characters as they continue to be drawn into conspiracies, plots, and dark pasts.
The characters remained familiar but were given a little more depth. Winter remained at war with herself and her abilities while also getting wrapped up in a conspiracy. Her story took some dark turns, but it was interesting to watch her progress. Knot and his troubled past made for some unexpected moments and twists, though he still seemed to remain the same as far as personality and skill. Jane and Cinzia's relationship with faith and family led to some compelling dialogue and an engaging arc for Cinzia.
For me, it was Astrid who stood out. Her backstory is tragic and unique, and she brings a level of humour, wit, and ferocity that always have me eager to see what she does next. She's by far my favourite character and I loved looking into her past to see what she wants from her future.
While the previous book had a great deal of action, there seemed to be a lot more politics in DARK IMMOLATION. It slowed the pacing, though the action scenes did wind up being rewarding.
The book felt a little long at some points, but there were new aspects to the world building and certain plot lines were wrapped up, making it feel like a whole novel. The series is still perfect for people who are looking to scratch their fantasy itch, so I recommend it!
The characters remained familiar but were given a little more depth. Winter remained at war with herself and her abilities while also getting wrapped up in a conspiracy. Her story took some dark turns, but it was interesting to watch her progress. Knot and his troubled past made for some unexpected moments and twists, though he still seemed to remain the same as far as personality and skill. Jane and Cinzia's relationship with faith and family led to some compelling dialogue and an engaging arc for Cinzia.
For me, it was Astrid who stood out. Her backstory is tragic and unique, and she brings a level of humour, wit, and ferocity that always have me eager to see what she does next. She's by far my favourite character and I loved looking into her past to see what she wants from her future.
While the previous book had a great deal of action, there seemed to be a lot more politics in DARK IMMOLATION. It slowed the pacing, though the action scenes did wind up being rewarding.
The book felt a little long at some points, but there were new aspects to the world building and certain plot lines were wrapped up, making it feel like a whole novel. The series is still perfect for people who are looking to scratch their fantasy itch, so I recommend it!
January 6, 2020
I found this book pretty tiresome to read honestly. I had almost given up on it, I actually set the book down for some weeks until finally deciding to pick it up in the hopes that it got better. It didn't.
I think the major turn off for me was the complete lack of ACTION. Many of the chapters meander around with no clear purpose to drive the plot and pointless scenes that felt like filler. Cinzia's POV bored me nearly to tears. Cinzia's questioning of faith and on again off again relationship with her goddess was beyond tiresome and felt like a chore to read. I have to wonder WHY I read through so much of the book through the eyes of a character that I quickly grew to dislike immensely.
The series started out with so much promise. It IS well written and I'm sure would be someone's cup of tea. But after reading the reviews for book 3 (which claim more of the same theological discussions, fantastic miracles saving the day, and meandering story telling) I regretfully must decline to finish the series.
I think the major turn off for me was the complete lack of ACTION. Many of the chapters meander around with no clear purpose to drive the plot and pointless scenes that felt like filler. Cinzia's POV bored me nearly to tears. Cinzia's questioning of faith and on again off again relationship with her goddess was beyond tiresome and felt like a chore to read. I have to wonder WHY I read through so much of the book through the eyes of a character that I quickly grew to dislike immensely.
The series started out with so much promise. It IS well written and I'm sure would be someone's cup of tea. But after reading the reviews for book 3 (which claim more of the same theological discussions, fantastic miracles saving the day, and meandering story telling) I regretfully must decline to finish the series.
September 12, 2025
These books are weird but I just keep plugging along because I want to know what ultimately happens? I care about all of the characters, but I don't think I particularly like them? Which is either impressive or bad, not really sure which.
I feel like not a lot happened in this book. Jane's religion got a following, but they were all just kind of hanging out at her uncle's house the whole time. Winter continues to be a drug addict and prisoner, but with slightly more freedom this time. I'm disappointed that she didn't get reunited with Knot in this book. I didn't even remember Daval or that storyline, but I liked Cova and her husband, although that storyline escalated quickly. The best part of this book was Astrid getting stuck at the scary vampire's house, but it was also the most confusing part of the book because of the memories. And I'm not thrilled that he'll be coming back.
I feel like not a lot happened in this book. Jane's religion got a following, but they were all just kind of hanging out at her uncle's house the whole time. Winter continues to be a drug addict and prisoner, but with slightly more freedom this time. I'm disappointed that she didn't get reunited with Knot in this book. I didn't even remember Daval or that storyline, but I liked Cova and her husband, although that storyline escalated quickly. The best part of this book was Astrid getting stuck at the scary vampire's house, but it was also the most confusing part of the book because of the memories. And I'm not thrilled that he'll be coming back.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2022
3.5/5
This book is weaker than the opening but I continued with the series nonetheless.
The weakest points for me here are the characters of Winter and Cova whose actions later in the book felt forced because the plot directed rather than rational decisions made by characters. I think Winter would have a stronger basic sense of character and morality and grounding considering the stability and relative happiness of her childhood and early adulthood. Obviously recent life has been terrible for her but I would have expected a core strength despite the faltira, deaths, and enslavement. The concept of chaos isn't explained well enough either. I do enjoy the world expanding and the plot thickening.
This book is weaker than the opening but I continued with the series nonetheless.
The weakest points for me here are the characters of Winter and Cova whose actions later in the book felt forced because the plot directed rather than rational decisions made by characters. I think Winter would have a stronger basic sense of character and morality and grounding considering the stability and relative happiness of her childhood and early adulthood. Obviously recent life has been terrible for her but I would have expected a core strength despite the faltira, deaths, and enslavement. The concept of chaos isn't explained well enough either. I do enjoy the world expanding and the plot thickening.
August 24, 2020
Found my self loving the first book quite a bit more, although I liked where the author is going with the story but I didn't find the ending satisfying enough. The main strength of the first book (which is addiction problem) is somewhat forgotten here which is damn shame.
Of course there had been some good moments here and there. Overall 3.6, not great not terrible still finished and enjoyed the reading which is most important.
Of course there had been some good moments here and there. Overall 3.6, not great not terrible still finished and enjoyed the reading which is most important.
July 4, 2023
ok, i’ll do one more
Honestly I think this was better than the first. I think that vampires in this story are completely unnecessary and a bit distracting but I like the character Astrid plays. I just think they could have branded her differently. The dialect of the tilleians is also so strange considering they are an elf-style character with poor grammar? This book series has a lot of potential, but apparently an editor that didn’t actually edit.
Honestly I think this was better than the first. I think that vampires in this story are completely unnecessary and a bit distracting but I like the character Astrid plays. I just think they could have branded her differently. The dialect of the tilleians is also so strange considering they are an elf-style character with poor grammar? This book series has a lot of potential, but apparently an editor that didn’t actually edit.
April 17, 2023
Winter's section of the book was good but the lights in the void section was overtalked about and started getting tedious.
Astrid's section was good, definitely enjoyed learning more of her backstory.
The rest of the book was kinda tedious with politics and religion.
All in all, it was not as good as the first book.
Astrid's section was good, definitely enjoyed learning more of her backstory.
The rest of the book was kinda tedious with politics and religion.
All in all, it was not as good as the first book.
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