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Sky Raiders #2
Calling The Change
He rescued her despite impossible odds—Garek has rescued Taya and the rest of his village from the sky raiders, but their return home doesn't bring easier times. The sky raiders aren't simply going to go away—they still need the shadow ore they came for, and they want the ships Garek stole from them back. But they aren't the only threat . . .
First she was in danger from the aliens who abducted her, now she's in danger from her own people—Taya's been rescued, but she isn't home a week before she's taken again, this time by men who walked the walls with Garek. They've taken her as a consolation prize of sorts, having failed to get hold of Garek himself. They think Taya's value to the people they're working for is her relationship to Garek, but they are wrong . . .
Garek and Taya never gave up on each other before, even when the distance between them was impossibly far, and they aren't giving up on each other now. As Garek searches for her, and Taya engineers her escape, they discover the motivations behind the new attacks on them are darker than the endless reaches of space they've just escaped from.
First she was in danger from the aliens who abducted her, now she's in danger from her own people—Taya's been rescued, but she isn't home a week before she's taken again, this time by men who walked the walls with Garek. They've taken her as a consolation prize of sorts, having failed to get hold of Garek himself. They think Taya's value to the people they're working for is her relationship to Garek, but they are wrong . . .
Garek and Taya never gave up on each other before, even when the distance between them was impossibly far, and they aren't giving up on each other now. As Garek searches for her, and Taya engineers her escape, they discover the motivations behind the new attacks on them are darker than the endless reaches of space they've just escaped from.
341 pages, ebook
First published July 17, 2017
81 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Diener
54 books1,920 followersMichelle Diener is a bestselling, award-winning author of historical fiction, science fiction and fantasy. Having worked in publishing and IT, she's now very happy crafting new worlds and interesting characters.
Michelle was born in London and currently lives in Australia with her husband and two children.
When she's not writing, or driving her kids from activity to activity, you can find her online at Twitter and Facebook.
Michelle was born in London and currently lives in Australia with her husband and two children.
When she's not writing, or driving her kids from activity to activity, you can find her online at Twitter and Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
September 8, 2025
Outstanding second book in a fabulous SF romance series
It is important to read all three books in this series, and hopefully the prequel as well, and to read them in order. They are not meant to stand alone. But this series is so incredible, I'm just grateful that it offers multiple books!
The Sky Raiders are the overarching Big Bad in this series, but there are many different intermediary villains as well. This means there is consistent, exciting action throughout this novel, similar to the first novel. However this wonderful author never makes the mistake of inflicting unceasing suffering on the FMC and MMC, which means that reading this series is thrilling rather than exhausting.
I continue to absolutely adore Taya and Garek, both as a couple and individually. They are a dynamite combination. The moment I finished this novel, I raced to begin reading the final book in the trilogy.
It is important to read all three books in this series, and hopefully the prequel as well, and to read them in order. They are not meant to stand alone. But this series is so incredible, I'm just grateful that it offers multiple books!
The Sky Raiders are the overarching Big Bad in this series, but there are many different intermediary villains as well. This means there is consistent, exciting action throughout this novel, similar to the first novel. However this wonderful author never makes the mistake of inflicting unceasing suffering on the FMC and MMC, which means that reading this series is thrilling rather than exhausting.
I continue to absolutely adore Taya and Garek, both as a couple and individually. They are a dynamite combination. The moment I finished this novel, I raced to begin reading the final book in the trilogy.
August 21, 2017
4+ stars
I really like this author. She spins a good yarn with just enough romance for it to not detract from the story but still be satisfying.
The end seemed a bit abrupt to me, but I was mostly surprised and not ready to leave the world yet. While it was a bit of a foreshadowing of future story/ ongoing story sort of ending, it didn't really bother me too much and couldn't really be called a cliff hanger. It had a "to be continued" feel, for sure, though.
This particular story has the same set of implausibility issues as the first book did, medieval tech era citizens who readily adapt to the existence and use of space faring vessels. This one issue is consistently a hurdle for me to overcome in terms of suspension of disbelief, but it's worth the little extra work because the stories are fun, the characters are multi faceted, and the plot just keeps getting thicker.
I'll read the next.
I really like this author. She spins a good yarn with just enough romance for it to not detract from the story but still be satisfying.
The end seemed a bit abrupt to me, but I was mostly surprised and not ready to leave the world yet. While it was a bit of a foreshadowing of future story/ ongoing story sort of ending, it didn't really bother me too much and couldn't really be called a cliff hanger. It had a "to be continued" feel, for sure, though.
