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Gryphon Riders Trilogy #1
Windsworn
An unlikely young hero. An incredible destiny.
Eva has never swung a sword. She’s never flown through the open sky on a gryphon or dreamed of being a hero. She’s content with a quiet life — two feet firmly on the ground, working in her foster-father’s forge. But that’s all about to change.
When Eva discovers a young thief hiding in her woodshed with a stolen gryphon egg, the shy, timid girl is forced to leave everything she’s ever known to become Windsworn — elite warriors who ride fierce gryphons into battle. As she struggles to learn the ways of the Windsworn, Eva finds herself caught in a plot to destroy the gryphon riders and plunge the kingdom into war, a plot that somehow involves her deceased parents.
In the face of growing danger, can Eva conquer her fears and unravel the secrets of her past in time to save the Windsworn?
Fans of Eragon, Harry Potter and the Dragonriders of Pern will love this fast-paced coming of age fantasy, set in a world of majestic gryphons and ancient magic.
Eva has never swung a sword. She’s never flown through the open sky on a gryphon or dreamed of being a hero. She’s content with a quiet life — two feet firmly on the ground, working in her foster-father’s forge. But that’s all about to change.
When Eva discovers a young thief hiding in her woodshed with a stolen gryphon egg, the shy, timid girl is forced to leave everything she’s ever known to become Windsworn — elite warriors who ride fierce gryphons into battle. As she struggles to learn the ways of the Windsworn, Eva finds herself caught in a plot to destroy the gryphon riders and plunge the kingdom into war, a plot that somehow involves her deceased parents.
In the face of growing danger, can Eva conquer her fears and unravel the secrets of her past in time to save the Windsworn?
Fans of Eragon, Harry Potter and the Dragonriders of Pern will love this fast-paced coming of age fantasy, set in a world of majestic gryphons and ancient magic.
225 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 6, 2017
327 people are currently reading
471 people want to read
About the author
Derek Alan Siddoway
28 books116 followersDerek Alan Siddoway is the author of Teutevar Saga, a medieval western/frontier fantasy series, and Gryphon Riders, a young adult fantasy trilogy. He was born and raised in the American West at the foot of the Uinta Mountains. An Undaunted and Everyday Author, Derek spends his free time reading, obsessively filling notebooks, adventuring outdoors and celebrating small victories. He's also a sucker for Star Wars and football, namely the University of Utah and Minnesota Vikings.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
June 10, 2020
Oh, I love fantasy on audio! It is my favourite genre to listen to! I really enjoyed this little gem of a book!
Evelyn lives a simple life, as the adopted daughter of a talented blacksmith. She spends her days hitting iron and staying out of trouble! But trouble finds her when a stolen gryphon egg is hand-delivered to her (literally) by a young thief. Next thing she knows she off to the elusive mountain to become a windsworn – A gryphon rider, who are super warriors that protect the kingdom.
I was really taken by surprise by much I enjoyed this one! The synopsis may sound a little dull, but this was actually a really intricate story with lots of world-building and a whole lot of twists, turns and… Gryphons! I never thought I would be so interested to read about giant birds.
If you enjoy Harry Potter and the How to Train Your Dragon series, this should be right up your alley.
I enjoyed almost everything about it. I couldn’t stop listening!
The only thing I didn’t enjoy was the romance. It felt as though it was shoved in there without much build-up or substance. I really enjoy a slow-burning romance, when the characters get to know each other and the romance is slowly and exquisitely built up. I know it was not a romance novel, but the romance in this one was really dull. We got to know pretty much nothing about Tahl, his past or his personality for that matter. And neither did Eva. She literally spoke to him less than a handful of times but of course, they were head over heels for each other…
However, I did enjoy her friendships with the other characters. I loved her relationship with Sigrid! If only there was more of that passion and tension with the romantic relationship in the book!
The narrator was excellent. Her voices were great, easy to listen to without a terribly strong distracting accent. And it wasn’t too long!
Verdict
It was a typical YA, lots of angst and drama. I really enjoyed it! A great listen and I am really looking forward to the next one!
Thanks to Undaunted Publishing for a copy of Windsworn on audible to listen and review!
For more reviews check out my:
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Evelyn lives a simple life, as the adopted daughter of a talented blacksmith. She spends her days hitting iron and staying out of trouble! But trouble finds her when a stolen gryphon egg is hand-delivered to her (literally) by a young thief. Next thing she knows she off to the elusive mountain to become a windsworn – A gryphon rider, who are super warriors that protect the kingdom.
I was really taken by surprise by much I enjoyed this one! The synopsis may sound a little dull, but this was actually a really intricate story with lots of world-building and a whole lot of twists, turns and… Gryphons! I never thought I would be so interested to read about giant birds.
If you enjoy Harry Potter and the How to Train Your Dragon series, this should be right up your alley.
I enjoyed almost everything about it. I couldn’t stop listening!
The only thing I didn’t enjoy was the romance. It felt as though it was shoved in there without much build-up or substance. I really enjoy a slow-burning romance, when the characters get to know each other and the romance is slowly and exquisitely built up. I know it was not a romance novel, but the romance in this one was really dull. We got to know pretty much nothing about Tahl, his past or his personality for that matter. And neither did Eva. She literally spoke to him less than a handful of times but of course, they were head over heels for each other…
However, I did enjoy her friendships with the other characters. I loved her relationship with Sigrid! If only there was more of that passion and tension with the romantic relationship in the book!
The narrator was excellent. Her voices were great, easy to listen to without a terribly strong distracting accent. And it wasn’t too long!
Verdict
It was a typical YA, lots of angst and drama. I really enjoyed it! A great listen and I am really looking forward to the next one!
Thanks to Undaunted Publishing for a copy of Windsworn on audible to listen and review!
For more reviews check out my:
Blog
November 11, 2017
This one was just "meh" for me. It was an odd cross between Sorcerer's Stone and Eragon (except Griffons instead of dragons).
You got the whole "Must protect the egg... Oops! Unqualified person managed to hatch it!" from Eragon.
Suddenly *poof* you're a griffon rider, Harry. Let's just set this daunting legacy on your shoulders, and tons of peer pressure, and let's see if you don't crumple under the stress. Then, let's send you on an unsanctioned mission underground where you have to defeat challenges in order to face the big bad villain... who ends up not being the person we hated for 3/4 of the book. Severus Snape is innocent, everyone.
And then there's this romance that the author has been dangling over our heads like a carrot. We have no idea what the boy is like; he just pops up at random for no reason other than to make the butterflies in our heroine's stomach misbehave. You could delete him from the manuscript, and the story would go on perfectly fine without him. But he is handsome.
The things I liked best about this book was that Griffon Riding did not come easily for our heroine. She had to work her butt off. I appreciate that. And her griffon was incredibly sassy. I loved Fury and Eva's relationship. I love even better that, although a high fantasy novel, the heroine's name was simple and straightforward and lacking the letter "K". No Kovath or Kell or Karigan. I read a crap ton of fantasy novels, and I'm so sick of oddball K-names. Name the kid Harry and be done with it.
