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The Sunset Lands Beyond #1
Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset
The mystery of other worlds is not one Hannah Winters ever thought she'd solve. However, the day she spots a brown-robed stranger with a magical staff in a neighbor's field is the day she also discovers Aerisia, a magical land beyond Earth's sunset. Here in Aerisia, Hannah is believed to be the Artan, a legendary heroine prophesied to deliver Aerisia from the Dark Powers. Plenty of people, including the Simathe, a race of immortal warriors, and the Moonkind, people of the Moon, are willing to help her discover her true identity, but Hannah's just an ordinary girl from Earth. She doesn't have any latent magical abilities and she's not the Artan. However, her allies aren't seeing it that way. Neither are her enemies. In fact, Hannah's life is in jeopardy nearly from the moment she arrives in Aerisia. And becoming the Artan may be the only way to survive...
892 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 16, 2014
266 people are currently reading
1408 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Ashwood
25 books941 followers Don't believe all the hype. Sarah Ashwood isn't really a gladiator, a Highlander, a fencer, a skilled horsewoman, an archer, a magic wielder, or a martial arts expert. That's only in her mind. In real life, she's a genuine Okie from Muskogee, who grew up in the wooded hills outside the oldest town in Oklahoma, USA, and holds a B.A. in English from American Military University. She now lives (mostly) quietly at home with her husband and four children, where she tries to sneak in a daily run or workout to save her sanity and keep her mind fresh for her next story.
For a complete list of all Sarah's works and the links to find them, as well as her social media contacts and newsletter sign up, visit her website at www.sarahashwoodauthor.com.
For a complete list of all Sarah's works and the links to find them, as well as her social media contacts and newsletter sign up, visit her website at www.sarahashwoodauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
July 8, 2018
⭐2.5 stars⭐
Sadly it's one of those times when I find myself not connected to the characters or the story at all... I blame my expectations.
World building was beautiful but unfortunately not enough to make me love the book.
Sadly it's one of those times when I find myself not connected to the characters or the story at all... I blame my expectations.
World building was beautiful but unfortunately not enough to make me love the book.
April 3, 2016
Full review here: https://bookidote.wordpress.com/2016/...
WHY A 3 STARS ?
-The storyline.Maybe it's just me but I found that the prophecy heroin story arc is quite repetitive and redundant. Also, I think the writing needed some sharpening and editing. There were some typos but I didn't mind that. However, the descriptions were all over the places. The first chapters were really slow and too much unnecessary details kind of ruined the mood.
-Hannah's diaglogue. Normally, it is through their narration and dialogues that we discover the characer, their development and see if we can connect with them. Hannah, the main character, didn't make it. She is supposed to be a college student but she sounded more like a 11-12 years old to me. And I thought that was her age until it mentioned her real age in the middle of the book.
-Since the beginning, we are introduced to an Evil Force and it kept repeating that Hannah is their savior. But we never know where, how, what that Evil does exactly until the very end. It's good to keep the suspense to the right amount but this was another level haha. I know this book is the first in a series but you shouldn't keep the reader in the dark about an aspect that you mention once every 10 pages or so. Then, just push them to read the sequels just to discover what is the Artan, who's the Evil force.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK
-The World Building. Definitely the best aspect ! The author has done her research to find inspirations in mythology. You’ll find creatures such as fairies and humanoids. And as with any good world building, it is as ugly, as it is beautiful. Which means there are frightening creatures as well as enchanting ones!
- Hannah’s fashion and other character’s looked amazing in my head; you even have a glimpse of it on the beautiful cover !
- The romance was pretty good !:) I loved Illgard’s personality and character. Mysterious, quiet, calm, patient and endurance are some of the best qualities in a character.
WOULD I RECOMMEND IT ?
YES. I still recommend it for people who enjoy a light fantasy story, who doesn't mind typos and a younger audience (middle grades and even younger). I recognize my rating for fantasy stories might be harsh sometimes because I have read a lot of books. For a good fantasy book to standout it should have a lot of plot twists and unusual story arcs to impress me.
Full review here on my post coming soon!
Trang Tran- Book Blogger and reviewer
http://bookidote.wordpress.com
February 5, 2016
Hannah Winters was just an ordinary girl, helping out her sister who recently got engaged. The day they were supposed to meet her sister's in-laws, was the day something weird and unexpected happened. Risean Wy' Curlm happened. Soon Hannah was transported to another world where she was called the Artan, the savior. The one foretold by the prophecy to give hope to the city of Laytrii and to the Moonkind, to take on Evil and save their world, Aerisia: The Land Beyond Sunset .
But Hannah wasn't convinced and didn't believe she's the one the Moonkind are looking for.
This has been a really entertaining book. I wasn't quite sure how to like it at first, given that the main character Hannah didn't come up heroic or a tribute because she was deemed as an ordinary girl. But then I realized, she was exactly the anti-hero that represents us common people. She didn't have powers; we aren't entirely magical and powerful. She was a doting daughter looking after her family; we are just the same, looking out for our families. And when something magical and unexpected happens, we are left dumbfounded, doubtful and stupefied. Just like Hannah.
Sarah Ashwood was able to create a whole new world, a whole new concept with a whole new bunch of characters to watch out for. Aerisia is such a beautiful place, I wonder if there really is a world out there that's as beautiful and magnificent as the land beyond sunset. The ending was promising, it opened doors to a new story that will further take on Hannah's future as the Artan of Aerisia. Definitely watching out for the second book in the series.
But Hannah wasn't convinced and didn't believe she's the one the Moonkind are looking for.
This has been a really entertaining book. I wasn't quite sure how to like it at first, given that the main character Hannah didn't come up heroic or a tribute because she was deemed as an ordinary girl. But then I realized, she was exactly the anti-hero that represents us common people. She didn't have powers; we aren't entirely magical and powerful. She was a doting daughter looking after her family; we are just the same, looking out for our families. And when something magical and unexpected happens, we are left dumbfounded, doubtful and stupefied. Just like Hannah.
Sarah Ashwood was able to create a whole new world, a whole new concept with a whole new bunch of characters to watch out for. Aerisia is such a beautiful place, I wonder if there really is a world out there that's as beautiful and magnificent as the land beyond sunset. The ending was promising, it opened doors to a new story that will further take on Hannah's future as the Artan of Aerisia. Definitely watching out for the second book in the series.
April 16, 2023
Sorry, but I'm done. :(( I just can't anymore smh. It's okay if side characters are annoying, but when a main character with a first-person POV is infuriating, how can anyone stand it?
September 15, 2016
I'm so torn over this book! I'm giving it 3.5 stars.
Land Beyond the Sunset is the story of Hannah who's suddenly taken from her own world into the land of Aerisia where the people think she is their Artan(prophesied heroine who'll save them from Evil).
I'll start with what I wasn't too fond of.
- The length. Now I don't mind long books, but this one I felt could've been condensed down a bit since there were portions that dragged or didn't seem all that necessary.
- The secondary characters. These people kidnap Hannah and deprive her of all freewill except for maybe what she wants to wear or eat. Argh. If you've ever read Harry Potter and remember Dolores Umbridge, you should understand what I mean when you're reading and get in that agitated state over the unfairness of a situation. And that's not always bad, sometimes that's exactly the reaction you're supposed to get.
But imagine Dolores being front and center for all 7 book . . . after awhile that constantly frustrated state would get tiring. And that's how I started to feel around the 60% point.