This particular story has the same set of implausibility issues as the first book did, medieval tech era citizens who readily adapt to the existence and use of space faring vessels. This one issue is consistently a hurdle for me to overcome in terms of suspension of disbelief, but it's worth the little extra work because the stories are fun, the characters are multi faceted, and the plot just keeps getting thicker.
I'll read the next.
August 3, 2017
In the last book Garek rescued Taya (and a bunch of other slaves) and brought them back to their planet. Dang, he sure loves her, he stole a ship and went to the baddies and got her back. That is love, foolhardy love but still.
But things are not good back home. The ruler from where they are from is weak, other countries are looking to take over. People want Garek because he is powerful and now she is too.
In this one she gets taken...again. But she was never weak, and it shows, she is constantly thinking of ways to escape. And Garek is thinking of ways to rescue her too, and he never gives up, that silly man is so much in love.
It did feel a bit too long at times, but that was mostly cos it took me aaaaaaaaaaaages to finish it (baby wont sleep, there is just no time to read *cries* )
This was not the last one either, silly me, I thought so in my haze. Things end well like it did in book 1, but as you can see things are not that simple so stuff is going down. There are still things to be put right. Conspiracies to unfold and kings to topple. But these two can take care of themselves so that will be an easy match for sure.
But things are not good back home. The ruler from where they are from is weak, other countries are looking to take over. People want Garek because he is powerful and now she is too.
In this one she gets taken...again. But she was never weak, and it shows, she is constantly thinking of ways to escape. And Garek is thinking of ways to rescue her too, and he never gives up, that silly man is so much in love.
It did feel a bit too long at times, but that was mostly cos it took me aaaaaaaaaaaages to finish it (baby wont sleep, there is just no time to read *cries* )
This was not the last one either, silly me, I thought so in my haze. Things end well like it did in book 1, but as you can see things are not that simple so stuff is going down. There are still things to be put right. Conspiracies to unfold and kings to topple. But these two can take care of themselves so that will be an easy match for sure.
December 16, 2023
Such an entertaining and enjoyable way to spend an evening! It’s like your favorite Star Wars episode but with a bit more romance and all the nitty details you can’t get in a movie. It has action and suspense, intrigue and betrayals… yum! I still have no idea what actually cements the bone-deep love and loyalty Garek and Taya have - but I love the relationship even if it is surface only. The story is light on all the techy/sci-fi stuff. We get the gist but not the intricate details, which is just fine by me. On to see what happens next to this awesome duo and creative cast!
… I really don’t get the cover model, though - Garek is described as a huge, intense, warrior looking man…. Cover dude looks like a teenage garage-band drummer. Can ya see the problem?!? It is disconcerting, I tell ya!
… I really don’t get the cover model, though - Garek is described as a huge, intense, warrior looking man…. Cover dude looks like a teenage garage-band drummer. Can ya see the problem?!? It is disconcerting, I tell ya!
February 20, 2018
3.5/5
I admit the main reason I keep under rating this series is that the plot never has an opportunity to dig down. It's a big tease with a lot of interesting tidbits and very little backstory.
For what it's worth, it's light sci-fi/fantasy romantic fiction which would appeal to readers of both genres if you want something short and quick.
I personally need more bite. The dialogue with raiders is long overdue, we need to know more about Iron Guard, and I'd also like to have a better understanding of Garek and Taya's planet.
What I always enjoy in Michelle Diener's books is the solid partnership between the hero and heroine. I loved Garek and Taya's perseverance and continuing unflinching support of each other. There is something pure and true about them. And they both kick ass.
The storyline delves into a few political intrigues, but sustains a breezy pace all the way through. I'd say the romance is the strongest point of this book, and I'll reserve judgement on the whole series until I've read book three. Overall, i'm neutral to it.
* * *
Признаюсь, что причина, по которой я прлдолжаю занижать оценку этой серии в том, что в ней очень мало мяса. Не хватает элементов научной фантастики, недостаточно фэнтезийного построения мира, только вот романтическая сторона развита. А так, все по верхам и вскользь.
Вроде, есть политическая интрига, но не в масштабах Джорджа Мартина. Все быстро и простенько. Когда хочется узнать побольше о происхождении Баррита, религии и его народах деваться нам некуда. Никто не рассказывает о Жеезных Стражах, нет диалога с Рэйдерами, а надо.