You got the whole "Must protect the egg... Oops! Unqualified person managed to hatch it!" from Eragon.
Suddenly *poof* you're a griffon rider, Harry. Let's just set this daunting legacy on your shoulders, and tons of peer pressure, and let's see if you don't crumple under the stress. Then, let's send you on an unsanctioned mission underground where you have to defeat challenges in order to face the big bad villain... who ends up not being the person we hated for 3/4 of the book. Severus Snape is innocent, everyone.
And then there's this romance that the author has been dangling over our heads like a carrot. We have no idea what the boy is like; he just pops up at random for no reason other than to make the butterflies in our heroine's stomach misbehave. You could delete him from the manuscript, and the story would go on perfectly fine without him. But he is handsome.
The things I liked best about this book was that Griffon Riding did not come easily for our heroine. She had to work her butt off. I appreciate that. And her griffon was incredibly sassy. I loved Fury and Eva's relationship. I love even better that, although a high fantasy novel, the heroine's name was simple and straightforward and lacking the letter "K". No Kovath or Kell or Karigan. I read a crap ton of fantasy novels, and I'm so sick of oddball K-names. Name the kid Harry and be done with it.
April 9, 2018
I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Eva lived the quiet life with her foster-father, working with him in the forge. Everything changes when she finds a thief in the shed with a stolen gryphon egg. After the egg hatches in her hands and the baby gryphon begins to bond with her, she discovers that she'll have to train and join the ranks of the Windsworn, elite warriors who fly gryphons into battle. While she struggles to get caught up on the years worth of training that she's missed, she finds herself in the middle of a plot to take down the Windsworn and start a war - a plot that somehow involves her deceased parents.
Windsworn by Derek Alan Siddoway is a fantastic series opener and I'm thrilled that I have had the opportunity to jump into Eva's story. I have to admit that I was hooked on Siddoway's storytelling from the first page. His world building is excellent and he does a good job of developing and fleshing out Eva throughout the novel. It's a pleasure seeing how Eva starts this novel versus where she ends up. He also creates a mystery that I enjoyed trying to unravel - and the payoff for it at the end is top notch. I haven't read much about gryphons before, but I definitely could have done with more of them as they're just as important as the human cast, and just as fascinating.
Overall, the Gryphon Riders Trilogy starts off well with Windsworn. It's an addicting read that I expect anyone who loves How to Train Your Dragon will particularly enjoy Siddoway's series. There are so many great things going for this YA adventure fantasy and I can't wait to revisit this world in book two, Windswept.
Eva lived the quiet life with her foster-father, working with him in the forge. Everything changes when she finds a thief in the shed with a stolen gryphon egg. After the egg hatches in her hands and the baby gryphon begins to bond with her, she discovers that she'll have to train and join the ranks of the Windsworn, elite warriors who fly gryphons into battle. While she struggles to get caught up on the years worth of training that she's missed, she finds herself in the middle of a plot to take down the Windsworn and start a war - a plot that somehow involves her deceased parents.
Windsworn by Derek Alan Siddoway is a fantastic series opener and I'm thrilled that I have had the opportunity to jump into Eva's story. I have to admit that I was hooked on Siddoway's storytelling from the first page. His world building is excellent and he does a good job of developing and fleshing out Eva throughout the novel. It's a pleasure seeing how Eva starts this novel versus where she ends up. He also creates a mystery that I enjoyed trying to unravel - and the payoff for it at the end is top notch. I haven't read much about gryphons before, but I definitely could have done with more of them as they're just as important as the human cast, and just as fascinating.
Overall, the Gryphon Riders Trilogy starts off well with Windsworn. It's an addicting read that I expect anyone who loves How to Train Your Dragon will particularly enjoy Siddoway's series. There are so many great things going for this YA adventure fantasy and I can't wait to revisit this world in book two, Windswept.
June 27, 2020
Thank you to the author and Undaunted Publishing for sending me these audiobooks in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
1. Windsworn ✰✰✰✰
2. Windswept ✰✰✰✰
3. Windbreak ✰✰✰✰
The Gryphon Riders Trilogy is a very entertaining fantasy series. We follow the adventures of Eva, a young orphan girl raised by a blacksmith, who she loves as a father. She is fierce, has her own opinion, but isn't afraid to show emotion. I loved her. Letting the characters grow emotionally and at the same time keep their personalities consistent throughout three books isn't an easy writing job, I can speak from experience. However, Derek Alan Siddoway succeeded in the character development departement! And in the world building department as well, for that matter.
Dragons have always been my favourite fantasy creature. But I am glad this wasn't another dragon story. Gryphons are so cool! They should get more stories of their own!
Plot wise, the author really managed to keep my attention while binge listening the complete trilogy. Their was the right amount of action, a strong female lead, a little bit of romance, just enough to be appropriate for the young audience. It all happened a bit quickly in the beginning, but on the other hand I like stories that get into action quickly.
Because I listened to the audiobooks, I want to give some credits to Kate Rudd, who narrated these three books. She did an amazing job. It's crazy how she can give each character a different voice that fits them well, both female and male characters. Voice acting is a real talent!
1. Windsworn ✰✰✰✰
2. Windswept ✰✰✰✰
3. Windbreak ✰✰✰✰
The Gryphon Riders Trilogy is a very entertaining fantasy series. We follow the adventures of Eva, a young orphan girl raised by a blacksmith, who she loves as a father. She is fierce, has her own opinion, but isn't afraid to show emotion. I loved her. Letting the characters grow emotionally and at the same time keep their personalities consistent throughout three books isn't an easy writing job, I can speak from experience. However, Derek Alan Siddoway succeeded in the character development departement! And in the world building department as well, for that matter.
Dragons have always been my favourite fantasy creature. But I am glad this wasn't another dragon story. Gryphons are so cool! They should get more stories of their own!
Plot wise, the author really managed to keep my attention while binge listening the complete trilogy. Their was the right amount of action, a strong female lead, a little bit of romance, just enough to be appropriate for the young audience. It all happened a bit quickly in the beginning, but on the other hand I like stories that get into action quickly.
Because I listened to the audiobooks, I want to give some credits to Kate Rudd, who narrated these three books. She did an amazing job. It's crazy how she can give each character a different voice that fits them well, both female and male characters. Voice acting is a real talent!
January 8, 2020
Really enjoyed this book. The author didn't waste time describing the scenery (although the setting was inside a mountain) and spent more time on the characters. Can't wait to see what happens with Fury. I was always a dragon fan but now gryphons are growing on me.
November 25, 2017
The MC had periodic bouts of overly emotional stupidity, but was otherwise a solid 2 books so far.
June 3, 2019
This book is about a young blacksmith's daughter named Eva. Through a strange series of events she finds herself in possession of a Griffin egg, which hatches only for her. She is then swept off into an adventure to learn about her new life, as a trained Griffin Rider, protectors of the kingdom.