These jerks take her against her will and then don't give her any choices. And the Simanthe guy who she HAS to join with is so center stage that I spent a lot of time irritated with him. I don't care how "nice" someone is by talking politely or whatever, if they're holding you against your will and forcing you to do what they want, they're NOT your friends.
And since not one person said, "I'm sorry you were taken, I'd help you escape if I could, it was wrong what they did, etc." I couldn't muster up any real liking for them.
- Hannah's reaction to the experience. I actually wanted Hannah to go full-out rebellious. I read reviews that said she was too whiny, but um SHE WAS KIDNAPPED! And then she's not allowed to go home, or even escape somewhere into this world, and THEN she's told she has NO choice but to "join" with the Simanthe High Chief. Joining first of all is for life. She's stuck with it and no distance or anything can lessen or sever it. It pretty much allows the Simanthe partner to read your emotions. What a violation of privacy unless you actually want that and who wants it forever?
Okay, so now on to the good.
- First of all, I was very passionate about this story. I think you might be able to pick that up from the above. I got really into what was happening and kept mentally shouting, "That's so messed up!" and "Just sit down and refuse to budge, Hannah!" I mean, these people want her to save them but are forcing her to do what they want. I'd be like, "I'm not saving you. I'll sit here and watch your world burn unless you start letting me call the shots."
- I loved the writing style. It was very engaging and easy to read. I could pick up on everything and play it in my mind like a movie. I mean, I really, really liked the voice of this whole story.
- I liked most of the dialogue. There were times Hannah would say something like "Oh, wow!" and because it didn't match the rest of her lines it seemed strange, but other than that everyone's dialogue was very smooth, consistent, again, I could see the conversations happening and it added this nice "realness" to it all.
- The world-building. Maybe a tad bit of info-dumping, but I could really tell Ashwood put a lot of time into developing it and I loved learning about all the races, and the history.
- Descriptions. Wow, yeah, Ashwood knocks this one out of the park. The buildings, the scenery, the clothing, it was so crystal clear and vivid. I loved reading the descriptions and building the picture in my mind.
In closing, the plot itself was a bit elusive. There's an evil that needs to be fought, but we're not really told what it is or how Hannah's supposed to defeat it. But it didn't feel like it mattered overmuch since the regular placement of attacks was enough to make the evil feel very real and close. Obviously it is afraid of Hannah and wants to kill her, or convince her to join it. I also feel like this story is mostly about Hannah's reaction to this new world and her situation. Mostly introspective in terms of, what do I do, am I who they say I am, will I ever get home, does my family worry about me? etc. And it boils down to her coming to terms with what her future holds and okay, my old life is gone, so am I going to sit and sulk or do something with my new one?
Land Beyond the Sunset is the story of Hannah who's suddenly taken from her own world into the land of Aerisia where the people think she is their Artan(prophesied heroine who'll save them from Evil).
I'll start with what I wasn't too fond of.
- The length. Now I don't mind long books, but this one I felt could've been condensed down a bit since there were portions that dragged or didn't seem all that necessary.
- The secondary characters. These people kidnap Hannah and deprive her of all freewill except for maybe what she wants to wear or eat. Argh. If you've ever read Harry Potter and remember Dolores Umbridge, you should understand what I mean when you're reading and get in that agitated state over the unfairness of a situation. And that's not always bad, sometimes that's exactly the reaction you're supposed to get.
But imagine Dolores being front and center for all 7 book . . . after awhile that constantly frustrated state would get tiring. And that's how I started to feel around the 60% point.
These jerks take her against her will and then don't give her any choices. And the Simanthe guy who she HAS to join with is so center stage that I spent a lot of time irritated with him. I don't care how "nice" someone is by talking politely or whatever, if they're holding you against your will and forcing you to do what they want, they're NOT your friends.
And since not one person said, "I'm sorry you were taken, I'd help you escape if I could, it was wrong what they did, etc." I couldn't muster up any real liking for them.
- Hannah's reaction to the experience. I actually wanted Hannah to go full-out rebellious. I read reviews that said she was too whiny, but um SHE WAS KIDNAPPED! And then she's not allowed to go home, or even escape somewhere into this world, and THEN she's told she has NO choice but to "join" with the Simanthe High Chief. Joining first of all is for life. She's stuck with it and no distance or anything can lessen or sever it. It pretty much allows the Simanthe partner to read your emotions. What a violation of privacy unless you actually want that and who wants it forever?
Okay, so now on to the good.
- First of all, I was very passionate about this story. I think you might be able to pick that up from the above. I got really into what was happening and kept mentally shouting, "That's so messed up!" and "Just sit down and refuse to budge, Hannah!" I mean, these people want her to save them but are forcing her to do what they want. I'd be like, "I'm not saving you. I'll sit here and watch your world burn unless you start letting me call the shots."
- I loved the writing style. It was very engaging and easy to read. I could pick up on everything and play it in my mind like a movie. I mean, I really, really liked the voice of this whole story.
- I liked most of the dialogue. There were times Hannah would say something like "Oh, wow!" and because it didn't match the rest of her lines it seemed strange, but other than that everyone's dialogue was very smooth, consistent, again, I could see the conversations happening and it added this nice "realness" to it all.
- The world-building. Maybe a tad bit of info-dumping, but I could really tell Ashwood put a lot of time into developing it and I loved learning about all the races, and the history.
- Descriptions. Wow, yeah, Ashwood knocks this one out of the park. The buildings, the scenery, the clothing, it was so crystal clear and vivid. I loved reading the descriptions and building the picture in my mind.
In closing, the plot itself was a bit elusive. There's an evil that needs to be fought, but we're not really told what it is or how Hannah's supposed to defeat it. But it didn't feel like it mattered overmuch since the regular placement of attacks was enough to make the evil feel very real and close. Obviously it is afraid of Hannah and wants to kill her, or convince her to join it. I also feel like this story is mostly about Hannah's reaction to this new world and her situation. Mostly introspective in terms of, what do I do, am I who they say I am, will I ever get home, does my family worry about me? etc. And it boils down to her coming to terms with what her future holds and okay, my old life is gone, so am I going to sit and sulk or do something with my new one?
September 25, 2017
I want to make something clear, I gave this two stars - despite how FRUSTRATING this was - because I did keep reading. Only partially because I'm a masochistic reader every so often. But in almost every way did this book fail me.
It failed me on it's premise - a portal fantasy about a 20something thrown into a world she has to learn to save. I LIVE FOR THIS
It failed me with it's main character Hannah - a 20something who feels dedicated to helping her family and aimless in her own life. I LIVE FOR THIS
It failed me with it's world building - it's your basic fantasy world with Elf like folk, fairies, immortal warriors and wizards. I LIVE FOR THIS
It failed me on originality - this could have been so engaging. Instead Hannah acts like she's 16 - constant temper tantrums, constantly disregarding solid advice for her safety, lack of ANY foresight, did not do one responsible action (she's so responsible guys, she has to be, she says so), cares more about gossip then solid information about the new world she's stuck in and is belligerent 75% of the time.
I understand why at first she's reluctant to engage in any sort of pleasantries. She's kidnapped from Earth and thrown into a situation that NO ONE explains at all. Her questions go unanswered, but everyone has an opinion about what it all means. Then while some questions are answered she is ATTACKED and instead of learning everything she can and committing to demanding those answers, she becomes petulant.