Единственное, что радует - это отношения Гарека и Тайи. Они - крепкая, оптимистичная, мощная пара, которые без колебаний друг друга во всем поддерживают, что меня очень радовало.
А в общем, на троечку с плюсом. Читать можно, но не вдохновляет.
I admit the main reason I keep under rating this series is that the plot never has an opportunity to dig down. It's a big tease with a lot of interesting tidbits and very little backstory.
For what it's worth, it's light sci-fi/fantasy romantic fiction which would appeal to readers of both genres if you want something short and quick.
I personally need more bite. The dialogue with raiders is long overdue, we need to know more about Iron Guard, and I'd also like to have a better understanding of Garek and Taya's planet.
What I always enjoy in Michelle Diener's books is the solid partnership between the hero and heroine. I loved Garek and Taya's perseverance and continuing unflinching support of each other. There is something pure and true about them. And they both kick ass.
The storyline delves into a few political intrigues, but sustains a breezy pace all the way through. I'd say the romance is the strongest point of this book, and I'll reserve judgement on the whole series until I've read book three. Overall, i'm neutral to it.
* * *
Признаюсь, что причина, по которой я прлдолжаю занижать оценку этой серии в том, что в ней очень мало мяса. Не хватает элементов научной фантастики, недостаточно фэнтезийного построения мира, только вот романтическая сторона развита. А так, все по верхам и вскользь.
Вроде, есть политическая интрига, но не в масштабах Джорджа Мартина. Все быстро и простенько. Когда хочется узнать побольше о происхождении Баррита, религии и его народах деваться нам некуда. Никто не рассказывает о Жеезных Стражах, нет диалога с Рэйдерами, а надо.
Единственное, что радует - это отношения Гарека и Тайи. Они - крепкая, оптимистичная, мощная пара, которые без колебаний друг друга во всем поддерживают, что меня очень радовало.
А в общем, на троечку с плюсом. Читать можно, но не вдохновляет.
August 7, 2017
Fabulous continuation
This is a heart continuation of Sky Raiders. It starts right when book 2 ended. There is action and danger and sweet decency of human spirit to counteract the ugliness.
So excited for the next one!
This is a heart continuation of Sky Raiders. It starts right when book 2 ended. There is action and danger and sweet decency of human spirit to counteract the ugliness.
So excited for the next one!
July 17, 2017
Well once again we get back to Garek and Taya as a great couple with a "nothing is impossible" attitude. They won their freedom in the last book from the sky raiders but as the synopsis reveals, they are not leaving just because of a setback.
Some of the technology that is used and some that is lacking is a bit frustrating to me and the overall "nobody can be trusted" is wearing thin also, time to get a dedicated crew he can trust and start to move this story along.
As with most middle books (I am making a wild guess this is going to be a trilogy) it spends a great deal of time filling us in on things like the political climate and the possibility of war among the human population.
The author throw us a bone in the possible insertion of the Iron Guard mentioned briefly in book 1 and is mentioned equally briefly here in book 2, which just sets up a lot of possibilities but none are really revealed here.
Bottom Line: There really is a LOT of things happening here in this book but at the end you are not too much farther along in the sky raiders part of the overall plot than you were at the end of book 2 but you are involved in all kinds of infighting and palace type intrigue instead which now has us looking at a lot of plots and subplots, things like people who intentionally hurt Taya and there is no repercussions which means there is a LOT of stuff being saved for the next (last?) book, so by the end of this book what you are left with is a lot of turmoil and a thirst for the next book which may have been the intention all along. While it was a wild ride at the end I was like "Is that all?" but looking at trilogies from all genres this is about normal for book 2.
Some of the technology that is used and some that is lacking is a bit frustrating to me and the overall "nobody can be trusted" is wearing thin also, time to get a dedicated crew he can trust and start to move this story along.
As with most middle books (I am making a wild guess this is going to be a trilogy) it spends a great deal of time filling us in on things like the political climate and the possibility of war among the human population.
The author throw us a bone in the possible insertion of the Iron Guard mentioned briefly in book 1 and is mentioned equally briefly here in book 2, which just sets up a lot of possibilities but none are really revealed here.
Bottom Line: There really is a LOT of things happening here in this book but at the end you are not too much farther along in the sky raiders part of the overall plot than you were at the end of book 2 but you are involved in all kinds of infighting and palace type intrigue instead which now has us looking at a lot of plots and subplots, things like people who intentionally hurt Taya and there is no repercussions which means there is a LOT of stuff being saved for the next (last?) book, so by the end of this book what you are left with is a lot of turmoil and a thirst for the next book which may have been the intention all along. While it was a wild ride at the end I was like "Is that all?" but looking at trilogies from all genres this is about normal for book 2.