This book was a really fun read. I was engaged and staying up too late to read JUST ONE MORE CHAPTER for the whole book. I really enjoyed Eva as our main character, and her struggles with what should have been a dream, but really felt like a chore. All the main characters in this book we're unique and well developed.
I enjoyed that the plot never felt predictable. I never knew exactly where it was going next, or what time as coming around the corner. The world that the author created feels cozy and believable. I'm eager to learn more about it in the sequel, as well as the implications of Eva's special Griffin.
My only complaints about the book would be the fact that the author seems to have learned too heavily into other favourite serieses for their inspiration. The beginning feels a lot like Dragon, and the final chapters felt a lot like the final chapters of Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone. I think the author has created their own world here with unique characters, and nerds to be more careful with pulling elements from others in the genre, as it felt very familiar.
Overall, I really enjoyed it, and I'm looking forward to the sequel. Where this world goes and how Eva develops after the ending of this book can only get more intense and engaging. Great book! Wonderful for junior readers too.
This book was a really fun read. I was engaged and staying up too late to read JUST ONE MORE CHAPTER for the whole book. I really enjoyed Eva as our main character, and her struggles with what should have been a dream, but really felt like a chore. All the main characters in this book we're unique and well developed.
I enjoyed that the plot never felt predictable. I never knew exactly where it was going next, or what time as coming around the corner. The world that the author created feels cozy and believable. I'm eager to learn more about it in the sequel, as well as the implications of Eva's special Griffin.
My only complaints about the book would be the fact that the author seems to have learned too heavily into other favourite serieses for their inspiration. The beginning feels a lot like Dragon, and the final chapters felt a lot like the final chapters of Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone. I think the author has created their own world here with unique characters, and nerds to be more careful with pulling elements from others in the genre, as it felt very familiar.
Overall, I really enjoyed it, and I'm looking forward to the sequel. Where this world goes and how Eva develops after the ending of this book can only get more intense and engaging. Great book! Wonderful for junior readers too.
January 29, 2018
I can't believe how much I loved this book! I can't remember where I found it, but I believe it was shared on Facebook through a favorite author's page, Ms. Grace Draven. I remember thinking I'd give it a go because I have Kindle Unlimited and the story seemed a good one.
I WAS SO BLOWN AWAY BY THIS!!!! I loved every aspect of it. Some of you may complain that it's a tired trope - an orphaned girl with somewhat legendary heritage (unbeknownst to her, of course) is selected for something great and must prove herself to those around her. I'll grant you that. In these days of mainstream YA everywhere it's definitely something that can weary even the most dedicated reader.
BUT LISTEN. THIS IS DONE VERY VERY VERY WELL.
It makes the trope seem not very trope like at all and brings new life to it!
The characters were a breath of fresh air in the world of YA. Eva herself had a lot of inner turmoil over fear vs. bravery. She's pushed again and again and when she finally pushes back it's a beautiful thing. The villain isn't who you think it is at first, and Siddoway does a great job of keeping it under wraps until the grand finale. The romantic interest, Tahl, wasn't pined over to the point of disgust. The big, brutish girl who is at first an enemy, Sigrid, has a big beautiful mind and a secret heritage that assists everyone later on. The adoptive father, Soot, is the literal best and I'll fight anyone who doesn't agree. He's one of those adorably tough/brutish on the outside but soft as a teddy bear on the inside characters, and his love and support for Eva brought me near to tears more than once. Their golem was an interesting addition and I can't wait to find more out about where he came from and what his story is in future books. And I can't forget about Fury. He's a beautiful little ANGERY BOI and I'm absolutely in love with him, from the tip of his bitey beak to the end of his bristling copper feathers.
Siddoway has brought such an incredible world to life and I'm grateful to have been offered it for free on my Kindle Unlimited. I strongly suggest you give it a go! Full five stars for a book I read in a matter of hours that kept me hooked from the very first word to the very last period.
I WAS SO BLOWN AWAY BY THIS!!!! I loved every aspect of it. Some of you may complain that it's a tired trope - an orphaned girl with somewhat legendary heritage (unbeknownst to her, of course) is selected for something great and must prove herself to those around her. I'll grant you that. In these days of mainstream YA everywhere it's definitely something that can weary even the most dedicated reader.
BUT LISTEN. THIS IS DONE VERY VERY VERY WELL.
It makes the trope seem not very trope like at all and brings new life to it!
The characters were a breath of fresh air in the world of YA. Eva herself had a lot of inner turmoil over fear vs. bravery. She's pushed again and again and when she finally pushes back it's a beautiful thing. The villain isn't who you think it is at first, and Siddoway does a great job of keeping it under wraps until the grand finale. The romantic interest, Tahl, wasn't pined over to the point of disgust. The big, brutish girl who is at first an enemy, Sigrid, has a big beautiful mind and a secret heritage that assists everyone later on. The adoptive father, Soot, is the literal best and I'll fight anyone who doesn't agree. He's one of those adorably tough/brutish on the outside but soft as a teddy bear on the inside characters, and his love and support for Eva brought me near to tears more than once. Their golem was an interesting addition and I can't wait to find more out about where he came from and what his story is in future books. And I can't forget about Fury. He's a beautiful little ANGERY BOI and I'm absolutely in love with him, from the tip of his bitey beak to the end of his bristling copper feathers.
Siddoway has brought such an incredible world to life and I'm grateful to have been offered it for free on my Kindle Unlimited. I strongly suggest you give it a go! Full five stars for a book I read in a matter of hours that kept me hooked from the very first word to the very last period.
June 28, 2018
This YA fantasy took me on quite some ride - It took me a couple of chapters, but once I was hooked, I was hooked!
In the beginning I was worried that this would be like any other ‘chosen one’ YA book, and maybe in some ways it was, but it was so full adventure and colour that I sped through the pages. I loved Eva’s character, who was both scared and brave. Her emotions and actions were believable. The love interest was not overdone and did not rule the story, which is something I appreciate. I loved the gryphons and I am hoping we will find out more about these creatures in subsequent books. I loved the climax and for a change I had not guessed who the baddy was, which is always a bonus!
Overall, I was really impressed with the writing. There were a few bits where I was like ‘hold on, what?’ and I had to retrace a moment because it felt a bit rushed, but overall I think this was a really good read and I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone who enjoys YA fantasy.
In the beginning I was worried that this would be like any other ‘chosen one’ YA book, and maybe in some ways it was, but it was so full adventure and colour that I sped through the pages. I loved Eva’s character, who was both scared and brave. Her emotions and actions were believable. The love interest was not overdone and did not rule the story, which is something I appreciate. I loved the gryphons and I am hoping we will find out more about these creatures in subsequent books. I loved the climax and for a change I had not guessed who the baddy was, which is always a bonus!
Overall, I was really impressed with the writing. There were a few bits where I was like ‘hold on, what?’ and I had to retrace a moment because it felt a bit rushed, but overall I think this was a really good read and I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone who enjoys YA fantasy.