She then spends the next half of book trying to "find some time for herself" by escaping or wandering off alone in a world she doesn't understand, hunted by an Evil she's already been attacked by once and with no actual way to get home.
Her constant barrage of #NotLikeOtherGirls-itis comes off hollow and obnoxious because she doesn't HAVE any actual skills. Or likeability. Being confused why you are Chosen is forgivable. Being irritated that people keep vaguely explaining necessary information to you is relatable. But when instead of taking the advice they DO give you, you assume they're wrong and do the opposite....you don't get props or accolades. That's not "clever". That's criminally irresponsible.
Meanwhile the overused sexist tropes are doubled down here.
- must be a virgin to be the Chosen Savior CHECK
- Evil Guy decides if he rapes the heroine he wins CHECK
- womanly wiles will destroy a warrior's focus CHECK
- immortal warrior men, hundreds if not thousands of years old, do not understand women because they are complicated CHECK
- heroine is obviously going to fall in love with the warrior who only smiles for her because she's #NotLikeOtherGirls and somehow super special and he's never felt this way before. CHECK
Sigh. Yep. Can not recommend.
October 19, 2015
I genuinely liked this book but I can't say that I loved it. The storyline and characters seem intriguing enough but I had trouble connecting to any of the characters. I realize this is part of a series so I am hoping that the next book will allow me to connect better. I do want to see what happens next and I am curious to see how the destiny of the two main characters will resolve itself. It is definitely worth a look and is an easy read, so if you want a new fantasy series to start, give this one a shot!
October 19, 2018
now i am hooked. This was such a great, easy and creative book. i was hooked after the first page.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
August 11, 2016
Kidnapped from not only her home and family but litterally from her planet. Taken to a place unfamilar and scary the main character is just a young girl trying to get through college and decide what she wants to do. Now in her new home, stuck for an unknown amount of time, everyone seems to think she is some kind of warrior or savior. She has never met this person nor does she want to be this person. She fights with everything she knows and still can not escape anything. Who is she, the person they want her to be, why is she here, and how can she get home? This book is well written with plenty of adventure.
September 11, 2016
Aerisia is a pretty decent read, more romance than fantasy, but there's enough going on in the fantasy world to be interesting in spite of the main character's tendency to sulk, cry, and act the quintessential Maiden in Distress. The author introduces some unique races, including that of the Love Interest, Ilgard. There's a lot happening outside of the pouting and thwarted love that isn't explained before Book #1 ends; there's no cliff-hanger (thankfully), but the book's arch does end rather abruptly and could have been stronger. It's definitely a quick read, and light.
April 17, 2014
First, I won this book on Librarything as a member give-away. I would have given this book a 5 star review, but it did take some time to get into it. I would say I was hooked around the 10th chapter. I did love this book once I got to that point. It has mythical creatures and all things that I love to read about. I cannot wait to read the second book in this series. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a good fantasy.
February 13, 2015
Where do I start...
I thought the world building was pretty good - the creatures introduced were well described, and even the different cultures were interesting, if not fully explained. I think there is a lot of potential here.
My biggest issue (as I've seen on other people's reviews) was the main character. When I began reading the book I thought the main character was 11 or 12. A couple of chapters in I had changed my mind and figured she must be about 15 or 16. It wasn't until about 1/3 through the book (ish?) that it came out that no, she's actually in college.
One thing that does come out of this, though, is that you could give this to some middle graders who are into fantasy and looking for something longer and more "adult." There is no profanity that I can remember. There is one scene at the end of the book
So those are the positive things.
But now... now you are about to enter the world of my snarkiness.... you have been warned.
I'm sorry, but I shouldn't begin a book about a college-age woman and think that it's a middle grade novel.
The novel starts so much in media res that we have no concept of Hannah's life before this all happened. We get drips and drabs of her family life over the course of the entire novel, but it's hard to care about her getting back home when I have no idea of who Hannah was or what she has to get back to.
There is also a difference between someone who is upset over the fact that they've been ripped away from their home and someone who whines like a petulant child. I get that all of this happened with no warning and that Hannah doesn't believe she can possibly be the magical Artan who is supposed to save this world she has just been kidnapped to, but the constant whining which flips into sobbing which flips into yelling anger had me rolling my eyes more than sympathizing. I don't need her to accept her fate right away, I just need her to not still be acting like a child 2/3 of the way into the book.
I wasn't sure why Hannah had heterochromia either. If part of the prophecy had been that the Artan would have 2 different eye colors, I could have understood it. Instead it's just drilled into our heads over and over that she has odd eyes for no reason.
As for Ilgard, the immortal who must "join" with Hannah in order to protect her? I found him overbearing and infuriating - not sexy. He knows that the Simathe don't show their emotions and he knows (especially after the Joining) that Hannah is frustrated with him. Yet he intentionally says as little as possible, keeping her in the dark, refusing to explain the Simathe culture, ignoring her pleas to understand what is going on.
I also didn't understand the purpose of keeping Hannah at the Simathe stronghold or why she couldn't take anyone with her. After a big deal is made about the connection and friendship she has with Moonkind Rittean, I was fully expecting Hannah or Rittean to ask that she accompany them to the Simathe stronghold. But nope! Here's a character I actually was somewhat interested in, but we say goodbye to her 1/3 of the way through the book.
The pacing is slow - basically nothing happens in this book to further the larger plot except that Ilgard and Hannah are Joined - and the Evil confusing. And apparently I would have liked to get a better understanding of why it was so important for the Artan to come at this point in time, since they're all freaked out that they need her, but there doesn't really seem to be any imminent danger.
And finally, the language was frustrating. The other world speaks English. Fine, don't call attention to it, most people won't even notice. But the author goes out of her way to have 2-3 instances when Hannah uses a word that someone (mainly Rittean) doesn't understand (like "kidnap"). It's just enough to make it weird and draw attention to the fact that somehow this culture speaks English, but are stuck in the Middle Ages, but not often enough to make it consistent or to have a point in the plot. And though the story is written, technically, in first person past tense, it doesn't seem like it's a reminiscence of the main character except for 2 or 3 places where suddenly a phrase like "in hindsight I can now see this decision was a stupid one" or "I had never seen something so strange before and I have never seen anything so strange since" (this last one I don't believe at all since in this book there are at least 2 things Hannah sees which I would consider stranger, but anyway).
I think this book had some great potential, but I also think that it was in desperate need of more editing and some rewriting and tightening of the plot.
I thought the world building was pretty good - the creatures introduced were well described, and even the different cultures were interesting, if not fully explained. I think there is a lot of potential here.
My biggest issue (as I've seen on other people's reviews) was the main character. When I began reading the book I thought the main character was 11 or 12. A couple of chapters in I had changed my mind and figured she must be about 15 or 16. It wasn't until about 1/3 through the book (ish?) that it came out that no, she's actually in college.
One thing that does come out of this, though, is that you could give this to some middle graders who are into fantasy and looking for something longer and more "adult." There is no profanity that I can remember. There is one scene at the end of the book
So those are the positive things.
But now... now you are about to enter the world of my snarkiness.... you have been warned.
I'm sorry, but I shouldn't begin a book about a college-age woman and think that it's a middle grade novel.
The novel starts so much in media res that we have no concept of Hannah's life before this all happened. We get drips and drabs of her family life over the course of the entire novel, but it's hard to care about her getting back home when I have no idea of who Hannah was or what she has to get back to.