August 24, 2017
I'm not sure exactly why but I enjoyed Calling the Change a lot more than the previous book, Sky Raiders. Don't get me wrong, the first book wasn't bad or anything, I just didn't love it as much as I would've wanted. Now back to Calling the Change... I was really into it right from the start and I had a hard time putting the book down. It was a great read!
The story was really action-packed (just as I like it.) so there was actually never a boring moment. The story pretty much revolves around Garek having yet again to try and find Taya who's been abducted by men who walked the walls with Garek as the synopsis says. So obviously they don't have just the sky raiders to fear this time even though they're still a dangerous foe they face.
I really enjoyed reading about Taya and Garek again. They were seperated for a part of this book but it's so worth it in the end, I thought. I especially liked Taya this time because she is not some damsel in distress that needs rescuing even though Garek does go after her. Taya definitely can take care of her own, that's for sure.
As always with a book by Michelle Diener, I thought it was written in a really great way. The romance isn't a major part of the book, although there are a couple of very swoonworthy moments between Taya and Garek, which I loved.
The ending left me super excited for the third and final book. I have so many questions. Will they find Aidan? Will Taya learn to control her change better? It sounds like the next book will be just as thrilling as this one. I can't wait!
The story was really action-packed (just as I like it.) so there was actually never a boring moment. The story pretty much revolves around Garek having yet again to try and find Taya who's been abducted by men who walked the walls with Garek as the synopsis says. So obviously they don't have just the sky raiders to fear this time even though they're still a dangerous foe they face.
I really enjoyed reading about Taya and Garek again. They were seperated for a part of this book but it's so worth it in the end, I thought. I especially liked Taya this time because she is not some damsel in distress that needs rescuing even though Garek does go after her. Taya definitely can take care of her own, that's for sure.
As always with a book by Michelle Diener, I thought it was written in a really great way. The romance isn't a major part of the book, although there are a couple of very swoonworthy moments between Taya and Garek, which I loved.
The ending left me super excited for the third and final book. I have so many questions. Will they find Aidan? Will Taya learn to control her change better? It sounds like the next book will be just as thrilling as this one. I can't wait!
August 30, 2017
4 Stars
Taya and Garek and those on Shadow have returned to Baret, but the problems have only just begun. Garek flies the sky craft to return everyone back to their regions and makes to sure the town/cities know who returned their people. H0ping it will show goodwill. Except the leaders who want to take over territories see Taya's Change to call shadow ore as a weapon want her and will do whatever it takes to obtain her...even kidnapping.
Though the story can be slow at times, it's still a good story. Good world building. I like Taya and Garek's relationship. I like the relationships T&H are building with others. I like that Taya is a strong female. I'm really looking forward to the next book so I can see what happens with the people of Baret and the Sky Raiders.
Taya and Garek and those on Shadow have returned to Baret, but the problems have only just begun. Garek flies the sky craft to return everyone back to their regions and makes to sure the town/cities know who returned their people. H0ping it will show goodwill. Except the leaders who want to take over territories see Taya's Change to call shadow ore as a weapon want her and will do whatever it takes to obtain her...even kidnapping.
Though the story can be slow at times, it's still a good story. Good world building. I like Taya and Garek's relationship. I like the relationships T&H are building with others. I like that Taya is a strong female. I'm really looking forward to the next book so I can see what happens with the people of Baret and the Sky Raiders.
April 19, 2018
4 stars.
Talk about star-crossed lovers. Garek and Taya don't have much time together once they left Shadow before Taya was taken. I don't remember how many times Taya has to engineer her own escape, but she's definitely resilient. One of the strongest female characters I've read for a while.
I read this and then immediately started on Book 3 because at the end of this, we found out that and I wanted to know what happens next.
Talk about star-crossed lovers. Garek and Taya don't have much time together once they left Shadow before Taya was taken. I don't remember how many times Taya has to engineer her own escape, but she's definitely resilient. One of the strongest female characters I've read for a while.
I read this and then immediately started on Book 3 because at the end of this, we found out that and I wanted to know what happens next.
July 24, 2017
excellent second book in the series... looking forward to the next one at the end of the year.
August 22, 2017
I loved this continuation of the story that began in Sky Raiders. The plot expands exponentially in the second book in the series. What began as a rescue mission in book one evolves into a complex story of regional politics and plotting while at the same time the aliens maintain a constant threat.