August 29, 2021
Listed as a young adult book Windsworn has echos of the Pern tales of the Dragon Riders although in this case Gryphons are the steeds. A young girl is placed in the care of a single blacksmith by a member of the Windsworn. She is now a teen and one day discovers a young teen from a tribe from another tribe who are not friends of the Windsworn. He has a Gryphon egg which he insists that she takes only to have it hatch while she has it which launches her into the Windsworn as a beginning cadet and into a new life and into the middle of a plot against the Windsworn. Not a bad read, but not quite up to the Pern books.
October 5, 2024
3.5 stars
While a bit YA fantasy tropey, that is after all what this book is so it’s kinda what I’d expected. This first book seems mostly to be setting up the story for further plot points, with a few fun plot twists here and there. I’ll be continuing the series because now that we’ve gotten slight hints of what’s to come, I’m curious to know more, and I’d like to see more of some of the characters. Hoping there’s a bit more story and character depth moving forward!
While a bit YA fantasy tropey, that is after all what this book is so it’s kinda what I’d expected. This first book seems mostly to be setting up the story for further plot points, with a few fun plot twists here and there. I’ll be continuing the series because now that we’ve gotten slight hints of what’s to come, I’m curious to know more, and I’d like to see more of some of the characters. Hoping there’s a bit more story and character depth moving forward!
January 27, 2018
Gush! I read this tale in one day, blush I gobbled it up. Eva is the ward of Soot a local blacksmith and upon an ordinary day discovers a boy with an egg. This egg is a griffin, a red griffin who comes along only once in a generation at best. Wow what an opening, it hooked me right away. Read it, read it, the climax will blow you away.
November 29, 2017
I was captivated from the first page!
The author does a great job of developing the characters and making you care what happens to them.
Lots of great action, mystery, and - the best part - they ride gryphons!
I can’t wait to dig into the next one, great job!
The author does a great job of developing the characters and making you care what happens to them.
Lots of great action, mystery, and - the best part - they ride gryphons!
I can’t wait to dig into the next one, great job!
October 7, 2017
Interesting world with gryphons instead of dragons. Really loved the way it's written nice pacing love all the characters, it even has a golem! Looking forward to the next book(s)
August 21, 2022
I loved this story, had me at the edge of my seat! Need to read the next one and find out more!
Great book! If you like adventure, mystery, and good twist here and there… it is a great read. Even though I figured out early on who the villain was, it was fun getting to the “reveal”… I try not to compare books, but to judge a story on it’s own, and this book was fun to read.
Great book! If you like adventure, mystery, and good twist here and there… it is a great read. Even though I figured out early on who the villain was, it was fun getting to the “reveal”… I try not to compare books, but to judge a story on it’s own, and this book was fun to read.
July 16, 2019
A thrilling coming of age tale. Well laid out character development and a nice climax. Didn't see the end twist coming, but looking back it was foreshadowed well. Good intro into the world.
The puzzle part reminded me of a Stargate episode where Daniel had to do the same thing so that was funny.
Minor grammatical / editorial errors scattered throughout but nothing too crazy.
Other thoughts:
The puzzle part reminded me of a Stargate episode where Daniel had to do the same thing so that was funny.
Minor grammatical / editorial errors scattered throughout but nothing too crazy.
Other thoughts:
September 7, 2018
DNF page 104.
The author uses humor and interesting descriptions to hook the reader, but the overall structure of this book led me to put it down. The plot mimics so many other fantasy stories before it: kid finds magical creature egg (*cough cough* Eragon), kid attends mythical school (*cough cough* Harry Potter), kid gets bullied, there is a prophecy about the seemingly ordinary kid, etc.
There is nothing lovable about the main character. She could have died in chapter three and I wouldn’t have cared. She stammers half the time, and never does anything interesting. Cut and dry personality.
The flow of the story is what really turned me away. I read 104 pages of scene description. Every little thing the main character does (such as opening a door and stepping through it) is described. There were so many pages of the MC walking through chambers and attending classes that I started scanning the pages after page 60.
When the characters speak they all sound the same. “...” and “!” are overused. It made all the characters, even important figures like the lord commander (ahem- Game of Thrones) and the king sound childish.
The author has potential, but the story is boring and cliché.
The author uses humor and interesting descriptions to hook the reader, but the overall structure of this book led me to put it down. The plot mimics so many other fantasy stories before it: kid finds magical creature egg (*cough cough* Eragon), kid attends mythical school (*cough cough* Harry Potter), kid gets bullied, there is a prophecy about the seemingly ordinary kid, etc.
There is nothing lovable about the main character. She could have died in chapter three and I wouldn’t have cared. She stammers half the time, and never does anything interesting. Cut and dry personality.
The flow of the story is what really turned me away. I read 104 pages of scene description. Every little thing the main character does (such as opening a door and stepping through it) is described. There were so many pages of the MC walking through chambers and attending classes that I started scanning the pages after page 60.
When the characters speak they all sound the same. “...” and “!” are overused. It made all the characters, even important figures like the lord commander (ahem- Game of Thrones) and the king sound childish.
The author has potential, but the story is boring and cliché.
May 7, 2018
5 Cranky Stars
Eva is an apprentice to a blacksmith, and her life is forever changed when she comes across a stolen gryphon egg. She joins the Windsworn, an elite band of warriors who fight against injustices.
Y’all let me tell you about magical this book is. I swear I fell in love with the story from the first chapter. It has everything I ever need in a book: a strong female character, magical creatures, a wonderful cast of characters, and a strong storyline.
The world building that the author put into this story was detailed and perfect. The complex relationships and characters definitely paid off. If you love fantasy novels, then this book is for you. I will definitely recommend it to those who love this genre.
Eva is an apprentice to a blacksmith, and her life is forever changed when she comes across a stolen gryphon egg. She joins the Windsworn, an elite band of warriors who fight against injustices.
Y’all let me tell you about magical this book is. I swear I fell in love with the story from the first chapter. It has everything I ever need in a book: a strong female character, magical creatures, a wonderful cast of characters, and a strong storyline.
The world building that the author put into this story was detailed and perfect. The complex relationships and characters definitely paid off. If you love fantasy novels, then this book is for you. I will definitely recommend it to those who love this genre.
November 30, 2018
This story is a light beach read at best. It is a little bit of a Pern knock-off with a side of Goonies thrown in. I don't mind that so much; those are great places for plot and story inspiration, but the book suffers from a few more critical problems. This book needed better editing and contains a noticeable number of grammatical and syntactical errors that should have been caught during revisions. Then the character development is weak. The protagonist is wishy-washy and fairly flat, as are all the characters, including the gryphons. I was unable to develop much engagement or feeling for any of them. The world building was adequate and managed to get and hold my interest, and if I try another book in the series, that will be the factor that pulls me in. In summary, the book is priced correctly at free, and I may try another free offering from this author, but I'm unlikely to buy. It wasn't bad enough to make me give up, but it could have been much better.
May 10, 2018
Find this review at Forever Lost in Literature!
Windsworn is a charming young adult fantasy adventure that features a dynamic female lead and plenty of gryphons! I managed to blow right this book in just two days because of how fast-paced and entertaining it was.