There is also a difference between someone who is upset over the fact that they've been ripped away from their home and someone who whines like a petulant child. I get that all of this happened with no warning and that Hannah doesn't believe she can possibly be the magical Artan who is supposed to save this world she has just been kidnapped to, but the constant whining which flips into sobbing which flips into yelling anger had me rolling my eyes more than sympathizing. I don't need her to accept her fate right away, I just need her to not still be acting like a child 2/3 of the way into the book.
I wasn't sure why Hannah had heterochromia either. If part of the prophecy had been that the Artan would have 2 different eye colors, I could have understood it. Instead it's just drilled into our heads over and over that she has odd eyes for no reason.
As for Ilgard, the immortal who must "join" with Hannah in order to protect her? I found him overbearing and infuriating - not sexy. He knows that the Simathe don't show their emotions and he knows (especially after the Joining) that Hannah is frustrated with him. Yet he intentionally says as little as possible, keeping her in the dark, refusing to explain the Simathe culture, ignoring her pleas to understand what is going on.
I also didn't understand the purpose of keeping Hannah at the Simathe stronghold or why she couldn't take anyone with her. After a big deal is made about the connection and friendship she has with Moonkind Rittean, I was fully expecting Hannah or Rittean to ask that she accompany them to the Simathe stronghold. But nope! Here's a character I actually was somewhat interested in, but we say goodbye to her 1/3 of the way through the book.
The pacing is slow - basically nothing happens in this book to further the larger plot except that Ilgard and Hannah are Joined - and the Evil confusing. And apparently I would have liked to get a better understanding of why it was so important for the Artan to come at this point in time, since they're all freaked out that they need her, but there doesn't really seem to be any imminent danger.
And finally, the language was frustrating. The other world speaks English. Fine, don't call attention to it, most people won't even notice. But the author goes out of her way to have 2-3 instances when Hannah uses a word that someone (mainly Rittean) doesn't understand (like "kidnap"). It's just enough to make it weird and draw attention to the fact that somehow this culture speaks English, but are stuck in the Middle Ages, but not often enough to make it consistent or to have a point in the plot. And though the story is written, technically, in first person past tense, it doesn't seem like it's a reminiscence of the main character except for 2 or 3 places where suddenly a phrase like "in hindsight I can now see this decision was a stupid one" or "I had never seen something so strange before and I have never seen anything so strange since" (this last one I don't believe at all since in this book there are at least 2 things Hannah sees which I would consider stranger, but anyway).
I think this book had some great potential, but I also think that it was in desperate need of more editing and some rewriting and tightening of the plot.
May 26, 2016
Plot/Story:
This story reminded me a lot of another story I read last year. But I am sure it will remind you of a lot of stories. It is about a girl who finds herself taken off into a new world and something about her makes her special and important to that world. While some may say that this storyline has been outplayed and many are bored with it, I still love it! I still love the idea of being taken away into different world and finding out that something about me is special and unique and I am some how supposed to save this new world.
Hannah is just a normal college student. Nothing special about her, until a strange man in a horse pasture lures her in and takes her off to a new world. A place called Aerisia. In Aerisia she is told that she is what they call the Artan, though she doesn’t know who or what that is or what it has to do with her. From there is only collects more questions and no one seems to want to tell her what it is she is supposed to do.
The story at times did get frustrating because Hannah keeps asking questions and no one wants to answer her. Then again, Hannah also has the tendency to run off when answers are coming to her.
Characters:
The characters in this book are fantastic beings. Hannah, again, is your typical collage age girl and head strong. She questions everything and demands answers, but can never sit long enough to hear the answers.
The Simathe are quiet and emotionless, or so it seems. The high lord Simathe, Ilgard seems to be much deeper than what most think of him, and Hannah seems to be bringing out a new side in him.
Romance/Kills:
There is only one kill that really matters in this book. Not much romance. It is a world building book. There is a lot of backstory and explaining this new world that Hannah has been dumped into.
Writing:
The writing is fantastic and very magical. It was also easy to read and keep up with the story.
Beginning:
The beginning is very quick. Only a quick few pages about Hannah’s family, and then Hannah is transported into Aerisia. The whole story was fast paced and didn’t have many dull moments.
Ending:
As this is the first book in the series, the ending did leave much to be desired. There are tons of questions left unanswered. For the ending of the first book in a series, it was well done and will keep the reading interested enough to pick up the next book.
Cover Art:
I love the cover art. It’s colorful and gives a sense of magic. It really gives you a quick preview of the story to come.
Blurb:
The blurb is very true to the story.
Other Stuff
Opening Line: “Hannah, what are you doing? Why are you just standing around? They’ll be here in a little over an hour.”
Highlights: I love the world of Aerisia and the Simathe
Lowlights: I feel like not enough questions were answered in the first book.
Final Thoughts: This is a magical story that I would suggest to my friends.
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This story reminded me a lot of another story I read last year. But I am sure it will remind you of a lot of stories. It is about a girl who finds herself taken off into a new world and something about her makes her special and important to that world. While some may say that this storyline has been outplayed and many are bored with it, I still love it! I still love the idea of being taken away into different world and finding out that something about me is special and unique and I am some how supposed to save this new world.
Hannah is just a normal college student. Nothing special about her, until a strange man in a horse pasture lures her in and takes her off to a new world. A place called Aerisia. In Aerisia she is told that she is what they call the Artan, though she doesn’t know who or what that is or what it has to do with her. From there is only collects more questions and no one seems to want to tell her what it is she is supposed to do.
The story at times did get frustrating because Hannah keeps asking questions and no one wants to answer her. Then again, Hannah also has the tendency to run off when answers are coming to her.
Characters:
The characters in this book are fantastic beings. Hannah, again, is your typical collage age girl and head strong. She questions everything and demands answers, but can never sit long enough to hear the answers.
The Simathe are quiet and emotionless, or so it seems. The high lord Simathe, Ilgard seems to be much deeper than what most think of him, and Hannah seems to be bringing out a new side in him.
Romance/Kills:
There is only one kill that really matters in this book. Not much romance. It is a world building book. There is a lot of backstory and explaining this new world that Hannah has been dumped into.
Writing:
The writing is fantastic and very magical. It was also easy to read and keep up with the story.
Beginning:
The beginning is very quick. Only a quick few pages about Hannah’s family, and then Hannah is transported into Aerisia. The whole story was fast paced and didn’t have many dull moments.
Ending:
As this is the first book in the series, the ending did leave much to be desired. There are tons of questions left unanswered. For the ending of the first book in a series, it was well done and will keep the reading interested enough to pick up the next book.
Cover Art:
I love the cover art. It’s colorful and gives a sense of magic. It really gives you a quick preview of the story to come.
Blurb:
The blurb is very true to the story.
Other Stuff
Opening Line: “Hannah, what are you doing? Why are you just standing around? They’ll be here in a little over an hour.”
Highlights: I love the world of Aerisia and the Simathe
Lowlights: I feel like not enough questions were answered in the first book.
Final Thoughts: This is a magical story that I would suggest to my friends.