The planet Barit is a low tech world divided into regions ruled by lieges. As one liege plots with others against the region of Juli, Aidan, Juli’s heir apparent, must maintain control of his little part of the world. Aidan is an interesting character. He is devious, as evidenced by his role as a an undercover Garamundo guard in book 1. He is smart enough to pick strong allies, even though they are few. But his father, normally so drunk he can hardly stand, has left Juli with no clear leader and that puts Aidan in a very precarious situation. I like this character – he needs his own story.
Two of Aidan’s strongest allies are Garek and Taya. Calling the Change is really their story. The title refers to a supernatural ability to call elements to give them power. Garek calls air. His talent is greater than any other air caller. Taya is the only one capable of calling the ore. And the ore is the only weapon that can bring down the enemy aliens. Together, Garek and Taya are the best defense against the aliens. The whole defense against the aliens gets placed on a back burner – quite a bit – because of Barit’s political strife. As I was reading, I kept thinking, the aliens are still out there. When are you people going to figure out that your problems are nothing compared to what the aliens might bring down on you.
While the aliens do come back into the story, I can’t help but think there is going to be some big showdown in a future installment. After all, these aliens are high tech, but can barely survive themselves on Barit or on the moon where they are mining the ore. But the ore is detrimental to their technology. What do they need it for? Questions…..
If you have not read Sky Raiders, it’s not necessary, but I recommend you start there in order to get a proper introduction to the characters. Then follow up with Calling the Change to absorb the culture, society and politics of the world of Barit.
In the Sky Raider series, Michelle Diener has created an original, fascinating world in the lands of Barit and the skies above it. I am highly anticipating the next installment! For scifi romance readers, both books are highly recommended.
The author provided a copy of her book so that I could bring you this honest review.
Originally posted at Whiskey With My Book.
The planet Barit is a low tech world divided into regions ruled by lieges. As one liege plots with others against the region of Juli, Aidan, Juli’s heir apparent, must maintain control of his little part of the world. Aidan is an interesting character. He is devious, as evidenced by his role as a an undercover Garamundo guard in book 1. He is smart enough to pick strong allies, even though they are few. But his father, normally so drunk he can hardly stand, has left Juli with no clear leader and that puts Aidan in a very precarious situation. I like this character – he needs his own story.
Two of Aidan’s strongest allies are Garek and Taya. Calling the Change is really their story. The title refers to a supernatural ability to call elements to give them power. Garek calls air. His talent is greater than any other air caller. Taya is the only one capable of calling the ore. And the ore is the only weapon that can bring down the enemy aliens. Together, Garek and Taya are the best defense against the aliens. The whole defense against the aliens gets placed on a back burner – quite a bit – because of Barit’s political strife. As I was reading, I kept thinking, the aliens are still out there. When are you people going to figure out that your problems are nothing compared to what the aliens might bring down on you.
While the aliens do come back into the story, I can’t help but think there is going to be some big showdown in a future installment. After all, these aliens are high tech, but can barely survive themselves on Barit or on the moon where they are mining the ore. But the ore is detrimental to their technology. What do they need it for? Questions…..
If you have not read Sky Raiders, it’s not necessary, but I recommend you start there in order to get a proper introduction to the characters. Then follow up with Calling the Change to absorb the culture, society and politics of the world of Barit.
In the Sky Raider series, Michelle Diener has created an original, fascinating world in the lands of Barit and the skies above it. I am highly anticipating the next installment! For scifi romance readers, both books are highly recommended.
The author provided a copy of her book so that I could bring you this honest review.
Originally posted at Whiskey With My Book.
July 14, 2017
In this second book of the Sky Raiders series, Taya and Garek have barely gotten home before she is abducted again; however, this time it is by her own people while Garek is off leading the alien sky raiders away from their home in the stolen space craft that only he can completely control. Life for Taya quickly becomes arduous as she is forced by her kidnapers on a grueling march to another province as hostage for a liege who wants Taya for unknown purposes. She proves once again to be resourceful, brave, and resilient despite not being trained as a warrior or Guard as Garek had been.
Garek, appalled to learn his intended, Taya, may be lost to him yet again after all she has survived from being forced to labor in the mines on Shadow by aliens, puts all his mind and considerable skills including his elemental Change ability with air to getting her back. While he is trying to find the woman who is his soulmate, Garek learns about betrayals and deceit from those among the province leaders of his planet who not only want to use Taya for their own gain, but something far more heinous: a betrayal on the deepest level.