Windsworn tells the story of Eva, a young girl living with her adoptive father, who one day stumbles upon a thief in possession of an unhatched gryphon egg. Once it hatches, she ends up becoming attached to it and learns she must now train and join ranks known as the Windsworn. The Windsworn train in battle tactics to become warriors who go into battle with their gryphons. While training, Eva uncovers a large plot that threatens the Windsworn and much
This was a really engaging, fun read. Siddoway has created an imaginative and entertaining world that really made me want to be part of it. His world-building is strong and I appreciate that he put such time and effort into creating a fully-fleshed world with a variety of unique elements. A lot of interesting details were added to the story to make it authentic, and I particularly loved the addition of a Golem in this book.
One of the things that drew me to this book was the emphasis on and inclusion of gryphons, since they are a fantasy creature that tends to be overlooked more than others. I thought that Siddoway's description of them was vivid and he brought them to life extremely well; every gryphon comes out just a bit different in every author's unique vision, and I loved what resulted from Siddoway's imagination. My only disappointment was that there wasn't quite as much about them as I would have liked, as I felt that a book that so heavily focuses on gryphons should have included more about them.
The characters all felt very well-developed and each seemed to add an important element to the story. Eva in particular has a lot of important growth throughout the novel that I really liked following along with. She undergoes many momentous events and experiences and, as expected, she changes with them and learns a lot as a person, all of which molded her into a really well-formed character. Her father, Soot, is also a fantastic character that I personally really liked. He is a good man that adds a lot to the personality and formation of Eva's own personality. I was a bit skeptical at first when a romantic interest was introduced, but I felt a bit relieved when I saw how well Siddoway handled it. It didn't overwhelm the story as most romantic subplots tend to do, which I was very thankful for.
The pacing of this book was a bit off and on at times. The beginning and end of this book felt like there was good, even pacing, but there were a few parts throughout the middle that did feel rushed. The training in particular felt rushed, and I would have liked there to be more time spent in some of these areas. I also had mixed feelings about many of the plot elements and the path this story takes. At times, I felt it was rather predictable and a bit trope-heavy, but at the same time I felt that Siddoway did a good job of making things unique and fresh, so it wasn't entirely consistent one way or the other.
Overall, I've given Windsworn four stars. This wasn't the most amazing thing I've ever read, but I really enjoyed it all the same and would absolutely recommend it. I look forward to book two!
Windsworn is a charming young adult fantasy adventure that features a dynamic female lead and plenty of gryphons! I managed to blow right this book in just two days because of how fast-paced and entertaining it was.
Windsworn tells the story of Eva, a young girl living with her adoptive father, who one day stumbles upon a thief in possession of an unhatched gryphon egg. Once it hatches, she ends up becoming attached to it and learns she must now train and join ranks known as the Windsworn. The Windsworn train in battle tactics to become warriors who go into battle with their gryphons. While training, Eva uncovers a large plot that threatens the Windsworn and much
This was a really engaging, fun read. Siddoway has created an imaginative and entertaining world that really made me want to be part of it. His world-building is strong and I appreciate that he put such time and effort into creating a fully-fleshed world with a variety of unique elements. A lot of interesting details were added to the story to make it authentic, and I particularly loved the addition of a Golem in this book.
One of the things that drew me to this book was the emphasis on and inclusion of gryphons, since they are a fantasy creature that tends to be overlooked more than others. I thought that Siddoway's description of them was vivid and he brought them to life extremely well; every gryphon comes out just a bit different in every author's unique vision, and I loved what resulted from Siddoway's imagination. My only disappointment was that there wasn't quite as much about them as I would have liked, as I felt that a book that so heavily focuses on gryphons should have included more about them.
The characters all felt very well-developed and each seemed to add an important element to the story. Eva in particular has a lot of important growth throughout the novel that I really liked following along with. She undergoes many momentous events and experiences and, as expected, she changes with them and learns a lot as a person, all of which molded her into a really well-formed character. Her father, Soot, is also a fantastic character that I personally really liked. He is a good man that adds a lot to the personality and formation of Eva's own personality. I was a bit skeptical at first when a romantic interest was introduced, but I felt a bit relieved when I saw how well Siddoway handled it. It didn't overwhelm the story as most romantic subplots tend to do, which I was very thankful for.
The pacing of this book was a bit off and on at times. The beginning and end of this book felt like there was good, even pacing, but there were a few parts throughout the middle that did feel rushed. The training in particular felt rushed, and I would have liked there to be more time spent in some of these areas. I also had mixed feelings about many of the plot elements and the path this story takes. At times, I felt it was rather predictable and a bit trope-heavy, but at the same time I felt that Siddoway did a good job of making things unique and fresh, so it wasn't entirely consistent one way or the other.
Overall, I've given Windsworn four stars. This wasn't the most amazing thing I've ever read, but I really enjoyed it all the same and would absolutely recommend it. I look forward to book two!
August 4, 2023
This story is set up and organized better than most. Flying and fantasy stories about heroic main characters make for good epic fantasy novel series.
But, there are at least two things I don't/didn't like from the story: 1) Author creates a who done it?/mystery in relation to the Gryphon egg, the Gryphon female's violent death and why Evelyn (Eva) was chosen by the young augur/seer. Mysteries since Arthur Conan Doyle, are like a Casino dealer dealing cards from a fixed deck. There is no logical/common sense/rational deduction of possible guilt/responsibility and because the author wants to come out looking clever, then story almost never makes any sense in suspense, mystery plot stories. 2) The Hazing of Eva, physical/emotional beatings/beratings from the Gryphon Rider's School are beyond the tolerance and legal limits. In any academy or school if a teacher/guru/sensei orders the continuous beatings that Eva received in this first book, there would be criminal charges placed on the teachers, authorities and students involved. I don't know why the author treated his main character Eva, so badly. Worse than most professional Boxing matches. If Eva did not have the capacities/abilities (martial arts training, etc.) then why did the author write her in this way??? Does the author enjoy the pain and suffering of his main character?? is there a masochistic, sociopathy/psychopathy that the author should seek therapy for??
Because the author leaves vital information out from the beginning of this story, it turns out that the readers are left in the dark, trying to figure out why the things in this first book turned out the way they did. We don't really know who are Eva's biological parents, we don't know who murdered the Gryphon female, we don't know who wanted to destroy the Gryphon hatchling egg. The author places all of these plot holes in the dark, on purpose, so as to make it a "who-done it?"
I think the story could have been improved a lot with a lot less carnage/violence towards the main character (especially if this action-fantasy novel series is directed towards Young Adults) and the mystery aspects of this story removed (because they make this story violent and dark), so that this story is more about the relationships between Eva and the Gryphon hatchling, and how incredible his capacities/abilities, powers are...and make this a positive story in a fantasy novel series appealing to the target readers, (instead of a dark dystopian fantasy novel series, that the author wanted to write about and wrote here).