More reviews at
For more reviews: The Reading Bud
August 29, 2015
Overall I enjoyed the plot and thought that the author had an interesting take on the different creatures in the beautiful world that was created. My main issue with this book was the main character. I found her to be extremely annoying and it became difficult for me to continue reading, however I became invested in the plot & wanted to find out what was going to happen, so I continued. My hope is that the main character will be better in the next book because I want to know what happens & if she indeed is the Artan & if so what her powers will be. I also kind of like Ilgard & want to know more about him. I also liked how this book didn't take the cliche route of the two characters instantly falling in love (sure there's the attraction but that's it at this point). I will be reading the next in the series and would recommend this book to those who enjoy fantasies but with the warning that the main character might get on your nerves.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
January 4, 2016
Girl meets new world
Taken from her own planet (earth) and forced to adapt to a strange new world. This is the first book in the series and is used to set up the story to continue. Fantasy novel that's worth the read 4*
*An advanced copy of this book was given to me in exchange for an honest review*
Taken from her own planet (earth) and forced to adapt to a strange new world. This is the first book in the series and is used to set up the story to continue. Fantasy novel that's worth the read 4*
*An advanced copy of this book was given to me in exchange for an honest review*
May 3, 2014
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
Let's just go ahead and break this up into positives and negatives shall we? I feel like that is the best way to give you a good understanding of how I felt about this book.
Positives:
1. The cover art. I normally don't bring up cover art, but the cover of this book was beautifully done and it makes me sad that they don't have a picture of the cover on Goodreads, because it looks great.
2. The mythology. Ashwood has come up with a pretty wonderful fantasy world. The races and creatures explored in this book are wonderful and stimulate the imagination with fresh originality.
3. Ilgard. He is one of the biggest reasons I enjoyed this book. The best parts (in my opinion) are when we get to read chapters from his POV. He is quiet, polite, and sensible. Yet also funny in his own way. When you get to chapters from his POV it's great to see what's going on inside his head.
Negatives:
1. The main character: Hannah. She is brash, bold. . . and acts like a toddler. I cannot remember how many times she either threw a temper tantrum and stormed off, or burst into tears. I can understand why she'd do that, after all she's been yanked out of her own world, told she has to save this other world, bond with someone she barely knows, and she keeps getting attacked. It is not unreasonable. It's just irritation how OFTEN she has these emotional outbursts. She is also downright rude to people who are trying to be nice to her. It just frustrated me. A lot.
2. The pacing. The pacing of this book is weird. It takes no time at all for Hannah to be taken to Aerisia, and that's a bit of a problem. We don't get very much of her life on Earth at all, or time to get to know her. Then after she gets to Aerisia, the plot really slows down and we get exposition, tantrums, sobbing, attacks, and yet not much really happens. It is also pretty predictable. No development takes place until literally the last chapter when Hannah admits she might be open to the possibility that maybe she's the Artan.
3. The writing. It might be that by this point I was really cranky, but the writing didn't seem that great to me. It was just kind of meh.
The book has a well crafted world with great potential, but is bogged down by poor pacing and a less than stellar protagonist. However, take a peek if you want, I seem to be the only one who posted a negative review thus far.
2.5 stars
Let's just go ahead and break this up into positives and negatives shall we? I feel like that is the best way to give you a good understanding of how I felt about this book.
Positives:
1. The cover art. I normally don't bring up cover art, but the cover of this book was beautifully done and it makes me sad that they don't have a picture of the cover on Goodreads, because it looks great.
2. The mythology. Ashwood has come up with a pretty wonderful fantasy world. The races and creatures explored in this book are wonderful and stimulate the imagination with fresh originality.
3. Ilgard. He is one of the biggest reasons I enjoyed this book. The best parts (in my opinion) are when we get to read chapters from his POV. He is quiet, polite, and sensible. Yet also funny in his own way. When you get to chapters from his POV it's great to see what's going on inside his head.
Negatives:
1. The main character: Hannah. She is brash, bold. . . and acts like a toddler. I cannot remember how many times she either threw a temper tantrum and stormed off, or burst into tears. I can understand why she'd do that, after all she's been yanked out of her own world, told she has to save this other world, bond with someone she barely knows, and she keeps getting attacked. It is not unreasonable. It's just irritation how OFTEN she has these emotional outbursts. She is also downright rude to people who are trying to be nice to her. It just frustrated me. A lot.
2. The pacing. The pacing of this book is weird. It takes no time at all for Hannah to be taken to Aerisia, and that's a bit of a problem. We don't get very much of her life on Earth at all, or time to get to know her. Then after she gets to Aerisia, the plot really slows down and we get exposition, tantrums, sobbing, attacks, and yet not much really happens. It is also pretty predictable. No development takes place until literally the last chapter when Hannah admits she might be open to the possibility that maybe she's the Artan.
3. The writing. It might be that by this point I was really cranky, but the writing didn't seem that great to me. It was just kind of meh.
The book has a well crafted world with great potential, but is bogged down by poor pacing and a less than stellar protagonist. However, take a peek if you want, I seem to be the only one who posted a negative review thus far.
May 13, 2014
In Aerisia, the land beyond the sunset, there are beautiful fairies, immortal warriors, and the magic-wielding Moonkind. There are thick forests, lovely palaces, and tall mountains.
And there are the Dark Powers, the Evil.
When Hannah Winters is suddenly spirited away from Earth into Aerisia, her hosts graciously but implacably assign her her destiny: to become the Artan, their deliverer.
Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset is written by Sarah Ashwood and published by Griffineus Press, the first of a trilogy. The world-building of this novel is impressive – a collection of races, each distinctive and compelling, a rich mythology, and a fascinating history. An attention to detail completes the land of Aerisia as a wholly different world.
As the first book in a trilogy, Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset is devoted to establishing its strange, new world, with all its peoples and history. The plot moves somewhat gradually on account of this. With all the space devoted to world-building, it’s a curious omission that the story never elaborates on the Dark Powers. We see them in action three or four times before the climax, but as readers we have little notion who they are and what they want. It’s hard to discern what the threat to Aerisia really is. They need a deliverer, but from what? As far as we can see, and except for a few targeted attacks, everything in Aerisia is great.
I think this neglect to develop the Dark Powers is the novel’s primary flaw. Hannah’s character arc may be frustrating to some readers (she mostly reacts, and when she does act, it’s usually foolish), but it is a real and believable journey, as she progresses from a frightened, angry young woman to … something more, maybe even the Artan.
Although this was not the author’s fault, there was an unusual number of typos. It wasn’t too bad, but it was enough to be noticeable. (Typos are hard to clean out, and you need at least two thorough edits besides the author’s.)
Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset is a rich fantasy with memorable characters, an intriguing mythology, and a fresh romance. Recommended to those who enjoy intricate world-building, fantasy creatures, and romance.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher.
And there are the Dark Powers, the Evil.
When Hannah Winters is suddenly spirited away from Earth into Aerisia, her hosts graciously but implacably assign her her destiny: to become the Artan, their deliverer.
Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset is written by Sarah Ashwood and published by Griffineus Press, the first of a trilogy. The world-building of this novel is impressive – a collection of races, each distinctive and compelling, a rich mythology, and a fascinating history. An attention to detail completes the land of Aerisia as a wholly different world.
As the first book in a trilogy, Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset is devoted to establishing its strange, new world, with all its peoples and history. The plot moves somewhat gradually on account of this. With all the space devoted to world-building, it’s a curious omission that the story never elaborates on the Dark Powers. We see them in action three or four times before the climax, but as readers we have little notion who they are and what they want. It’s hard to discern what the threat to Aerisia really is. They need a deliverer, but from what? As far as we can see, and except for a few targeted attacks, everything in Aerisia is great.