Garek and Taya seem to be attacked from all sides between the sky raiders who continue their assaults to retrieve the rescued miners, and people of their own planet so they barely have a chance to rest and must frequently defend themselves. They spend most of this book apart on separate journeys while always striving to be back together. Nothing matters more to Garek than finding Taya first, and then saving his planet from their enemies, above and below.
The action and drama are intense as well as much being revealed about how the sky raiders are able to plunder Barit enslaving its inhabitants and wreaking havoc on the villagers. Garek and Taya are the heart of the story; their bravery and fierce determination to be together while fighting for Barit’s people will give readers a satisfying ride in this very well done space opera.
Garek, appalled to learn his intended, Taya, may be lost to him yet again after all she has survived from being forced to labor in the mines on Shadow by aliens, puts all his mind and considerable skills including his elemental Change ability with air to getting her back. While he is trying to find the woman who is his soulmate, Garek learns about betrayals and deceit from those among the province leaders of his planet who not only want to use Taya for their own gain, but something far more heinous: a betrayal on the deepest level.
Garek and Taya seem to be attacked from all sides between the sky raiders who continue their assaults to retrieve the rescued miners, and people of their own planet so they barely have a chance to rest and must frequently defend themselves. They spend most of this book apart on separate journeys while always striving to be back together. Nothing matters more to Garek than finding Taya first, and then saving his planet from their enemies, above and below.
The action and drama are intense as well as much being revealed about how the sky raiders are able to plunder Barit enslaving its inhabitants and wreaking havoc on the villagers. Garek and Taya are the heart of the story; their bravery and fierce determination to be together while fighting for Barit’s people will give readers a satisfying ride in this very well done space opera.
June 21, 2021
Here again there again
After rescuing over a hundred people and bringing back an even larger raider vessel Garek and Taya should have been heroes. Instead they return to alliances dissolving, enemies at the gate and a dread idea that their own people may have horrible bargains in place with enemies near and far. Well meaning praise about Taya's abilities turns into a race to who can control her, thinking her abilities will keep them safe. Or worse, as shadow ore is the very thing the raiders want, she could wind up once again where she was.
Spoilers ahead.
This was a little convoluted, twisting back on itself in several places. It carries the same theme as the 1st: separated for half the book, Taya injured, her freeing herself, and them each working their way back to each other. The story arc takes new turns, though, in that while 1 enemy remains constant, new ones are brought to light. A population under invasion should not be contemplating expansion via hostile takeover. It's not like spreading your warriors out thin, holding people ready to take their land back, is a good way to avoid being snatched for offworld labor. They should be shoring up defences, finding ore nearby to leave around their cities and farms, and fixing to carts so they can get goods from town to town. Lining roadsides with it. Wearing it as jewelry. Greed is foolish here and I'm hoping one of these idiots winds up at a camp hauling ore for raiders. Ack. While the story is interesting, navigating the twists and turns, that one thing seems contrived just for drama without purpose. The leaders would all have to be mad. Sure, the lower castes would disappear first, but eventually, depending on how much ore the raiders needed, they could be enslaved, too.
After rescuing over a hundred people and bringing back an even larger raider vessel Garek and Taya should have been heroes. Instead they return to alliances dissolving, enemies at the gate and a dread idea that their own people may have horrible bargains in place with enemies near and far. Well meaning praise about Taya's abilities turns into a race to who can control her, thinking her abilities will keep them safe. Or worse, as shadow ore is the very thing the raiders want, she could wind up once again where she was.
Spoilers ahead.
This was a little convoluted, twisting back on itself in several places. It carries the same theme as the 1st: separated for half the book, Taya injured, her freeing herself, and them each working their way back to each other. The story arc takes new turns, though, in that while 1 enemy remains constant, new ones are brought to light. A population under invasion should not be contemplating expansion via hostile takeover. It's not like spreading your warriors out thin, holding people ready to take their land back, is a good way to avoid being snatched for offworld labor. They should be shoring up defences, finding ore nearby to leave around their cities and farms, and fixing to carts so they can get goods from town to town. Lining roadsides with it. Wearing it as jewelry. Greed is foolish here and I'm hoping one of these idiots winds up at a camp hauling ore for raiders. Ack. While the story is interesting, navigating the twists and turns, that one thing seems contrived just for drama without purpose. The leaders would all have to be mad. Sure, the lower castes would disappear first, but eventually, depending on how much ore the raiders needed, they could be enslaved, too.