This story has no maps, no inside illustrations, no character summaries, little to no world development (we don't know) political, geopolitical, governmental, Gryphon school authorities, economic, religious, social, etc. systems in this other world. We don't know the geography of this other world either. Because it seems that this story is going to have political and geopolitical maybe even wars between border territories and because the author doesn't even mention these, the readers are less invested in a story like this one.
But, there are at least two things I don't/didn't like from the story: 1) Author creates a who done it?/mystery in relation to the Gryphon egg, the Gryphon female's violent death and why Evelyn (Eva) was chosen by the young augur/seer. Mysteries since Arthur Conan Doyle, are like a Casino dealer dealing cards from a fixed deck. There is no logical/common sense/rational deduction of possible guilt/responsibility and because the author wants to come out looking clever, then story almost never makes any sense in suspense, mystery plot stories. 2) The Hazing of Eva, physical/emotional beatings/beratings from the Gryphon Rider's School are beyond the tolerance and legal limits. In any academy or school if a teacher/guru/sensei orders the continuous beatings that Eva received in this first book, there would be criminal charges placed on the teachers, authorities and students involved. I don't know why the author treated his main character Eva, so badly. Worse than most professional Boxing matches. If Eva did not have the capacities/abilities (martial arts training, etc.) then why did the author write her in this way??? Does the author enjoy the pain and suffering of his main character?? is there a masochistic, sociopathy/psychopathy that the author should seek therapy for??
Because the author leaves vital information out from the beginning of this story, it turns out that the readers are left in the dark, trying to figure out why the things in this first book turned out the way they did. We don't really know who are Eva's biological parents, we don't know who murdered the Gryphon female, we don't know who wanted to destroy the Gryphon hatchling egg. The author places all of these plot holes in the dark, on purpose, so as to make it a "who-done it?"
I think the story could have been improved a lot with a lot less carnage/violence towards the main character (especially if this action-fantasy novel series is directed towards Young Adults) and the mystery aspects of this story removed (because they make this story violent and dark), so that this story is more about the relationships between Eva and the Gryphon hatchling, and how incredible his capacities/abilities, powers are...and make this a positive story in a fantasy novel series appealing to the target readers, (instead of a dark dystopian fantasy novel series, that the author wanted to write about and wrote here).
This story has no maps, no inside illustrations, no character summaries, little to no world development (we don't know) political, geopolitical, governmental, Gryphon school authorities, economic, religious, social, etc. systems in this other world. We don't know the geography of this other world either. Because it seems that this story is going to have political and geopolitical maybe even wars between border territories and because the author doesn't even mention these, the readers are less invested in a story like this one.
October 21, 2018
A decent read but one that has some holes and gets convoluted in the end.
The world-building itself is fascinating and the premise is interesting. You get a feeling there a history to the land and it does spark the imagination. However the story is a mixed bag of styles in that though the main protagonist is supposed to be 17 and turns 18 making this more of a young adult fantasy but it comes off having more of a children book feel more appropriate for 13 year old. There is nothing wrong with a good children's fantasy book Percy Jackson Harry Potter and so on introduces characters Young have them grow throughout the series. Imagine if the first book of Harry Potter had him as 17 years old instead of 11. It just wouldn't feel right. A funny aspect of the story ends while the main character is 17 her first two real friends throughout the book is a 13 or 12 years old
There was also the element that the Gryphon riders or some sort of elite and select group but there was no background given as to how the people there including the young recruits we're actually recruited or chosen for their position. The story acts as if our main protagonist is suddenly thrown in the middle of training that is already on going but when she gets there it is then written as if it is the start of the school year basically.
The most confusing and convoluted part of the story is the ending when all the plot elements are supposed to come together. Instead we get a villain monologue explaining everything was done while also giving no actual reason as to why it came about or why it was necessary for certain elements to be in place.
Overall this story is appropriate for 10 year olds and above with the characters being 17 and 18 years old.
The world-building itself is fascinating and the premise is interesting. You get a feeling there a history to the land and it does spark the imagination. However the story is a mixed bag of styles in that though the main protagonist is supposed to be 17 and turns 18 making this more of a young adult fantasy but it comes off having more of a children book feel more appropriate for 13 year old. There is nothing wrong with a good children's fantasy book Percy Jackson Harry Potter and so on introduces characters Young have them grow throughout the series. Imagine if the first book of Harry Potter had him as 17 years old instead of 11. It just wouldn't feel right. A funny aspect of the story ends while the main character is 17 her first two real friends throughout the book is a 13 or 12 years old
There was also the element that the Gryphon riders or some sort of elite and select group but there was no background given as to how the people there including the young recruits we're actually recruited or chosen for their position. The story acts as if our main protagonist is suddenly thrown in the middle of training that is already on going but when she gets there it is then written as if it is the start of the school year basically.
The most confusing and convoluted part of the story is the ending when all the plot elements are supposed to come together. Instead we get a villain monologue explaining everything was done while also giving no actual reason as to why it came about or why it was necessary for certain elements to be in place.
Overall this story is appropriate for 10 year olds and above with the characters being 17 and 18 years old.
June 14, 2020
* I was sent the entire trilogy via audible by the author in exchange for a honest review.
“When you’ve got a job to do, it’s better to face the fire head on”
I was intrigued from the very start of this audiobook! Eva lives a quiet life with her foster father at his forge, she works hard and is very loved but then one day her whole life is turned upside down and she must leave the comfort of her home to become part of the Windsworn— highly trained warriors who are the only ones allowed in the kingdom to ride a gryphon!
This was a fun and quick listen from me and I was surprisingly completely interested from the start! One of the biggest aspects I need to enjoy a audiobook is to like the narrator and I think she did a great job! Then once the story really got rolling, I was really interested and couldn’t wait to see where this gryphon rider story took me!
The characters were likable and Soot has a soft spot in my heart for taking in an infant that was not his and raising her as if she was is own. I like that he seems gruff but loves Eva with his whole heart and I just found it very heartwarming! I also really enjoyed Seppo, he was super unique and fun to me! The rest of the characters were again very likable, no one really annoyed me expect maybe Eva at times lol she’s just prone to anger outbursts and I found myself rolling my eyes because then she would try to take it all back a second later.
The only other part that bothered me was the romance. To me, it really just came out of no where. The two only had a few interactions before they were kissing and exchanging feelings for one another but I could look past it since it wasn’t the center of the attention for the book.
Ultimately, I enjoyed this book and the uniqueness that the gryphons brought to the story!
For readers who enjoy: Eragon, coming of age stories, gryphons, twists, quick listens & perseverance
“When you’ve got a job to do, it’s better to face the fire head on”
I was intrigued from the very start of this audiobook! Eva lives a quiet life with her foster father at his forge, she works hard and is very loved but then one day her whole life is turned upside down and she must leave the comfort of her home to become part of the Windsworn— highly trained warriors who are the only ones allowed in the kingdom to ride a gryphon!
This was a fun and quick listen from me and I was surprisingly completely interested from the start! One of the biggest aspects I need to enjoy a audiobook is to like the narrator and I think she did a great job! Then once the story really got rolling, I was really interested and couldn’t wait to see where this gryphon rider story took me!