I think this neglect to develop the Dark Powers is the novel’s primary flaw. Hannah’s character arc may be frustrating to some readers (she mostly reacts, and when she does act, it’s usually foolish), but it is a real and believable journey, as she progresses from a frightened, angry young woman to … something more, maybe even the Artan.
Although this was not the author’s fault, there was an unusual number of typos. It wasn’t too bad, but it was enough to be noticeable. (Typos are hard to clean out, and you need at least two thorough edits besides the author’s.)
Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset is a rich fantasy with memorable characters, an intriguing mythology, and a fresh romance. Recommended to those who enjoy intricate world-building, fantasy creatures, and romance.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher.
May 30, 2015
Ok, I don’t like clean reads or fantasies which devolve into a man and a woman struggling with thwarted desire. This book is both. Because it’s just a clean read, I had to give it a one-star rating in Reality Calling. However, on Amazon and the rest, it’s nearly a four-star book.
The book’s production is professional with a very attractive cover and no formatting issues inside. The author knew what an ePUB is and provided me with a good one, no problems. She gave me a copy with no strings, just asking for a honest review.
This book starts out as a wonderful fantasy
It’s one of the better ones I have read recently. I was totally involved in the tale within a few pages. The heroine plays the bright teenager convincingly. But the depth of character needed is there.
Then she meets the Lord who will join with her. He’s cold and repelling, massive, non-emotional, yet strangely kind at times. The world she lands in is in desperate need of her. The fantasy story is proceeding beautifully. Then she sees him with his shirt off—and the tale stops, replaced by the typical yearnings of the emotional titillations of romance. The Lord goes through similar angst.
The last quarter or less of the story is about the angst and it stops with the romance unresolved and the problems of the nations still largely unknown.
Spiritually it’s nothing
There is a generalized force of Good and a much stronger force of evil. Evil is winning the day. How easy it would have been to personalize the Good and evil—a Creator and the top angel fallen into rebellion. It would have made the story make sense. For me, the story grew sadder and sadder as it became clear that the heroine was on her own with no spiritual help. So the book is mixed bag. My guess is that they love it on Amazon. It could well become very popular. But it could have been so much more.
The book’s production is professional with a very attractive cover and no formatting issues inside. The author knew what an ePUB is and provided me with a good one, no problems. She gave me a copy with no strings, just asking for a honest review.
This book starts out as a wonderful fantasy
It’s one of the better ones I have read recently. I was totally involved in the tale within a few pages. The heroine plays the bright teenager convincingly. But the depth of character needed is there.
Then she meets the Lord who will join with her. He’s cold and repelling, massive, non-emotional, yet strangely kind at times. The world she lands in is in desperate need of her. The fantasy story is proceeding beautifully. Then she sees him with his shirt off—and the tale stops, replaced by the typical yearnings of the emotional titillations of romance. The Lord goes through similar angst.
The last quarter or less of the story is about the angst and it stops with the romance unresolved and the problems of the nations still largely unknown.
Spiritually it’s nothing
There is a generalized force of Good and a much stronger force of evil. Evil is winning the day. How easy it would have been to personalize the Good and evil—a Creator and the top angel fallen into rebellion. It would have made the story make sense. For me, the story grew sadder and sadder as it became clear that the heroine was on her own with no spiritual help. So the book is mixed bag. My guess is that they love it on Amazon. It could well become very popular. But it could have been so much more.
August 20, 2019
To start off, I would like to say I received a free E-ARC copy of this novel from Voracious Readers Only. One that I am grateful to have received, but also sorry to say that it was just not fit for me, and was not my type of book. I will also say that I didn’t finish the book, because I couldn’t stand the cliche’s and cringyness of it.
My friend who also happens to like reading, said based on the description of this book, it sounds like (in her words) “A rip off of Narnia.” I personally haven’t read Narnia (Yes, shame on me), but I can say that it does sound like it has some similarities.
I would also like to say that I think there are people out there who would enjoy this book, I’m not trying to diminish it’s worth or anything like that, I’m just stating my personal opinion.
The book starts off sounding good, it’s interesting. But then the plot starts developing and you meet the hooded man who basically proclaims her “destiny” or if you prefer “the prophecy.” You’ve already turned me off at this point, there are way too many books out there that revolve around someone who has been delivered a prophecy and must play out their destiny and save a world that they have no idea exists. They become an important person in a world unknown to them, and on top of that, this girl in this specific story is the cliche pouty girl, (she actually reminds me of the main character in Tiger’s Curse).
I’m sure there’s potential for this book series, I just don’t think I will be able to stick around for it. I hope you guys, my readers, will be able to though. I as a aspiring author myself, would hate for one reviewers opinion to deter everyone else. So try it out for yourself.
Although, I’m sure there are many teenagers and other readers who may very well enjoy this book.
My friend who also happens to like reading, said based on the description of this book, it sounds like (in her words) “A rip off of Narnia.” I personally haven’t read Narnia (Yes, shame on me), but I can say that it does sound like it has some similarities.
I would also like to say that I think there are people out there who would enjoy this book, I’m not trying to diminish it’s worth or anything like that, I’m just stating my personal opinion.
The book starts off sounding good, it’s interesting. But then the plot starts developing and you meet the hooded man who basically proclaims her “destiny” or if you prefer “the prophecy.” You’ve already turned me off at this point, there are way too many books out there that revolve around someone who has been delivered a prophecy and must play out their destiny and save a world that they have no idea exists. They become an important person in a world unknown to them, and on top of that, this girl in this specific story is the cliche pouty girl, (she actually reminds me of the main character in Tiger’s Curse).
I’m sure there’s potential for this book series, I just don’t think I will be able to stick around for it. I hope you guys, my readers, will be able to though. I as a aspiring author myself, would hate for one reviewers opinion to deter everyone else. So try it out for yourself.
Although, I’m sure there are many teenagers and other readers who may very well enjoy this book.
July 9, 2015
It took a couple of chapters to get into the story, but I was soon whipping through at top speed! I really enjoyed the world that Hannah finds herself dragged into. Hannah herself is an interesting heroine; she is immature and whiney, with little common sense. The other characters find her challenging to deal with. I found this brilliant, as it's quite realistic. We'd all like to think that we'd be Katniss, bravely sacrificing ourselves at every turn….but the reality is that we probably wouldn't. For us regular types, well, we're not already, coincidentally, trained in martial arts/ archery/survival skills. We're not always great at thinking on our feet and making good decisions under pressure.
Hannah is like us. Through the story she begins to mature, understanding the consequences of her actions and coming to terms with her situation.
I found this refreshing. Also refreshing is that the male lead also finds her irritating - "why me?" It was amusing and again, I look forward to seeing how that relationship develops.
I'll be reading the rest of the books in her series.
(I received a free copy in exchange for a review)
Hannah is like us. Through the story she begins to mature, understanding the consequences of her actions and coming to terms with her situation.
I found this refreshing. Also refreshing is that the male lead also finds her irritating - "why me?" It was amusing and again, I look forward to seeing how that relationship develops.
I'll be reading the rest of the books in her series.