May 18, 2022
Michelle Diener’s trademark BA heroine is on display in second book of trilogy
If book one of the Sky Raiders series was Garek’s book, then Calling the Change is definitely Taya’s book. I loved how she really came into her own, both with her Change power, and with her identity and her relationship with Garek. Despite yet another abduction that has Garek reeling, Taya is not doing the damsel-in-distress thing again.
Garek, on the other hand, needs to come to terms with the fact that his Intended is becoming just as badass as he is—possibly more badass—and more important to their fight against the Sky Raiders. To his big credit, Garek didn’t go the way of the “overprotective hero” and try to keep Taya from the action. Instead, he admits, “I don’t like it, I want to protect her at all cost, but I trust her to handle herself and we are much stronger together than separate.” Ding, ding, ding; that’s hero stuff right there in my book.
On that note, the romance in the story is handled with the author’s usual deft touch. It didn’t get in the way, nor did it fall too far into the background. Though it was a little disconcerting that for the second book in a row, the lovers are separated for much of the book, but it never really felt like a “rescue” story because the reader was discovering that Taya could handle herself.
The only negative thing I have to say is that it did conclude with a bit of an abrupt “to be continued,” but hey, I was going to read the third book anyway.
If book one of the Sky Raiders series was Garek’s book, then Calling the Change is definitely Taya’s book. I loved how she really came into her own, both with her Change power, and with her identity and her relationship with Garek. Despite yet another abduction that has Garek reeling, Taya is not doing the damsel-in-distress thing again.
Garek, on the other hand, needs to come to terms with the fact that his Intended is becoming just as badass as he is—possibly more badass—and more important to their fight against the Sky Raiders. To his big credit, Garek didn’t go the way of the “overprotective hero” and try to keep Taya from the action. Instead, he admits, “I don’t like it, I want to protect her at all cost, but I trust her to handle herself and we are much stronger together than separate.” Ding, ding, ding; that’s hero stuff right there in my book.
On that note, the romance in the story is handled with the author’s usual deft touch. It didn’t get in the way, nor did it fall too far into the background. Though it was a little disconcerting that for the second book in a row, the lovers are separated for much of the book, but it never really felt like a “rescue” story because the reader was discovering that Taya could handle herself.
The only negative thing I have to say is that it did conclude with a bit of an abrupt “to be continued,” but hey, I was going to read the third book anyway.
July 30, 2017
Calling the Change is the second in the Sky Raiders series and continues the story with Taya and Garek bringing their rescued people home to their village after the rescue from Shadow. Unfortunately, word has spread about Taya’s abilities and powerful people send men to abduct her and Garek. The abductors are men that had worked as guards with Garek, and end up capturing just Taya, even though they don’t know why she’s wanted. They think it has something to do with her relationship to Garek, and hope to garner favor with the neighboring government who ordered the abduction, even though they failed to capture Garek. Now Garek has to search for Taya again, as he learns more about the plots to conquer their region from surrounding governments. Of course Taya is resourceful and can handle herself pretty well, using her newfound abilities with shadow ore. I like Taya’s resourcefulness and perseverance, as well as Garek’s fierce determination to find his intended and protect her from harm. They make a wonderful team when fighting against the aliens, as well as anyone else that tries to harm them or their friends. Although there was a satisfying conclusion to the story, there are still unresolved problems that Taya and Garek will face in upcoming stories. I look forward to reading their further adventures.
August 17, 2017
I felt like most of Calling the Change was filler for the next book in the series but it still was entertaining. Garek has rescued Taya only to lose her again. This time to someone on their own planet. They still have one sky machine and enemies want both it and Taya. Most of the story follows Garek as he tries to catch up with the people who took Taya. The Sky Raiders are still around and Garek realizes that no one will be safe until they are defeated. That does not happen in this book but the ground is set for Garek and friends to try in book three. Once again I loved how Diener has placed story in an unusual situation. This is a low tech people against aliens who should have the advantage. I really like the contrast. It ramps up the tension and helps keep the story moving at a brisk pace.
April 3, 2021
An enjoyable second novel in the trilogy.
I thought the world building was vivid, and the plot was tight and exciting. The characterization was also well done, with both hero and heroine being nuanced, deeply sympathetic individuals. However, the development of the romantic relationship was deeply disappointing in this second novel in the series, compared to the first novel in the series. The hero and heroine spent almost the entirety of the novel apart, which meant that that there was much less development of the romance in this novel compared to the first one. That is why I gave this novel a rating of four stars instead of the five stars I gave the first novel. It was still an excellent space opera otherwise, so I still highly recommend it for those out there who are not as interested in a strong central romance in their sci-fi novels.