The characters were likable and Soot has a soft spot in my heart for taking in an infant that was not his and raising her as if she was is own. I like that he seems gruff but loves Eva with his whole heart and I just found it very heartwarming! I also really enjoyed Seppo, he was super unique and fun to me! The rest of the characters were again very likable, no one really annoyed me expect maybe Eva at times lol she’s just prone to anger outbursts and I found myself rolling my eyes because then she would try to take it all back a second later.
The only other part that bothered me was the romance. To me, it really just came out of no where. The two only had a few interactions before they were kissing and exchanging feelings for one another but I could look past it since it wasn’t the center of the attention for the book.
Ultimately, I enjoyed this book and the uniqueness that the gryphons brought to the story!
For readers who enjoy: Eragon, coming of age stories, gryphons, twists, quick listens & perseverance
December 28, 2021
A black smith assistant to her foster father, Eva never imagined leaving her cozy home on the farm. When she heard of a gryphon egg being stolen from the gyr, she definitely never expected to come across it.
Yet, when the young thief shows up in her barn claiming she is the rightful match of the egg, she realizes her destiny is much more than she anticipated. Will she be able to live up to the prophesy set before her?
Enter the magical world of Altaris and ride along with the gryphon riders in Derrick Alan Siddoway’s, Windsworn. A beautiful masterpiece of enchantment, Derrick showcases his ability to describe a vivid imaginary setting. He creates an atmosphere in which his readers not only visualize the landscape, but immerse oneself within.
In addition, the storyline takes readers on a journey jam-packed with mystery, confrontations, rebellion, and a hint of romance. Nonetheless, borderline profanity throughout along with several grammatical and formatting errors, a rating of 4 out of 5 stars is given.
Please read with caution if any of the following may cause you distress: death during childbirth, abandonment, amputation, thievery, betrayal, foster care, mutilated and bloody bodies, murder, arrest, death penalty, and depression.
A breathtaking introduction to the fictional realm of gryphon riders, Windsworn is an adventure you do not want to miss.
Thank you to #Windsworn, #GryphonRidersTrilogy, and #DerekAlanSiddoway for the opportunity to read this book and give my honest review.
Original Post found at: https://www.literarylioness.net/post/...
Yet, when the young thief shows up in her barn claiming she is the rightful match of the egg, she realizes her destiny is much more than she anticipated. Will she be able to live up to the prophesy set before her?
Enter the magical world of Altaris and ride along with the gryphon riders in Derrick Alan Siddoway’s, Windsworn. A beautiful masterpiece of enchantment, Derrick showcases his ability to describe a vivid imaginary setting. He creates an atmosphere in which his readers not only visualize the landscape, but immerse oneself within.
In addition, the storyline takes readers on a journey jam-packed with mystery, confrontations, rebellion, and a hint of romance. Nonetheless, borderline profanity throughout along with several grammatical and formatting errors, a rating of 4 out of 5 stars is given.
Please read with caution if any of the following may cause you distress: death during childbirth, abandonment, amputation, thievery, betrayal, foster care, mutilated and bloody bodies, murder, arrest, death penalty, and depression.
A breathtaking introduction to the fictional realm of gryphon riders, Windsworn is an adventure you do not want to miss.
Thank you to #Windsworn, #GryphonRidersTrilogy, and #DerekAlanSiddoway for the opportunity to read this book and give my honest review.
Original Post found at: https://www.literarylioness.net/post/...
January 13, 2021
Windsworn
Eva, Evelyn, Soot heard the wings before the knock on the door—he didn’t want to answer it but did. Andor, the Lord Commander, was on his step with a bundle. There was no way Soot wanted or could care for a baby but when Andor left he left alone. 17 yrs later Eva loved her Dad and worked hard as a smith with him and Seppo who was a hug metal man who never slept and some nights he would do a lot of the next days work as he was bored just sitting around.
One morning the chickens were squawking and Seppo hadn’t seen to them so Eva got up to see what was going on—that is when it all started. A young boy, Ivan, was there and he had an egg in a pouch—it was the stolen red gryphon egg and he said he had a vision and had to keep it safe and it was meant for her.
So a couple days later she left the only home she had known and went to live and train in the Gyr. She also had to be approved by the council who mostly voted no as she was at least 4 yrs older than most trainees but she did get in and Wynn became her best friend showing her the bldg. Then we had Sigrid who was the best and hated her, her gryphon that hatched hated her so she didn’t know if she would make it or not. As usual there is someone in the castle that was a traitor. So—-what role did two young Windsworns, two trainees and a prisoner do. If you want to find out you need to get the book. I got up when I had to but I read the book in one go—loved it and buying the next one—can’t wait. I highly recommend this book.
Eva, Evelyn, Soot heard the wings before the knock on the door—he didn’t want to answer it but did. Andor, the Lord Commander, was on his step with a bundle. There was no way Soot wanted or could care for a baby but when Andor left he left alone. 17 yrs later Eva loved her Dad and worked hard as a smith with him and Seppo who was a hug metal man who never slept and some nights he would do a lot of the next days work as he was bored just sitting around.
One morning the chickens were squawking and Seppo hadn’t seen to them so Eva got up to see what was going on—that is when it all started. A young boy, Ivan, was there and he had an egg in a pouch—it was the stolen red gryphon egg and he said he had a vision and had to keep it safe and it was meant for her.
So a couple days later she left the only home she had known and went to live and train in the Gyr. She also had to be approved by the council who mostly voted no as she was at least 4 yrs older than most trainees but she did get in and Wynn became her best friend showing her the bldg. Then we had Sigrid who was the best and hated her, her gryphon that hatched hated her so she didn’t know if she would make it or not. As usual there is someone in the castle that was a traitor. So—-what role did two young Windsworns, two trainees and a prisoner do. If you want to find out you need to get the book. I got up when I had to but I read the book in one go—loved it and buying the next one—can’t wait. I highly recommend this book.
December 31, 2017
Eva is the foster child of a blacksmith, but when a young boy delivers a gryphon egg to her, insisting that it's for her, she ends up in the ranks of the Windsworn. Gryphon-riders, peacekeepers, practically legendary---and her gryphon is a rare red one, special even among the gryphons. Not many Windsworn are happy at Eva's inclusion. She's too old, untrained, and worst of all afraid of heights. Can she make a place for herself when she never wanted to be here at all?
More gryphons, please. I get why the story mostly focused on the more human elements, and it's not like the gryphons have no role, but it feels like after Eva hatches the egg there's only limited involvement with the gryphons, even though the red chick is basically living in her room. But I like the bits I do see. The gryphons are not just animals, although her chick being so young does mean he's mostly acting like one for now. Despite the "destiny" that brought them together, Eva has a terrible relationship with her chick. She never wanted a gryphon, and hers is a lot of trouble. It isn't until much later that she can approach this as more of a partnership, and one that requires both of them to contribute.