(I received a free copy in exchange for a review)
July 16, 2018
Every once in a while you come across a new series that really resonates and leaves you feeling “wow”, just “wow”. That’s the feeling I got after reading Sarah Ashwood’s Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset. Even though this is just the first book in her The Sunset Lands Beyond trilogy, I’m already totally invested in (and addicted to) the series. Hannah Winters, the lead and potential Artan-to-be (ie, the prophesied legendary heroine who it is said will deliver the land of Aerisia from the Dark Powers) is a stellar lead character and it’s a true pleasure watching her develop from the simple Earth girl she is at the start. Aresia though is also a star here, a land of mystery and magic, and fascinating races like the Simathe and the Moonkind. Really this book, and series, is worthy of total immersion. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
May 1, 2018
Hannah Dumphrey enjoys her life and loves her family.
All of a sudden she’s whisked away to another land without a goodbye to her family and she’s lost upset and confused. She has a level head at times but also acts like a little kid due to being alone in a place that isn’t her home. She misses her family but slowly comes to realize she is making things worse for herself and begins to understand she is stuck and must make the most of her situation.
The Simathe are feared and respected in Aerisia and being forced to undergo joining with one of them-their High-Chief no less- is something she doesn’t want but must do if she wishes to survive.
This story is a pretty intense and interesting idea. I loved the plot and how Real the emotions felt. I could relate. I could imagine myself in Hannah’s place and could see I might do the same things ... to an extent. I probably wouldn’t go to far to escape in an unknown land with unknown evils lurking about.
I wonder what Hannah will do next... 💭
All of a sudden she’s whisked away to another land without a goodbye to her family and she’s lost upset and confused. She has a level head at times but also acts like a little kid due to being alone in a place that isn’t her home. She misses her family but slowly comes to realize she is making things worse for herself and begins to understand she is stuck and must make the most of her situation.
The Simathe are feared and respected in Aerisia and being forced to undergo joining with one of them-their High-Chief no less- is something she doesn’t want but must do if she wishes to survive.
This story is a pretty intense and interesting idea. I loved the plot and how Real the emotions felt. I could relate. I could imagine myself in Hannah’s place and could see I might do the same things ... to an extent. I probably wouldn’t go to far to escape in an unknown land with unknown evils lurking about.
I wonder what Hannah will do next... 💭
December 7, 2015
Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset was an overall enjoyable read; it kept me interested enough to finish it. Ashwood's world building was solid with a lot of unique aspects. Throughout the series I hope to learn more about Aerisia's history and the antagonist, The Evil.
My main issue with this book was the main character, Hannah. She started off in the beginning constantly sulking, complaining, and crying: and that went on throughout the whole book! She's supposed to the Artan, a legendary hero prophesized to save Aerisia, but I found her highly irritating. She never grew or developed, other than her romantic feelings for Ilgard. I really hope the author develops her into a more courageous and respectable character.
My main issue with this book was the main character, Hannah. She started off in the beginning constantly sulking, complaining, and crying: and that went on throughout the whole book! She's supposed to the Artan, a legendary hero prophesized to save Aerisia, but I found her highly irritating. She never grew or developed, other than her romantic feelings for Ilgard. I really hope the author develops her into a more courageous and respectable character.
October 28, 2019
Not actually bad, I was very interested at the beggining. BUT it was a bit too slow for a first book, given that it's not that short and we haven't been told much. Anyway, what truly troubles me about this book is how easily the female protagonist gets diminished. She gets praised in like two ocassions, and one of those is because she went to take dinner on a nice dress...
So, I expected her to be as confused as she actually was. But I didn't liked the way she got treated, especially towards the end of the book. That last HAPPENING was really, really unfortunate. To the point that I don't know if I will continue reading the series.
So, I expected her to be as confused as she actually was. But I didn't liked the way she got treated, especially towards the end of the book. That last HAPPENING was really, really unfortunate. To the point that I don't know if I will continue reading the series.
April 26, 2021
This series has great potential.
Our main character, Hannah, is clumsy, dipsy and very close to "not being like other girls". But I like her, she's fun yet frustrating.
The story could have done with a bit more editing and world-building. The world terms and the Aerisian language sometimes confused me, but thankfully, not too often.
The plot is fairly slow, and was mainly about leading up to an event called "the joining". I didn't mind this too much as I liked watching the day-to-day lives of the characters. I also loved that the characters had their own voices, and I could always tell which one was speaking. Really added to their personalities.
Our main character, Hannah, is clumsy, dipsy and very close to "not being like other girls". But I like her, she's fun yet frustrating.
The story could have done with a bit more editing and world-building. The world terms and the Aerisian language sometimes confused me, but thankfully, not too often.
The plot is fairly slow, and was mainly about leading up to an event called "the joining". I didn't mind this too much as I liked watching the day-to-day lives of the characters. I also loved that the characters had their own voices, and I could always tell which one was speaking. Really added to their personalities.
December 30, 2019
WOW!!! Well written this book left me wanting more. I couldn't put this book down. It became an obsession in which I kept needing to know what happens next and now I need to read the next book. (After getting some sleep)
With the rise in popularity of fantasy novel and interest in Fey magic and dither realms I believe Sarah Ashwood's novels will be one of the next must-read series.
Teens, YA and adults who enjoy the greats such as Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Narnia will love this book and it's successors
With the rise in popularity of fantasy novel and interest in Fey magic and dither realms I believe Sarah Ashwood's novels will be one of the next must-read series.
Teens, YA and adults who enjoy the greats such as Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Narnia will love this book and it's successors
July 30, 2018
I want to read. It
July 29, 2020
Amateur narrative.
A land and a bunch of characters I couldn't care less about.
A land and a bunch of characters I couldn't care less about.
August 28, 2025
This story has an intriguing setup, a girl swept into another world and told she’s destined to be a legendary heroine. The concept definitely pulled me in, and I liked the mix of fairies, immortals, and magical creatures.
That said, the world-building felt a little slow. I get that it was necessary to lay the foundation, but it took a while for things to really get moving. And Hannah… well, she honestly drove me crazy at times. I know she’s young and unsure of herself, but her constant complaining made it hard to root for her.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator was fine overall, but because I found Hannah so irritating, I ended up associating that annoyance with the narration too, which didn’t help.
The good news? The ending really redeemed the story. It wrapped up in a way that left me curious and actually excited for book two. Overall, not a perfect read, but there’s enough promise here to make me want to see where the series goes next.
That said, the world-building felt a little slow. I get that it was necessary to lay the foundation, but it took a while for things to really get moving. And Hannah… well, she honestly drove me crazy at times. I know she’s young and unsure of herself, but her constant complaining made it hard to root for her.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator was fine overall, but because I found Hannah so irritating, I ended up associating that annoyance with the narration too, which didn’t help.
The good news? The ending really redeemed the story. It wrapped up in a way that left me curious and actually excited for book two. Overall, not a perfect read, but there’s enough promise here to make me want to see where the series goes next.
March 19, 2018
[This is an old review I'm just now adding to Goodreads.]
This was one of my freebie downloads. If it isn't self-published, it's very close to it – I just checked the website for Griffineus Publications, and Sarah Ashwood appears to be the only author they publish. Anyway, whoever chose the cover artist has fabulous taste. It's too bad that I can't seem to find the artist's name listed anywhere, and that the story didn't live up to the artwork.
Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset begins in our world. Almost immediately, Hannah encounters an old man named Risean Wy' Curlm, who tells her that she's the Artan, the prophesied savior of Aerisia. Then, despite her protests, he magically transports her to Aerisia, where everyone again assures her that she will save them all from the Evil. First, though, she must be Joined to her Simathe (the Joining is so important that it must always be written in italics). It takes almost half the book before someone finally tells Hannah what the Joining is, although, to be fair, she doesn't try very hard to find out. Lord Ilgard, High-Chief of the Simathe, is supposed to be her protector, but all Hannah wants is to go back home.
It took an amazingly long time for absolutely nothing to happen. Many pages were devoted to people repeatedly reassuring Hannah that she was really the Artan, while she repeatedly insisted that she was just an ordinary girl. Hannah received detailed lessons about the Spinners, the protection of Aerisia's history, and the creation of the Council, but everyone either avoided telling her about the things that really mattered, or Hannah felt too afraid to push for answers. Avoidance was Hannah's specialty. I could have screamed when she let the perfect opportunity to ask about the Joining slip by.
I knew early on that this was not going to be the best read. The writing was repetitive and lazy. The sections from Hannah's POV were written in the first person, and Ashwood didn't seem to have a good grasp of her “voice.” For example, both of these sentences are Hannah's POV:
By the way, the second sentence is referring to Hannah nearly ripping into Ilgard out of irritation and discomfort. The mental image that “word vomit” gave me did not make me feel much sympathy for her. Even so, it still fit her, a Nike-wearing college student from Colorado, better than “the normal white of dotage.”
The writing was like this throughout the entire book. Sometimes Hannah's thoughts read like those of a high fantasy character, and sometimes she sounded more like a modern day American. The latter fit her better than the former, although I hated her tendency to overuse the words “crazy,” “weird,” “stupid,” and “freaky/freaked.” The sections from Ilgard's POV were written in the third person and were much more consistent. I honestly think Ashwood would have been better off writing the entire book in the third person.
Why did I continue reading this? Well, the beginning, at least, reminded me a lot of Fuyumi Ono's The Twelve Kingdoms series. A seemingly ordinary girl transported to a fantasy world, where she eventually learns that she's important and potentially very powerful. It's cliched, but also my personal catnip. Unfortunately, whereas things actually happen in Ono's books, Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset felt like it plodded along forever.
Hannah's response to almost everything was to cry, pout, shout, and/or dig her heels in and absolutely refuse to do what she was told. It sometimes felt like I was reading about a giant toddler. Ashwood kept trying to hint at growing romantic feelings between Hannah and Ilgard, but Ilgard's moment of weakness, when he found himself thinking “why me?” as Hannah once again acted like a child, was far more believable. The three or so times she was almost killed were all due to her wandering away from (or purposely escaping) her guards.
I'm still not sure what everyone expected Hannah to do. She managed to use magic a grand total of once, by accident. After the Joining, instead of immediately finding a magic teacher for her, the Simathe did absolutely nothing for so long that even Hannah became impatient. Then, rather than teach her magic, they “taught” her to use a bow. The book's ending only happened because silly Hannah decided to escape the Simathe, despite having no idea where to go from there and no plan for dealing with Aerisia's various dangers.
This was when I was reminded of a worrying line in the Prophecy of the Artan: “She will be untouched by man and untainted by The Evil” (7). This seemed to indicate that the Artan needed to be a virgin. Unfortunately, I was right, and
I have no plans to continue reading this series.
(Original review, with read-alikes and watch-alikes, posted on A Library Girl's Familiar Diversions.)
This was one of my freebie downloads. If it isn't self-published, it's very close to it – I just checked the website for Griffineus Publications, and Sarah Ashwood appears to be the only author they publish. Anyway, whoever chose the cover artist has fabulous taste. It's too bad that I can't seem to find the artist's name listed anywhere, and that the story didn't live up to the artwork.
Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset begins in our world. Almost immediately, Hannah encounters an old man named Risean Wy' Curlm, who tells her that she's the Artan, the prophesied savior of Aerisia. Then, despite her protests, he magically transports her to Aerisia, where everyone again assures her that she will save them all from the Evil. First, though, she must be Joined to her Simathe (the Joining is so important that it must always be written in italics). It takes almost half the book before someone finally tells Hannah what the Joining is, although, to be fair, she doesn't try very hard to find out. Lord Ilgard, High-Chief of the Simathe, is supposed to be her protector, but all Hannah wants is to go back home.
It took an amazingly long time for absolutely nothing to happen. Many pages were devoted to people repeatedly reassuring Hannah that she was really the Artan, while she repeatedly insisted that she was just an ordinary girl. Hannah received detailed lessons about the Spinners, the protection of Aerisia's history, and the creation of the Council, but everyone either avoided telling her about the things that really mattered, or Hannah felt too afraid to push for answers. Avoidance was Hannah's specialty. I could have screamed when she let the perfect opportunity to ask about the Joining slip by.
I knew early on that this was not going to be the best read. The writing was repetitive and lazy. The sections from Hannah's POV were written in the first person, and Ashwood didn't seem to have a good grasp of her “voice.” For example, both of these sentences are Hannah's POV:
“The color of his hair was not the normal white of dotage.” (16)
“I swear some word vomit would’ve burst out if we hadn’t reached our destination when we did.” (182)
By the way, the second sentence is referring to Hannah nearly ripping into Ilgard out of irritation and discomfort. The mental image that “word vomit” gave me did not make me feel much sympathy for her. Even so, it still fit her, a Nike-wearing college student from Colorado, better than “the normal white of dotage.”
The writing was like this throughout the entire book. Sometimes Hannah's thoughts read like those of a high fantasy character, and sometimes she sounded more like a modern day American. The latter fit her better than the former, although I hated her tendency to overuse the words “crazy,” “weird,” “stupid,” and “freaky/freaked.” The sections from Ilgard's POV were written in the third person and were much more consistent. I honestly think Ashwood would have been better off writing the entire book in the third person.
Why did I continue reading this? Well, the beginning, at least, reminded me a lot of Fuyumi Ono's The Twelve Kingdoms series. A seemingly ordinary girl transported to a fantasy world, where she eventually learns that she's important and potentially very powerful. It's cliched, but also my personal catnip. Unfortunately, whereas things actually happen in Ono's books, Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset felt like it plodded along forever.
Hannah's response to almost everything was to cry, pout, shout, and/or dig her heels in and absolutely refuse to do what she was told. It sometimes felt like I was reading about a giant toddler. Ashwood kept trying to hint at growing romantic feelings between Hannah and Ilgard, but Ilgard's moment of weakness, when he found himself thinking “why me?” as Hannah once again acted like a child, was far more believable. The three or so times she was almost killed were all due to her wandering away from (or purposely escaping) her guards.
I'm still not sure what everyone expected Hannah to do. She managed to use magic a grand total of once, by accident. After the Joining, instead of immediately finding a magic teacher for her, the Simathe did absolutely nothing for so long that even Hannah became impatient. Then, rather than teach her magic, they “taught” her to use a bow. The book's ending only happened because silly Hannah decided to escape the Simathe, despite having no idea where to go from there and no plan for dealing with Aerisia's various dangers.
This was when I was reminded of a worrying line in the Prophecy of the Artan: “She will be untouched by man and untainted by The Evil” (7). This seemed to indicate that the Artan needed to be a virgin. Unfortunately, I was right, and
I have no plans to continue reading this series.
(Original review, with read-alikes and watch-alikes, posted on A Library Girl's Familiar Diversions.)
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