I thought the world building was vivid, and the plot was tight and exciting. The characterization was also well done, with both hero and heroine being nuanced, deeply sympathetic individuals. However, the development of the romantic relationship was deeply disappointing in this second novel in the series, compared to the first novel in the series. The hero and heroine spent almost the entirety of the novel apart, which meant that that there was much less development of the romance in this novel compared to the first one. That is why I gave this novel a rating of four stars instead of the five stars I gave the first novel. It was still an excellent space opera otherwise, so I still highly recommend it for those out there who are not as interested in a strong central romance in their sci-fi novels.
July 20, 2017
This picks up where book one left off. You have all of the story continuing but with a lot of new twists and turns. Taya and Garek show us again how strong they are as a couple. I hope we get to find out soon what's up with the Iron Guard that was mentioned in book one. This is an amazing world that was created and I definitely want more. We have so many unanswered questions and my mind is spinning trying to figure it all out. I love being able to immerse myself in a story, so much that I lose all track of time. Best feeling ever.
August 5, 2017
This was better than the first book in the series. It was still a bit slow but plenty of plots and betrayal by some of the state leaders against their own people. It appears that we will meet the Iron Guard in the next book. That will be interesting but I still want to know more about the sky raiders. Who, exactly, are they and where are they from and why do they need the shadow ore, especially since it seems like the ore is dangerous to them.
July 7, 2019
Good read.
I still don’t like this series as much as I liked the Class 5 series, but it is still very good. The world building is great, the characters are complex and the storyline is clever. The romance is lacking for me (maybe that’s what’s missing from the series for me), but only because the couple is already solid, which I actually love. They are fiercely loyal and constant to each other. Overall a very good read.
I still don’t like this series as much as I liked the Class 5 series, but it is still very good. The world building is great, the characters are complex and the storyline is clever. The romance is lacking for me (maybe that’s what’s missing from the series for me), but only because the couple is already solid, which I actually love. They are fiercely loyal and constant to each other. Overall a very good read.
November 22, 2018
Well done
This series is so well written, the story line is incredible. Wrong man and woman characters without being a control freak and a witch. Never liked stories that had controlling men and mouthy women, it's just not necessary. This is why it you buy this series you will be a happy camper.
This series is so well written, the story line is incredible. Wrong man and woman characters without being a control freak and a witch. Never liked stories that had controlling men and mouthy women, it's just not necessary. This is why it you buy this series you will be a happy camper.
July 16, 2021
Good sci fi romantic adventure
The world building is excellent and unique, the characters are fascinating, and the story held my attention. I admit I'm late to this series because I thought the covers implied more of a NA story. The body count is high, and the world is unique and fascinating.
The world building is excellent and unique, the characters are fascinating, and the story held my attention. I admit I'm late to this series because I thought the covers implied more of a NA story. The body count is high, and the world is unique and fascinating.
March 24, 2019
Nice continuation from the first book. I think this has a very interesting and unique premise. I kind of think it’s pretty wow how their powers work and how he was able to figure out how to fly the ship. Nice quick and entertaining read.
April 20, 2019
Shadow calls
I love that the female lead character, Taya, is shown as a strong, capable woman & not some damsel in distress. That's refreshing. The story line is unique & the writing keeps you engaged & wanting more.
I love that the female lead character, Taya, is shown as a strong, capable woman & not some damsel in distress. That's refreshing. The story line is unique & the writing keeps you engaged & wanting more.
September 22, 2022
This was a good continuation of the series. A little too much flying back and forth for me, but I'm hoping the next one will have less of that. I do love the main characters, and the politics and mix of sci-fi and magic are still interesting.
May 1, 2025
Taya and Garek’s story continues in this gripping installment where the stakes are ever higher and just when they think they’ve escaped their captors, new challenges arise. You can’t go wrong with Michelle’s books and this sequel did not disappoint.
July 18, 2017
The space opera continues as the captives return home. Sometimes heroes are feared because of their power and sometimes people of jealous of their status...
March 3, 2018
I think I just don't like her writing, it is so very dry! The story was alright but it felt like a shore to read it.
September 21, 2019
I liked the first one better, but this was still good. Taya learns more about her power. We see more of the politics and factions on their planet. I feel set up well for the final book.
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