On the human side, it's a bit hard to see Eva getting yelled at all the time. I'm curious that she doesn't seem to have any actual friends from town, only her foster father and his golem, but those relationships are well-drawn. Wynn helps lighten up some of the darker spots in her new life, and I do appreciate that just because Eva had training as a blacksmith it doesn't automatically make her great at swordsmanship.
I liked Ivan, too. The boy has a power no one understands, and although Eva thinks he's more or less innocent, he's certainly mixed up in enough strangeness that no one else trusts him. Hopefully future books highlight him even more.
All in all this was decent read. It's hard to find books featuring gryphons, so this was something I jumped on when I saw it. I rate this book Recommended.
See my reviews and more at https://offtheshelfreviews.wordpress....
More gryphons, please. I get why the story mostly focused on the more human elements, and it's not like the gryphons have no role, but it feels like after Eva hatches the egg there's only limited involvement with the gryphons, even though the red chick is basically living in her room. But I like the bits I do see. The gryphons are not just animals, although her chick being so young does mean he's mostly acting like one for now. Despite the "destiny" that brought them together, Eva has a terrible relationship with her chick. She never wanted a gryphon, and hers is a lot of trouble. It isn't until much later that she can approach this as more of a partnership, and one that requires both of them to contribute.
On the human side, it's a bit hard to see Eva getting yelled at all the time. I'm curious that she doesn't seem to have any actual friends from town, only her foster father and his golem, but those relationships are well-drawn. Wynn helps lighten up some of the darker spots in her new life, and I do appreciate that just because Eva had training as a blacksmith it doesn't automatically make her great at swordsmanship.
I liked Ivan, too. The boy has a power no one understands, and although Eva thinks he's more or less innocent, he's certainly mixed up in enough strangeness that no one else trusts him. Hopefully future books highlight him even more.
All in all this was decent read. It's hard to find books featuring gryphons, so this was something I jumped on when I saw it. I rate this book Recommended.
See my reviews and more at https://offtheshelfreviews.wordpress....
May 6, 2018
Reminiscent of The Dragonriders of Pern, this young adult fantasy has all the fun and excitement of young people impressing baby gryphons and growing up to become their riders. With adventure surrounding Eva, secrets and hardship take their toll but she does well in carrying on with her training to finally become Windsworn.
A fun, but typical story beginning a series not unlike what Anne McCaffrey did with her Dragonriders and Melanie Rawn with her Champions. A touch on the trite side, and I really wish he'd taken more time for more detail into the actual lives of both the trainees and the gryphons, but thoroughly enjoyable nonetheless. For some reason authors these days seem to feel the books need to be short and sweet or maybe they'll lose our attention, but they couldn't be more wrong. As readers we want to know about the training classes, the day to day of the trainees and the trials and tribulations of learning all about their gryphons. We could have used a lot more details. But I am looking forward to book 2.
Well done, Derek
A fun, but typical story beginning a series not unlike what Anne McCaffrey did with her Dragonriders and Melanie Rawn with her Champions. A touch on the trite side, and I really wish he'd taken more time for more detail into the actual lives of both the trainees and the gryphons, but thoroughly enjoyable nonetheless. For some reason authors these days seem to feel the books need to be short and sweet or maybe they'll lose our attention, but they couldn't be more wrong. As readers we want to know about the training classes, the day to day of the trainees and the trials and tribulations of learning all about their gryphons. We could have used a lot more details. But I am looking forward to book 2.
Well done, Derek
January 11, 2019
Not bad, a decent read, one could enjoy more if you haven't read any other fantasy stories, but if you had, then surely you are bound to realize some plots here & there, would look familiar, like hatching of Mythical Creatures' Egg, or the fact princess raised as commoner masking her true identity, the underground quest & mythical adventures, riding a bonded creature, characters bearing Rune Symbols with magical powers, the Prophecy, etc, etc.
Further Eva's growth from a shy, blacksmith's adopted daughter into a strong rider, leader & becoming a Queen, was indeed pretty decent but obvious one.
Thus in short, majority of the plot seems undoubtedly familiar, nothing new, but as you leaf through the pages, however the one character which stirred the curiosity to keep reading, would be Seppo --- a Golem / Automaton / or simply an Iron Man, added to that, of course curious to know what had happened in their Great Eastern Expedition & the cause of sudden raising of Dark Smelterborns...
Further Eva's growth from a shy, blacksmith's adopted daughter into a strong rider, leader & becoming a Queen, was indeed pretty decent but obvious one.
Thus in short, majority of the plot seems undoubtedly familiar, nothing new, but as you leaf through the pages, however the one character which stirred the curiosity to keep reading, would be Seppo --- a Golem / Automaton / or simply an Iron Man, added to that, of course curious to know what had happened in their Great Eastern Expedition & the cause of sudden raising of Dark Smelterborns...
June 11, 2019
Take one adopted daughter of a smith (parents unknown... to her at least), add one stolen gryphon egg, stir in gryphon riders as an elite force, sprinkle with some jostling for position and intrigue and you get Windsworn.
This first book in the Gryphon Riders trilogy can be read as a stand alone novel; however, as it's part of a series you'll probably want to keep reading.
Gryphons aren't usually the major focus of a fantasy novel, and I appreciated Author Siddoway's crafting of this interesting world. Much is hinted at as to the structure of the society and world and the gryphons' place in them. I look forward to further expansion on this is future books.
The main character showed growth throughout the story and becomes decisive in her own right. One quibble I have is that she doesn't really appear to act her age - but, she is also in a new place and a complex situation and may just need the time to adapt.
I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more from this author.
This first book in the Gryphon Riders trilogy can be read as a stand alone novel; however, as it's part of a series you'll probably want to keep reading.
Gryphons aren't usually the major focus of a fantasy novel, and I appreciated Author Siddoway's crafting of this interesting world. Much is hinted at as to the structure of the society and world and the gryphons' place in them. I look forward to further expansion on this is future books.
The main character showed growth throughout the story and becomes decisive in her own right. One quibble I have is that she doesn't really appear to act her age - but, she is also in a new place and a complex situation and may just need the time to adapt.
I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more from this author.
August 13, 2017
This book was so, so good! Windsworn is a wonderful story and the characters are so well written that you love (or hate) them as intended by the author. Derek has done an amazing job of creating characters that I feel emotionally attached to...this is a rare thing for me, to be so invested and excited about what will happen to them. I often go long periods of time between finding books that are engaging enough that I would be willing to say they could be put on my short list of “favorites”. This book is one that I think may make it to that list. I am really excited about the rest of the series.
Windsworn does not end with any huge cliffhangers. Everything that was set out as a big conflict was resolved neatly, but there is also still enough of the unknown for our main protagonist (Eva) to not be done with her story.
I devoured this book over the course of two days, and loved every bit of it.
Windsworn does not end with any huge cliffhangers. Everything that was set out as a big conflict was resolved neatly, but there is also still enough of the unknown for our main protagonist (Eva) to not be done with her story.
I devoured this book over the course of two days, and loved every bit of it.
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